SPEAKING PART 1

MỤC LỤC
TOPIC 1: STUDY........................................................................................................................................8
1. Do you work or are you a student?......................................................................................................8
2. What university do you go to now?/ What is the name of your college/ university and what is your
major?........................................................................................................................................................8
3. What subjects are you studying?..........................................................................................................8
4. Do you like your subject/major?...........................................................................................................8
5. Do you think your subjects/major is popular in your contry?............................................................8
6. Do you have any plan for your studying next five years?...................................................................9
7. What of the benefit of being your reach?.............................................................................................9
8. Do you want to change your major?....................................................................................................9
9. Do you prefer to study in the mornings or afternoons?......................................................................9
10. How much time do you spend on your study each week?.................................................................9
11. Are you looking forward to working?.................................................................................................9
12. What technology do you use when you study?...................................................................................9
13. What change would you like to see in your school?..........................................................................9
TOPIC 2: CITY..........................................................................................................................................10
1. What city do you live in?.....................................................................................................................10
2. Do you like this city? Why?................................................................................................................10
3. How long have you lived in this city?.................................................................................................10
4. Are there big changes in this city?.....................................................................................................10
5. Is this city your permanent residence?.............................................................................................10
TOPIC 3: HOMETOWN..........................................................................................................................10
1. Where is your hometown?..................................................................................................................10
2. Is that a big city or a small place?......................................................................................................10
3. Do you like your hometown?..............................................................................................................10
4. What do you like the most your hometown?......................................................................................11
5. Is there anything you dislike about it?...............................................................................................11
6. How long have you been living there?...............................................................................................11
7. What's your hometown famous for?..................................................................................................11
8. Did you learn about the history of your hometown at school?.........................................................11
9. Are there many young people in your hometown?............................................................................11
10. Is your hometown a good place for young people to pursue their careers?...................................11

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TOPIC 4: THE AREA YOU LIVE IN.....................................................................................................12
1. Are the people in your neighborhood nice and friendly?..................................................................12
2. Do you like the area that you live in?.................................................................................................12
3. Where do you like to go in that area?................................................................................................12
4. Do you know any famous people in your area?.................................................................................12
5. What are some changes in the area recently?...................................................................................12
6. Do you know any of your neighbours?..............................................................................................12
TOPIC 5: HOME & ACCOMODATION...............................................................................................12
1. Who do you live with?.........................................................................................................................12
2. What’s the difference between where you are living now and where you have lived in the past?...13
3. What kind of house or apartment do you want to live in in the future?...........................................13
4. What room does your family spend most of the time in?..................................................................13
5. What kinds of accommodation do you live in?..................................................................................13
6. Do you plan to live there for a long time?..........................................................................................13
7. Do you prefer living in a house or an apartment?............................................................................13
8. Are the transport facilities to your home very good?.........................................................................13
9. What makes you feel pleasant in your home?...................................................................................13
10. Do you think it is important to live in a comfortable environment?...............................................14
TOPIC 6: MEMORY.................................................................................................................................14
1. Are you good at memorizing things?..................................................................................................14
2. Have you ever forgotten something that was important?..................................................................14
3. What do you need to remember in your daily life?............................................................................14
4. How do you remember important things?..........................................................................................15
5. Why do some people have good memory while others just don't?....................................................15
6. Why do more people rely on cell phones to memorize things?.........................................................15
TOPIC 7: CELEBRITY NEWS...............................................................................................................15
1. Who is your favorite celebrity in your country?................................................................................15
2. What kind of famous people do you often see in the news?..............................................................15
3. Do you pay attention to famous people in the news?........................................................................15
4. Do you believe that the news about famous people in the media is true?........................................16
5. Would you like to be a famous person in the news?..........................................................................16
TOPIC 8: MONEY....................................................................................................................................16
1. Do you prefer to save money or spend money?..................................................................................16
2. How do you save money?....................................................................................................................16
3. What do you think about payment apps or mobile payments?..........................................................16

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 4. Do you use a credit card to buy things?.............................................................................................17
5. Do you think cash will still be popular in the future?.......................................................................17
6. Do you spend a lot of money?.............................................................................................................17
7. What do you usually spend money for?.............................................................................................18
8. How do Vietnamese people generally make payments?....................................................................18
TOPIC 9: ADVERTISEMENT.................................................................................................................19
1. Is there an advertisement that made an impression on you when you were a child?......................19
2. Do you see a lot of advertising on trains or other transport?............................................................19
3. Do you like advertisements?...............................................................................................................19
4. What kind of advertising do you like?................................................................................................19
5. Do you often remember advertisements/commercials that you’ve seen? (Why/Why not?).............19
6. Are you interested in watching TV advertisements or internet advertisements?..............................20
7. Have you ever seen an advertisements/a commercials that you really didn’t like? (Why?)............20
8. Would you like to be in an advertisements/a commercials one day? (What kind/Why/Why not?)..20
TOPIC 10: SOCIAL MEDIA....................................................................................................................21
1. When do you start using social media?..............................................................................................21
2. Do you think you spend too much time on social media?.................................................................21
3. Do your friends use social media?.....................................................................................................22
4. What do people do on social media?..................................................................................................22
TOPIC 11: FEELING BORED................................................................................................................22
1. Do you often feel bored?.....................................................................................................................22
2. When would you feel bored?..............................................................................................................22
3. What do you do when you feel bored?...............................................................................................22
4. Do you think childhood is boring or adulthood is boring?...............................................................22
TOPIC 12: CROWDED PLACES...........................................................................................................23
1. Is the city where you live crowded?....................................................................................................23
2. Is there a crowded place near where you live?..................................................................................23
3. Do you like crowded places?...............................................................................................................23
4. Do most people like crowded places?.................................................................................................23
5. When was the last time you were in a crowded place?......................................................................23
TOPIC 13: VIDEO GAMES.....................................................................................................................23
1. Do you play video games?...................................................................................................................23
2. What kind of video games do you like to play?..................................................................................23
3. Would you watch others play video games?.......................................................................................24
4. Do you think people spend too much time playing video games?.....................................................24

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 5. Do you prefer playing alone or with others?.....................................................................................24
TOPIC 14: CAKES....................................................................................................................................24
1. Do you like eating cakes or other sweet food?...................................................................................24
2. Are there any traditional Chinese cakes?..........................................................................................24
3. Did you like to eat cakes as a child?...................................................................................................24
4. Can you make cakes?..........................................................................................................................24
5. Do you like to have some desserts after meals/for dinner?...............................................................25
TOPIC 15: SUNGLASSES........................................................................................................................25
1. Do you often wear sunglasses?...........................................................................................................25
2. Do you spend a lot of money on sunglasses?.....................................................................................25
3. Do you give sunglasses as a gift?.......................................................................................................25
4. Why do you wear sunglasses?............................................................................................................25
5. Have you ever lost your sunglasses?..................................................................................................25
TOPIC 16: SINGING................................................................................................................................25
1. Do you like singing? Why?.................................................................................................................25
2. Have you ever learned how to sing?...................................................................................................25
3. Who do you want to sing for?.............................................................................................................26
4. Do you think singing can bring happiness to people?.......................................................................26
TOPIC 17: COLLECTING THINGS......................................................................................................26
1. Do you collect things?.........................................................................................................................26
2. Are there any things you keep from childhood?................................................................................26
3. Would you keep old things for a long time? Why?............................................................................26
4. Where do you usually keep things you need?....................................................................................26
5. Why do some people like to collect things?........................................................................................27
6. Where do they collect things?.............................................................................................................27
TOPIC 18: COLORS.................................................................................................................................27
1. What is your favorite color?...............................................................................................................27
2. What is the colour that you dislike?...................................................................................................27
3. What colours do your friends like most?............................................................................................27
4. What colour makes you uncomfortable in your room?.....................................................................27
5. Do you usually wear clothes in your favorite color?.........................................................................27
6. Are there any colors that have a special meaning in your country?................................................28
7. Do you think different types of people like different colors?............................................................28
8. What color would you like to buy?.....................................................................................................28
TOPIC 19: MUSIC/ MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS.................................................................................28

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 1. Do a lot of people like music?.............................................................................................................28
2. What kind of music do you listen to?.................................................................................................28
3. Is it easy to learn music?....................................................................................................................28
4. Do you have music lessons at school? / Do schools in your country have music lessons?.............28
5. Have you ever learned to play a musical instrument?.......................................................................28
6. What musical instruments do you enjoy listening to the most?........................................................29
7. Do you think children should learn to play an instrument at school?.............................................29
8. Do you think music education is important for children?................................................................29
TOPIC 20: LOSING THINGS..................................................................................................................30
1. Do you often lose things?...................................................................................................................30
2. What can we do to avoid losing things?.............................................................................................30
3. Why do some people tend to lose things more often than others?....................................................30
4. What will you do if you find something lost by others?.....................................................................30
TOPIC 21: TRAVELLING.......................................................................................................................30
1. Do you like travelling?........................................................................................................................30
2. How often do you go travelling?.........................................................................................................31
3. Where do you usually travel?.............................................................................................................31
4. How do you feel when you are travelling?.........................................................................................31
TOPIC 22: TRANSPORT.........................................................................................................................31
1. Do you often use public transport?....................................................................................................31
2. Should people use more public transport? Why?..............................................................................32
3. Do you think people in your country prefer public transport?.........................................................32
4. What kind of public transportation do you usually take?.................................................................32
5. Do people in your town or city use public transport a lot? (Why/Why not?)...................................32
6. Did you take public transportation when you were a kid?................................................................33
7. When did you last use public transport? (Why?)...............................................................................33
8. What would you like to change about the public transport in your town/city? (Why/Why not?)....33
9. Do you think you will use public transport more in the future? (Why/Why not?)...........................33
TOPIC 23: MAP........................................................................................................................................34
1. Do you often use map?........................................................................................................................34
2. What is the difference between mobile maps and paper maps?........................................................34
3. Who taught you how to use maps?.....................................................................................................35
4. How often do you use maps on your phone?.....................................................................................35
5. Do you put maps on the wall in your room, why?.............................................................................35
TOPIC 24: CLOTHING............................................................................................................................35

