IELTS SPEAKING

(SESSION 1-11)
Ms.Vy IELTS

SYLLABUS

SESSION SPEAKING
(WEEK)
1 Part 1- Study, Jobs 1
2 Part 1- Study, Jobs 2
3 Hobbies, Culture
4 People, Nature
5 Shopping, Sports, Technology
6 Environment, Law, Weather
7 Review- Travel, Festival, Transports
8 Health, Cuisine
9 Housing, Places
10 Memories, Experiences 1
11 Memories, Experiences 2
12 Review- Actual Test 1
13 Actual Test 2
14 Actual Test 3
15 Actual Test 4
16 Actual Test 5

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Ms.Vy IELTS

SESSION 1, 2- IELTS SPEAKING PART 1

1. HOUSING

“TYPE OF” QUESTION: Câu hỏi về “loại”

Ex: Can you tell me different types of transport in your country?

What kinds of jobs are popular in your country?
What desserts do Vietnamese like?

1. What part of the house do you like best?

Well, it’s obvious that there’s a variety of rooms in my house, ranging from
bedroom, kitchen to yard, garden, but I guess that I’m into the living room the
most. First, this room is quite spacious and airy, so it can release my stress
after a long day of working. Also, my family members often have an intimate
get-together when we share our joy and sorrow of daily life.

Well,it’s obvious that there is a variety of …..., from…. to….., but I

guess ....
(À, hiển nhiên là có nhiều loại……………………. từ...đến…, nhưng tôi
đoán…)
First,....
Besides, ….

2. What’s the difference between where you are living now and where
you have lived in the past?

Living in an apartment with other roommates is different from living in my own

house. My current accommodation is quite small and noisy because there are
a lot of people there, and I don’t have my own space. By contrast, when I was
living at home, I had my own spacious room which made me feel comfortable.

WOULD- QUESTION
Ex: Would you like to live near the sea?

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Ms.Vy IELTS

Would you like to be in a film?

Would you like to change your name?
3. Would you like to live near the sea?
Honestly, if I had a chance, I would move to a coastal city such as Da Nang. The
weather in this city is mild and balmy, which makes me feel comfortable.
Besides, I can play football and stroll on the beach every day, which can
improve my physical health and recharge my battery.

=> [YES] Honestly, if I had a chance, I would…

[NO] Honestly, even if I had a chance, I wouldn’t…/ I would still

2. HOBBIES
*QUESTION OF LIKE/ DISLIKE
I like= I love= I enjoy= I’m into= I’m passionate about + N/ V-ing
I dislike= I’m not into= I’m not a big fan of + N/V-ing

10 REASONS

Mind (tinh thần) Body (thể chất) Others (people,

money…)

release my stress and improve my physical (I can) bond with

cheer me up: giải tỏa health= keep fit my family and
căng thẳng+ làm tôi vui friends
kết nối với…

enrich my knowledge strengthen my bones and expand my social

/ˈnɒlɪʤ/ muscles /bəʊnz/ giúp network:
xương và cơ chắc khỏe mở rộng mối quan
hệ

boost my creativity recharge my battery: nạp doesn’t cost an arm

/ˌkriːeɪˈtɪvɪti/ lại năng lượng and a leg: không
Kích thích sáng tạo đắt đỏ

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sharpen my skills
trau dồi kỹ năng

1. Do you like reading books?

Definitely yes. I’m into reading novels and comics in my free time. Reading
books can enrich my knowledge and boost my creativity. For example, I
know more about culture, tradition and lifestyle of peoples in different countries.
Besides, colorful pages can release my stress and cheer me up after a long
day of working.

2. Do you like listening to music?

Well, I have to say that I’m passionate about music, especially songs by Dan
Truong and My Tam. Listening to music can release my stress and cheer me
up when I feel blue in my life. Also, I can bond with my family and friends
when we turn on some favorite songs or play musical instruments together.

3. SPORTS
1. Should people play sports?
Yes. I believe that playing sports is essential to everyone. Since citizens in the
modern world suffer from stress at work or school, playing football or going
climbing can release their stress and cheer them up . Besides, sport
activities give people numerous opportunities to socialize, which means they
can meet and make new friends. Without sports, life would become tedious and
meaningless.

2. What outdoor activities do you like to do?

Well, I enjoy lots of activities like hiking, camping or skateboarding, but I’m
particularly keen on cycling, especially in the rural areas. It’s fun, relaxing and
easy to do, you know. More than that, biking helps me lose weight and
recharge my battery

4. FAMILY AND FRIENDS

“IMPORTANT” QUESTION:

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Ex: Do you think family is important to you?

Is music important to your life?
Do you think art classes are necessary?

1. Do you think family is important to you?

Yes. I believe that family is essential to me. First, my parents gave birth to
me, brought me up and have supported me financially and spiritually. I
recall that when I was a child, my father rode me to school, and my mother
cooked mouth-watering dishes for me. Besides, having a family means that I
always have a place to return. Without a family, life would become tedious and
meaningless.

Answer: Yes….I believe that …. is essential to me.

Firstly,.....
Besides,...
Without…., life would become tedious /ˈtiːdiəs/ and meaningless (Nếu ko
có…, cuộc sống sẽ trở nên buồn chán và vô nghĩa)

2. Is it important to visit relatives?

Yes, I believe that visiting relatives is essential to life. First, we can discuss our
family issues, our thoughts on books, writers, movies and music. For example,
in our big family, we share our books and recommend books to each other.
Additionally, adults can teach valuable lessons to children as they pay them a
visit. Without regular visits, life would become tedious and meaningless.

3. What kinds of people do you like to make friends with?

Well, it’s obvious that there are a variety of people we may come across in life,
ranging from honest, outgoing friends to cheerful, friendly sellers, but I guess
that I like honest people the most. First, these friends never tell a lie and can
keep a secret, so I feel comfortable as being with them. Also, honest
individuals are usually generous and sensible, so I can develop good
personalities if I become their friend.

4. Would you like to change your name?

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Ms.Vy IELTS

Honestly, even if I had a chance, I would still keep the name that my parents
gave me. I’m Phuc which means happiness and goodness. My mother hopes that
I will always have overwhelming joy and lucks in my life, so I feel blessed to
have such a name.

SESSION 1, 2- STUDY AND JOBS

I. PART 1
STUDY
1. What is your area of specialization?
Well, my major is Economics. I have mastered the basics of economics and
socioeconomics. Also, I have learned business knowledge which is mainly related
to the import and export business.
2. Why did you choose to study that major?
I think it would help to fulfill my dream of introducing my country’s
agricultural products to the world. Vietnamese goods have a real potential, but
they still struggle to make a name for themselves, you know.
3. What kind of school did you go to as a child?
Well, it’s obvious that there were a variety of schools I attended in my childhood,
ranging from kindergarten, English center to elementary school, but I guess that
I was into the public elementary school the most. It was a big school in my
hometown which provided both high quality education and a supportive
environment, so I think I was quite lucky.
master (v) ˈmɑːstə Nắm vững
fulfill my dream fʊlˈfɪl maɪ driːm Đạt được ước mơ
make a name meɪk ə neɪm Tạo nên tên tuổi

JOBS
1. What do you like about your job?
Well, as a graphic designer, I’m surrounded with images every day. My daily
working life involves seeking out inspiration from all places, researching
attractive pictures and graphics, and creating them too. It’s wonderful, I think.
2. What do you dislike about your job?

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What I don’t like about this job is that our personal tastes in design are
different. Normally, I’ll have to do a thousand edits to get the final product that
meets the demand of my boss and my customers. It’s sometimes tiring and
time-consuming.
Inspiration (n) ˌɪnspəˈreɪʃən nguồn cảm hứng
personal taste ˈpɜːsnl teɪst sở thích cá nhân
time-consuming (a) ˈtaɪmkənˈsjuːmɪŋ tốn thời gian

II. PART 2
1. Describe your favorite subject
You should say:
What it is
When you learned it
What it is about
And explain why you like this subject
QUESTIONS IDEAS PHRASES
What it is Well, I have to say that I’m really passionate about I’m a big fan of
“International Culture” which was a compulsory
subject in the university
When you As far as I could remember, I learned this I recall that/
learned it stimulating subject when I was a junior If I’m not
mistaken
What it is about In general, “International Culture” involves cultural
aspects of different countries, meaning that I
discussed history, tradition and lifestyle of citizens Additionally/
from all corners of the world. Besides, some issues Also/
in terms of communication, negotiation and taboos Furthermore
were explained carefully in the class.
And explain why I found this subject appealing and meaningful for a
you like this couple of reasons
subject
First/ Initially
Firstly, I could have deep insight into cultures and
civilization of various countries. In particular, I had In particular= To
a lot of group work and presentations through which more specific

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I did research and acquired new knowledge. For

example, interestingly, for some peoples, nodding
head shows refusal, whereas shaking head means
acceptance.

Additionally, my professor was not only multi-

talented and knowledgeable but also dedicated
and humorous. He provided materials and organized
different activities, helping the class learn lessons
effectively. Also, he told jokes and made us laugh
even when we were under pressure.
Conclusion To sum up, “International Culture” is my all-time All in all/ in
favorite subject. conclusion/ In
short

a compulsory subject ə kəmˈpʌlsəri ˈsʌbʤɪk Môn học bắt buộc

taboo (n) t Điều cấm kị
appealing (a) təˈbuː Hấp dẫn
have deep əˈpiːlɪŋ Hiểu sâu sắc
insight into hæv diːp ˈɪnsaɪt ˈɪntu Nền văn minh
civilization (n) ː Học hỏi kiến thức mới
acquire new ˌsɪvɪlaɪˈzeɪʃən Sự từ chối
knowledge əˈkwaɪə njuː ˈnɒlɪʤ Đa tài
refusal (n) rɪˈfjuːzəl Uyên thâm
multi-talented (a) ˈmʌltɪ-ˈtæləntɪd Tận tâm
knowledgeable (a) ˈnɒlɪʤəbl
dedicated (a) ˈdɛdɪkeɪtɪd

*CONNECTING WITH OTHER TOPICS

2. Describe the time you learned something new
What it is
When you learned it
Who taught it to you
And explain how useful and interesting it is

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3. Describe something that you learned outside of school

What it is
When and where you learned it
How you learned it
And explain how easy or challenging it was for you

4. Describe a piece of advice you receive on your subject or work

What it was and who you received it from
What you did after receiving it
And how you felt about it
(What it was and who you received it from)
Today, I would like to talk about some advice on my studies that I received from
my sister. It was when I completed my university graduation and I had to decide
what I wanted to do in my life. Back then, I was at a crossroads, where I had
to choose between embarking on further studies abroad or starting working
full-time with my bachelor’s degree. I wanted an option which would provide
me a promising future and at the same time should be interesting as well.
Understandably, higher academic qualifications nowadays are a requirement
for employment, especially in grey-matter fields. I searched a lot on the
internet about courses and also sought advice from friends and relatives, yet still
felt unassured. So, I decided to consult my elder sister who was living in America
and working in an advertising company.
(What you did after receiving it)
On receiving my question, she talked to me a lot and also pondered on it.
Having weighed up the benefits and drawbacks of each option, she advised me
to continue to study for a Master’s degree instead of working early. She believed
that a master's degree can open many career doors for young people, including
certain career fields, advancement opportunities, and higher salaries. As the
workforce evolves, a graduate degree shows a person is dedicated to enhancing
his industry expertise. I trusted her and followed her advice. Without her, I
could not make one of the most crucial decisions of my life.
(And how you felt about it)
Needless to say, I felt extremely grateful for my sister’s advice and emotional
support. She told me that no matter what road I choose, I need to stick to it
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until the end and make it become the most meaningful one. This is the
reason why I always want to see her perspective before making any vital
moves.
at a crossroads: ở ngã 3 đường
embarking on: bắt đầu, dấn thân vào
bachelor’s degree: bằng cử nhân
qualifications: bằng cấp
ponder on: suy nghĩ
expertise: chuyên môn

5. Describe the most inspiring person you have met so far in your
university.
Who that person is
Where you meet that person
What he/ she is like
Why you consider him/ her the most inspiring person

Sample answer Vocabulary

Well, I would like to talk about the Studious (adj) Chăm chỉ
monitor in my class, whose name is Hoai Attitude towards
Thái độ học tập
Linh. She is one of the studying (n)
most studious students I have ever Compulsory/
known. Môn học bắt
elective
I really admire Linh for several reasons. buộc/tự chọn
subject (n)
Firstly, it is her attitude towards
Learning
studying. Despite being extremely Tài liệu học tập
materials (n)
intelligent, she spends more time than
anyone of us in the class to study no
Education Nền tảng giáo
matter it is a compulsory or
background (n) dục
an elective subject. She is very hard- Academic Bảng điểm đại

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Ms.Vy IELTS

working and she is among the students transcript (n) học

who have the most outstanding in-class High distinction Bằng tốt nghiệp
performance. Sitting next to me, she degree (n) loại xuất sắc
often gives me tutorial lessons if I have
Kiệt xuất, xuất
any difficulties in study. She also Exceptional (adj)
sắc, xuất chúng
encourages me a lot and even sends me
her learning materials if I want to have
further understanding of the lesson.
Secondly, I can also consider that Linh
has an outstanding education
background. She can not only learn well
but she also has broad common
knowledge – which is the reason why
her academic transcript has been
excellent so far. Once she told me that
one of her goals would be to
achieve High distinction degree from
this university and I think that it is
absolutely possible for such
an exceptional student like her. I think
that Linh’s success in the future will just
be a matter of time as she always moves
forward.

