REVIEW

LISTENING-SPEAKING 3
End-of-course speaking test format
PART 1: INTERVIEW (5 minutes)
In this part, the examiner will ask each candidate 2-3 questions of two different topics.
Introduce: I’m originally from Hau Giang, but currently, I live in Ho Chi Minh city
Leadership Questions and Answers
Think about a leader you admire. What makes this person a good leader?/ What qualities make this
person an effective leader?
Malala Yousafzai exemplifies the qualities of a great leader. She is a visionary with a clear and
passionate commitment to education, particularly for girls. Her courage is evident in her continued
activism despite surviving a Taliban assassination attempt. Malala's integrity, humility, and
unwavering focus on her goals make her an influential and respected leader on the global stage.
Through her work with the Malala Fund, she tirelessly advocates for the right to education,
embodying the spirit of a true leader.
What kind of people become leaders?

People who become leaders often share a set of common characteristics and qualities, which enable
them to inspire, influence, and guide others effectively such as Visionaries, Confident, Resilient,
Effective Communicators, Passionate,… These qualities, combined with experience, skills, and
sometimes the right opportunities, often contribute to an individual's ability to become a leader and
effectively guide others.

 Visionaries: Leaders typically have a clear vision for the future and can articulate this vision in a way
that motivates others to follow.

 Confident: They possess a strong sense of self-confidence, which helps them make decisions, take
risks, and inspire confidence in others.

 Resilient: Leaders are often resilient, able to persevere through challenges and setbacks,
maintaining their focus and determination.

 Empathetic: Good leaders have the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, which
helps them connect with their team and build strong relationships.

 Effective Communicators: They are skilled in conveying ideas and information clearly and
persuasively, both in writing and in speech.

What are some characteristics of people who are not good leaders?
People who are not good leaders often lack empathy, are indecisive, and may struggle with
communication. They might be unable to inspire or motivate others, and they could prioritize their
own interests over the well-being of their team. Poor leaders may also be inflexible and resistant to
change.
“A group of sheep led by a lion would defeat a group of lions led by a sheep” is an Arabic proverb.
What do you think it means?
This proverb means that strong leadership is more important than the strength of the individuals in
the group. A capable and courageous leader (the lion) can guide and empower even those who may
seem weak (the sheep) to achieve great things, whereas a weak leader (the sheep) can hinder even
the most capable team (the lions).

What do you think are the main advantages of hiring a friend?

Hiring a friend can lead to a high level of trust and communication in the workplace. There is often
already a strong rapport, which can facilitate better teamwork and collaboration. Additionally, friends
might be more motivated to support each other and work towards common goals.

If you were a small business owner, would you consider hiring your closest friend to work for you?
Why or why not?
I would consider hiring my closest friends if they have the necessary skills and qualifications for the
job. However, I would also be cautious about potential conflicts that could arise and ensure that we
can maintain professionalism at work. It's important to set clear boundaries and expectations from
the start to prevent any personal issues from affecting the business.

If your closest friend became your boss, how would this affect your relationship? How do you think
your friend might change?
If my closest friend became my boss, it could potentially strain our relationship if we don't manage it
well. Professional dynamics can be different from personal relationships, and there might be
challenges in balancing friendship with the employer-employee relationship. My friend might need to
be more authoritative and make decisions that could impact our personal relationship.

Power can affect relationships and individuals in a negative way. What are some positive effects
power may have?
Power, when used responsibly, can lead to positive outcomes such as the ability to effect change,
make important decisions, and provide direction and support to others. A leader with power can also
mentor and develop their team, create opportunities for growth, and build a positive and productive
work environment.

Some successful executives begin to “blur the lines” between the relationship and power. They act
as if leadership and power are the same thing. Why do you think this happens?
This can happen because power can sometimes lead to an inflated sense of self-importance and
control. Executives might start to equate their authority with leadership, forgetting that true
leadership involves serving others, fostering collaboration, and guiding a team towards shared goals,
rather than just exercising control.

What are some important skills and qualities of a leader?

Important skills and qualities of a leader include effective communication, empathy, integrity,
decisiveness, and the ability to inspire and motivate others. Leaders should also be adaptable, able to
solve problems efficiently, and possess a clear vision for the future.