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 1. Do you prefer to wear comfortable and casual clothes or smart clothes?........................................35
2. Do you spend a lot of time choosing clothes?....................................................................................35
3. Do you like wearing T-shirts?.............................................................................................................36
4. What kind of clothes do you like to wear?.........................................................................................36
1. Do you like to stay in a place with a lot of noise?..............................................................................36
2. Do you think there is too much noise in today’s world?....................................................................36
3. Is making noise one of people’s rights?.............................................................................................37
4. What kinds of noises are there in the area where you live?..............................................................37
5. Do you want to move to a quieter place?............................................................................................37
TOPIC 25: TEA AND COFFEE..............................................................................................................37
1. Do you prefer drinking tea or coffee? (Why/Why not?)....................................................................37
2. Which do you prepare for your guest at home? Tea or coffee?........................................................38
3. Do you go out for coffee?...................................................................................................................38
4. Do your people in your country give tea or coffee as a gift?.............................................................38
5. Do you remember the first time you tried drinking tea/coffee? (Why/Why not?)............................39
6. Do you ever give visitors to your home tea or coffee? (Why/Why not?)...........................................39
7. Which is more popular in your country, tea or coffee? (Why?)........................................................39
TOPIC 26: ROBOTS.................................................................................................................................39
1. Do you know something about robots?..............................................................................................39
2. Did you like any film has a robot in it when you were a child?........................................................40
3. Do you use robot in your daily life?...................................................................................................40
4. Will you be comfortable if you are on a car driven by a robot?........................................................41
TOPIC 27: RUNNING..............................................................................................................................41
1. Do you go running a lot?....................................................................................................................41
2. Where do you usually like to run?......................................................................................................41
3. What do you think of running?..........................................................................................................41
4. What do you think of running as a form of exercise?.......................................................................41
TOPIC 28: GIFT/ PRESENTS.................................................................................................................42
1. What is one of the best gifts you’ve ever received? (Why?)..............................................................42
2. Are you good at choosing gifts for other people? (Why/Why not?)..................................................42
3. What sort of gifts do you like to buy for friends? (Why?) Những loại quà tặng nào bạn thích mua
cho bạn bè? (Tại sao?)............................................................................................................................43
4. Have you ever given someone a gift that you made yourself? (Why/Why not?)..............................43
TOPIC 29: CHATTING............................................................................................................................43
1. Do you like chatting with friends?.....................................................................................................43

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 2. What do you usually chat about with friends?..................................................................................43
3. Do you prefer to chat with a group of people or with only one friend?............................................43
4. Do you prefer to communicate face-to-face or via social media?.....................................................44
5. Do you argue with friends?................................................................................................................44
TOPIC 30: GEOGRAPHY.......................................................................................................................44
1. How do you feel about geography?....................................................................................................44
2. Do you think learning geographic knowledge is useful for you?.....................................................45
3. Have you ever studied geography at school?.....................................................................................45
4. Are you good at reading a map?.........................................................................................................45
TOPIC 31: FILMS.....................................................................................................................................45
1. What films do you like?......................................................................................................................45
2. Did you often watch films when you were a child?...........................................................................46
3. Did you ever go to the cinema alone as a child?................................................................................46
4. Do you often go to the cinema with your friends?.............................................................................46
5. Do you think going to the cinema is a good way to spend time with friends?..................................46
TOPIC 32: HELPING OTHERS.............................................................................................................47
1. Do you usually help people around you?...........................................................................................47
2. How do you help people around you, such as neighbors, family, and friends?...............................47
3. Have you done voluntary work?.........................................................................................................47
4. Did your parents help you a lot when you were young?...................................................................47
5. Have you helped someone in the community?...................................................................................48
TOPIC 33: FISH AND FISHING.............................................................................................................48
1. How popular is fishing in your country? (Why/Why not?)...............................................................48
2. Do you know any places where you can see many fish? (Where/Why?)..........................................48
3. How do you feel about eating fish? (Why/Why not?)........................................................................49
4. Would you ever keep fish as pets? (Why/Why not?)..........................................................................49

TOPIC 1: STUDY
1. Do you work or are you a student?
Well,l am a junior student in university.

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2. What university do you go to now?/ What is the name of your college/ university
and what is your major?
I am attending the University of Science, Ho Chi Minh City, majoring in Software
Engineering. This program focuses on the software development process, covering
design, development, deployment, and maintenance.
3. What subjects are you studying?
Currently, I am studying "Software Design," "Android Programming," and "Windows
Programming," which provide me with the knowledge and skills needed to develop
software applications across various platforms.
4. Do you like your subject/major?
Yes, I'm quite interested in the subjects I'm studying. It offers me with valuable
knowledge and skills that I believe will be beneficial for my future career in software
development.
5. Do you think your subjects/major is popular in your contry?
Yes, of course. They are all highly relevant in today's digital age, where technology plays
a crucial role in various industries. With the increasing demand for software developers
and the continuous evolution of technology, these subjects/my major are likely to remain
popular choices for students interested in pursuing careers in the field of software
development.
Yes, of course. IT sector is the most popular in my country because almost all the citizens
are working for IT companies, so every individual has to learn some basics of softwares.
6. Do you have any plan for your studying next five years?
Yes, I have. In the next five years, In the next five years, I aim to become a junior
software developer. To achieve this, I plan to continue my education, gain practical
experience through internships, projects, or freelance work. I am confident that I can
reach my goal of becoming a junior software developer within the next five years.
7. What of the benefit of being your reach?
One of the advantages of being a junior software developer is earning an attractive salary
and having rapid career advancement opportunities.
8. Do you want to change your major?
No, I don’t. Now, I'm satisfied with my current major and don't have any immediate plans
to change it. However, if I were to consider changing my major in the future, I would
carefully evaluate my interests, career goals, and the potential opportunities that a
different major could offer me.

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9. Do you prefer to study in the mornings or afternoons?
I prefer to study in the mornings because at that time I feel very fresh and I can
concentrate on my studies.
10. How much time do you spend on your study each week?
On average, I spend around 60 hours per week studying, which includes attending
classes, completing assignments, reviewing materials, and engaging in self-study.
11. Are you looking forward to working?
Absolutely! Especially when I can do the job I love. Not only will it help me cover the
living expenses, but it’ll also give me the joy of making a contribution to society.
12. What technology do you use when you study?
When I study, I rely on my laptop for accessing digital resources such as textbooks,
lecture slides, and online learning platforms. It also serves as the primary tool for
completing assignments and projects.
13. What change would you like to see in your school?
School should implement more practical, hands-on learning experiences integrated into
the curriculum. While theoretical knowledge is essential, practical application of concepts
in real-world situations can greatly enhance understanding and skill development.

TOPIC 2: CITY
1. What city do you live in?
I’m currently residing in Ho Chi Minh, which is one of the most vibrant and
bustling cities in Vietnam.
2. Do you like this city? Why?
I love this city because it offers so many beautiful landscapes and entertainment options
like parks, street markets, bars, and nightclubs. I can go there to hang out and relax with
friends after a tiring day of studying. It helps me recharge my batteries and spirit for the
next day.
3. How long have you lived in this city?
I’ve been living here for about two years now. I moved here to attend my university
studies, and it took me quite a while to get used to the lifestyle here.

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4. Are there big changes in this city?
Yes, there have been noticeable changes in the city during the time I’ve lived here. For
example, the construction of several new skyscrapers, and the improvements in public
transportation, which makes the city much more modern.
5. Is this city your permanent residence?
At the moment, I gotta say yes. I have no immediate plans to move elsewhere because I
want to pursue my career and I’ve already built a network of friends here. However, I’m
open to considering other options in the future if they align with my personal and
professional goals.

TOPIC 3: HOMETOWN
1. Where is your hometown?
My hometown is Bình Phước, a province located in the southeastern region of Vietnam,
surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, making it a wonderful place to grow up.
2. Is that a big city or a small place?
It is a rural area of the southeastern region of Viet Nam. You can hardly find any modern
facilities like cinemas or supermarkets, like in big cities.
3. Do you like your hometown?
Yes, I love my hometown, Bình Phước because it is a peaceful place with affordable
living costs. I always remember my hometown and frequently return to visit.
4. What do you like the most your hometown?
What I like the most about my hometown, Bình Phước, is its peaceful atmosphere and the
strong sense of community. Growing up there, I've always felt a sense of belonging and
security. Therefore, I cherish my hometown so much.
5. Is there anything you dislike about it?
To be honest, one of the biggest dislikes is the lack of information technology companies
and job opportunities in the field. This can make it difficult for those interested in
pursuing a career in information technology to find suitable employment locally.
Therefore, many individuals, including myself, may need to explore opportunities in big
cities where the information technology industry is more prevalent.
6. How long have you been living there?
I lived in Binh Phuoc for about 18 years before moving to Ho Chi Minh City. It is the
place where I was born and raised, and it holds a special place in my heart. The

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familiarity and comfort of living there have shaped my identity and influenced my
perspective on life.
7. What's your hometown famous for?
Bình Phước is famous for its rubber and cashew nut plantations, which contribute
significantly to the local economy.
8. Did you learn about the history of your hometown at school?
I didn't learn about the history of my hometown at school because the curriculum didn't
cover it. Instead, the focus was primarily on broader historical topics or events of national
significance. As a result, I had to seek out information about my hometown's history from
my family.
9. Are there many young people in your hometown?
Yes, there are many youngsters in my hometown because it is an ideal place to grow up.
The peaceful and close-knit community creates conditions for the development and
learning of young people.
10. Is your hometown a good place for young people to pursue their careers?
My hometown may not be the ideal place for youngsters to pursue their careers. Because
it lacks diversity in career options and higher-paying jobs. Therefore, Many young people
often find themselves seeking better opportunities in larger cities with more robust job
markets.