6. Describe your dream job

You should say: what the job is
Where you work at
what you need to do
and explain why you would like this job
QUESTIONS ANSWERS PHRASES
what the job is Talking about my ideal job, I have to say that I Speaking of/
hope to become a software engineer. Regarding…
Where you work Speaking of the location, I may work in a
at technological company in Vietnam or in other

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countries. I also desire to set up my own business

especially when I have gained valuable
experience.
what you need As a programmer, my job involves designing
to do software, helping users solve problems and
supporting the team to develop a computer system.
why you would I find this job appealing and meaningful for some
like this job reasons.
First of all, technology plays a vital role in various First/ firstly
aspects of life, helping humans to work efficiently.
As a programmer, I can write software regarding
education, commerce and entertainment to
improve the quality of life.
Besides, I enjoy working with people in this field. In addition/ also
They are not only multi-talented and for instance
knowledgeable but also dedicated and humorous.
For example, my co-workers can carry out some
technological projects on the international scale.
Also, they often tell jokes and make me laugh even
when we are under pressure.
Conclusion In short, I always foster a dream to land a job in All in all/ in
software engineering in the future. conclusion

* CONNECTING OTHER TOPICS

Describe a job that can make our world a better place
: What it is
 What the job involves
 Where the work is done
 and explain why the job can make our world a better place

Describe a job you would not like to do in the future

What it is?
It is difficult or easy?
And explain why you do not want to get this job?
III. PART 3
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Ms.Vy IELTS

STUDY
1. Do you think students should go to vocational training courses or
university after graduating from high school?
Honestly I think students should go to university rather than vocational
training courses. To begin with, after graduation, they can earn a university
degree which is required by most recruiters nowadays. Moreover, studying in
universities provides students with an opportunity to pursue higher
education, which means that they will have more qualifications and this may
be likely to help them have many opportunities of moving up the career
ladder more easily in companies.
Moving up the career ladder Thăng tiến trong công việc
2. Should teamwork be encouraged at school?
One hundred percent yes, since teamwork can connect
different characteristics to solve one issue. Personally, I suppose that
teamwork stimulates creativity and mutual understanding. People in a
team must set aside their egos to get on well with others and most importantly,
put the team’s goal in top priority. Moreover, teammates can build trust and
promote a sense of responsibility when working together to come to one goal.
stimulate creativity: kích thích sáng tạo
mutual understanding: hiểu biết lẫn nhau
a sense of responsibility: tinh thần trách nhiệm

“Change” Question
Ex: Has education in your country changed in the last 20 years?
How would education in your country change in the next 20 years?
How has your neighborhood changed in the last 10 years?
How has life changed over the time in the countryside?

Sample: 3. Has education in your country changed in the last 20

years? (*)
Absolutely yes! Education has witnessed significant changes in recent years.
First, technology has helped educate people enormously. In the past, people
in rural areas didn’t have access to the education of high quality, but now, they

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are able to study online and gain knowledge from those from all corners of the
world. Furthermore, children used to stay at home or drop out of school early
because they had to earn money to support their families. However, students
nowadays tend to attend schools and universities thanks to the general
improvement in living standard
drop out of school: bỏ học

* How would education in your country change in the next 20 years?

Well, I guess that education would witness significant changes in the next
two decades. First, technology might help educate people enormously. Now,
a few people in rural areas don’t have access to the education of high quality,
but in the next 20 years, it could be possible for them to study online and gain
knowledge from those from all corners of the world…

Structure
…... has witnessed significant changes in recent years.
First,…
Furthermore,…
*In the past, ….V2/ used to V1
Now,…tend to
In the future, …would/ might/ it could be possible that…

WORK
1. Are people in your country paid well in all jobs?
I don’t think so because every job has its own features. In fact, white-collar
workers are often paid higher than laborers. For instance, a doctor’s salary is
more than a fisherman’s income. Also, it’s a common rule that the more
talented you are, the higher you get paid for your service, so I think saying that
all people are paid well in all jobs is not true.
white worker: nhân viên văn phòng
laborer: người lao động chân tay
income: thu nhập
2. Do people choose their jobs according to salaries?

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I think this is partly correct. A high salary helps us make ends meet. We’ll have
a more stable income, which is essential when we consider accepting a job.
However, although we need high salary for our job, we have to enjoy what we’re
doing. Otherwise, we may feel bored and demotivated, which makes us leave
the job early.
make ends meet: kiếm đủ sống
stable income: thu nhập ổn định
demotivated: không được động viên
3. Why do employees need motivation at work?
Staff need to be encouraged at their workplace for some reasons. First, when the
employees are motivated, they are more eager to work and have innovative
ideas, which help to increase the company’s productivity. They reach outside
their limit, and thus benefit the system as a whole. In addition, as they receive
the encouragement from their manager, the employees feel satisfied and
consider working for the company for a long time.
innovative ideas: ý tưởng đột phá
productivity: năng suất
encouragement: sự động viên
feel satisfied: thỏa mãn
--------------------------------------------
SESSION 3: HOBBIES AND CULTURE

PART 2

1. Describe your favorite movie.

You should say:
what type of film it was
when and where you watched it
what the film was about
and explain why it is your favorite film

I have to say that I’m really passionate about Harry Potter which is a fantasy
film series based on the novels by the British author J.K. Rowling.

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As far as I can remember, I happened to watch the first episode on TV when I

was at secondary school. I was totally hooked by its intriguing plot with spells,
flying broomsticks and other magical creatures.

In general, the film depicts the school life of Harry Potter and his two best
friends, Ron and Hermione. Actually, Harry was an orphan in the normal world
before discovering that he was a wizard. After that, he went to a special school
called Hogwarts where he learnt the necessary magical skills. He also had to deal
with challenges of study, relationship and struggle against Lord Voldemort, the
dark power who thirsted for controlling all residents.

I found Harry Potter appealing and meaningful for some reasons

First of all, the film conveys an important message of friendship to me. No
matter what problems you encounter, true friends can help you overcome them
and bring overwhelming joy to your life. For instance, in the film, Harry, Ron
and Hermione were willing to support each other in all circumstances.
Additionally, the movie develops my language competence since I also
watched it in English. Vocabulary in Harry Potter is, needless to say, very
extensive, from concrete objects to abstract ideas. Besides, there are many
scenes in which characters told jokes or gave advice which explain how English is
used in reality.

All in all, Harry Potter has become my all- time favorite film.

2. Describe a book that you would like to read again

What the book is about

Who wrote it

When and Where you read it the first place

And explain why you would like to read it again.

I have to say that I’m really passionate about Harry Potter, a fantasy novel which
has won several awards in the world.

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Ms.Vy IELTS

Harry Potter was written by J.K Rowling who is a famous British author, film
producer and philanthropist.
As far as I can remember, I happened to read Harry Potter at the first time when
I was browsing at a bookstore. I was totally hooked by its intriguing plot with
spells, flying broomsticks and other magical creatures.

In general, the novel depicts the school life of Harry Potter and his two best
friends, Ron and Hermione. Actually, Harry was an orphan in the normal world
before discovering that he was a wizard. After that, he went to a special school
called Hogwarts where he learnt the necessary magical skills. He also had to deal
with challenges of study, relationship and struggle against Lord Voldemort, the
dark power who thirsted for controlling all residents.

I found Harry Potter captivating and meaningful for some reasons

First of all, the novel conveys an important message of friendship to me. No
matter what problems you encounter, true friends can help you overcome them
and bring overwhelming joy to your life. For instance, in the story, Harry, Ron
and Hermione were willing to support each other in all circumstances.
Additionally, the book develops my language competence since I also read
it in English. Vocabulary in Harry Potter is, needless to say, very extensive, from
objects to abstract ideas. Besides, there are many chapters in which
characters told jokes or gave advice which explain how English is used in reality.

All in all, Harry Potter has become my all- time favorite page-turner.

3. Describe your favorite song

What the song is

When you heard the song

Who sang it

Why you like the song

I have to say that I’m really passionate about Count on Me which is a popular
song of friendship.
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Ms.Vy IELTS

I recall that I happened to hear the song when I was reading my page-turner at
a coffee shop. I was totally hooked by its steady rhythm and meaning, so I
searched for the song on the Internet afterwards.

Talking about the singer, it is Bruno Mars, a famous American artist who
successfully performed the song.

In general, the song conveys an important message of friendship to me. No

matter what problems you encounter, true friends can help you overcome them
and bring overwhelming joy to your life. For instance, in the lyrics, your soul-
mate is willing to support you in all circumstances by standing by your side
and giving you motivation.

I found the song appealing and meaningful for a couple of reasons

Firstly, the melody is so catchy that whenever I hear it, I can’t help myself
but to sing along. Bruno Mars’ voice is also powerful and emotional, filling my
soul with compassion and inspiration.
Additionally, the song develops my language competence since it is written
in English. Vocabulary in Count on Me is, needless to say, very extensive, from
objects to abstract ideas. Besides, there are many phrasal verbs which
explain how English is used in reality.
In short, Count on Me is my all-time favorite piece of music.

4. Describe a piece of artwork that you have seen before.

You should say:

Where you saw it

What it was about

When you saw it

And explain how you felt about it

Today I would like to tell you about one of the most well-known paintings in the
world, which is also my personal favourite, the portrait of Mona Lisa.

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You know, the painting was created by Leonardo da Vinci, the famous Italian
artist from the 15th century. When I first saw this painting in one of my high
school textbooks, I just couldn’t take my eyes off it due to the mystery.

At first sight, all I noticed in the painting was a long-haired woman with a
friendly smile on her face, which was quite round, and she had no eyebrows
either. The more I looked at it though, the more I felt like she was actually
smiling at me.

Some people have claimed that Mona Lisa was simply an imaginary character
while others have believed that she was actually Leonardo’s wife. Honestly, it
doesn’t really matter to me though because I think that the Mona Lisa is
a masterpiece that attracts people with that magical smile. This is also one of the
main reasons why I am a fan of the painting.

Speaking of the truths behind this portrait though, I guess we may never know,
but I think that secrets make everything all the more intriguing.

1. portrait – chân dung

2. couldn’t take my eyes off it – ko thể ngưng nhìn
3. mystery – sự bí ẩn
4. at first sight – cái nhìn đầu tiên
5. imaginary (a) trong tưởng tượng
6. masterpiece – kiệt tác

5. Describe a piece of important news you got through a text message

You should say:

What it was

When you got it

Who you got it from

And how you felt about it

(What it was) I believe that everyone must have received news via a text
message at some point in their life, I’m not an exception. Several months ago, I

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applied to become a part-time essay corrector at an English centre. The

application process included up to 4 steps. After all the previous steps, the result
was displayed via email. However, the final result from recruitment was informed
via text message, which came as a great surprise to me.

(When you got it) This text message was received some months ago as I’ve
said. It was on a Friday late afternoon, after I had hopped on a bus to return my
own hometown from Ho Chi Minh city.

(Who you got it from) Until now, I have no clue exactly who was the
person that sent the text message to me as there was no name stated in the
message. However, I can guess that it was the TA supervisor that sent the
message to me.

(And how you felt about it) On receiving the message, I felt over the
moon since I was desperate for money. My trip to Korea cost me an arm
and a leg while I also had to pay tuition fees and cover different living
expenditures. Thus, no words could describe how happy I was when receiving
the information that I had been selected for the job.

I have no clue: tôi ko biết

feel over the moon: cảm thấy rất hạnh phúc

desperate for: rất cần

living expenditures: chi phí sinh hoạt

PART 3

FILMS

1. What is the difference between young people and old people’s

favorite TV drama? Why? (*)

There are some variations of favorite TV drama between youngsters and the
elderly. Young adults are more into movies with lots of excitement
or supernatural factors such as science-fiction, thriller, superhero or comedy.
Meanwhile, older generations tend to watch films that convey certain messages

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rather than visual effects themselves. Besides, while young people are into
heading for the crowded cinema to enjoy blockbusters, the aged may prefer
watching drama on TV at home.

supernatural (a): that cannot be explained by the laws of science and that
seems to involve gods or magic

2. What is the difference between foreign dramas and ones in your

country?
There are some variations between international films and the ones in Vietnam.
First, talking about the plot, movies in my country are usually about the society
and relationship, while foreign dramas reflect different issues like government,
healthcare and environment. Besides, technology in film industry here is not as
advanced as those in foreign films. We need to improve sound effects and
visual effects.

BOOKS

1. Is reading as pleasurable in digital format?

Personally, I prefer reading a paperback since it’s easier for me to focus on the
content. I’m not distracted by other apps and advertisements. Furthermore,
I may get short-sighted if I read lots of books online. However, some people
are into reading digital books because they don’t cost an arm and a leg. There
are numerous books which are free on the Internet. They can also enlarge the
books when they need.

2. What should parents do to encourage their children to read books?

It is necessary that parents encourage their children’s reading activities at an

early age. This can help kids develop a habit of reading for pleasure. Also,
parents should not be too controlling over the books their children read, let them
do what they like and read what they love will keep them more interested in
reading.
MUSIC

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1. Why do you think that some local singers or musicians aren’t as

successful as some from other countries?

I think that fame is sometimes simply the luck of the draw. I think those born in
United States or other developed countries who play a large role in pop culture
are the ones who find success more easily. I think it’s unfair that some are born
with privileges that will eventually lead them to fame and wealth. For example,
as you see, many famous singers are those who were already born rich or with
famous parents. Sadly, it’s all about who you know!

2. Do you think there will be further changes in the music industry in

the future?

Well, I guess that the music industry would witness significant changes in
following decades. First, music might rely more on electronic devices rather than
human hands, like in the olden days. These instruments can make catchy
melodies which engage audiences. Also, due to globalization, it could be
possible that all generations enjoy listening to both national and foreign songs
performed by well-known artists. This is because music can transcend all
culture, traditions and areas.

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PRACTICE WITH FRIENDS

PART 2
Describe your favorite subject
Describe something that you learned outside of school
Describe an advice you receive on your subject or work
Describe the most inspiring person you have met so far in your university.
Describe your dream job
Describe a job you would not like to do in the future
Describe your favorite movie.
Describe a book that you would like to read again
Describe your favorite song
Describe a piece of artwork that you have seen before.
Describe a piece of important news you got through a text message

PART 3
Do you think students should go to vocational training courses or university
after graduating from high school?
Should teamwork be encouraged at school?
Has education in your country changed in the last 20 years?
Are people in your country paid well in all jobs?
Do people choose their jobs according to salaries?
Why do employees need motivation at work?
What is the difference between young people and old people’s favorite
TV drama? Why?
What is the difference between foreign dramas and ones in your country?

Is reading as pleasurable in digital format?

What should parents do to encourage their children to read books?
Why do you think that some local singers or musicians aren’t as successful
as some from other countries?
Do you think there will be further changes in the music industry in the future?