What are negative effects that come from having power?

Negative effects of having power can include arrogance, a lack of empathy, and a potential disconnect
from the needs and concerns of others. Power can also lead to unethical behavior, misuse of
authority, and strained relationships if not managed properly. Additionally, it can create an
environment of fear or resentment if used in an authoritarian manner.
Appearance Questions and Answers
What does a messy desk tell you about the owner’s personality?
A messy desk can suggest that the owner is creative and possibly engaged in many tasks at once. It
may indicate a more spontaneous and flexible personality. However, it could also suggest
disorganization or a lack of prioritization.

What professionals might have more freedom when it comes to deciding what to wear?
Professionals in creative industries such as artists, designers, writers, and tech start-up employees
often have more freedom when it comes to their attire. Their work environment usually values
creativity and innovation over strict dress codes.

How messy are you? Do you agree with the authors of "A Perfect Mess" about the benefits of being
a bit messy? Why or why not?
I am moderately messy, and I agree with the authors of "A Perfect Mess" to some extent. A bit of
messiness can encourage creativity and help one make connections between seemingly unrelated
ideas. However, excessive mess can lead to inefficiency and stress.

How much freedom to be messy should workers have in your workplace?

Workers should have a reasonable amount of freedom to be messy, as long as it does not interfere
with their productivity or create a negative environment for their colleagues. A balance should be
maintained to ensure a functional and pleasant workspace.

When you were a child, were you neat or messy? Have you changed at all as you have gotten older?
How?
As a child, I was quite messy. As I have gotten older, I have become more organized, recognizing the
benefits of a tidy space for productivity and mental clarity. However, I still allow for some controlled
mess to keep my creative juices flowing.

How does your appearance at work affect how you feel?

My appearance at work significantly affects how I feel. Dressing professionally makes me feel more
confident and competent. It can enhance my mood and productivity, making me feel prepared to
tackle the day's challenges.

Does it affect the way you do your job? Why or why not?
Yes, it affects the way I do my job. When I feel confident and put-together, I am more likely to
perform my tasks efficiently and interact more positively with colleagues and clients.

If you were a manager, how would appearance affect an employee’s chance for promotion?
As a manager, I would consider appearance as one factor among many in evaluating an employee for
promotion. Professional appearance can reflect one's attitude towards their job and attention to
detail. However, performance, skills, and contributions would be the primary factors.

Have you ever worn a uniform for work or school? Did you like it? What are some advantages and
disadvantages of wearing a uniform?
Yes, I have worn a uniform for school. I liked the simplicity and equality it brought, as it eliminated the
pressure of choosing outfits and reduced visible economic disparities. However, uniforms can limit
personal expression and sometimes be uncomfortable.

What connection is there between appearance and quality of work? Do you think that when people
look sloppy, they are less careful at work?
Appearance can reflect one's level of professionalism and attention to detail. While not always the
case, people who look sloppy might be perceived as less careful and organized. However, it's
important to judge based on actual performance rather than appearance alone.

Do people's appearance and the condition of their workspace matter if they can get the job done?
While appearance and workspace condition can influence perceptions, the most important factor is
whether the job gets done effectively and efficiently. However, a professional appearance and
organized workspace can enhance one's credibility and the overall work environment.

Do you think that schools should teach students how to be organized?

Yes, schools should teach students organizational skills. Being organized helps students manage their
time better, reduces stress, and sets a foundation for future success in both academic and
professional settings.
Adulthood Questions and Answers
In your opinion, at what age does a person become an adult? Why?
In my opinion, a person becomes an adult at the age of 18. This is typically when individuals gain legal
responsibilities and rights, such as voting and entering into contracts. It is also a time when many
finish high school and start making more independent life decisions.

What important events or experiences can make you feel more like an adult?
Important events such as graduating from school, starting a full-time job, moving out of the family
home, and managing personal finances can make one feel more like an adult. These experiences often
involve increased responsibility and independence.

What sacrifices have you had to make in your life? Have your parents or guardians had to make any
sacrifices for you?
I have had to sacrifice some leisure time and personal interests to focus on my education and career.
My parents have made significant sacrifices, such as working long hours and prioritizing my education
over their personal desires, to provide me with better opportunities.