TOPIC 4: THE AREA YOU LIVE IN

1. Are the people in your neighborhood nice and friendly?
Yes, of course. They are always willing to help each other, creating a strong sense of
unity.
I feel grateful to be part of such a welcoming and supportive community.
2. Do you like the area that you live in?
Yes, I love the area where I currently reside. One of the main reasons why I enjoy living
here is because safety and security are priorities in my neighborhood, making it a great
place to live. Furthermore, the location is conveniently situated near my university,
making travelling easier and saving time.
3. Where do you like to go in that area?
In my area, I enjoy spending time at the nearby park, especially during weekends. It's a
great place to hang out, relax, and take a walk with my friends after a tiring week of
studying. It also help me recharge my batteries and spirit.

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4. Do you know any famous people in your area?
No, because in my area, there aren't any famous individuals. It's a quiet and relatively
unknown neighborhood where people lead ordinary lives.
5. What are some changes in the area recently?
There have been some exciting developments in the area recently. For example, the
construction of a new shopping mall nearby, and the improvements in public
transportation, which make the neighborhood much more modern.
6. Do you know any of your neighbours?
Absolutely. I do know some of my neighbors. We often greet each other when we cross
paths and occasionally have conversations. While I might not be extremely close to all of
them, it's nice to have a sense of familiarity and community in the neighborhood.

TOPIC 5: HOME & ACCOMODATION

1. Who do you live with?
I live with my university classmates in a dormitory. There are 4 of us, and we all have our
own beds. We share common areas such as bathrooms, toilets, and communal living
space.
2. What’s the difference between where you are living now and where you have lived in
the past?
The main difference between where I'm currently living and where I lived in the past is
the type of accommodation and location. Right now, I'm living in a dormitory in District
1, which offers a more communal living environment and is located in an urban area. In
the past, I lived in a house in Binh Phuoc, which provided more privacy and space, and is
situated in a rural area. Each living situation has its own advantages and disadvantages,
but both have contributed to my life experiences in different ways.
3. What kind of house or apartment do you want to live in in the future?
In the future, I want to live in a nice apartment in the city. It should be bright and have
amenities I need, like a modern kitchen and a cozy living room. I'd like it to be close to
stores and restaurants so I can easily get what I need.
4. What room does your family spend most of the time in?
In my family, we spend most of our time in the living room. It's where we gather to relax,
watch TV, or have conversations. It's the heart of our home, strengthening our bond and
creating memorable memories together.

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5. What kinds of accommodation do you live in?
I’m living in a dormitory house with my university classmates in the heart of the city.
There are four beds, a toilet, and a bathroom.
6. Do you plan to live there for a long time?
I probably won't stay in the dormitory for a long time. When I start working, I'll need
more flexible accommodation in terms of time and space.
7. Do you prefer living in a house or an apartment?
I personally prefer living in an apartment. It's more convenient for me because of the
amenities it offers such as gym, and pool. These amenities which can enhance my living
experiences and provide opportunities to recharge my batteries and spirit.
8. Are the transport facilities to your home very good?
To be honest, most of the transport facilities to my place is very modern. It only takes me
about 7 minutes to get from school to my dormitory by bus.
9. What makes you feel pleasant in your home?
What makes my home pleasant is having comfortable and cozy furniture like a soft sofa,
and warm blankets create a relaxing atmosphere, making it a great place to recharge my
batteries and spirit.
10. Do you think it is important to live in a comfortable environment?
Yes, I believe living in a comfortable environment is important for overall well-being and
quality of life. A comfortable environment can reduce stress, promote relaxation, and
maintain physical and mental health. When we feel comfortable in our surroundings,
we're more likely to enjoy being at home, which can positively impact our mood and
productivity.

TOPIC 6: MEMORY
1. Are you good at memorizing things?
- No
- to have a terrible memory: có một trí nhớ tệ/ kém
- forgetful: hay quên <- lack of sleep & have a lot on your mind: có nhiều thứ trong đầu
No. I think I have a terrible memory because I can forget anything, even important events
such as my birthday, and final exam. The reason why I am quite forgetful is that I often
lack of sleep and have a lot on my mind.

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2. Have you ever forgotten something that was important?
- Yes
- lock my door: khóa cửa phòng của tôi
- busy day & my mind filled with tasks to accomplish.
- rushing out of the house: vội vã rời khỏi nhà, I failed to remember that I had forgotten to
lock the door.
- someone stolen my laptop: kẻ nào đó đã trộm chiếc máy tính của tôi
Yes, I have forgotten to lock my door before going to school once. It was a busy day and
my mind was filled with tasks that needed accomplishing. Rushing out of the house, I
failed to remember that I had forgotten to lock the door. Consequently, someone stole my
laptop, which made me receive an important lesson about being more careful before
leaving the house.
3. What do you need to remember in your daily life?
- tasks, appointments & important dates.
- information related to school & personal goals is crucial for maintaining productivity,
organization & efficiency.
In daily life, I need to remember tasks, appointments, and important dates. Additionally,
retaining information related to school and personal goals is crucial for maintaining
productivity, organization, and efficiency.
4. How do you remember important things?

I have a habit of jotting down important things by relying on the note app on my
smartphone. Doing so helps me manage information effectively and not be mistaken or
forgetful.

5. Why do some people have good memory while others just don't?

Individual differences in memory can be attributed to a combination of genetics, lifestyle,

and cognitive habits. Factors such as attention to detail, repetition, and mnemonic
techniques also play a role.

6. Why do more people rely on cell phones to memorize things?

The convenience of smartphones and digital devices has led to increased reliance for
memory tasks. The accessibility of information at our fingertips makes it easier to rely on
these devices for quick retrieval.

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 TOPIC 7: CELEBRITY NEWS
1. Who is your favorite celebrity in your country?

My favorite celebrity in my country is [Name], known for their talent and positive
influence.

2. What kind of famous people do you often see in the news?

The news often features a variety of famous people, including actors, musicians, athletes,
and public figures. Events related to their professional and personal lives are commonly
covered.

3. Do you pay attention to famous people in the news?

I do pay some attention to famous people in the news, especially when their
achievements or actions align with my interests. Staying informed about current events
involving celebrities can be interesting and relevant.

4. Do you believe that the news about famous people in the media is true?

It's essential to approach news about famous people with a critical mindset. While some
reports may be accurate, media coverage can sometimes be sensationalized or biased. It's
advisable to cross-check information from reliable sources before forming opinions.

5. Would you like to be a famous person in the news?

While fame has its perks, it also comes with challenges and increased scrutiny.
Personally, I value privacy, so I would carefully consider the impact of fame on my life
before actively seeking it. It's crucial to weigh the positives and negatives that come with
public attention.

TOPIC 8: MONEY
1. Do you prefer to save money or spend money?
enjoy the fruits of one’s labor: tận hưởng thành quả lao động
personal pursuits: mục đích cá nhân
fulfilling life: cuộc sống trọn vẹn, đủ đầy
Whenever the paycheck arrives, I love that I can enjoy the fruits of my labor and spend
money on necessities and personal pursuits. Money well spent, to my knowledge, can
contribute to personal growth, happiness, and a fulfilling life. However, I always remind
myself not to overspend and prioritize saving a larger portion of my income for future
goals and emergencies.

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2. How do you save money?
cut back on: cắt giảm
unnecessary expenditures: những khoản chi tiêu không cần thiết
allocate funds: phân bổ ngân quỹ

To be honest, planning my budget might be one of my all-time favorite tasks. Routinely, I

create a monthly table to track my income and expenses, which are simply categorized
into spending on essential and non-essential items. This allows me to identify areas where
I can potentially cut back on unnecessary expenditures and allocate more funds toward
savings.

I save money by setting aside a portion of my income each month, creating a budget, and
being mindful of unnecessary expenses. Having clear financial goals helps in maintaining
a disciplined savings approach.

3. What do you think about payment apps or mobile payments?

financial transaction: giao dịch tài chính
payment history: lịch sử thanh toán
split bills: chia tiền hóa đơn
These tools have been proven to be convenient and beneficial in many ways,
transforming the way we handle financial transactions. There have been numerous
occasions when I find them advantageous as they can track payment history when
shopping or split bills between friends after an outing. Now I no longer need to carry
much cash or credit cards, thus reducing the risk of loss and theft.
4. Do you use a credit card to buy things?
redundant: dư thừa
cashback: hoàn tiền
redeem: quy đổi
As I have stated in the previous question, online payment apps have made it
quite redundant to always carry my credit card around. However, in case Internet
connectivity is unavailable, using a card to make purchases and pay for pills can be quite
effortless at places like a restaurant or a supermarket. In addition, making transactions
with it also offers me rewards programs or cashback, which can be redeemed for
discounts and other perks.
Yes, I use a credit card for convenience and to build a credit history. However, I make
sure to use it responsibly and pay off balances on time.