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SESSION 4: PEOPLE AND NATURE

PART 2
1. Describe a person in the news that you want to meet
You should say:
 Who he or she is
 How you know this person
 What he or she does
 Why you want to meet this person

Though seeing many celebrities on social media every day, I really desire to
meet Jeff Bezos who is an American businessman, the CEO of Amazon
corporation and a philanthropist.
If I’m not mistaken, I happened to watch an interview of his life on TV in which
he shared his journey from an electrical engineer to a founder of Amazon and
the wholehearted support from his family members and colleagues.
Showing an interest in computers, he embarked on opening a virtual bookstore,
Amazon in 1990s. At the dawn of the Internet, people were unsure of this
decision, but he was determined enough to bring remarkable success afterwards.
Furthermore, he donated money to help homeless people and underprivileged
students.
I foster a dream to meet Jeff Bezos in real life for some reasons
Firstly, I learn many lessons from him, especially the concept that “It is easier to
invent the future than to predict it.” In fact, he innovated online bookselling,
Kindle e-reader and other products which used to be considered strange to the
society. Instead of waiting for opportunities, he set a target, worked hard and
even took risks to achieve it.
Additionally, this entrepreneur was not only multi-talented and knowledgeable
but also dedicated and humorous. He devoted his time and effort to helping
customers buy necessary items. Also, he told jokes and made his staff laugh
even when they were under pressure
In short, I always dream about meeting him in person one day.
Philanthropist / fɪˈlænθrəpɪst/
underprivileged students / ˌʌndəˈprɪvɪlɪʤd ˈstjuːdənts/

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entrepreneur / ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜː/
*CONNECTING WITH OTHER TOPICS
2. Describe a successful businessman you know
who is the person
how you know this person
how he became successful
and explain why you consider him as a successful business person.
3. Describe a person who taught you something important
Who the person is?
What he/she is like?
What he/she taught you?
How you felt about him/her?
4. Describe an old person you love
who this person is
how long you have known him/ her
what he/ she looks like
And say why you love him/ her

Well, the first person who came to my mind is my grandmother who has a major
influence on me in my whole life.
I have been fortunate enough to live under one roof with her since I was born.
In fact, I and my siblings grow up and pass our adolescent years with her love
and affection.
My grandmother is now more than 80 years old. Though her skin is already
wrinkled, her eyes are still gleaming with energy and passion. She has the
most angelic smile I have ever seen, which makes everyone feel connected
even at first sight.
Honestly, I can talk about her all day long because I love and admire her so
much.
First of all, she took care of me with unconditional love, preparing for meals,
washing my clothes and attending to me when I was sick. As a nature lover,
she taught me to cultivate lots of plants, which helps me develop a close
bond with the environment.
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Besides, she’s not only courageous and knowledgeable but also

compassionate and caring. She is a widow who has devoted her entire life to
raising and guiding her children after my grandfather passed away in the war.
Also, she’s willing to take risks to help other people out.
All in all, I feel blessed to be her grandchild, so I’ll make an effort to become a
person like her.
Adolescent /ˌædəʊˈlɛsnt/
angelic smile / ænˈʤɛlɪk smaɪl/
courageous / kəˈreɪʤəs/
compassionate / kəmˈpæʃənɪt/
feel blessed / fiːl ˈblɛsɪd /
5. Describe a child you know.
who this child is and how often you see him or her
how old this child is
what he or she is like/ look like
and explain what you feel about this child.

I’m going to talk about my little brother with you today. He’s 10 now, but he’ll
turn 11 next month. I’ll definitely come home and celebrate his birthday.
He has the most angelic smile I have ever seen, which makes everyone feel
connected even at first sight. He used to be very naughty when he was two or
three years old. He cried for hours until he got what he wanted, but now he’s
much more obedient.
Honestly, I can talk about him all day long because I love him so much.
First, he often helps my mom with some household chores, like preparing for
meals and washing clothes. My dad has to work diligently on the farm; every
Friday evening, my little brother usually asks him: ‘Dad, I don’t have to go to
school tomorrow. Can I come with you to the farm? Maybe there’s something
that I can help with’. Although he’s quite small, I feel like he is thoughtful and
considerate.
Besides, he’s quite a self-reliant child. He doesn’t need my parents to remind
him to do homework or to go to bed; he does all that on his own. He
even makes his own decisions when it comes to saving money. He’s given

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10,000 dong per week for snacks. As soon as he’s got that money, he often sets
aside 3,000 to 5,000 dong.
All in all, my brother is always the apple of my eye.

6. Describe an important plant in your country

 What the plant is
 How you know it
 Why it is important
And explain how much you like the plant

Well, I have to say that I’m passionate about lotus which is the national flower of
Viet Nam.
If I’m not mistaken, I have seen numerous pink lotus flowers on the surface of
lakes since I was a child. And it’s my beloved grandmother who explained the
meaning of this attractive flower to me.
Basically, it is an aquatic plant which grows in shallow and murky water. In
my hometown, lotus flowers are in bloom in ponds and lakes in the
summer. Lotus can be commonly seen in white and pink. White
blossoms indicate the purity of Vietnamese people’s mind and soul, whereas
pink flowers show the history of Buddha. Besides, lotus represents the
cultural identity as it is often found in arts, folk songs, poems and even
fashion of Vietnam.

I found this plant appealing and meaningful for some reasons

First, lotus plays a vital role in Vietnamese cuisine as all of its parts
are beneficial and comes in handy in many ways. The stem is used in lotus
delight salad which is a popular appetizer in parties. There are many food
specialties like chicken with lotus seeds and green rice in lotus leaves which are
nutritious and mouth-watering. For example, I recall that whenever I was sick,
my grandmother often cooked the soup of lotus seeds for me.
Additionally, the symbolic meanings of lotus blooms are strongly connected with
Vietnamese residents. They are not only honest and courageous but also
dedicated and humorous. In wartime, many humble countrymen left their

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hometowns and went into the army to gain the independence. In peacetime,
they often tell jokes and make others laugh even when they are under pressure
All in all, lotus is my all-time favorite plant

7. Describe your favorite animal

 what kind of animal it is

 describe it briefly.
 why do you like the animal
As a nature enthusiast, I have to say that I’m really passionate about dogs which
are the most popular domestic animal in Vietnam. Actually, there are various
breeds of dogs such as pug, golden retriever and German shepherd, but today
I want to tell you about my golden retriever, namely Lucky.
Talking about the appearance, Lucky is a muscular dog of medium size with a
lustrous coat of gold, fluffy ears and a straight muzzle. What I love the
most is looking at its bright eyes which are gleaming with energy and
overwhelming joy. He is a great companion since he often strolls in the park with
me and even listens to my sorrow and happiness on a daily basis.

I feel a sense of connection and affection with Lucky for some reasons
First and foremost, the golden retriever is particularly helpful to humans. In
reality, they are devoted dogs in searching for stuff, rescuing victims and guiding
the blind. For example, just after some times of training, my dog can sniff and
find out some lost items for me.
In addition, Lucky is not only loyal and dedicated but also emotional and playful.
He craves attention most of the time because he is scared of being abandoned
or ignored. Thus, when I was reading a page-turner in my room, he probably
came in and lay quietly next to me.
All in all, dogs are my all-time favorite animal.
*CONNECTING WITH OTHER TOPICS
8. Describe a domestic animal you know about.
9. Describe an animal which is common in your country.
10. Describe an animal that you like to have in the future.

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11. Describe a wild animal

 What the animal is

 What it looks like
 Where it lives
and explain how you feel about this animal.
I’ll describe an endangered animal in northeastern China. It’s called the
Manchurian or Siberian tiger.
Manchurian tigers are very impressive animals. Like all tigers, they have orange
and black stripes and a white underside, and powerful claws and teeth. The
largest are nearly 1.5 meters tall, and can weigh between 300 and 400 kilos of
muscle! They’re the largest of the cat family, and the most effective and
dangerous hunters. They’re found all over Siberia and in a few places in
northeastern China. They usually hunt and live alone, and only meet other tigers
during the milling season. I think there are less than 50 of them in the wild in
China. There are more kept in captivity, in zoos or special parks. There is one
wildlife park in Harbin that is famous for its many Manchurian tigers.
I admire the tigers as they are a symbol of strength and fierceness. Tigers
have had a place in culture for thousands of years. The predators are not only
found in literature, but they are also the subject of many famous paintings.
However, this special breed of tigers is wiped out in the wild, so I hope that
more efforts will be made in the future to protect the tiger’s environment.
Without the forests they live and hunt in, Manchurian tigers can only exist in
captivity.

PART 3
FAMOUS PEOPLE
1. What do you think about the impact of celebrities’ style on the youth
nowadays?
Well, in my opinion, celebrities now appear stylish and often wear high-end
clothes to show off their status. The clothes are from both domestic and
international brands that cost a fortune. Also, many celebrities want to
be trend-setters, from which youngsters can learn from their style. Gucci or
Off-white is favored by a lot of famous people and the young nowadays also own
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items from these luxury brands to appear like their idols despite their expensive
price.
2. How can a celebrity negatively affect the brand image that they
advertise for?
In fact, celebrities can have a negative effect on the brands that
they endorse through their scandals. As a matter of fact, audiences will suppose
that they are not qualified enough to be a public image. Consequently, brands
will suffer a great loss, and sales will drop dramatically. However, the most
important thing is that the brand will decrease in popularity with the general
public
FAMILY/ OLD PERSON/ FRIENDS

1. What are the benefits and the drawbacks of younger and older
generations living together?

There are some upsides and downsides when the young and the elderly live
under one roof. First, we can see that the appearance of more family members
can ease the burden of raising kids. For example, grandparents can help to
feed children and teach them valuable lessons. Besides, there are definitely
more connections and interactions between family members in big families.
However, generation gaps when living together may increase the tension
among family members. In particular, youngsters are so overwhelmed with
their work and study that they cannot have family meals, which will upset the
aged.

2. Which do you prefer, support from family members or friends? Why?

Well, definitely my family. You can have many friends but your family members
are irreplaceable. Friends can come and go at different stages of your
life like secondary school, high school, university, but it is your family who
never abandon you no matter what happens. Yet, your friends’ support is a very
important factor that leads to your personal growth. When I encounter
problems, my closest friend never failed to cheer me up and sailed me through
both emotional and academic difficulties.
3. In your country, what is the attitude towards old people?
In general, people in my country are highly respectful of their elders. There is a

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deep-rooted sense of respect for age and experience in this country. For
instance, it is not uncommon for people to offer their seats to older people on
the bus or train, or to help them with their shopping. When eating, one always
lets the oldest person begin eating first. Old people are held in high regard
because people recognize that their long lives give them wisdom and experience.
4. What are the differences between men and women’s hobbies?
Well, obviously, there are a number of clear differences. However, I guess
that the most significant would be that men tend to prefer sporting activities
such as football or basketball. In contrast, women prefer things like shopping for
clothes. In addition to this, another possible distinction might be that males are
immersed in action films, while female counterparts are more likely to choose
soap operas on TV.”
ANIMALS
1. What effects do you think humans have on wild animals?
Humans have a huge impact on wild animals. We have destroyed a lot of natural
habitats, and many animals are in danger of extinction. Tigers and rhinos, for
example, become endangered species because of humans. The pollution and
waste that we produce also have an effect on animals. For example, in some
places, there are no fish in the rivers due to chemicals discharged from
factories.
2. Is it the responsibility of schools to teach children about protecting
wildlife?
Yes, schools can play a vital role in educating children about this issue. It is
teachers who instill the love for the surroundings into students. Once they feel
a sense of connection and affection with the nature, they will help to make flora
and fauna flourish. Besides, children should learn how to look after the natural
environment. I think schools already teach children about endangered species
and the destruction of rain forests, so hopefully future generations will do a
better job of protecting wildlife.

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Ms.Vy IELTS

SESSION 5: SHOPPING, SPORTS AND TECHNOLOGY

PART 2
1. Describe a piece of clothing that you like wearing.
- what the item of clothing is
- where and when you bought it
- when you wear it
- and explain why you like wearing it.

(What) Well, (as a fashion-conscious person), I would like to tell you about
a pair of jeans which is my favorite item in the wardrobe.

(Colors, patterns, materials, others…)

They are dark blue plain jeans which are made of denim, a durable
material. The trousers are highlighted with some tiny rhinestones around two
pockets.

(When, where) You know, I bought them for a reasonable price in a store
when I was going on a shopping spree with my friends. At that point, jeans
were really popular, so everybody in my school was keen on them.

(When you wear it/ them) Whenever I put these jeans on, I feel really
stylish and think I really stand out from the crowd. Later on, trends start to
change, but I refuse to abandon my jeans. I wear them almost everywhere,
from attending some classes to engaging in outdoor activities. However,
jeans are not suitable for some formal events like ceremonies and meetings.

(Why) Actually, it is quite easy to understand why I fancy these jeans so

much. Firstly, they instantly create a stylish and fashionable look for the
wearer. Secondly, since jeans are easy to mix and match, I can wear them
with heaps of different shirts without worrying about looking ridiculous in
other people’s eyes. And lastly, denim is so tough that it can’t be torn, so I can
have them for a long time and save a great deal of money.

All in all, I love my jeans and cannot get through a day without them.

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*FURTHER IDEAS
 I’m going to describe a coat that I often wear at the moment. The coat is
dark blue in colour, and it’s made out of a lightweight, waterproof
material, which makes it perfect for wearing at this time of year here
in the UK. It also has a detachable hood which I used yesterday
when it was raining, and various pockets on the outside and on the
inside.
.
 The reason why I like this coat is that it’s so practical and functional.
It’s waterproof and it keeps me warm, but it also comes in handy for
carrying things like my phone, wallet, loose change, a pen, and even a
notebook; I tend to fill my pockets with whatever I can. It even folds
up small enough to fit in my bag when I don’t need it.

*CONNECTING WITH OTHER TOPICS

2. Describe a product you bought and felt happy about.
what it was
why you bought it
how long you used it
and explain why you were happy buying this product.

3. Describe the best gift/ present you have ever received.

what the gift was
who gave it to you
when you have received it
and explain why it is the best gift/ present you have ever received.

4. Describe a leisure activity near or on the sea/ Describe your favorite

sport
What it is

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Ms.Vy IELTS

What you should prepare

Why you have to prepare
And explain how you feel about

As a sports enthusiast, I would like to talk about one of my favourite activities

on the beach, swimming. You know, I live in Hai Phong, a coastal city with
golden beaches and the nearest seashore is just fifteen minutes from my
house. So, in the summer, my friends and I often go there and immerse

ourselves in the cool water to avoid the scorching hot weather .

Actually, swimming is a relatively easy sport. I learned how to swim when I was
about 8 years old and it took me only a week to get familiar with a number
of swimming strokes, like breaststroke, backstroke and butterfly. Before
entering the water, I often warm up and stretch my muscles and joints to
avoid any injuries, then put on my swimsuit and jump right in.

I really enjoy swimming on the beach because of a few reasons. Firstly, unlike
other water sports such as diving or windsurfing which
require costly equipment, swimming costs nothing. Secondly, swimming is
extremely beneficial to our health. It provides an all-over body workout, as
nearly all of our muscles are used during swimming. It also builds endurance,
muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness. Lastly, going swimming is a
good means of recreation as it allows me to unwind, alleviate stress and
have a great time with my friends.