Do you think that there should be a formal event to mark adulthood? Why or why not?
Yes, I think there should be a formal event to mark adulthood. Such an event can provide a clear and
memorable transition into adulthood, acknowledging the responsibilities and privileges that come
with it. It also allows families and communities to celebrate this important milestone together.

Do you think that having some adult responsibilities is good for an adolescent? Why or why not?
Yes, I think having some adult responsibilities is good for an adolescent. It helps them develop
important life skills, such as time management, decision-making, and accountability. Early exposure to
responsibilities can prepare them for the demands of adulthood and foster a sense of independence.

In your opinion, which is more important: your work life or your personal life? Which should people
spend more time and energy on? Why?
In my opinion, personal life is more important. While work is essential for financial stability and
personal fulfillment, personal life encompasses relationships, health, and overall well-being. People
should spend more time and energy on their personal lives because a fulfilling personal life can
enhance work performance and lead to a more balanced and satisfying life overall.
Crafts …
What handmade products do you use on a regular basis?
I'm particularly drawn to use handmade Handcrafted Jewelry for unique pieces made with beads,
stones, and metals such as Beaded Bracelets, Leather Bracelets,…. Moreover, it is a wonderful way to
express personal style and support artisans

Do you have a favorite homemade object in your house? What do you like most about it?
My favorite homemade object is a wooden coffee table crafted by a local artisan. I love its unique
design and the craftsmanship that went into making it. It adds a rustic charm to my living room.

Which activities can you do best? How did you learn to do them?
One of my favorite pastimes is embroidery,I learned it from my mother who is seamstress. I
learned from how to separate threads, distinguishing symbols of embroidery, and how to keep the
paintings from smudging.

Which activities are things that people used to do in the past but don’t often do now? Why do you
think people are less interested in these activities today?
Activities like knitting, sewing clothes from scratch, and woodworking were more common in the past
but are less practiced today due to the availability of mass-produced goods and changing lifestyles
that prioritize convenience over craftsmanship.

Which of the activities would you most like to know how to do? What would you create?
I would love to learn pottery. Creating ceramic bowls and vases with unique glazes and shapes
fascinates me. It would be fulfilling to make functional yet artistic pieces for everyday use.

Why do people enjoy doing crafts?

People enjoy crafts because it allows them to express creativity, unwind from daily stresses, and
create something tangible with their hands. It's also rewarding to produce personalized and unique
items that reflect individual style.

Do you think schools should teach craft to all children as part of the curriculum? Why or why not?
Yes, I believe schools should teach crafts to all children. It fosters creativity, improves fine motor skills,
and teaches patience and problem-solving. It also provides a balance to academic subjects, nurturing
well-rounded individuals.

Why do you think someone would make musical instruments out of wood from old demolished
buildings?
Making musical instruments from reclaimed wood adds a historical and sentimental value to the
instruments. It preserves the wood's character and contributes to sustainability by repurposing
materials that would otherwise go to waste.
What kind of handmade products do you think would sell well? Why? Who would buy them?
Handmade products like artisanal jewelry, handcrafted furniture, and unique ceramics tend to sell
well. They appeal to consumers looking for quality, craftsmanship, and individuality. Art enthusiasts,
collectors, and those appreciating sustainable practices are often buyers.

Would you be willing to invest money to support someone’s business that was making these
products? Why or why not?
Yes, I would consider investing in a business that produces high-quality handmade products. Such
businesses often have a niche market and loyal customer base. Investing in craftsmanship supports
local economies, promotes artisanal skills, and contributes to sustainable practices, which align with
my values.
e.g. What does a messy desk tell you about the owner’s personality? (p.26)
PART 2: DISCUSSION (5 minutes)
The examiner gives two candidates a mind map.
Candidates prepare for the topic in one minute, and then discuss the ideas in the
mind map for four minutes.
Candidates can use the prompts suggested or their own ideas.
( p52)

 Graduation: Completing your education, whether it's high school, college, or

vocational training, can signify moving into adult roles and responsibilities.
 Moving Out: Leaving home and becoming financially independent, whether
through starting a job or living on your own, is a significant step towards adulthood.