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5. Do you think cash will still be popular in the future?
prevalent payment method: phương thức thanh toán thịnh hành
widely recognized: được cộng nhận rộng rãi
establishments: các cơ sở kinh doanh, tổ chức
Despite the increasing popularity of digital applications, I believe cash could persist to be
one of the most prevalent payment methods. For my daily expenses, there are certain
situations when I still prefer the physical act of exchanging money like paying for fuel,
parking, or groceries at the market. Cash is also widely recognized and accepted in nearly
all establishments, leading to consumers enjoying a better sense of reliability and
accessibility.
6. Do you spend a lot of money?
I strive to maintain a balanced approach to spending, focusing on necessities and
occasional indulgences. It's important to budget and save for future goals.
7. What do you usually spend money for?
I primarily spend money on essentials like groceries, bills, and transportation.
Additionally, I allocate funds for leisure activities and personal interests.
8. How do Vietnamese people generally make payments?
In Vietname, mobile payment methods are widely used, including platforms like Momo
and VN Pay. These digital payment options have become integral to daily transactions.

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 TOPIC 9: ADVERTISEMENT
1. Is there an advertisement that made an impression on you when you were a child?
As a child, I vividly remember being captivated by an ice cream advertisement. The vibrant colors and
joyful jingle created a lasting impression. The sight of delicious ice cream being enjoyed on a sunny day
left me with a sense of longing. It was a magical moment that stayed with me.

2. Do you see a lot of advertising on trains or other transport?

Yes, advertising is ubiquitous on trains and other modes of transport. From eye-catching leaflets to
engaging videos, every journey is accompanied by a visual feast of promotions. It’s hard to escape the
vibrant displays that showcase a variety of products and services.

3. Do you like advertisements?

Personally, I find most advertisements quite dull, and therefore, I don’t particularly like them. Many ads
lack creativity and tend to be repetitive, making them less engaging. This article is from Laokaoya
website. I believe that effective advertising should be innovative and capture the audience’s attention in
unique ways, but unfortunately, that is often not the case.

4. What kind of advertising do you like?

Slave to fashion (expression): tín đồ thời trang
Keep up with (phrasal verb): bắt kịp, theo kịp với
Commercial (n): quảng cáo
Accessory (n): phụ kiện
Mix and match (v): phối đồ
Influencer (n): người có sức ảnh hưởng

Well, I consider myself a slave to fashion, which means that I constantly keep up with
new trends in clothes. Therefore, I enjoy commercials for fashion items such as shoes,
shirts, or even accessories. Every time I need to mix and match with something new, I am
not hesitant to surf TikTok to see advertisements made by influencers, and they have
never disappointed me.
5. Do you often remember advertisements/commercials that you’ve seen? (Why/Why
not?)
Stick in my mind: To remain memorable or unforgettable; to be remembered vividly.

Phát âm: /stɪk ɪn maɪ maɪnd/

Dịch nghĩa: in sâu vào trong trí nhớ.
Lưu ý: Cụm từ này thường được sử dụng khi muốn diễn đạt việc một sự kiện, trải nghiệm
hoặc thông tin nào đó làm ấn tượng mạnh và vẫn còn đọng lại trong tâm trí sau một
khoảng thời gian dài.
Catchy: Instantly appealing and memorable.

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Phát âm: /ˈkætʃ.i/
Dịch: dễ nhớ
Lưu ý: Cụm từ này thường ám chỉ đến những giai điệu hoặc khẩu hiệu quảng cáo mà mọi
người có thể dễ dàng nhớ lâu sau khi nghe.

Yeah, I actually do remember advertisements quite often, especially the ones that are
creative or funny. I think it's the way they tell a story or use humor that makes them stick
in my mind. Sometimes, jingles or slogans can be really catchy, and I find myself
humming them without even realizing it.
6. Are you interested in watching TV advertisements or internet advertisements?
If I had to choose, I would be the internet ones. At least in China, there are fewer restrictions on the
Internet compared to TV. This means they often adopt bolder scripts, lines, and pictures. Of course, there
are many rudimentary contents, but from time to time, you can find innovative and attractive ones.

7. Have you ever seen an advertisements/a commercials that you really didn’t like?
(Why?)
Repetitive: Involving doing or saying the same thing several times, especially in a way
that is boring.

Phát âm: /rɪˈpɛtɪtɪv/

Dịch: lặp đi lặp lại
Lưu ý: Cụm từ này thường được dùng để mô tả một hành động hoặc mẫu thông tin xuất
hiện nhiều lần một cách nhàm chán.
Manipulative: Exercising unscrupulous control or influence over a person or situation.

Phát âm: /məˈnɪpjʊlətɪv/

Dịch: có tính thao túng
Lưu ý: Cụm từ này mô tả một chiến lược hoặc cách tiếp cận nhằm điều khiển người khác
một cách không công bằng để đạt được lợi ích riêng.

Oh, absolutely. There have been a few advertisements that I just couldn't stand. One that
comes to mind was overly repetitive and had an annoying jingle that stuck in your head
for days. Not only was it interruptive, but it also felt a bit manipulative, trying too hard to
push the product without providing any real value or information.
8. Would you like to be in an advertisements/a commercials one day? (What
kind/Why/Why not?)
Unique opportunity: A special chance that is not common.

Phát âm: /juːˈniːk ˌɒp.əˈtjuː.nɪ.ti/

Dịch: cơ hội độc đáo

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Lưu ý: Cụm từ này được dùng để mô tả một trải nghiệm hiếm có, cung cấp một cái nhìn
sâu sắc hoặc giá trị không thể tìm thấy trong các hoàn cảnh thông thường.
Marketing campaigns: Organized efforts to promote a specific product or service.

Phát âm: /ˈmɑː.kɪ.tɪŋ kæmˈpeɪnz/

Dịch: chiến dịch tiếp thị
Lưu ý: Cụm từ này mô tả các hoạt động có tổ chức nhằm quảng bá một sản phẩm hoặc
dịch vụ cụ thể, thường thông qua nhiều kênh truyền thông và quảng cáo.

Yeah, I think it would be pretty cool to be in an advertisement one day. It sounds like a
fun experience and a unique opportunity to see how marketing campaigns are put
together behind the scenes. Plus, if it's for a brand or a product that I really believe in, I'd
definitely be excited to be a part of it

TOPIC 10: SOCIAL MEDIA

1. When do you start using social media?
I started using social media back in sixth grade, about eight years ago, when my cousin
came over and introduced me to Zing Me. Intrigued by how she used it, I asked her for
guidance, and she helped me create an account. Since then, I've been using it daily to chat
with friends and play games.
I began using social media around the age of 16 when I got my first smartphone. It
opened up a new way to connect with friends and share experiences online.
2. Do you think you spend too much time on social media?
I find myself spending a significant amount of time on social media because I'm addicted
to TikTok. I soft TikTok for hours without getting bored; the videos are so captivating
that they draw me in, bringing me joy and entertainment. However, it's not healthy as it
consumes a lot of my time. I'm determined to break this bad habit and prioritize more
productive activities.
Admittedly, I do find myself spending a considerable amount of time on social media.
However, I make conscious efforts to balance it with other activities and ensure it doesn't
negatively impact my daily routine.
3. Do your friends use social media?
All of my friends are active on social media. It has become an integral part of our lives.
Not only does it help us connect with friends and entertain ourselves, but it also aids us in
learning better. We've known how to use it effectively, so it's incredibly beneficial to us.

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Yes, the majority of my friends use social media. It has become a common platform for
social interaction, and we often share and communicate through different social media
channels.
4. What do people do on social media?
Social media is a versatile platform where people connect, share content, and engage with
various activities like staying in touch with loved ones, consuming news and
entertainment, shopping, playing games, learning, and expressing creativity. It's a central
part of modern life, offering endless opportunities for communication and self-expression

People engage in various activities on social media, such as sharing updates, photos, and
videos, connecting with friends and family, participating in discussions, and staying
informed about current events.

TOPIC 11: FEELING BORED

1. Do you often feel bored?

I don't experience boredom frequently, as I usually find ways to stay engaged and pursue
activities that interest me.

2. When would you feel bored?

I might feel bored when faced with routine tasks or if I have a lot of free time without any
specific plans or activities.

3. What do you do when you feel bored?

When boredom strikes, I often turn to activities like reading, listening to music, or trying
out new hobbies. It's an opportunity to explore and learn something new.

4. Do you think childhood is boring or adulthood is boring?

Both childhood and adulthood offer unique experiences. While childhood may be
characterized by a sense of wonder and discovery, adulthood provides opportunities for
personal growth and pursuing one's passions.

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 TOPIC 12: CROWDED PLACES
1. Is the city where you live crowded?

Yes, the city where I live is quite crowded, especially in the central areas where there's a
high population density.

2. Is there a crowded place near where you live?

Yes, there are several crowded places near my residence, such as popular markets,
shopping centers, and transportation hubs.

3. Do you like crowded places?

It depends on the context. I appreciate the energy and vibrancy of crowded places,
especially during events or celebrations. However, I also value moments of tranquility.

4. Do most people like crowded places?

Preferences for crowded places vary among individuals. While some people enjoy the
hustle and bustle, others may find crowded places overwhelming or prefer quieter
environments.

5. When was the last time you were in a crowded place?

The last time I was in a crowded place was during a music festival last month. The lively
atmosphere and diverse crowd added to the overall experience.