1. coastal city – a city that is located along the coast or near the ocean
2. golden beaches – beautiful beaches with golden coloured sand
3. swimming strokes – swimming styles
4. warm up – to get your body warm and ready for exercise
5. stretch my muscles and joints – to extend your muscles and body parts to
help relax it
6. injuries – pain or damage to a part of the body a cut, bruise or broken bone
etc
7. costly – expensive
8. beneficial – good for you

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Ms.Vy IELTS

9. all-over body workout – exercise that works all parts of your body
10.builds endurance, muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness – to improve
different aspects of physical fitness
11. means of – a way of, or form of
12. unwind – to relax
13. alleviate stress – relax, reduce stress

5. Describe a sports event you enjoyed watching.

You should say:

 what event you watched

 where you were
 who you watched it with
 and explain why you enjoyed watching it.

So I’d like to talk about the state track and field championships that I went to
when I was a high school student. It was a track and field race and competition
where they had, um you know, runners doing 100 meters, 200 meters…anything,
any kind of track and field race and then they also had the long jump, high jump,
pole vault and all these different events. When I was a high school student I was
a track and field runner so, um, going to an event like this where I could see the
best people in my state all compete against each other it was a really neat
experience and it’s something that I definitely enjoyed watching.

I think I went when I was a third year student in high school so I was a junior in
high school and um, I went with my dad and my sports coach, my coach for
track and field, and I think a few of my friends also went to this event. Um..I
was particularly interested in the mile race because that’s what I used to run
when I was a high school student, um, I ran 1600 meters. Usually in other
countries it’s 1500 meters but in the US we run 1600 meters or at least I did
when I was a high school student. I think the main reason that I enjoyed
watching it was because it was so inspirational for me.um…I was a pretty good
runner, not amazing, but pretty good.

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And seeing the best runners in my state my top level or the highest level of
competition was really something special for me and it inspired me to really get
to work and to work harder, um, the next year. So it’s something I think I’ll
never forget. And I remember talking to my dad and going “Oh, who’s gonna win
this race” or who I think is going to win that race. And you know stuff like this is
really memorable for me. So, yeah, I think going to the track and field state
championships when I was a high school junior is one of the most memorable
sporting events, um, that I enjoyed watching when I was younger

track-and-field /'trækənd'fi:ld/ các môn điền kinh

6. Describe a piece of technology you like using

What this technology is
How did you learn about it.
How often do you use it.
What difference it brings to your life.
I consider myself a technophile, so it’s hard for me to live a day without using
technological devices, especially my smartphone.
It was a present from my parents to congratulate me on my high school
graduation four years ago, and it has come in handy ever since. It was the latest
Android phone at that time with lots of cool apps and functions, but no one has
ever given me proper instruction on how to use it. I had to resort to Google
search to explore my phone and troubleshoot its problems when the screen
suddenly went black or the application failed to run.
My phone is with me most of the time and even though I know it’s not good for
my eyesight. I can’t help but use it on a daily basis and for more than 6
hours a day. I can’t deny that this multifunctional device has a big influence
on my life, both positively and negatively. I no longer need dictionaries,
notebooks, a camera, a music player or a TV because now I can look up new
words, take notes, capture photos, listen to music and watch films on the screen
of my phone.
I find this smartphone appealing and special for some reasons
First, this smartphone saves me a lot of time and money. I don’t need to buy
other devices or spend time waiting in line to go shopping. In fact, I can order

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numerous products on apps, especially when there are some special offers. For
example, before Tet Holiday, there are some notifications of discount on food
and clothes.
Besides, it’s not only compact and lightweight but also attractive and trendy.
The phone is just pocket-sized, so I can put it on my handbag and bring it to
everywhere, from my workplace to a recreation center. I really love its shining
metal case which makes the phone look brand-new and fashionable.
All in all, the smartphone is my all-time favorite device
7. Describe a useful website that you often visit.
What the contents of this website are
How you first found this website
What it allows you to do
And explain how this website helps you.
What I would love to share with you today is my all-time favourite website -
Google which is currently the most popular Internet search engine
I actually first used this website in 2008 back to those years studying at Hanoi
University, we had to do a lot of group assignments, and Google was really
effective to help us find out valuable information on the Internet. Since then,
I started using Google on daily basis. The most impressive thing about
this website is that it helps users search for any queries just by clicking some
keywords. Then, it will show your desired results with relevant information.
This website basically contains a search input box, various searching options
like video search, image search, web search or even advanced search
options to serve any users’ purposes. The front page is user-friendly, well-
designed and informative. We just need to type what we need to search for and
in a few seconds, the whole world appears. The on the website is white
with blue headlines, which make it so bright.
For me, this website is a fantastic gateway to find references, academic
books, news with amazing speed. There’s nothing I could complain about Google
although the search result sometimes is not accurate enough. Even so, for me,
Google is a miracle.
my all-time favourite website : trang web ưa thích nhất của tôi là....
Internet search engine: công cụ tìm kiếm trực tuyến
queries : thắc mắc
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a search input box : ô nhập tìm kiếm

advanced search options: các lựa chọn tìm kiếm nâng cao
blue headlines: tiêu đề màu xanh
a fantastic gateway: cổng kết nối tuyệt vời
a miracle: điều kì diệu

PART 3
SHOPPING

1. Why women like to do shopping?

Women are usually considered creatures of beauty, which may explain why they
love shopping and enjoy new costumes. First and foremost, outfits are
visual indicators of personal image and personalities; hence, they want to dress
accordingly. Secondly, shopping is not only for the sake of fashion but also an
effective means of relaxation. In modern society where lots of people are under
constant stress every day, indulging oneself in some serious shopping may
help to release their stress, despite temporarily.

2. Why do some women buy cheaper clothes and expensive ones at the
same time?
Women purchase outfits at different prices for some reasons. The pricier a
piece of clothing is, the more attractive it looks. However, it doesn’t mean low-
cost costumes are less appealing or fashionable. Therefore, many women
have both high-end items as well as more budget-friendly ones in their
wardrobe for various purposes. Luxury brands such as Gucci, Chanel or Louis
Vuitton are suitable for them in parties and interviews, but affordable clothes
brands like ZARA or H&M can be chosen when they hang out with friends or go
travelling.

SPORTS
1. Do you prefer to watch sports live or watch on television?

I have to say watching sports in the stadium is definitely better than watching on
television. The main reason is that you can feel the electric atmosphere at
the stadium. For example, people around you cheer for their team, which makes

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you feel exhilarated. Also, let’s not forget that on television. The
commentators may distract you from the match when they have unnecessary
comments about the skills of the players.
2. Do you think children should be encouraged from a young age to
participate in competitive sports (or team sports)?
I don’t really think it’s good if children are taught at a young age to be
competitive. If you can teach the child how to play competitive sports without
stressing that winning is the only way that you can have fun then I guess it’s
okay. But personally I think that’s a bit unrealistic because everyone wants to
win, and if kids don’t win their natural reaction such as crying or getting mad.
This doesn’t really help them in life. When they grow up they’ll find that you
don’t always win the first time around, you just have to keep trying and keep
going on with your life.
3. Do men and women play the same kind of sports?
It really depends on the person, because I know some girls who are a lot more
athletic than most guys are. But for the most part, girls generally don’t play most
of the rougher, aggressive sports. An American friend of mine told me that many
of the men there like to play American football and even though some girls will
join the game, most of them will just sit on the side und watch or do something
else.

TECHNOLOGY
1. What is the best age for children to begin computer lessons?
I think the ideal age to start compulsory computer lessons would be when
they begin secondary school at around the age of 11 or 12. Before that, most
kids are not really into computers anyway and I think introducing them
to technology early could hinder their progression in other areas such
as physical ability and social development. However, some children are
obsessed with technology and computers from a very young age. In these
instances, it’s best to encourage them to pursue their interests at whatever
age they happen to be.

2. Could you suggest some reasons why some people are deciding to
reduce their use of technology?

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I think people are beginning to realize the limitations and even the harmful
effects of technology. Internet addiction is a real problem, especially in
young people who often end up spending hours scrolling mindlessly through
social media, or playing video games. Additionally, it’s been proven that the
overuse of social media can lead to extreme anxiety and self-esteem issues.
Reducing our use of technology allows us to engage and reconnect more with
reality.

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PRACTICE WITH FRIENDS

PART 2

Describe a person in the news that you want to meet

Describe a person who taught you something important
Describe an old person you love
Describe a child you know.
Describe an important plant in your country
Describe your favorite animal
Describe a wild animal
Describe a piece of clothing that you like wearing
Describe the best gift/ present you have ever received.
Describe a leisure activity near or on the sea/ Describe your favorite sport
Describe a sports event you enjoyed watching.
Describe a piece of technology you like using
Describe a useful website that you often visit.
PART 3
What do you think about the impact of celebrities’ style on the youth nowadays?
How can a celebrity negatively affect the brand image that they advertise for?
What are the benefits and the drawbacks of younger and older generations living
together?
Which do you prefer, support from family members or friends? Why?
In your country, what is the attitude towards old people?
What are the differences between men and women’s hobbies?
What effects do you think humans have on wild animals?
Is it the responsibility of schools to teach children about protecting wildlife?
Why women like to do shopping?
Why do some women buy cheaper clothes and expensive ones at the same time?
Do you prefer to watch sports live or watch on television?
Do you think children should be encouraged from a young age to participate in
competitive sports (or team sports)?
Do men and women play the same kind of sports?
What is the best age for children to begin computer lessons?
Could you suggest some reasons why some people are deciding to reduce their
use of technology?

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SESSION 6- ENVIRONMENT, LAWS, WEATHER

PART 2

1. Describe an environmental problem that has occurred in your

country.

You should say:

The cause of the problem

What effect it has had on your country

The steps, if any, that have been taken to solve this

And explain why you think this problem is so important to solve

As a nature enthusiast, I have to say that I’m deeply concerned about flooding
which means the overflow of water over an area.

I guess that this disaster stems from a number of factors. Due to deforestation,
the water has nothing to soak it up in a torrential rain. Therefore, it just runs
down the mountains and into the villages and towns. Besides, the drainage
system in some cities is not effective enough to handle the excess water.

Regarding the consequences, flooding destroys not only residents’ houses and
the transport system but also crops and livestock. This catastrophe affects
humans’ activities, leading to starvation, injuries and even death.

Luckily, there are some solutions to this environmental problem. The government
can protect the forest by stopping illegal logging and build the infrastructure
such as dams along some rivers. Additionally, people need to change their
houses to help them withstand floods like adding barrels below and making
higher pillars.

I think this problem is vital to solve because it has such serious impacts on
humans’ life and the national economy. Also, Vietnam is a country with
numerous lakes and rivers, so floods are more likely to hit many regions.

In short, flooding is an alarming problem in my country, so I only hope that

people will join hands to solve it.

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2. Describe a place near water (such as a river, a lake or the ocean)

that you enjoyed visiting.

where this place was

what you did at this place

who you went there with

and explain why you liked this place.

Last summer, my family went on a vacation to Cat Ba island, which is located in

Hai Phong city and I was really impressed with the magnificent beach there.
To arrive at this destination, we had to take a ferry from the mainland, a
journey which lasted roughly one hour. Fortunately, I was not seasick. When we
reached there, to be honest, the scenery appealed to me tremendously,
especially the sandy beach. The beach itself was absolutely breathtaking and the
crystal clear water seemed to stretch endlessly to the horizon. In addition,
from a distance, huge waves were crashing onto the shore, which sounded like a
melody. I was so excited that I just wanted to jump into the sea right away.
On the beach, many people were enjoying the scenery, and some were
swimming while their children were making sandcastles. My family quickly
checked into the hotel, we changed our clothes and joined the people there.
Actually, this vacation gave me the chance to relax and all my worries seemed to
fall away. Therefore, I hope that we will be able to enjoy more holidays like this
every year.
the magnificent beach: bãi biển đẹp tuyệt vời
take a ferry: đi phà
the crystal clear water: nước trong suốt như pha lê

2. Describe an environment law

You should say:

• what it is

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• how you first learned about it

• who benefits from it

And explain how you feel about this law

I would like to talk about a policy which the government put in place a long time
ago, and I believe that has had a tremendously positive effect on the daily life of
Vietnamese people.

I don’t remember the exact official title of the regulation, but generally, it states
that people must separate their household waste into three groups: organic,
inorganic and recyclable materials, each of which has been assigned a different
coloured bin. To effectively make this rule work, the government has had to
install thousands of different coloured bins throughout the city’s public areas.

In the past, waste disposal was such a daunting task for the local government
to deal with because most people had very little environmental awareness, and
they often just mixed their trash into one giant mess, dumping it into rivers, on
the streets or in any public place they felt like. This became quite an alarming
situation in Vietnam for a number of years and had an extremely detrimental
impact on the environment, and not to mention the mess it was creating in many
urban areas.

So, by introducing this new law and by effectively campaigning it, a clear
shift has occurred in people’s daily lives, as now there is an effective and
practical solution to get rid of everyday waste, and people’s awareness around
this issue has now significantly increased over the years. I’m really quite happy
with how this law has helped to solve the waste problem in my country, rather
than only the ineffective talk about the problem that was happening beforehand.

1. tremendously – extremely or very much

2. regulation – an official law or rule
3. household waste – garbage from your house eg. food scraps, plastic
packaging, boxes etc
4. organic – something natural, not with any chemicals
5. waste disposal – throwing away garbage

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6. daunting task – a task that makes you feel slightly worried or frightened
about doing it
7. environmental awareness – to think about or know about environmental
problems
8. alarming situation – a serious problem
9. detrimental impact – a negative or damaging effect
10.not to mention – used when you want to emphasize something you are
about to say
11. effectively campaigning – to successfully
12. a clear shift – an obvious change
13. get rid of – to be free of something

4. Describe a good law in your country

You should say:

 What it is
 How you know about it
 What people think about this law
 and explain why you think that it is a good law.

Honestly speaking, I don’t know much about any law specifically, but if I have to
think about one, it would be the restriction on cellphone use while driving in
my country.
You know, answering phone calls or texting while driving or riding motorbikes is
a common sight in Vietnam; therefore, the government has decided to impose
this restriction. Under this regulation, drivers using handheld phones
while driving motorbikes have to pay a fine of 600 to 800,000 VND. They also
have their driving licenses revoked for 3 months.

If I’m not mistaken, I happened to read about this regulation in the newspaper

I’m not sure, but I guess that people’s opinions on this law are various . While
many totally abide by the rule, some still argue that using mobile phone is not
dangerous because people can drive using the other hand. This may even
worsen the situation by suggesting that the behavior is safe.