 Career or Job: Starting a career or full-time job, where you take on

responsibilities and contribute to society in a professional capacity.

Personally, I think that characterastics of a good leader is:

Strong Communication Skills:

 Explanation: Effective leaders clearly convey their vision, goals, and

expectations. They ensure that their team understands their roles and
responsibilities and provide constructive feedback.
 Example: A project manager conducts regular meetings to update the team
on project status, encourages questions, and clarifies any doubts, ensuring
everyone is on the same page.

Adaptability:
  Explanation: Adaptable leaders can adjust their strategies and approaches in
response to changing circumstances. They remain open to new ideas and are
not rigid in their thinking.
 Example: During an unexpected market downturn, a sales manager quickly
adjusts the sales strategy to target new customer segments, keeping the
team focused and motivated.

Decisiveness:

 Leaders are decisive and have the ability to make solid decisions, even in
pressure or unclear situations. They gather relevant information, consider
options carefully, and take decisive action to move the team forward.

Responsibilities:

 Leaders are personally responsible for the group's actions, decisions, and
results. They set and deliver high standards of performance and behavior,
and hold both themselves and their teams accountable. By clearly
establishing expectations, measuring progress, and making corrective
measures when necessary, leaders create a culture of accountability that
promotes trust, reliability, and continuous improvement.
Learning and Skill Development: Engaging in handcrafting activities provides opportunities for
learning and skill development. Individuals can acquire new skills, refine existing ones, and gain a
sense of accomplishment from mastering a craft.

 Unique and One-of-a-Kind Products: Handmade items often carry a sense of

exclusivity and uniqueness. Buyers appreciate owning something that is not mass-
produced and may even be part of a limited edition or custom design
Digital Marketing and Social Media Campaigns:

 Example: Create a visually appealing website and active social media profiles
for the destination. Use platforms like Instagram and Facebook to share
stunning photos of local landmarks, festivals, and activities.
 Explanation: Digital marketing allows destinations to reach a wide audience
at relatively low costs. By showcasing engaging content, sharing visitor
testimonials, and promoting upcoming events, destinations can build
excitement and curiosity among potential travelers.

Heritage and Cultural Tours:

 Example: Offer guided tours of historical sites, museums, art galleries, and
landmarks led by knowledgeable local guides who share stories and insights
about the destination’s history and culture.
 Explanation: Cultural tourism appeals to travelers interested in learning
about local traditions, architecture, art, and heritage. By providing authentic
and educational experiences, destinations can attract culturally curious
visitors and encourage longer stays.

Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to share high-
quality photos, videos, and stories of local attractions. Engage with potential visitors
by responding to comments and messages.

Organizing Events and Festivals

Annual Festivals: Make annual events the main attraction, like music, food festivals,
or seasonal celebrations.
Theme Tours: Offers themed tours (e.g. food tours, art tours) tailored to specific
interests.

Develop a Business Plan:

 Explanation: Create a comprehensive business plan that outlines your

business goals, target market, value proposition, marketing strategy,
operational plan, and financial projections. A well-thought-out plan serves as
a roadmap for your business.
  Example: A tech startup prepares a business plan detailing its innovative
product, target market (e.g., tech enthusiasts), revenue model (e.g.,
subscription-based), and growth strategy (e.g., partnerships with tech blogs).

Market and Launch Your Business:

 Explanation: Develop a marketing strategy to reach your target audience and

generate awareness about your business. Utilize digital marketing, social
media, content marketing, partnerships, and events to promote your launch.
 Example: A new yoga studio promotes its opening through targeted
Facebook ads, collaborations with local fitness influencers for a launch event,
and a special introductory offer for new members.
Plant trees:

Participate in local-program plant or plants trees around my house. Trees can

provide oxygen for daily life of people. Its very important.

Education and Advocacy:

Organization class or workshop to enhance social awareness about protect the

environment in your community. Or share knowledge, we can use media social to
sharing information and encourage the other people protect environmental

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (3R Principle):

Reduce use plastic products, electrictity, such as turn off the light, electrical
equipment when we move out the room to save electricity.

Reuse. We can reuse clothes to donate or sale some clothing you no wear, or you
can buy second-hand clothing when possible.