TOPIC 13: VIDEO GAMES

1. Do you play video games?

Yes, I enjoy playing video games occasionally. It's a form of entertainment and can be a
social activity.

2. What kind of video games do you like to play?

I have a diverse interest in video games, ranging from strategy and simulation games to
action and adventure genres. The choice often depends on my mood and available time.

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3. Would you watch others play video games?

Yes, I find watching others play video games to be entertaining. It can be a social activity
and an opportunity to learn new strategies or appreciate the storyline.

4. Do you think people spend too much time playing video games?

While video games can be enjoyable, excessive time spent on them may have negative
impacts on productivity and well-being. It's essential to find a balance between gaming
and other responsibilities.

5. Do you prefer playing alone or with others?

I enjoy both solo and multiplayer gaming. Playing alone provides a more immersive
experience, while multiplayer games offer a social aspect and the opportunity to
collaborate or compete with others.

TOPIC 14: CAKES

1. Do you like eating cakes or other sweet food?

Yes, I enjoy eating cakes and various sweet treats. They add a delightful touch to
celebrations and can be a comforting indulgence.

2. Are there any traditional Chinese cakes?

Indeed, there are traditional Chinese cakes with diverse flavors and textures. Examples
include "mooncakes" eaten during the Mid-Autumn Festival and various regional
specialties.

3. Did you like to eat cakes as a child?

Absolutely, I had a sweet tooth as a child. Cakes were a special treat during birthdays and
festive occasions, and I always looked forward to them.

4. Can you make cakes?

I have some basic baking skills and can prepare simple cakes. While I may not be a
professional baker, I enjoy experimenting with different recipes occasionally.

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5. Do you like to have some desserts after meals/for dinner?

Yes, I find desserts to be a delightful way to conclude a meal. Whether it's a piece of
cake, fruit, or a small sweet treat, it adds a satisfying and enjoyable touch to the dining
experience.

TOPIC 15: SUNGLASSES

1. Do you often wear sunglasses?

I frequently wear sunglasses, especially during sunny days. They not only provide protection
from the sun but also add a stylish element to my overall appearance.

2. Do you spend a lot of money on sunglasses?

I prefer investing in quality sunglasses that offer proper UV protection. While I don't splurge
excessively, I believe in choosing durable and effective eyewear.

3. Do you give sunglasses as a gift?

Occasionally, I consider sunglasses as a thoughtful gift, especially if I know the person's style
preferences. It can be a practical and fashionable present for various occasions.

4. Why do you wear sunglasses?

Primarily, I wear sunglasses to shield my eyes from the sun's harsh glare. Additionally, they
contribute to eye comfort and can be a stylish accessory.

5. Have you ever lost your sunglasses?

Yes, unfortunately, I have lost sunglasses on a couple of occasions. It's always a bit
disappointing, but I've learned to be more careful and keep track of them.

TOPIC 16: SINGING

1. Do you like singing? Why?

Yes, I enjoy singing because it's a form of self-expression and can be a great source of
joy. It allows me to convey emotions and connect with music on a deeper level.

2. Have you ever learned how to sing?

I have taken some singing lessons to improve my vocal skills and learn proper
techniques. It's a process that enhances my overall singing experience.

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3. Who do you want to sing for?

I enjoy singing for friends and family during casual gatherings. It's a way to share my
love for music and create memorable moments together.

4. Do you think singing can bring happiness to people?

Absolutely, singing has the power to uplift spirits and bring joy. It can be a therapeutic
and fulfilling activity, both for the person singing and those listening.

TOPIC 17: COLLECTING THINGS

1. Do you collect things?

While I don't have an extensive collection, I do keep items that hold sentimental value or
represent specific interests. It's a way to preserve memories and appreciate the things I enjoy.

2. Are there any things you keep from childhood?

Yes, I have kept certain items from my childhood, such as toys and mementos. They carry
nostalgic value and serve as a connection to my past.

3. Would you keep old things for a long time? Why?

Sample 1: Yes, you could say that. I keep old things for the memories they hold;
they remind me of the time that was perhaps important to me.

Remind somebody of: Nhắc nhở/gợi nhớ ai về điều gì

Sample 2: If those things have some sort of valuable meaning to me then yes. For
example, I still keep a 5-year-old shirt in the back of my closet. It was a birthday gift
from my younger sister so it is of great sentimental value to me and I feel very much
attached to it.

Sentimental (adj) tình cảm

4. Where do you usually keep things you need?

I organize and keep necessary items in designated places at home. Maintaining a systematic
approach helps in finding things efficiently and reduces the likelihood of misplacing them.

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5. Why do some people like to collect things?

People collect things for various reasons, such as personal interest, nostalgia, or as a hobby.
Collections can hold sentimental value and reflect individual passions.

6. Where do they collect things?

Collectors may gather items at home, in dedicated display areas, or through specialized storage
units. The location depends on the nature and size of the collection.

TOPIC 18: COLORS

1. What is your favorite color?

My favorite color is blue. I find it calming and versatile, and it resonates with a sense of
tranquility and stability.

2. What is the colour that you dislike?

loud colors: màu nổi (đỏ, vàng, cam,…)
to compliment one’s complexion: tôn lên nước da
to pull them off: hợp (mặc các màu đó vẫn hợp)

I’m into quite a few applications, especially ones that inform me about my health like
how long I have walked a day or Loud ones like red, yellow or orange, I guess. This is
due to the fact that I have never looked great in these colors. They don’t
really compliment my complexion so well, and I just wonder how others can still pull
these colors off!

3. What colours do your friends like most?

My friends and i all like black a lot. Like i said, it’s such a cool and sophisticated colour.
I remember, last month we had a party, and we came up with a “dress code” which was
“all black”. It was the coolest party ever. We were wearing black dresses, black suits,
black overalls, black hats. We looked great together in photos.

4. What colour makes you uncomfortable in your room?

I don’t like all white bedroom. White walls, white flooring, white curtains and white
furniture. It reminds me of a hospital. It’s colourless and lifeless.
5. Do you usually wear clothes in your favorite color?
Yes, I often choose clothing in shades of blue. It's not only my favorite color, but it also
complements various styles and is easy to coordinate with different outfits.

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6. Are there any colors that have a special meaning in your country?

In my country, certain colors carry cultural significance. For example, red is often
associated with celebrations and good luck, while white symbolizes purity and is worn
during important ceremonies.

7. Do you think different types of people like different colors?

Absolutely, people's color preferences can vary based on individual personalities,

experiences, and cultural backgrounds. Some may be drawn to vibrant and energetic
colors, while others prefer more subdued and neutral tones.

8. What color would you like to buy?

If I were to make a new purchase, I would consider buying items in shades of green.
Green represents nature and freshness, and incorporating it into my belongings would add
a refreshing touch to my surroundings.

TOPIC 19: MUSIC/ MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

1. Do a lot of people like music?
Yes, a significant number of people enjoy music. It is a universal form of expression and
entertainment that resonates with diverse audiences.
2. What kind of music do you listen to?
I have a diverse taste in music, ranging from classical to contemporary genres. It depends
on my mood and the context, but I appreciate the variety that different genres offer.
3. Is it easy to learn music?
Learning music can vary in difficulty depending on the individual's dedication, aptitude,
and the instrument or style chosen. Like any skill, consistent practice is key to
improvement.
4. Do you have music lessons at school? / Do schools in your country have music
lessons?
Yes, many schools offer music lessons as part of their curriculum. It provides students
with an opportunity to explore and develop their musical talents.
5. Have you ever learned to play a musical instrument?
Yeah, I used to learn to play electronic piano when i was young.
But i gave it up eventually because every time when i made a mistake i would bite my
finger so i was hurting myself at that time. That’s why my parents just asked me to stop.
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And later when i gradually grew up i started to learn a traditional Mongolian instrument.
It’s like a string instrument with a sculpture of horsehead at the top of it.
So yeah i learned to play instruments.
6. What musical instruments do you enjoy listening to the most?
I'm pretty open when it comes to musical instruments, but if I had to pick favorites, I'd
say the piano, guitar, and violin are the ones I enjoy listening to the most.
7. Do you think children should learn to play an instrument at school?
Yeah, I think it's a great idea for children to have the opportunity to learn to play an
instrument at school. It's not just about music; it can teach them valuable life skills like
discipline, patience, and the joy of creative expression. Plus, it's a fun way to discover
and nurture their talents. And who knows, it might even spark a lifelong passion for
music.
Valuable life skills: Kỹ năng sống quý báu
Example: Learning to work in a team and communicate effectively are valuable life skills
that can benefit you in various aspects of your life. (Học cách làm việc trong một nhóm
và giao tiếp hiệu quả là những kỹ năng sống quý báu có thể giúp ích cho bạn trong nhiều
khía cạnh cuộc sống.)
Creative expression: Sự thể hiện sáng tạo
Example: Art and music provide avenues for creative expression, allowing individuals to
convey their thoughts and emotions in unique ways. (Nghệ thuật và âm nhạc cung cấp cơ
hội thể hiện tính sáng tạo, cho phép cá nhân truyền đạt suy nghĩ và cảm xúc của họ theo
cách độc đáo.)
8. Do you think music education is important for children?
Oh, absolutely, I think music education is really important for kids. It's not just about
learning to play an instrument or sing; it's about so much more. Music can be like
a gateway to creativity, helping children develop their imagination and self-expression.
Music education: Giáo dục âm nhạc
Example: Music education in schools includes teaching students how to read sheet music
and play various instruments. (Giáo dục âm nhạc tại các trường học bao gồm việc dạy
học sinh cách đọc bản nhạc và chơi các nhạc cụ khác nhau.)
Gateway to creativity: Cửa ngõ đến sự sáng tạo

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Example: Learning to paint opened up a gateway to creativity for her, allowing her to
explore her artistic talents. (Học vẽ đã mở ra một cửa ngõ đến sự sáng tạo cho cô ấy, cho
phép cô ấy khám phá tài năng nghệ thuật của mình.)
Develop their imagination: Phát triển trí tưởng tượng của họ
Example: Reading books from a young age can help children develop their imagination
and expand their vocabulary. (Đọc sách từ khi còn nhỏ có thể giúp trẻ phát triển trí tưởng
tượng và mở rộng từ vựng của chúng.)