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For me, this regulation is absolutely reasonable because with technology growing
rapidly, cell phone becomes more dangerous as it threatens people’s life.
Drivers who use cell phone to text are most likely to look over their phones than
the road and can take away a life in the blink of an eye. Therefore, they fail to
concentrate and reduce their vision of the road ahead. For example, there was
this deadly accident in my city. It happened because a truck driver was talking
a phone while driving and ran into a motorbike, killing a woman and her son
right on the spot.

5. Describe an occasion when weather prevented your activity

You should say:

When it was

Why it prevented your activity

What you did

And how you felt about it

(When it was)

I’m going to tell you an experience that happened last summer when I was going
to hike on a far-away mountain. However, the unfavorable weather eventually
hindered my plan. It was a balmy day with a mild temperature. After having
breakfast, I checked my backpack and took the bus to the foothills.

(Why it prevented your activity)

However, when I reached there, the sun disappeared and the temperature
changed vastly. The wind had picked up, with dark clouds rolling across the
sky. This was no doubt an indication of a heavy rain or worse, a big storm.
From my previous experience, I knew right away it is, by no means, an easy
task to hike by myself in such conditions, as the mountain road I chose was full
of twists and turns.

(What you did)

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Though I was demotivated, I had to cancel my hiking plans for the sake of my
safety. However, on the way back, I found that there was a hot spring resort
by the road, which I had never been to before. I decided to treat myself to a
service there to make up for the failed plan.

(And how you felt about it)

Fortunately, the spring resort experience was wonderful itself. After two hours
there, all my tiredness was gone, and I felt such a sense of refreshment. Though
bathing was not my first choice of the day, it actually turned out pretty fulfilling

All in all, my plan of hiking was completely changed by the heavy rain

6. Describe a time you looked at the sky

Where it is

Who you would like to see it with

What you would like to see

Explain why you would like to see it

(Where it is) I guess that sky-gazing is something that I might do

every day without actually having any awareness of doing it. However, I am
going to tell you about a sky I would love to see from a roof-top bar located near
Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

(Who you would like to see it with) Well, I think it is best to watch the sky
with my friends since we both love to enjoy moments when planes take off and
land on the ground.

(What you would like to see) For me, the suitable time to watch is
the afternoon in summer. The sky would be clear, deep blue with only a
few light clouds, but in the distance I could see planes waiting in line before
rushing to take off the ground, carrying their passengers to different destinations.
And then, the sunset time would be awesome and witnessing the sky by eye
might be something unforgettable when there are only a few rays of sun
flickering.

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(Explain why you would like to see it) I just simply think that watching the
sky during the afternoon time and contemplating the sunset always
brings me excitement and relaxation after a hard-working day. In addition,
becoming a flight attendant is also my dream job, therefore; planes really
fascinate me and give me a motivation to turn my dream into reality.

sky-gazing: ngắm nhìn bầu trời

contemplating the sunset: ngắm mặt trời lặn

PART 3

ENVIRONMENT

1. Are there many environmental problems in your country?

Climate change: sự biến đổi khí hậu

 in the dry season, the south (HCMC) saw out-of-season

downpours: vào mùa khô, phía nam (TP HCM) đã thấy những trận mưa
trái mùa
 in the central region: the rainy season and the floods came late
but they occurred repeatedly and lasted longer than usual
→ cause huge damage to property and people: ở khu vực miền
trung: mùa mưa và các trận lũ lụt đến muộn nhưng chúng xảy ra liên tục
và kéo dài hơn bình thường → gây thiệt hại lớn cho tài sản và con người
 the weather → has become increasingly abnormal in recent
years: thời tiết → ngày càng trở nên bất thường trong những năm gần đây

2. What can individuals do to help?

 use LED light bulbs instead of conventional ones: sử dụng bóng đèn
LED thay vì bóng đèn thông thường
 purchase goods and clothing that are made in sustainable
ways: mua hàng hóa và quần áo được sản xuất theo cách bền vững (bảo
vệ môi trường)

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 reuse and recycle more: tái sử dụng và tái chế nhiều hơn
 install solar panels → reduce the amount of greenhouse gas
emissions: lắp đặt các tấm pin mặt trời → giảm lượng khí thải nhà kính

3. Do you believe that climate change is a serious problem?

 more frequent wildfires: cháy rừng thường xuyên hơn

 more severe drought, increasing the risk of wildfires, lost crops,
drinking water shortages: hạn hán nghiêm trọng hơn, làm tăng nguy cơ
cháy rừng, mất mùa, thiếu nước uống
 extreme heat + more frequent floods → increase the risk of
diseases: nhiệt độ quá cao + lũ lụt thường xuyên hơn → tăng nguy cơ
mắc bệnh
 pose a major threat to human health: đặt ra một mối đe dọa lớn đối
với sức khỏe con người
 warmer temperatures → spread mosquito-borne diseases: nhiệt độ
ấm hơn → bệnh do muỗi truyền nhiễm

LAWS

1. Is there any situation wherein people may disobey some laws? Why
is so?
Basically, there are two different kinds of situations wherein people may not
abide by the laws. First, if a situation comes when a person is not able to
meet his basic needs, such as food and medicines, in order to survive, the
chances are really high that he or she will disobey some laws. Secondly, if a
person feels that some laws cannot ensure the justice in the long run, people will
disobey those laws. Strange as it may seem, some people violate laws just
because they do not know them or take the laws very lightly.

2. What laws should be introduced so that people do not violate traffic

rules? Why do you think so?
First, traffic laws that force people to pay hefty fines for violating traffic rules
can be a good start. Besides, for serious violations, there should also be such
laws that cancel the car registration, driving licenses and then take them to
prison for a long term punishment. Finally, there should be a rule that forces

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violators to help victims until they recover from their injuries of the accidents.
I think that these kinds of laws will work to a large extent because they will
make people pay heavily for their irresponsible behaviour.

WEATHER

1. Does weather have any impact on people's daily activities?

Yes, of course. Weather affects the everyday lives of people by governing

choices they make about what clothes to wear, how to travel, and the activities
in which they participate. For example, in areas where distinct seasons exist,
winter weather, such as snowstorms, can cancel school, meaning that
parents may have to scramble for childcare, and students get a day off from
school. Also, winter weather can also make trouble for workers when they
commute to their companies.

2. Why do people do different kinds of sports in different weather?

This is a way of adaptation for me. The effects of weather on sports are
varied. Some events are unable to take place, while others are changed
considerably. While outdoor sports are most affected, those played indoors can
still be impacted by unfavorable weather conditions. For example, athletes may
get sick or cannot commute to the stadium due to a torrential rain, flooding
and other natural disasters.

3. What kind of weather do Vietnamese people like?

I’m afraid there is no definite answer for this question, but it may probably
be the sunny, mild weather in spring. The temperature at these times is neither
bitterly cold nor unbearably hot, so people in Vietnam tend to go on a picnic,
or take a brisk walk in the park. Besides, this is the period that everyone
gathers to their family, so I believe that people particularly feel happier with this
kind of weather.

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SESSION 7: REVIEW-

TRAVEL, FESTIVAL, TRANSPORTS

I. REVIEW

1. STUDY AND JOBS

2. HOBBIES AND CULTURE
3. PEOPLE AND NATURE
4. SHOPPING, SPORTS, TECHNOLOGY
5. ENVIRONMENT, WEATHER, LAW
II. TRAVEL, FESTIVAL, TRANSPORTS

1. Describe a trip that you remember well

You should say:

when you had it

who you went with

what you did

and explain how you felt about it

As a travel enthusiast, I would like to share with you my memorable journey to

Da Nang which is a renowned tourist attraction in the central region of Vietnam.

If I’m not mistaken, it was around three years ago when my soul-mates and I
took a vacation to that coastal city.

It took us about an hour to fly there, and luckily, the flight took off on time.
Though there were many accommodation options, we stayed at a hostel
which was cozy and well-furnished.

There was a variety of things that I experienced during the trip. I got up early to
admire the glorious sunrise on My Khe beach and immersed myself in cool
water. I also captured tons of photos on Ba Na Hill, a resort on the mountain
which was well-known for its mild climate and several entertainment venues.

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At night, I went to Hoi An Ancient Town and tried some food specialties such
as grilled fish and Vietnamese pancakes.

The vacation to Da Nang was appealing and meaningful to me for some reasons.

First of all, it was the first time my friends and I planned the trip by ourselves,
booking a flight and deciding on ideal destinations. This sharpened our life skills
regarding problem-solving, communication and team-work. For example, we
knew how to talk with locals to ask for directions or bargain for some products.

Additionally, Da Nang is my parents’ hometown, so I felt sense of connection and

affection with this city at first sight. This urban area still had pristine
surroundings and peaceful atmosphere. Also, residents in this city were not
only compassionate and honest but also hospitable and generous.

In a word, the trip to Da Nang remains vivid in my mind until today.

*CONNECTING WITH OTHER TOPICS

2. Describe a trip you would like to have in the future

3. Describe your best trip

4. Describe a person you want to travel with

5. Describe an important holiday that is celebrated in your country

when this celebration takes place

what people do during this celebration

what you especially like and dislike about this celebration

and explain why it is important.

Today I’m going to tell you about one of the biggest, oldest traditional festivals
with the widest popular range in Vietnam, which is Tet Holiday.
Tet marks the arrival of spring and is the most important celebration in
Vietnamese culture and it takes place around late January or early February
according to the Lunar Calendar.

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Tết is also an occasion for family reunions. When Tet comes around the
corner, most Vietnamese people return to their families to visit their family
members, to worship at the family altar or visit the graves of their ancestors in
their homeland as a sign of respect.
Many Vietnamese people prepare for Tet by cooking special holiday food which
includes some food specialties like Banh Chung which is a sticky rice cake with
meat and mung beans filling, wrapped in banana leaves
Traditionally, every household is decorated by yellow apricot blossoms in the
central and the southern parts of Vietnam; or peach blossoms in the northern
part.
Many customs are practiced around Tet. Children often receive a red envelope
containing money from their elders after giving them traditional Tet
greetings. During Tet days, people also visit relatives and friends to wish them
good health, overwhelming joy and prosperity. Local pagodas are popular
spots as well, as people go there to wish for a better year to come for their
families.
Tet holiday is the only occasion that people start forgetting about the troubles of
the past year and hope for a better upcoming year.

 mark the arrival of spring: đánh dấu mùa xuân về

 take place: diễn ra
 come around the corner: sắp đến
 ancestor (n): tổ tiên
 yellow apricot blossoms: hoa mai
 peach blossoms: hoa đào
 custom (n): phong tục
 prosperity (n) thịnh vượn

6. Describe an experience when you travelled by public transport

You should say:

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(where you went) I am going to talk about the time that I commuted
by public transportation in Singapore for the first time, which took place
2 years ago. It is common knowledge that Singapore is famous for its
wide coverage of public transportation including bus and railway systems
which help both local and foreign visitors travel around the city-state with ease.

(What means of transport you took) Apart from that, as a result of

the government’s policy which imposes a limit on the number of vehicles on
the road, a taxi did not seem affordable for those travelling on a budget like
me. I was left with no choice but to board an MRT train to get to the city centre,
which was the fastest and most convenient way, though not the most
economical.

(Who you were with) I commuted with my father, who went to Singapore
for a regular checkup at Raffles Hospital, which is one of the most
famous healthcare hospitals in the whole of Asia. He was also quite excited
about his first time using the metro.

(And explain how you felt about the trip) I was not a frequent public
transport commuter at that time, therefore, I thought that the MRT would travel
at a snail’s pace and it would take ages to arrive in downtown. Also, as it was
the first time that I had used the metro, I dreaded to think that I would board
the wrong train and get lost. However, I was surprised that I only had to change
the train once and that it only took 30 minutes to get to downtown. Instructions
were so clear that I did not even rely on anybody to help me.

TRAVEL

1. Where do Vietnamese people often go for holidays?

Public holidays in Vietnam are relatively short, normally ranging from one to two
days only, apart from the Lunar New Year holiday, which grants people 5 days
off. Therefore, Vietnamese people only make use of those short holidays
to go to weekend destinations such as Vũng Tàu, which is an ideal coastal
destination for those who like the beach. Đà Lạt is also another popular choice
for people from Ho Chi Minh city.

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2. Talking about eco-tourism, does it have more benefits or drawbacks?

Eco-tourism definitely brings more benefits to the economy, the environment and
society as a whole. As a major in tourism, I learn that eco-tourism activities have
to involve educating tourists about the ecosystem, thus increasing their
awareness of the responsibility for preserving the ecosystem. Meanwhile,
ordinary tourist activities are merely visiting places and taking photos.

FESTIVAL

1. Do you think festivals are important?

Yes, I do believe that festivals are essential because they could represent the
cultural identity of a country. For example, while Vietnam is noted for Tet
holiday, Mexico is known as the country with the Day of the Dead. Moreover,
these occasions could also attract tourists and boost the tourism sector. Also,
working class people need vacations and festivals to release their stress and
bond with their family and friends. Without festivals, life would become tedious
and meaningless.

2. Who tends to enjoy national celebrations more: young people or old

people? Why?

I honestly think both young and old people enjoy national celebrations
equally, but for very different reasons. For older generations, it is all about the
chance to spend time with family members who perhaps they don’t get to see
much in the year. They also enjoy reminiscing about occasions in the
past and recalling the “good old days”. Youngsters, on the other hand, like
national celebrations because they can escape from their regular routine
and hang out with their friends.

TRANSPORT

1. Do people still drive a car if public transportation is free of charge?

Well, probably. Free public transport would reduce the number of cars on
the road. Global warming is a serious issue and if public transport was free,
more people would use it, taking cars off the road and cutting down CO2

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emissions. With more users, bad public transport networks would be

improved by the government, to make it more approachable. It’s
definitely a good incentive.

2. How can transportation in rural areas be developed?

Reliable transportation is needed for rural residents to access healthcare

services, consumer services, employment and educational opportunities, and
social services. It is also important for accessing recreation and other activities
of daily life. Therefore, the long-term investment in an efficient and
affordable system of transportation would lay the foundation for economic
growth in rural areas and help ensure that people can obtain services and
participate in public life

3. In what ways can the traffic conditions in a city be improved?

For me, upgrading rail and subway systems in cities could ensure that traffic
congestion is properly addressed. Unlike cars and buses, trains are capable of
transporting hundreds of people and thus would meet the transport demand of a
vast number of passengers. In fact, trains do not have to go through
intersections and traffic lights, and dedicated lines ensure their travel is hardly
interrupted.