Recycle: Use some produtcs used many times such as tote bag, watter bottle, glassic
products instead of plastic products.

 Explanation: Minimize waste generation by adopting practices that prioritize

reducing consumption, reusing products, and recycling materials to conserve
resources and reduce landfill waste.
 Example: A household separates recyclable materials like paper, plastic, and
glass for collection and recycling. They also choose reusable shopping bags
and containers to reduce single-use plastic waste.

Support Renewable Energy Sources:

 Explanation: Transition to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind,

hydroelectric, and geothermal power to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and
decrease carbon emissions.
  Example: A community invests in solar panel installations on rooftops and
open spaces to generate clean energy locally, reducing reliance on grid
electricity and promoting sustainability.

First Impressions:

 Explanation: People often form initial judgments based on appearance within

seconds of meeting someone. A well-groomed and polished appearance can
create a positive first impression, influencing how others perceive and
interact with us.
 Example: During a job interview, candidates who dress professionally and
present themselves neatly are more likely to make a favorable impression on
interviewers, potentially increasing their chances of landing the job.
Social and Personal Relationships:

 Explanation: Appearance plays a role in social interactions and personal

relationships. People may be drawn to individuals who present themselves
attractively, whether through fashion sense, hygiene, or overall demeanor.
 Example: At a social gathering, someone dressed stylishly and engaging
confidently in conversations tends to attract positive attention and may
establish new friendships or connections more easily.

Save money

Don’t wast time

Covinient for group activities

Easy to identified
Promotes Equality and Unity:

 Explanation: Uniforms create a sense of equality among individuals by

removing visible distinctions based on clothing choices, socioeconomic
status, or fashion preferences. They foster a sense of unity and belonging
within a group or organization.
 Example: In schools, students wearing uniforms present a unified appearance
regardless of their background, promoting inclusivity and reducing peer
pressure related to fashion trends.

Reduces Peer Pressure and Bullying:

 Explanation: Uniforms can reduce peer pressure related to clothing choices

and fashion trends, minimizing instances of bullying or social exclusion based
on appearance. They create a level playing field where individuals are valued
for their character and achievements.
 Example: In schools, implementing uniform policies helps mitigate bullying
related to clothing brands or styles, promoting a positive and inclusive
learning environment focused on academic performance and personal
development.
Set Clear Goals and Priorities

We need create a clear goals to make motivate, and have priorities for this. The goals
are clearly such as what is this, can you achievable? And spend how time for this.
Focus on the goals and do it.

Manage time effectively:

We should plan to organize meetings, appointments and make a deadline into the
planning to image time

Create timetable: Devide time reasonably for different tasks and focus on and
productivity.

Maintain work-life balance:

Work-hard is important but if you overworked, you will have a bad health. When we
got a pain, we can’t work to develop. So we should devide time reasonably to relax
and work. We should have time for leisure and personal interests. And remember to
spend time for family, friends and personal life.

 Explanation: Define specific goals and prioritize tasks based on their

importance and deadlines. This clarity helps focus your efforts on what
matters most.
  Example: Before starting the day, create a to-do list with tasks ranked by
urgency and importance. Allocate time blocks for each task to ensure they
are completed efficiently.

Practice Time Management:

 Explanation: Allocate specific time blocks for tasks and avoid multitasking to
maintain focus and productivity. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and
importance.
 Example: Use the Pomodoro Technique, where you work in focused intervals
(e.g., 25 minutes of work followed by a 5-minute break). This method helps
manage time effectively and enhances concentration.

Creativity and Originality:

The artist always innovate and find more new content to show their ideas. They
challenges with difficult things in their life. They don’t scared anything, they strong
and never give up in their own roads.
Connection with audience:

Their products

 Explanation: Good artists exhibit a flair for originality and creativity, breaking
away from convention to produce innovative works that provoke thought
and emotion.
 Example: Pablo Picasso is celebrated for his groundbreaking Cubist paintings
like "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," which revolutionized art by presenting
multiple perspectives in a single composition, challenging traditional forms.