TOPIC 20: LOSING THINGS

1. Do you often lose things?

I try to stay organized, but occasionally, I do misplace items. It highlights the importance
of maintaining a systematic approach to avoid unnecessary stress.

2. What can we do to avoid losing things?

Establishing designated places for items, creating checklists, and being mindful of
surroundings can help prevent losing things. Developing a habit of double-checking can
also be effective.

3. Why do some people tend to lose things more often than others?

Individual differences in organizational skills, attention to detail, and personal habits

contribute to varying tendencies in losing items. Lifestyle and daily routines can also play
a role.

4. What will you do if you find something lost by others?

If I find something lost by others, I would make an effort to return it to its owner. I
understand the value of lost items and the potential stress it can cause.

TOPIC 21: TRAVELLING

1. Do you like travelling?

Of course I do. In fact, I think of travelling as an escape from the mundanity of my

everyday life. You know, if your day only revolves around studying or working, very
soon you’re gonna go insane; that’s why an annual or even monthly dose of travel
experiences is what you should consider.

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2. How often do you go travelling?

I would say ‘quite often’, probably once every other month. You know, my job requires
lots of travel, and I always consider those business trips as leisure trips as well.

3. Where do you usually travel?

Well, it pretty much depends on my mood. For example, if I feel like ambling along a
sandy beach and soaking up the peacefulness at a fishing village, I’ll plan to visit a
gorgeous and tranquil coastal city like Da Nang or Quy Nhon, but if I long to absorb the
fresh atmosphere of hills and mountains, I’ll probably opt for a serene mountainous
region like Da Lat.

4. How do you feel when you are travelling?

Mostly relaxed, which is understandable, right? Usually when I travel, I try my best
to push all my thoughts about work to the back of my mind so that I can completely
enjoy my trip. Like I said, travelling is an escape from the daily grind, so I always make
sure to feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible during my vacations.

TOPIC 22: TRANSPORT

1. Do you often use public transport?
(Bạn có sử dụng phương tiện giao thông công cộng không)

Sample 1: You know, due to the fact that mass transit in Vietnam is pretty subpar in
terms of quality, I tend to avoid using it. I have only travelled by bus around 5 times so
far in my life because it’s common for them to be around 10 minutes late, sometimes
even more, so in my opinion, they are pretty unreliable. Hopefully, the government
would raise the quality standards of public transport; otherwise, I can’t see myself getting
on a bus anytime soon.
mass transit (n) = public transport
subpar (adj) = below-average
unreliable = not able to be trusted
I can’t see myself (doing something) = I won’t (do something)

Sample 2: To be honest, given the choice, I would choose to travel on my private

transport, because it is much more convenient for me to do so. Of course, I’m very aware
of the environmental impacts of not using public transports, but the public transport
system here can sometimes be unreliable and not up to standards.

Unreliable (adj): không đáng tin cậy

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Up to standards (adj.): đạt tiêu chuẩn

2. Should people use more public transport? Why?

(Mọi người có nên sử dụng phương tiện công cộng nhiều hơn không? Tại sao?)

In my opinion, it’s crucial that citizens shift from using private vehicles to public
transportation primarily because of the ever-increasing population rate. Apparently, the
amount of exhaust emitted from cars and motorbikes contributes significantly to global
warming and air pollution; therefore, encouraging the use of mass transit can help cut the
level of greenhouse gases, reducing potential health problems.

3. Do you think people in your country prefer public transport?

(Bạn có nghĩ người dân ở quốc gia của bạn thích sử dụng phương tiện công cộng?)

I think it depends on the reason. There are some who are in favor of public transit
services and they commute by buses on a regular basis because the bus route is accessible
and suitable for their daily travel needs. However, there are those who strongly oppose
using mass transit due to a number of reasons, from its poor standards to security to
inconvenience.

bus route (n): tuyến xe buýt

4. What kind of public transportation do you usually take?

(Bạn thường đi loại phương tiện công cộng nào?)

To be completely honest with you, I’m not very much into public transportation. So as
you may probably guess, rarely do I use them to commute. But every once in a while, I
do take a bus to places far from my home as this would save me from the hassle
of driving while I could have a quick nap.

every once in a while: thi thoảng

save me from the hassle of: giúp tôi thoát khỏi sự phiền hà (khi phải làm gì đó)
5. Do people in your town or city use public transport a lot? (Why/Why not?)
Sample 1: Well, I’d say no. People in Vietnam tend to gravitate towards their private
vehicles more. This is simply because the public transport system in Vietnam is
still subpar. And by this I mean they aren’t equipped with free wifi and the comfy
seats. This is compounded by the fact that traveling by modes of public transportation can
be much slower compared to private ones. I mean traveling by private vehicles enable
you to go whenever you want and stop wherever you’d like, to boot. So yeah, I’d say
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things like buses and trains are not widely-favored by a lot of Vietnamese people.
tend to gravitate towards: nghiêng về
subpar: chưa đủ tốt
This is compounded by the fact that: thêm vào đó

Sample 2: It’s hard to say but I think for the most part, public transports are not as
popular as private vehicles. Personal transport is more flexible and much quicker than
public transport, because you can essentially go anywhere you want without having to
wait for a bus. Plus, my city is not exactly walkable, so people would often end up going
around on motorbikes or cars.

For the most part: phần lớn

Flexible (adj): linh hoạt
Walkable (adj): (thành phố) dành cho người đi bộ
End up (v.): (kết quả) rơi vào tình trạng nào đó

6. Did you take public transportation when you were a kid?

(Bạn có đi phương tiện công cộng khi còn nhỏ không?)

Sample 1: I would say no. Back in the day when I was a small child living in Ninh Binh,
which was kinda underdeveloped, there used to be no mass transit system there. So, all I
knew about the so-called public transport was from the media. I even dreamed of having
a chance to travel by bus or train back then, but it was not until I went to my university in
Hanoi did I first have my experience with bus and stuff.

mass transit system: hệ thống giao thông công cộng

so-called: cái được gọi là

Sample 2: Not at all. There wasn’t any reason for me to use public transport when I was
younger, because I lived in the city center, so everything was close enough so there
wasn’t really any incentive for me to go around on public transport.
Incentive (n.): sự thúc đẩy

7. When did you last use public transport? (Why?)

8. What would you like to change about the public transport in your town/city?
(Why/Why not?)
9. Do you think you will use public transport more in the future? (Why/Why not?)
Sample 1: Well, based on the current situation of public transport use, it’s hard to predict
whether it would be used more in the future. But to be honest, I hope mass transit would

32
be in use more. You know, global warming is on the rise and the Earth is becoming more
and more uninhabitable, so I think public transportation is the only way to combat global
warming and environmental pollution.

on the rise: trên đà tăng

uninhabitable: không thể sống được

Sample 2: It’s hard to say. I’m well aware of the push for people to use public transport
in recent years, given the increased concerns over the environmental impact of fossil
fuels, so I’m all for people traveling on public transport. But I do think that the current
system needs a revamp, so that people would be more inclined to switch to mass transit.
All for: ủng hộ
Revamp (n.): nâng cấp
Inclined (adj.): thiên về
Mass transit (n.): phương tiện công cộng

TOPIC 23: MAP

1. Do you often use map?
All the time! I have no sense of directions and I often have to rely on Google Maps to get
me to places. Otherwise I’d be completely lost! I guess people can book a Grab (a Grab is
the Vietnamese equivalent of an Uber), but they’d have to wait a little bit for the driver to
come and it would also cost them some extra money.
have no sense of directions: mù đường
equivalent (n) [thứ gì đó] tương đương
2. What is the difference between mobile maps and paper maps?
The main distinction lies in their format and accessibility. Mobile maps, on smartphones
or tablets, are dynamic and interactive, providing real-time information and directions.
On the other hand, paper maps are static and require no battery or signal, making them
reliable in areas with poor connectivity.
Từ vựng hay trong bài:
Dynamic: Characterized by constant change, activity, or progress.
Nghĩa Tiếng Việt: năng động
Interactive: Allowing a two-way flow of information.
Nghĩa Tiếng Việt: có tính tương tác

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3. Who taught you how to use maps?
I was introduced to reading maps by my geography teacher back in high school. She
taught us the fundamentals of map reading, including understanding symbols, scales, and
how to plot routes. It was an invaluable skill that I’ve carried with me ever since.
Từ vựng hay trong bài:
Fundamentals: The basic principles or essential aspects of a subject or skill.
Nghĩa Tiếng Việt: nguyên tắc cơ bản
Invaluable: Extremely useful or indispensable.
Nghĩa Tiếng Việt: vô giá
4. How often do you use maps on your phone?
Quite a lot actually. Saigon’s a pretty nice place with lots of interesting eateries and pubs
to offer. The thing is, I don’t know my way around the city just yet. So when I have to get
somewhere, I always grab my phone and look for the directions on Google Maps. Come
to think of it, even people who know the city well sometimes need Google Maps as well.
To read reviews about a place or to find the route with the least traffic, for example.
know my way around: biết đường
look for the directions: tìm đường
5. Do you put maps on the wall in your room, why?