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SESSION 8: CUISINE, HEALTH

1. Describe your favourite food.

You should say:

 What the food is

 Where you eat it
 How it is made

and explain why it is your favourite food.

(What) As a big fan of cuisine, I would like to talk about Pho which is a
food specialty in my country.
(Where) Actually, Pho is ubiquitous in Vietnam, so it’s a piece of cake to
find it even in a street vendor’s or in a luxury restaurant. You can also make this
food at home to serve your family and your friends.

(How it is made) If my memory serves me well, a noodle soup consists of rice

noodles, beef, bones, pig’s trotters, bean sprouts, herbs and some spices like
cinnamon and star anise. Speaking of cooking steps, first, I chop bones,
onions, chili… before roasting some spices and putting them in a small bag. After
that, I boil bones, the bag of spices and add some seasoning like salt, cooking
powder and sugar in the pot. Finally, I pour the broth in a bowl of rice noodles
and beef.

(Why) I find this food delicacy delicious and special for some reasons
Firstly, Pho stimulates the appetite of any food lovers due to the combination
of tender meat and aromatic vegetables. Also, lemons and beef not only
enhance the flavor but also provide customers with vitamins and nutrients.
Besides, I often reminisce about the past when my family gathered in the
kitchen to cook Pho on some anniversaries. Therefore, to me, a bowl of home-
cooked and nutritious Pho can strengthen the close-knit bond among family
members.
In short, Pho is my all-time favorite food.

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*CONNECTING WITH OTHER TOPICS:

2. Describe a foreign food you would like to try

3. Describe a dish that you can cook

4. Describe your favorite Restaurant.

• where it is?
• What it looks like inside and outside?
• What kind of foods they serve?
What makes this restaurant so special to you and others?

My city is home to numerous fast food outlets and traditional restaurants. Today,
I am going to talk about a restaurant which I love.
My favourite restaurant is Countdown and it is situated at the centre of the city I
am currently living in. From the outside the restaurant doesn’t look very
impressive. It is located on the ground floor of a three storey building. It has
large glass windows at the front, and vehicles are parked all around it. But once
you step in, it is not only spacious but surprisingly well-organized and elegant.
They offer a wide range of cuisines including Indian, Thai and local varieties,
which gives you a wide range of options.
I and many people who know about this place find this restaurant quite unique
because of its delicious food and high standard of hygiene. Not only that, the
prices are also reasonable and the food is served quickly as opposed to some
other restaurants where you will have to wait for a long time for your order to
appear on your table. They also play soft background music which makes one
forget about all the tensions and stress of life.
Besides, the waiters and other staff are friendly and welcoming. Unlike other
restaurants, they even ask for feedback and customer complaints are taken very
seriously.
All in all, I think it is one of the best restaurants in my city and someone visiting
the city should surely go there.

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4. Describe something healthy you enjoy doing

 What the activity is;

 When you do it;

 How often you do it.

And explain why it is a good way to look after your health.

Well, I didn’t really have a good dietary habit until recently when I start to
cook myself. I believe this activity can benefit both my mental and physical
health. I usually try to cook as often as possible for all of my meals including
breakfast, lunch and dinner.

What I mean by a healthy diet is nourishing meals with a variety of foods that
give me the required nutrients which include protein, carbohydrates, fat, water,
vitamins, and minerals. I used to only hit the gym and did not care about what I
eat. Consequently, there wasn’t any progress and I could not keep fit.

I try my best to make healthy meals as often as possible, round 2 or 3 days a

week. I purchase fresh ingredients from the supermarket and seek for
recipes on the Internet. I also ask for my mother’ advice since she’s an expert
in cuisine.

The reason why I enjoy making nutritious meals is that when combined with
being physically active, eating well is an excellent way to keep me robust.
Besides, when I’m immerse myself in cooking, I feel relaxed and cheerful, which
is good for my mental health.

In short, I will try to maintain this eating habit in the future.

5. Describe the article on health you read on magazine or the Internet

You should say:

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(What it was) Health is emerging as one of the most popular topics of

magazines and newspapers today. Articles on health have been all the rage
these days, one of the most prominent ones was an extract of a book on the use
of tretinoin in treating skin problems.

(Where you read it) I stumbled on this article on Facebook. I’m a member
of a group which reviews beauty and cosmetics. Someone, who appeared
to be a dermatologist, shared this article. It was such a coincidence that I
was also on medication using tretinoin to treat acne.

(Why you read it) Thus, I decided to spend a whole day off reading this
article and finding other articles about tretinoin so as to check the authenticity
of the article. I wanted to read this article because I heard that this substance
was a double-edged sword because if you use it in a correct way, it’ll
deliver better-than-expected results. If you fail to use it properly, you’ll
likely end up having burnt and flaky skin.

(And how you felt about it) I believe that this article changed my life as it
transformed my acne-prone skin into healthier skin. Also, it also helped to me
set aside a large amount of money spent on night skincare products as I’m not
supposed to use any other products when using tretinoin to maximise the
strength of it.

6.Describe a time when you were ill. You should say:

when this was
what your symptoms were

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how long the illness lasted

and say how it affected your life at the time

Flu: Some ideas

I will talk about a terrible experience when I got ill. It happened a few months
ago when I had flu coupled with sore throat. A week before it happened, I was
so stressed with work. I had stayed late nights in the office to meet several
deadlines. I lack sleep and I couldn’t also eat on time.

My body started to feel weak; I started to have slight fever and colds. I knew it
was going to be bad because I was having headaches, and severe muscle and
body aches. I also started to have dry cough and my throat hurts.

It lasted for about a week. I went to see a doctor so I can get the right
prescription. I was advised to have bed rest for a few days.

I was not able to report for work for a week. Luckily, I have already finished all
my deadlines before it happened. But, it had still affected my life because I failed
to do my daily routine. I also asked my mom to take care of me since I lived
alone. When I came back to work, there’s a huge pile of paper work waiting on
my desk.

Car accident: Some ideas

I would like to talk about a car accident that happened to me a few years ago
and resulted in serious injuries... It was a horrible experience that I would not
want to relive ... my family was driving home, when a big truck crashed into our
passenger car. After the accident I blacked out and was transported to the
hospital. When I regained consciousness, I discovered that I had five broked
bones, several ruptures and many cuts and bruises. To restore the collarbone
and leg bone, I had to go through operations, during which metal rods were put
onto these bones to fix them... Not surprisingly, I was in a severe pain, so
physicians prescribed me to take painkillers and other medicines for a couple
of weeks. During my recovery, I wasn't able to walk properly and my life then
was very difficult. But after several months of proper treatment and physical
therapy I fully recovered ... I even took up karate soon after! Although the illness
was definitely not a pleasant experience, I am very happy and grateful that now
I am healthy... Probably, I leaned to value health and became stronger.

7.Describe an experience you played an indoor game with others

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What the indoor game was

Who you played it

How you felt about it

(What the indoor game was) For this cue card, I would like to tell you about
a Vietnamese traditional folk game, which is bamboo jacks. It is not as popular
as it used to be in the past; however, it always reminds me of my childhood.

(Who you played it with) This game includes ten thin, well-sharpened, round
bamboo sticks and a ball, which traditionally is a fig. These days, tennis balls are
becoming more popular as a substitute. The player tosses the ball into the air.
While the ball is in the air, she must quickly pick up the sticks and then catch the
ball. In the first round, the player picks up the slicks one by one. Next, she
gathers two sticks at a time, and so forth up to ten. In these stages she plays
with only one hand. Meanwhile, her face reddens and her eyes become
intense as she performs in front of her friends.

(How you felt about it) I think the main reason why I feel content and
absorbed with this game is that it teaches you how to be patient and focus on
what you are doing. With this game, I can let off some steams after studying at
school

PART 3

CUISINE

1. Why do you think some people choose to be vegetarians?

Although I’m not a vegetarian, I still believe it’s good to eat sufficient vegetables
and fruits. I think there are several reasons one could turn vegetarian, from
religious to health concerns for example. People feel compassion for livestock
which is also living creatures. Also, consuming leafy vegetables and tofu is better
for our digestive system than eating beef or pork. Additionally, meat
production causes enormous amounts of pollution and leads to climate change.

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2. How do you think the way we eat will change in the future?

I think we will be forced into change out of necessity. Climate change

is drastically altering how we grow food and the types of food we can
produce in mass quantity. In order to survive, our diets will need to change in
order to fit the production of food. Hopefully this will mean that our diets will
become smaller and healthier, but I tend to be very skeptical. The other
alternative would be for innovations to develop in order to improve how we eat.

Vocabulary Phonetic Meaning

drastically /ˈdrastɪkli/ toàn diện

alter /ˈɔːltə/ thay đổi

skeptical /ˈskɛptɪk(ə)l/ hoài nghi

HEALTH

1. What can governments do to improve people's health?

It is common knowledge that governments play an integral role in people’s
health, because they can formulate essential policies that are beneficial for the
well-being of their citizens. For example, food should be subject to scrutiny so
as to ensure safety for consumption. Also, heavy fines should be imposed
on companies that dump chemical waste into water bodies.
2. What activities can school organize for children to keep fit?

There are a wide range of activities school can organise. For example,
Singapore’s education system requires every student to participate in at
least one sport as a requirement for graduation. Also, on a smaller scale,

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classes can organise teambuilding activities so as to improve the physical

health of their members.

3. Do you think people are healthier now than in the past?

It depends. I believe people are more robust now than in the past in the sense
that life expectancy of people is longer than ever. Also, this can be
attributed to the advances and breakthroughs witnessed in the medical field.
However, it is undeniable that consumers nowadays may eat unhealthy food due
to toxic substances which are added to vegetables or meat to make them
more attractive.

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PRACTICE WITH FRIENDS

PART 2
Describe an environmental problem that has occurred in your country.
Describe a place near water (such as a river, a lake or the ocean) that you
enjoyed visiting.
Describe an environment law
Describe a good law in your country
Describe an occasion when weather prevented your activity
Describe a time you looked at the sky
Describe a trip that you remember well
Describe a person you want to travel with
Describe an important holiday that is celebrated in your country
Describe an experience when you travelled by public transport
Describe your favourite food.
Describe a foreign food you would like to try
Describe your favorite restaurant.
Describe something healthy you enjoy doing
Describe the article on health you read on magazine or the Internet
Describe a time when you were ill
Describe an experience you played an indoor game with others
PART 3
Are there many environmental problems in your country?
What can individuals do to help?
Do you believe that climate change is a serious problem?
Is there any situation wherein people may disobey some laws? Why is so?
What laws should be introduced so that people do not violate traffic rules? Why
do you think so?
Does weather have any impact on people's daily activities?
Why do people do different kinds of sports in different weather?
What kind of weather do Vietnamese people like?
Where do Vietnamese people often go for holidays?
Talking about eco-tourism, does it have more benefits or drawbacks?
Do you think festivals are important?

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Who tends to enjoy national celebrations more: young people or old people?
Why?
Do people still drive a car if public transportation is free of charge?
How can transportation in rural areas be developed?
In what ways can the traffic conditions in a city be improved?
Why do you think some people choose to be vegetarians?
How do you think the way we eat will change in the future?
What can governments do to improve people's health?
What activities can school organize for children to keep fit?
Do you think people are healthier now than in the past?

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SESSION 9: HOUSING AND PLACES

1. Describe a place where you want to work

You should say:

where it is

what kind of work you would like to do

when you would like to work there

And explain why you want to work in this place.

Well, the place that I have always wanted to work but have yet had the chance
to visit is Tokyo, the capital city of Japan.

I have been dreaming to work in this city ever since I learned about it from a
travel and lifestyle channel. And even though it is considered as a major
cosmopolitan city, I always admire the ability to preserve the cultural aspect of
Japan. The existence of such marvellous temples in the centre of the city, or
the sight of Japanese women wearing kimonos just seems quite amazing to me.
Apart from this, the city where I live, Hanoi, is currently suffering from a serious
air pollution problem, so it would be a nice break to be able to find a job in one
of the cleaner countries in the world.

Recently, there have been many agencies and organizations that help to assist
undergraduates or newly-graduated students to find employment in Japan,
and so if everything goes according to plan, in about 6 months I will start
working as a marketing intern for an English centre located in Ginza, which is
one of the busiest streets in Tokyo. Fingers crossed that everything goes
according to plan and I am able to enter a completely new phase in my life.

1. cosmopolitan – containing people or things from many different parts of the

world
2. marvellous – extremely good
3. kimonos – traditional Japanese clothing
4. undergraduates – students who have not yet graduated from university yet
5. goes according to plan – follows the plan
6. fingers crossed – a phrase that is used to wish for good luck

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2. Describe an ideal house or apartment you would like to live in the

future

You should say:

And explain why it is ideal to you

Now, I would like to share with you about a house that I desire to live in. The
walls will be painted in white, which makes my house much brighter and
reduces the absorption of heat. I love the natural light more
than artificial light, so each room will have its own windows. Also, since I
follow the minimalism of Japanese, there will be nothing much inside my
house apart from a kitchen, some essential necessities and some
inspirational quotes on the walls of my bedroom.

I’ve dreamed of having a spacious detached house in Da Nang since it is

proved the most liveable city in Vietnam. Settling in this urban area, I can get
up early to admire the glorious sunrise on My Khe beach and immerse
myself in cool water. Meanwhile, my children can capture tons of photos on
Ba Na Hill and try many food specialties.

I probably move to that house when I have a stable job and tie a knot. Actually,
the price of property has gone up dramatically, so I have to save money.

I find this house appealing and worth living for some reasons

First, I love residing in a private house because I can decorate it according to my

personal taste. Additionally, Da Nang still has pristine surroundings and
peaceful atmosphere. Also, residents in this city are not only compassionate
and honest but also hospitable and generous.

In short, I’ll make an effort to buy such a house in the future.

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3. Describe a place that is full of color

And explain why you remember it well

(Where it is): During my trip to Singapore last year, I had an opportunity to

visit the Singapore Botanic Gardens, which impressed me with tons of different
colors.

(What it is like): Covering more than 74.000 square meters, the botanic
garden showcases Singapore’s biggest collection of flowers with a wide
variety of colors, such as red, yellow, orange, pink, or even blue, and their
shades. The national flower of Singapore, which is the orchid, can be found
easily in this garden. Moreover, the park’s entrance is also naturally decorated
with colorful flowers.

(What it is used for): The Botanic garden is an ideal spot for not only foreign
visitors but also Singapore citizens to immerse themselves in natural
beauty and get away from it all after hard-working days. You can easily
see hordes of tourists going sightseeing or joining leisure activities,
especially on the weekends.