Continuous Learning and Growth:

 Explanation: Evolving as an artist requires a commitment to lifelong learning,

experimentation, and growth. Good artists embrace challenges, refine their
techniques, and explore new artistic territories.
 Example: Contemporary artist Ai Weiwei merges conceptual art with
activism, challenging political and social norms through installations like
"Sunflower Seeds," prompting global discourse and reflection on human
rights and censorship.
 Balanced Diet:

 Explanation: Eat a variety of nutritious foods to provide essential nutrients

for energy, growth, and overall health. Focus on whole grains, lean proteins,
fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats while limiting processed foods, sugar, and
excessive salt.
 Example: Incorporate colorful salads, grilled chicken, whole grains like
quinoa, and fresh fruits into daily meals. Avoiding sugary beverages and
opting for water or herbal teas supports hydration and overall health.

 Regular Exercise:

 Explanation: Engage in regular physical activity to strengthen muscles,

improve cardiovascular health, enhance flexibility, and manage weight. Aim
for a combination of aerobic exercises, strength training, and flexibility
exercises.
 Example: Commit to a weekly exercise routine that includes activities like
brisk walking, jogging, cycling, yoga, or swimming. Joining a fitness class or
using workout apps can provide structure and motivation.


Set Clear Goals:

If you wanna become a good language learner, you should set clear goals, you will
focus on this. Indicating why you wanna learn language, you will use for what
purpose. Such as traveling, working or have more good opportunities. You should
make clearly and you will have motivation to do it.

Practice regularly:

Particing is very important for English skill, a key of a good language learner.
Practicing speaking, listening, reading skill and specialy is vocabulary. If you practice
day by day, you will improve these skills. To practice, It have many ways such as
learn on videos, postcard, or communicate with foreingers…

Focus on communication:

Communication is important. Don’t scared to make mistake. Communication is more

important than perfection when learning a new language. Its foundation for your
growth in the future. We can communicate with native people or your teachers, use
commication app in phone.
  Explanation: Define specific language learning goals, such as achieving
fluency, mastering conversational skills, or passing a proficiency exam. Clear
goals provide motivation and direction.
 Example: Aim to achieve B2 level proficiency in Spanish within 12 months to
communicate effectively in professional settings and during travel.

Practice Regularly:

 Explanation: Consistent practice is crucial for language acquisition. Dedicate

daily time to listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the target language
to reinforce learning.
 Example: Spend 30 minutes each day reviewing vocabulary, practicing
grammar exercises, and engaging in conversation practice with language
partners or tutors.
Flexibility and Adaptability:

 Explanation: Casual business clothing offers flexibility, allowing employees to

transition seamlessly between office tasks and external meetings or client
interactions without feeling overdressed.
 Example: Sales representatives in industries like advertising or media often
wear business casual attire that strikes a balance between professionalism
and approachability, adapting to diverse client preferences and settings.

Enhances Employee Well-being:

 Explanation: By reducing the formality and discomfort associated with

traditional business attire, casual dress codes contribute to improved
employee well-being, reducing stress and promoting a more relaxed work
environment.
 Example: Healthcare organizations implement casual dress policies for
administrative staff to create a supportive environment that prioritizes
employee comfort and mental health, enhancing overall job satisfaction.
Generational or Cultural Conflicts:

 Explanation: Different generations or cultural backgrounds may have varying

perceptions of appropriate workplace attire, leading to potential conflicts or
misunderstandings if not addressed through clear policies.
 Example: Multinational corporations with diverse workforce demographics
may encounter challenges in harmonizing dress expectations across different
regional or cultural norms, requiring sensitivity and inclusive policies.

Impact on Employee Behavior and Performance:

 Explanation: Casual dress codes may inadvertently influence employee

behavior, motivation, and performance, either positively by promoting
comfort or negatively by reducing perceived work seriousness.
 Example: In fast-paced industries like technology or marketing, overly casual
attire might contribute to a laid-back atmosphere that could hinder urgency
and drive in meeting deadlines or achieving goals.
Vocational skills: Training on specific skills in a certain profession, such as repair, information
technology, refrigeration, mechanics, etc.

Management and Leadership: Training courses in management, leadership, and project management
skills to prepare employees for future leadership roles.

Soft skills: Training on soft skills such as effective communication, teamwork, time management, and
problem solving.