TOPIC 24: CLOTHING

1. Do you prefer to wear comfortable and casual clothes or smart clothes?
It depends, I think. As for everyday wear, I’ll opt for something that gives me comfort,
so hands down, casual clothes. I mean, maybe a pair of jeans, a T-shirt and sneakers
would complete my whole look for cafes or malls. However, when it comes to serious
businesses or special occasions, formal and smart clothes would always do a better job in
showing your professionalism.
2. Do you spend a lot of time choosing clothes?
I have to be honest, yes. I can say that my closet is a whole clothing store and it
usually takes me forever to find my best outfit for the day. My family keeps complaining
about my shopping habit as I always spend an extravagant amount of money on clothes
but what can I do, I’m a girl.

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3. Do you like wearing T-shirts?
I’m absolutely a T-shirt lover. For me, T-shirts are must-have items for
their versatility which allows you to easily mix and match with other pieces of clothing to
suit different occasions and purposes.
4. What kind of clothes do you like to wear?
Well, I don’t attach myself to any certain style because I’m an experimental person. This
is why I always want to try something new to see how it goes. Lately, I’ve been obsessed
with cutout designs for their intriguing look when I try them on.

TOPIC 19: NOISE

1. Do you like to stay in a place with a lot of noise?
What an interesting question! Actually, being genuinely an introverted person, I don’t
usually gravitate towards that sort of spot because it can drain my energy unbelievably
fast, and I would need hours to recharge my batteries after that. So, my go-to
destination is always somewhere peaceful, which helps me to have a respite from the
noisy urban grinds and clearly listen to my inner voice.
drain my energy: tiêu hao năng lượng
recharge my batteries: sạc lại năng lượng
my go-to destination: địa điểm tôi thường đến
have a respite: có sự nghỉ ngơi
urban grinds: guồng quay cuộc sống thành thị
inner voice: tiếng nói bên trong
2. Do you think there is too much noise in today’s world?
Obviously, disturbing sounds seemed to become the daily soundtracks for everyone now,
and not many people even pay attention to that fact anymore. But the worrying
consequence is that they forget to set aside some time to stay away from those
intervening factors at times, to just listen to themselves, or just be mindful about their
own thoughts.
daily soundtracks: âm thanh hằng ngày
set aside: để dành

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3. Is making noise one of people’s rights?
Yeah, I think it’s related to the fundamental right of humans, which is the freedom of
speech. So everyone should be entitled to speak out and voice their opinions. However,
the volume should be controlled to avoid adversely affecting the well-being of other
surrounding people.
4. What kinds of noises are there in the area where you live?
Currently, I’m living right in the heart of this bustling and vibrant city. So, there are
various noises from daily activities like the constant rumble of vehicle engines, ear-
piercing car horns, and the clang of construction work. But the surprising thing is all
those sounds seemed to become such a usual daily element in this city that I don’t even
bother at all even though maybe, I guess they do potentially pose some health risks if I
continue to stay here for a longer time.
constant rumble: tiếng ầm ầm liên tục
ear-piercing car horns: tiếng còi xe inh tai
the clang of construction work: tiếng keng keng từ các công trình xây dưng
pose some health risks: là những mối nguy hiểm cho sức khỏe
5. Do you want to move to a quieter place?
Yes, absolutely. Candidly speaking, I’ve always been dreaming about being back to my
hometown for years, where I can enjoy the pleasant tranquility and a slower pace of
life. But I think I have to put that dream on the back burners for now and wait until my
retirement period to do that. Currently, this hectic city is a more ideal place for me
to strive towards constant self-perfection and career development.
pleasant tranquility: sự yên tĩnh thu thái
a slower pace of life: nhịp sống thong thả hơn
put that dream on the back burners: gác lại giấc mơ đó
strive towards: nỗ lực hướng tới

TOPIC 25: TEA AND COFFEE

1. Do you prefer drinking tea or coffee? (Why/Why not?)
I’m definitely more of acoffee drinker. Every morning, I need toget my coffee fixor else
I’llzone outa lot at work. I do drink tea occasionally though, usually when I eat out.
Unsweetened iced tea is thestandard accompanimentto pretty much every meal in
Vietnam.

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Well, it depends on the time of day and my mood, really. In the morning, I'm all about
that coffee life. It's like a shot of energy to kickstart the day, you know? There's
something about that rich, aromatic flavor that gets me going.But when it comes to
winding down or just having a cozy moment, tea is my jam. It's like a warm, comforting
hug in a cup, you know.
A shot of energy: một lượng năng lượng
Example: After a long day at work, a quick workout can give you a much-needed shot of
energy. (Sau một ngày làm việc dài, một buổi tập thể dục nhanh có thể mang lại một
lượng năng lượng cần thiết.)
Kickstart the day: khởi đầu ngày mới
Example: Having a nutritious breakfast can help kickstart your day and improve your
productivity. (Ăn một bữa sáng dinh dưỡng có thể giúp bạn khởi đầu ngày mới và nâng
cao năng suất làm việc.)
Rich, aromatic flavor: hương vị thơm ngon, đậm đà
Example: The rich, aromatic flavor of freshly baked bread is hard to resist. (Hương vị
thơm ngon đậm đà của bánh mì nướng mới thật sự khó cưỡng.)
2. Which do you prepare for your guest at home? Tea or coffee?
Most of the time, it’s tea. In Vietnam and a few Asian countries, it isde rigueurfor the host
to offer tea to the guests. Usually, I just boil some water and pour it over a tea bag or two.
For special guests though, I tend toget all fancyand bring out theporcelain tea set,the tray,
actual tea leaves instead of tea bags – you know – the whole nine yards.
3. Do you go out for coffee?
100 per cent.Vietnamese drip coffeeis pretty easy to make at home,
butfreshlygroundandfreshly roasted beans? I mean, come on! Plus, there is something
about sitting on tiny littlestoolsand slowly enjoy your morning coffee that just completes,
the coffee experience, wouldn’t you agree? And for espresso and espresso drinks,
obviously, you need to go to a coffee shop where they have an actual machine to make
them.
4. Do your people in your country give tea or coffee as a gift?
As a matter of fact, they do. It’s an easy, albeit lazy, choice of what to get to someone. So
around Lunar New Year, for example, you’ll see supermarkets selling a lot of these gift
baskets, andwithout failthere will be a box of tea or coffee or both in every single one of
them.

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5. Do you remember the first time you tried drinking tea/coffee? (Why/Why not?)
Wow! This is a tough question because I’ve been drinking these beverages for a long
time, so long that I can’t remember when was the first time. I guess I’ve drunk coffee
since I graduated from university and got my first job. I usually had to wake up very early
in the morning to get to work. So I had no way but to drink coffee every day to stay
awake.
6. Do you ever give visitors to your home tea or coffee? (Why/Why not?)
7. Which is more popular in your country, tea or coffee? (Why?)
Oh, absolutely, tea and coffee are like daily essentials in Vietnam. Coffee, in particular,
is a big deal. We've got our own unique style, like the famous Vietnamese iced
coffee with condensed milk, and you'll find coffee shops on practically every corner. It's a
social thing too; people often gather at cafes to catch up or just chill.
A big deal: quan trọng, quý báu
Example: Graduating from college was a big deal for her. (Tốt nghiệp đại học là một
chuyện quan trọng đối với cô ấy)
Do you often drink tea or coffee with your friends?
Oh, for sure, sharing a cup of tea or coffee with friends is a regular thing here. It's like a
cozy ritual. We might meet up at a café or just hang out at someone's place. It's a chance
for us to catch up, chat about life, and enjoy some good company.
Iced coffee: cà phê đá
Example: On a hot summer day, there's nothing better than enjoying a refreshing glass of
iced coffee. (Vào một ngày hè nóng, không có gì tốt hơn là thưởng thức một ly cà phê đá
mát lạnh.)
Condensed milk: sữa đặc
Example: Condensed milk is often used as a sweetener in various desserts and
beverages. (Sữa đặc thường được sử dụng làm chất làm ngọt trong nhiều món tráng
miệng và đồ uống.)