(And explain why you remember it well)

Well, I think the primary reason why the memories about this place are still vivid
in my mind is because it was the first time I have ever witnessed such a wide
variety of colorful flowers in my life, although I have travelled to different
countries. The moment I entered the garden, I was completely blown away
by its beauty. To be honest, it was a once in a life time experience. I hope that I
will have opportunities to visit this garden again.

*CONNECTING WITH OTHER TOPICS

Describe a crowded place you have been to

When you went there

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Who you went there with

Why you went there

And how you felt about it

4. Describe a school you went in your childhood

You should say:

Where the school was

When you went there

What the school and the teachers were like

And explain whether you enjoyed your time there

(Where) I went to Chau Thanh high school in my childhood and studied there
from grade 10 to grade 12. I was around 16 years old when I first went to this
school and was there till I turned 18 years old.

(What it was like) The school was a 4-story building in a U-shape with over
1000 students and more than 40 teachers. In addition, we even had a big hall
room where we used to study in groups, review lessons and read page-turners.
The place was quiet and peaceful with inspirational quotes on the wall to give
us the motivation. Besides, the canteen was our favorite place where school
provided us with snacks and drinks, which were delicious. There was also a
large playground where we often studied Physical Education or played football on
balmy days.

(Teachers+ Friends) In the school, my teachers were not only multi-talented

and knowledgeable but also dedicated and humorous. They provided
materials and organized different activities, helping the class learn lessons
effectively. Also, they told jokes and made us laugh even when we were under
pressure. Talking about my friends, they were intelligent and compassionate,
so I felt blessed to have such companions in my life

(How you felt about it) Well, I have to say I really enjoyed the time I spent
in the school. I had many good friends and I liked the environment and teachers
there.

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*CONNECTING WITH OTHER TOPICS

Describe a place not your home where you read and write

And explain how you feel about this place

5. Describe a historical building.

You should say:
what its name is
where it is located
What it looks like

and explain why you like to talk about it.

When it comes to beautiful buildings, I would say that Hanoi Opera House
is definitely a major city landmark because of its unique structure and symbolic
meaning. Built in Ha Noi in 1911, it is one of the few places in Hanoi to enjoy a
symphony.

Located in a beautiful intersection downtown near Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi Opera
House is not only a historical building but also a home to art lovers. There
are superb views of the opera house from the Hilton Opera House hotel which
is very close by.

Speaking of the structure, the exterior features French architecture from the
19th century with domes, pillars, shuttered windows and balconies. Also,
what I absolutely love about Hanoi Opera House is its interior. You know, it is
even more significant with a marble staircase and crystal chandeliers. In
addition, the auditorium is equipped with soundproof walls and wonderful
acoustics.

The building is used as a venue for those who love theatrical

performances and classical opera. Having a strong appeal, it is also a must-
see attraction for local and foreign visitors.

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I’m passionate about this landmark because I enjoy live performances in this
opera house. The melody is so catchy that when I hear some songs, I can’t
help myself but to sing along. The music is also powerful and emotional,
filling my soul with compassion and inspiration.

All in all, I really adore Ha Noi Opera House

PART 3

HOUSING

1. Where do people in Vietnam like to live, in a house or an apartment?

People in Vietnam are considered to give their preference to private houses due
to the overwhelming part of the population dwelling in private houses. However,
an increasing number of citizens, especially in cities, choose to live in apartments
as a result of the population explosion, which has triggered a substantial rise in
the prices of private houses.

2. Why do many people like to live in the city?

The answer is more than simple - it’s convenience. Not only can people enjoy
more convenience in terms of shopping and services, but they can also have the
chance to send their children to elite schools. Viewed from another
perspective, those who prefer a hectic life tend to live in the city as it offers
them enough hustle and bustle.

PLACES

1. Do people in your country like to go to crowded places? Why?

Yes, I think most modern people are into crowded places and the reasons are
various. In fact, vibrant young people prefer sharing their activities with the
crowd and take it as collective enjoyment. However, while young
people like adventure and loudness, older people value their privacy and the
time by themselves.

2. Are colors important to life?

Absolutely. I believe that colors are essential for many aspects of our life.
Talking about clothes, sometimes, the colors of outfits even express our feelings.
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For example, when I’m in a good mood, I will choose a T-shirt with bright colors.
Besides, regarding books, I believe that they should be lively in order to
help authors convey knowledge to readers. For example, kids are usually in
favor of books with colorful pictures rather than those with only words. Without
colors, life would become tedious and meaningless.

HISTORICAL PLACES

1. Do people in your country enjoy visiting historical places?

Absolutely yes! People love to visit sites of historical significance because

those places are breathtaking and meaningful. For the most part, people
can gain a deep insight into national history by visiting ancient sites such as
the Imperial Citadel in Hue, the Temple of Literature in Hanoi and ancient
pagodas. Besides, adults can convey valuable lessons to their children through
stories of these historical sites, which helps to build a sense of patriotism
among youngsters.

Imperial Citadel: Kinh Thành

Temple of Literature: Văn miếu Quốc tử giám

2. How important is it to protect historical places?

I think it’s essential to conserve and maintain these places because tradition
and cultural relics are part of history. Preserving historical sites enriches our
culture by connecting us to past eras. People grow old and die, and so
inevitably historical events are also in danger of being lost. By keeping
such places in good condition, we’re able to recollect important aspects of our
culture and ourselves. For example, the sites of famous military events which act
as relics of wars should not be forgotten. Besides, protecting historical sites
also benefits the communities and the national economy by drawing in visitors
from all over the world.

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SESSION 10: MEMORIES AND EXPERIENCES 1

1. Describe a wedding that you have attended

You should say:

 Whose wedding it was

 Who was there
 What happened
 Explain how you felt

(Whose wedding) I would like to talk about the wedding of my soul-mate who
shared the room with me for some years at the university.

(When) She decided to start a family with her boyfriend after their engagement,
which led to a memorable wedding that I attended 2 weeks ago.

(Who was there, What happened) When I came to the wedding party, I met a
lot of old friends whom I lost contact with for a long time. Her relatives and
colleagues were also in the guest list, so I could say it was the most special and
crowded wedding I’ve attended. As far as I could remember, the couple walked
down the aisle together, and then, they bowed down to their parents to
express their gratitude to them. The bride and the groom had exchanged wedding
rings before guests proposed a toast to them, giving the newly-weds sincere
congratulations from the bottom of their heart.

(How you felt) Actually, the memory of this ceremony remains vivid in my mind
until today.

First, it was touching to witness my best friend in a wedding gown after ups and
downs of her relationship. The couple had to make unremitting effort to maintain
their passionate love, sharing and supporting each other in various aspects of life.

Also, I was exhilarated because this occasion enabled me to meet many old
friends. We reminisced about the past when we ate street food after school and
contemplated the starry sky at night.

All in all, I love my close friend’s wedding party, and I wish I could tie a knot one
day.

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*CONNECTING WITH OTHER TOPICS

Describe an occasion that makes you happy

Describe a time when you were excited

2. Describe a special toy you had in your childhood.

what it was
who gave it to you
how you played with it (What it looked like)
and explain why it was special for you.

(What, Who gave it) Well, I’m going to talk about a stuffed animal, namely
Lucky which was my childhood friend. As far as I could remember, it was my
grandmother who gave me this stuffed dog on my 5th birthday.
(What it looked like) Actually, Lucky was identical to a golden retriever
puppy with a lustrous coat of gold, fluffy ears and a straight muzzle.
Though it was just a toy, I loved looking at its bright eyes which seemed
gleaming with energy and overwhelming joy.
(How you played) I brought this great companion everywhere, from the
playground to the bedroom and even shared with him my sorrow and happiness
on a daily basis. Unfortunately, I lost Lucky when my family moved the house to
the urban area. My parents were overloaded with a pile of luggage, so they
couldn’t look for that treasurable stuffed dog for me. I recall that I cried for a
week, trying to find Lucky, but in vain.

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(Why) I still remember this special gift until today for some reasons
First, this was not only a toy but a real asset which strongly connected with my
carefree childhood. Thanks to the stuffed animal, I experienced a wonderful
world where humans and other creatures could interact closely with each other. I
also learned a valuable lesson about keeping my belongings after the incident.
Besides, this toy reminds me of my grandmother who took care of me with
unconditional love, preparing for meals, washing my clothes and attending
to me when I was sick.
In short, the memory of Lucky remains vivid in my mind until today.

*CONNECTING WITH OTHER TOPICS

Describe something important that you lost
what is it
why it is important
how did you lose it
how did you do after lost it

3. Describe a time when someone apologized to you

When it was
Who this person is
Why he or she apologized to you
How you felt about it
(When it was and who this person is)
Apologizing is a part of good manners and I believe that it helps to pacify
many situations happening in everyday life. In several events, others have
apologized to me but the apology from my closest friend, Linh, was the most
significant to me. This happened a few months ago when my father
presented me with two movie tickets. The compelling trailer of this movie
captured my attention right away, and I knew that I should enjoy it with
my bestie.
Therefore, I decided to invite Linh, and we quickly made an appointment for the
cinema before 6pm.
(Why he or she apologized to you)

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As scheduled previously, Linh was supposed to show up at the cinema at 5:30,

but somehow she did not. I did give her so many rings, but she did not answer
any of them. I kept waiting until 6 pm, in case she was busy on something else,
but in vain. In the heat of the moment, I lost my temper and furiously left
her a message, saying how disappointed I was with her and asked whether she
respected our relationship. A day later, Linh called me and sent a heartfelt
apology to me. She explained that on that day, her younger brother was
disturbed by a serious eating disorder, and she had to take care of him at the
hospital. Because the incident was so sudden and unexpected, she was too
nervous to bring the phone with her and was unable to contact me. Linh hoped
that I could understand and sympathize with her.
(How you felt about it)
Honestly, I felt a little guilty for being too aggressive while knowing nothing
about her situation. From this incident, I also understand that everything
happens for its own reason. We should not jump to a conclusion without careful
consideration. Besides, I think a thankyou or a sincere apology is truly an
indication of respect from the individual for the
relationship he or she is in.
*CONNECTING WITH OTHER TOPICS
Describe a time when you got angry with someone
Describe a time when you had to wait for someone

PART 3
WEDDING
1. What do you think of the perfect age for marriage?

I have had countless debates with my friends and we have different ideas
regarding when is the ideal age to get settled. I agree that it should be above
30 for both men and women while others flatly contradict us by saying people
should get married as soon as possible even though they have nothing. Some
may find it too late to tie a knot at the age of 30 but I cannot see the point of
living together with more bills to pay and more mouths to feed without having a
career and stable income, which is one of the most common reason for
separation among married couples.

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2. What are the factors causing a rise in divorce rate?

Sample answer Vocabulary

(Answer) Well, to my perspective, Childlessness Sự vô sinh
reasons that lead to this matter vary (n)
but (Reason) the principal one may
be childlessness. There may be some Domestic Bạo lực gia đình
problems with the health of one violence (n)
partner so one single couple cannot Verbal abuse (n) Lời nói làm người
have children. They may not feel the khác bị tổn thương
connection between the two and
divorce will happen as a result.
(Reason) Another justification could
be domestic violence, which may
come in the form of verbal
abuse over financial burden or violent
actions. Due to this, marriage will be
easily separated.

HAPPINESS

1. Do you think people who have more talent are happier than others?

No I wouldn’t say they are. I mean, there are countless examples of famous
singers and actors who were extremely talented, but for some reason turned to
things like drugs or alcohol in order to escape the depression they felt. And on
the other end of the scale, there are people with seemingly very little talent, but
who are very happy and content with their life. So for me I’d say
happiness bears no relation at all to the amount of talent a person has.

2. Are the things that make people happy today the same as several
decades ago?

I guess the answer would have to be yes and no. Yes, because there are things
like helping others which have always made people feel happy and will always
continue to do so. And no, because people nowadays have generally become
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more materialistic, which is a reflection of the society we now live in. So a lot
of happiness now comes from acquiring possessions, like houses and
cars, which wasn’t so much the case several decades ago.

OBJECTS
1. Should children be allowed to choose their toys?

Yes, certainly. I believe that it will help them develop their own interests
and passions. Now, again, many parents are very much aware
of educational and intellectual toys in boosting their children’s curiosity
and creativity. They are very conscious of the future for their children so they
spend time on creating fun games for their children things like board games such
as chess, Monopoly and so on. Sadly, most children are into computer games or
any kind of electronic devices like the League of legend or Hay Day.

2. Is there a connection between toy manufacturers and the

entertainment industry?

Yes, definitely! There’s a strong link between toy manufacturers and the
entertainment industry. Companies from both sides can make
fortunes by producing toys from popular films and TV Shows, particularly in
relation to famous companies such as Star Wars or Marvel. Through
advertising, children (and consequently parents) are into buying toys which
depict characters from current box- office sensations

APOLOGY
1. Do people in your country like to say "sorry"?
Not really. I assume it’s not a part of our culture. From my experience,
Japanese people tend to say sorry more often. Apologizing is built into the
Japanese language. Japanese people have it in their blood; they apologize all the
time, even when it’s not their fault. It’s almost like a reflex, but it’s not,
because I could see the emotion in my Japanese friends’ eyes every time they
apologized to me. They even do it if they touch you by mistake or have their
back turned at you without being willing to.

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2. Do you think people should apologize for anything wrong they do?
Yes, I do. If something you've done has caused pain for another person, it's a
good idea to apologize, even if whatever you did was unintentional. This is
because apologizing opens up the doors to communication, which allows you to
reconnect with the person who was hurt. In these ways, apologizing when
appropriate can bring the benefits that come with stronger relationships,
reduced conflict, and forgiveness—it's worth the effort.

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SESSION 11: MEMORIES AND EXPERIENCES 2

1. Describe the time you used a foreign language to communicate.

You should say:
where+ when you were
who you communicated with
What you said/ did
Why you still remember it until today/ What you think about the importance of
English

(What) Well, it’s common for me to have stimulating conversation with foreigners,
but this topic reminds me of the time when I gave the directions to a woman in
English.

(Where, when) I recall that it was around some months ago when my friend and I
were taking a stroll on Ham Nghi Street in District 1. At that time, I just learnt
English Communication for some months, so I wasn’t very fluent, actually.
(Who, What happened) If I’m not mistaken, we were talking about something
when a foreign woman ran into us, asking for the directions to Ben Thanh market.
She looked quite confused and hasty, and from her accent, I reckoned that she
wasn’t from an English-speaking country.
You know, since Ham Nghi street is adjacent to Ben Thanh market, I drew the
route on a small piece of paper, explaining to her the way to get there. I briefly
described the market with a red roof, yellow walls and the clock, in the proximity
of a bus terminal. There were some words I didn’t know, so I used hand gestures
and images to clarify for her. Eventually, she thanked me warmly and hurried
towards the market.
(Why) I found that encounter special and meaningful. Firstly, I realize that English plays
a pivotal role in our lives, despite the fact that we don’t live in English-speaking countries.
It has become a dominant language which is spoken globally. Therefore, I have been
trying to practice speaking English daily so that I can have a good command of this
language, and I can talk confidently with foreigners, whatever the topic of conversation.
Secondly, I felt rewarded and fulfilled as I could give a helping hand to
someone. This proved that I was an individual who could contribute to the
betterment of the society.
In short, the moment when I gave the foreigner the directions to the market
remained vivid in my mind.

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*CONNECTING WITH OTHER TOPICS

Describe the time when you helped someone

 Where you helped him or her

 Why you helped
 How you helped
 And how you felt about it

2. Describe a difficult challenge you met

What it was

When you met it

Where you met it

And explain why you think it is a challenge

(What it was)

Today I’m going to describe a challenge I confronted recently. I usually go out

for a walk in the evening every day and sometimes play some outdoor games,
but the outdoor activity that I did for the first time last month was another level
of difficulty, mountain climbing.

(When you met it and where you met it)

At that time, after completing the end-of-term examination, I was invited by a

friend to go climbing on a mountain. He'd been doing it for about six months
and I had asked him about it once as I was curious whether mountain climbing
requires a lot of stamina. At that time, I wanted to get away from it all
and preferred going somewhere off the beaten track. I accepted his
request without hesitation and even bought some suitable clothes for this
activity . It was great fun, although I was a little scared at first, my special
instructor was really experienced and I started practicing on the ground and very
low on the wall to gain my confidence so there was very little risk. However,

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the reality did not seem that easy, as the route to reach the mountain peak is
in twists and turns, we almost felt the terminal point was approaching
but it was endless. I got a little exhausted and had to lean against a tree. My
friend encouraged me to hold on, take a deep breath and only think about the
mountain peak to continue to climb.

(And explain why you think it is a challenge)

Well, first of all, it was a completely new experience for me. Climbing a mountain
is as similar as overcoming each obstacle in your life to eventually fulfill your
ambitions. When I reach the top of a mountain, I feel a great sense
of achievement.

Additionally, I figured out that as long as I keep pursuing my target, I can find
many friends who have something in common with me.

3. Describe a time you were sleepy but had to stay awake

ourself awake

And explain how you felt about it

(When)

I consider myself a night owl; therefore, having a sleepless night is not a

rare experience for me. Today, I would like to talk about a night I had to stay
awake all night to cook home-cooked food, specifically Chung Cake for Lunar
New Year.

(Why you had to stay awake):

You probably know that Tet or Lunar New Year is one of the biggest festivals in
Vietnam. There are a lot of activities taking place before the Lunar New Year,
and making Chung Cake is one of them, which excites me the most. However,
the process of making Chung cake is time-consuming and requires the
contribution of several people. It takes up to 12 hours for the cake to be cooked.
Therefore, I and my cousins had to spend the whole night watching the cake.

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(How you kept yourself awake)

In order not to fall asleep while waiting for the Chung Cake to be cooked, I
actually drank a cup of Vietnamese black-iced coffee, which was a savior to
keep me being conscious for the whole night. Moreover, my cousins also spent
a white night with me, and we kept talking until dawn.

(And explain how you felt about it)

After the cake had been cooked, I became immediately worn out and just
wanted to go to bed as quick as possible. I had to say that I slept like a rock.
However, it was a memorable experience for me to recall the traditional activities
of Tet and have an opportunity to bond with family members.

Savior: vị cứu tinh

worn out: rất mệt

slept like a rock: đã ngủ say như chết

4. Describe a situation when you celebrated an achievement

You should say:

 What you did

 When you celebrated it
 Who you celebrated it with

And explain how you felt about that achievement.

You know, as soon as I graduated from university, I threw a big party to

celebrate this achievement. That was one of the toughest times I’d been through
because I had to burn the mid-night oil over many months to revise for my
graduation exams. I looked like a panda with dark circles around my eyes,
and my hair went gray. My parents were very worried, but they encouraged
me to keep moving forward.

In the end, I did it. I passed the university graduation exam.

Needless to say, my parents were over the moon. They, like, wanted to
announce to the world that I finally graduated from FTU, one of the
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most prestigious universities in my city. Personally, besides feeling happy and

proud of myself, I was also grateful for their love and care, so I decided to use
my savings to hold a BBQ in my own backyard.

The day the party took place, nearly one hundred guests came, most of
whom showed up early to help me prepare the food and drinks. During the
party, the atmosphere was very cozy because I just invited my family members,
relatives and a few acquaintances. I could see that my parents were very
proud because I had grown up and become mature enough to find a job,
hopefully a well-paid one to support my family.

 Throw a big party: tổ chức một bữa tiệc lớn

 burn the mid-night oil : phải thức thâu đêm
 Dark circles around my eyes: thâm quầng quanh mắt
 Pass the university entrance exam: vượt qua bài thi đại học
 Over the moon: rất vui sướng
 Prestigious: danh tiếng
 Be grateful for: biết ơn vì
 Show up: xuất hiện, tới một sự kiện nào đó
 Acquaintance: người quen

PART 3

HELP

1. What are some of the ways people can help others in the community?
Which is the most important?
I think there are many ways to help others in our local communities. For
example, in the place where I live, some people volunteer to run activity clubs
for children, or they help out in residential homes for elderly people. Others
give money, food or clothes to organizations that support people living below the
poverty line. In my opinion, there isn’t a scale of importance when it comes to
helping others, and all forms of help are positive
2. What are some examples of charitable organizations in your country?
The red cross for example has been actively involved in providing timely

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assistance to many in my country. Besides, schools and local authorities usually

join hands to hold some donation campaign; stuff like clothes, books has been
greatly helpful to the needy. Also, even churches and pagodas have activities
that benefit unfortunate people, like trips to orphanages or visits to nursing
homes and so on. These are just a few of the course of actions the community
takes to relieve the sufferings of others.

3. Some people say that people help others in the community more
now than they did in the past. Do you agree or disagree? Why?
I disagree with that kind of opinion. It’s impossible to generalize about how
much people help in their communities from one generation to the next, so I
don’t think we should try to judge or compare how altruistic people are now or
were in the past. There have always been those who help others and those who
don’t.
CHALLENGES, ACHIEVEMENT

1. Do you think parents should give kids challenges?

Well, I do think so and the reasons are various. It is important that young
people are pushed by their parents to be the best they can possibly be, in
whatever pursuit they take part in challenges and cut throat competition
prepare children for the real world. If you want a good job or a good salary, you
have to compete with others.

2. Can parents reduce the challenges that kids have? Why?

They should, to a certain extent. They should ensure that their children,
foremost, have fun, which will encourage them to stay interested and motivated
in the achievement activity. Otherwise, by providing their children with
challenges in which they are overmatched, parents may be limiting, rather
than facilitating, their interest, achievement, and enjoyment in the activity.

SLEEP

1. What are some advantages of getting enough sleep?

Obviously, getting enough sleep plays an important role in shaping

people’s health. It helps us recharge our energy after a nerve-racking

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day, avoid being overloaded. For example, an 8 hour sleep is believed to help
people work efficiently and boost their productivity. If people don’t get
enough sleep, they can find it difficult to concentrate on their tasks.

2. How do you avoid falling asleep when you are at a meeting?

I think that the key factor which keeps people awake at a meeting is that they
should go to bed earlier than usual, or the tiredness because of insufficient
sleep will drain their energy the next day. Moreover, caffeine may also be
another option to help people avoid nodding off at the meeting. For example, I
usually drink a cup of coffee before going to work, which keeps me conscious
all day.

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PRACTICE WITH FRIENDS

PART 2
Describe a place where you want to work
Describe an ideal house or apartment you would like to live in the future
Describe a place you remember well that full of color
Describe a crowded place you have been to
Describe a school you went in your childhood
Describe a historical building.
Describe a wedding that you have attended
Describe a special toy you had in your childhood
Describe something important that you lost
Describe a time when someone apologized to you
Describe a time when you got angry with someone
Describe the time you used a foreign language to communicate.
Describe the time when you helped someone
Describe a difficult challenge you met
Describe a time you were sleepy but had to stay awake
Describe a situation when you celebrated an achievement
PART 3
Where do people in Vietnam like to live, in a house or an apartment?
Why do many people like to live in the city?
Do people like to go to crowded places? Why?
Are colors important to life?
Do people in your country enjoy visiting historical places?
How important is it to protect historical places?
What do you think of the perfect age for marriage?
What are the factors causing a rise in divorce rate?
Do you think people who have more talent are happier than others?
Are the things that make people happy today the same as several decades ago?
Should children be allowed to choose their toys?
Is there a connection between toy manufacturers and the
entertainment industry?
Do people in your country like to say "sorry"?
Do you think people should apologize for anything wrong they do?

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What are some of the ways people can help others in the community? Which is
the most important?
What are some examples of charitable organizations in your country?
Some people say that people help others in the community more now than they
did in the past. Do you agree or disagree? Why?
Do you think parents should give kids challenges?
Can parents reduce the challenges that kids have? Why?
What are some advantages of getting enough sleep?
How do you avoid falling asleep when you are at a meeting?

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APPENDICES
*Dictionary:
Việt Anh: Lạc Việt
Anh-Anh: Oxford dictionary for advanced learners:
https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/

Tra cách đọc cụm từ/ câu: toPhonetics: https://tophonetics.com/

*Some sources for Pronunciation

VOA Special English: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5kgoywgXc2o

mmm English:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrRiVfHqBIIvSgKmgnSY66g

*Some sources for Speaking:

TED: https://www.ted.com/

IELTS FACE-OFF: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnidVRZng96xx-

OVc6dK6fQ

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PRONUNCIATION

IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet)

Vowels- monophthongs (nguyên âm)

ɪ i: ʊ u:
bin, fish, six bee, tea, me look, good, book food, fruit, chew
e ə ɜ: ɔː
ten, men ago, banana serve, bird, sir short, call, fall
æ ʌ ɑ: ɒ
Cat, hand, have sun, money car, bar, market got, hot

Vowels- Diphthongs (nguyên âm đôi)

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Consonants (phụ âm)

p b t d ʈʃ dʒ k g
pen bye ten do chat June can go
speak job toy good cherry jam cook big
step test could watch age
orange
f v θ ð s z ʃ ʒ
fan very think they see zoo she pleasure
coffee have thought this messy does ship Asia
laugh move month breathe bus nose wash
bath brush
m n ŋ h l r w j
mum nine ring happy like road will you
time new singer how welcome car one yellow
hill

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PRONUNCIATION: -S/ -ES ENDINGS (Phát âm đuôi s/es)

1. Phát âm là /ɪz/ khi từ tận cùng bằng các phụ âm /s/, /z/, /ʃ/,
/ʒ/, /tʃ/, /dʒ/

Kisses /'kɪsIZ/ Hôn/ Những nụ hôn

Roses /'roʊzIZ/ Những bông hoa hồng
Dishes /'dɪʃIZ/ Những chiếc đĩa (thức ăn)
Watches /'wɑːtʃIZ/ Xem
Changes /'tʃeɪndʒIZ/ Thay đổi
2. Phát âm là /s/ khi từ tận cùng bằng các phụ âm vô thanh: /p/, /t/,
/k/, /f/, /θ/

Develops /dɪˈveləpS/ Phát triển

Meets /miːtS/ Gặp gỡ
Books /bʊkS/ Những cuốn sách
Laughs / læfS/ cười
Months /mʌnθS/ Nhiều tháng
3. Phát âm là /z/ khi từ tận cùng bằng các phụ âm hữu thanh /b/, /d/,
/g/, /v/, /ð/, /m/, /n/, /ŋ, /l/, /r/ và các nguyên âm

Pubs /pʌbZ/ Những quán rượu

Birds /bɜːrdZ/ Những con chim
Lives / lɪvZ/ Sống
Rooms /ruːmZ/ Những căn phòng

Link: https://www.tienganh123.com/phat-am-tieng-anh-co-ban/7416-
pronouncing-s-es-ed-endings.html

PRACTICE

Andy: We need lettuces, mushrooms, carrots, onions and some herbs for
Vietnamese pancakes.

Tracy: Let’s buy cucumbers, cabbages, lemons and chilies to make salad.
Oh…see… oranges and strawberries are on sale. I’ll buy some to make juice.

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PHÁT ÂM VERB-ED

I. Cách đọc -ed là /ɪd/

Ta sẽ phát âm là /ɪd/ với các động từ kết thúc bằng âm /t/ hoặc /d/ (theo phiên
âm).
Ví dụ:
– want /wɔːnt/ -> wanted /wɔːntɪd/
– need /niːd/ -> needed /niːdɪd/
I wanted to go to the supermarket because I needed to buy some chicken for
dinner.
II. Cách đọc âm /t/

Ta sẽ phát âm là /t/ với các động từ kết thúc bằng âm vô thanh như là /k/, /p/,
/s/, /f/, /tʃ/, /ʃ/.
Ví dụ:
– stop /stɑːp/ -> stopped /stɑːpt/
– cook /kʊk/ -> cooked /kʊkt/
I watched TV last night.
– dance /dæns/ -> danced /dænst/
– jump /dʒʌmp/ -> jumped /dʒʌmpt/
– laugh /læf/ -> laughed /læft/
– type /taɪp/ -> typed /taɪpt/
– watch /wɑːtʃ/ -> watched /wɑːtʃt/
III. Cách đọc âm /d/
Ta sẽ phát âm là /d/ với các động từ kết thúc bằng các âm còn lại.
– learn /lɜːrn/ -> learned /lɜːrnd/
– smell /smel/ -> smelled /smeld/
– appear /əˈpɪr/ -> appeared /əˈpɪrd/

Practice

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John visited Andy’s family today. He met Andy’s father who helped with the
housework. He washed clothes, cleaned the house and cooked lunch.

John wanted to have a girlfriend. John really liked Sue- Andy’s younger sister, so
he asked Andy about her personality. He hoped that Sue was a quiet person, but
unluckily, she was very talkative. She talked with her neighbors about many
topics for hours.

REFERENCES

IELTS SIMON

IELTS NGOC BACH

IELTS SHARE

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