TOPIC 26: ROBOTS

1. Do you know something about robots?
To the best of my knowledge, robots are automated machines designed to perform tasks,
ranging from industrial applications to domestic chores. Over the years, there has been

38
significant progress in the development of robots, and they now play a crucial role in
various industries, contributing to increased efficiency and precision in tasks.
Yes, I am a technophile so I have a good understanding of robots and their capabilities.
Robots are advanced machines that are programmed to perform various
tasks autonomously or under human control. They are programmed to carry out specific
actions and can be used in various industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and
space exploration.
Hoặc:
Well, I’m gonna (going to) be very honest here, I have absolutely no clue when it comes
to robots. I think a lot of people would assume Gen Z kids know every itty bitty thing
about automatic things, artificial intelligence and the list goes on, but in bitter contrast, I
have to say that I’m totally in the dark for this topic.
Các từ và cấu trúc câu được sử dụng
technophile (danh từ): người yêu công nghệ
capability (danh từ): khả năng
program (danh từ): chương trình (động từ): lập trình, chương trình hoá
autonomous (tính từ): tự điều khiển, tự trị
various (tính từ): gồm nhiều thứ khác nhau
manufacture (động từ): chế tạo, sản xuất
itty bitty (adj) nhỏ nhặt, rất nhỏ
Eg: If you’re asking me, I would say I love every itty bitty thing about her. (Nếu bạn hỏi
tôi, tôi sẽ nói rằng tôi yêu mọi điều nhỏ nhặt nhất ở cô ấy.)
be in the dark (adj) mù mờ về thứ có thể sẽ hữu dụng nếu biết
2. Did you like any film has a robot in it when you were a child?
When I was a child, I was particularly fond of movies featuring robots. One film that
stands out for me is "Wall-E," an animated movie that portrayed a robot on a quest to
clean up a deserted Earth. The way robots were depicted in the film fascinated me, and it
played a role in sparking my interest in technology and the possibilities it holds for the
future.
3. Do you use robot in your daily life?
Yes, I do use robots in my daily life. One example is the Xiaomi robot vacuum
cleaner that I have at home. It helps me keep my floors clean without

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manually vacuuming them. I simply set it to clean at a specific time, and
it navigates around the room, picking up dirt and dust. It saves me a lot of time and effort.
Additionally, I also use voice-activated virtual assistants like Siri or Google Assistant on
my smartphone, which can perform various tasks for me, such as setting reminders,
answering questions, or even controlling smart home devices.
4. Will you be comfortable if you are on a car driven by a robot?
I think my comfort level in a car driven by a robot would depend on various factors. On
one hand, the potential advantages of autonomous vehicles, such as improved road safety
and reduced traffic accidents, are compelling. However, there might be concerns
regarding the reliability and trustworthiness of the robotic systems. Personally, I would
feel at ease if there were robust safety measures in place and if the technology has been
proven to be reliable through rigorous testing and real-world applications.

TOPIC 27: RUNNING

1. Do you go running a lot?
Yes, I do enjoy running, and I try to make it a regular part of my fitness routine. I usually
go for a run at least three to four times a week. It helps me stay in shape and relieves
stress.
2. Where do you usually like to run?
I typically go running in a nearby park in my neighborhood. It’s a lovely place with well-
maintained jogging tracks and a pleasant atmosphere. Running there allows me to
connect with nature and enjoy some fresh air.
3. What do you think of running?
Running is a fantastic sport, in my opinion. It’s accessible to almost everyone, requires
minimal equipment, and offers numerous health benefits. It’s not only a great way to
improve physical fitness but also helps in maintaining mental well-being. Moreover, it
can be a solitary or social activity, depending on your preference, making it
a versatile and enjoyable sport for people of all ages and fitness levels.
4. What do you think of running as a form of exercise?
I see running as one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to stay active. All you
need is a good pair of running shoes, and with regular warm-ups, you can enhance your
speed. The ability to run fast not only benefits you in running but also contributes to
excelling in other sports. It serves as a foundation that can be advantageous if you decide
to shift or engage in other sports.

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 TOPIC 28: GIFT/ PRESENTS
1. What is one of the best gifts you’ve ever received? (Why?)
Oh, that's a tough one. You know, I've received some really thoughtful gifts over the
years. But if I had to pick the best, it would probably be the surprise birthday party my
friends threw for me a couple of years ago. It wasn't a material gift, but the effort and
love they put into organizing it made it incredibly special.

 Tough: khó khăn, khó nhằn

Example: Solving complex mathematical problems can be tough, but it's also
rewarding. (Giải quyết các bài toán toán học phức tạp có thể khó khăn, nhưng cũng đáng
đồng tiền bát gạo.)

 Material gift: quà tặng vật chất

Example: For their anniversary, he gave her a material gift in the form of a beautiful,
handcrafted necklace. (Cho kỷ niệm của họ, anh đã tặng cô ấy một món quà tặng vật chất
dưới dạng một chiếc dây chuyền đẹp và được làm thủ công.)

2. Are you good at choosing gifts for other people? (Why/Why not?)
Well, I guess I'm not too bad at picking out gifts for others. I always try to pay attention
to what they're into and what might bring a smile to their face. It's all about showing that
you care, right? Of course, there have been times when I've missed the mark and the gift
didn't quite land as expected. But hey, it's all part of the fun, and sometimes those
"misses" turn into funny stories.

 Bring a smile to someone's face: làm ai đó cười

Example: Her jokes always bring a smile to our faces, even on the toughest days. (Những
câu đùa của cô ấy luôn làm cho chúng tôi cười, ngay cả trong những ngày khó khăn
nhất.)

 Missed the mark: không đạt đúng mục tiêu, không thành công như mong đợi
Example: Despite their best efforts, the team missed the mark and didn't win the
championship this year. (Mặc dù đã cố gắng hết sức, đội bóng đã không đạt đúng mục
tiêu và không giành được chức vô địch năm nay.)

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3. What sort of gifts do you like to buy for friends? (Why?) Những loại quà tặng nào
bạn thích mua cho bạn bè? (Tại sao?)
4. Have you ever given someone a gift that you made yourself? (Why/Why not?)

TOPIC 29: CHATTING

1. Do you like chatting with friends?

Yes, I do enjoy having conversations with my friends from time to time. It provides me
with an opportunity to connect, share experiences with others as well as allows me to
relax and unwind from the demands of daily life. It’s a great way to catch up on each
other’s lives, discuss common interests, and exchange ideas. Furthermore, chatting often
brings laughter and joy, creating a positive and enjoyable atmosphere, hence why I find
talking with friends to be a valuable and rewarding occasion.

2. What do you usually chat about with friends?

In our normal convos, we tend to discuss a wide range of topics. We often talk about our
personal lives, such as our hobbies, interests, and share anecdotes from our recent day-
to-day experiences. We also delve into current events and discuss news happening
around us, which helps us stay informed and engage in meaningful discussions.

Other than that, exchanging opinions and recommendations about our favorite movies,
books, and music are common themes as well. Sometimes, we even explore deeper topics
like personal aspirations, future plans, and even philosophical ideas. All in all, our
conversations cover diverse subjects, allowing us to learn from each other and deepen our
bond as friends.

3. Do you prefer to chat with a group of people or with only one friend?
Personally, I find both group conversations and one-on-one chats with a single friend to
be enjoyable, but it depends on the context and the purpose of the conversation. Chatting
with a group of people can create a lively and dynamic atmosphere, leading to engaging
debates and the opportunity to learn from different viewpoints.

On the other hand, if you’re seeking a stronger sense of trust and closeness, chatting
with one friend offers a more intimate and focused interaction as it allows for deeper
conversations, where we can look into personal topics or share our thoughts and feelings
more openly. In short, my preference differs depending on the context and the specific
relationship I have with the people involved.

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4. Do you prefer to communicate face-to-face or via social media?
For this question, I must say engaging in real-life conversations, to me, possesses more
merits. One cannot deny the convenience of social platforms with a wide range of
communication tools such as messaging, video calls, and group chats which allow us to
stay connected with friends and family, regardless of geographical distances.
Nonetheless, such communication still lacks personal and emotional depth and could
potentially lead to miscommunication and hinder meaningful conversations.

When it comes to face-to-face communication, I find it to be more authentic, meaningful

and promote effective communication. Being able to see someone’s facial expressions,
hear their tone of voice, and observe their body language adds substance and nuance to
the conversation. It allows for a greater sense of understanding and fosters a more
genuine connection.

5. Do you argue with friends?

Yes, disputes can occasionally arise between friends, as disagreements are a natural part
of any relationship. Some of the few arguments I normally have, though relatively rare,
take place when my friends and I have differing opinions on certain topics or when there
is a misunderstanding that needs to be addressed. When arguments occur, most of the
time we will try to approach them with respect and open-mindedness. In a healthy
friendship, it’s crucial to listen to each other’s perspectives and understand
the underlying reasons behind the disagreement instead of avoiding it when an issue
emerges. Occasional constructive arguments can actually strengthen friendships by
allowing us to gain a deeper insight into one another’s viewpoints and find common
ground, thus providing an opportunity for growth and understanding within friendships.

TOPIC 30: GEOGRAPHY

1. How do you feel about geography?
I would say yes. Though people in my country normally see it as a monotonous and
dull subject, for me geography is the synonym for exploring the world. I mean I could use
things I learn from this subject to learn about the physical properties of Earth’s surface,
and to study places and the relationships between people and their environments.
is the synonym for: đồng nghĩa với
physical properties: thành phần vật lý
monotonous and dull: đơn điệu, buồn tẻ

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2. Do you think learning geographic knowledge is useful for you?
Absolutely, I believe that acquiring geographic knowledge is immensely beneficial. It not
only enhances our awareness of the world but also aids in making informed decisions
about travel, environmental issues, and even geopolitical matters.
Từ vựng hay trong bài:
Acquiring: Obtaining or gaining possession of.
Nghĩa Tiếng Việt: đạt được
Informed: Having or showing knowledge of a particular subject or situation.
Nghĩa Tiếng Việt: hiểu biết, sáng suốt
3. Have you ever studied geography at school?
Absolutely! I mean geography is one of the compulsory parts of the curriculum in my
country. And as a person who is so curious about the Earth, I’d say I was having a whale
of a time learning things in my geography classes.
having a whale of a time: có nhiều thời gian
4. Are you good at reading a map?
Gosh, it’s one of my fortes, you know. People around me say I have a good sense of
direction, so reading maps is like a walk in the park for me. I don’t understand why some
could downplay the role of map reading. ‘Cuz the way I see it, this is a vital life skill
which could come in handy when you get lost, you know.
forte: điểm mạnh
a good sense of direction: có phương hướng tốt
a walk in the park: (thứ gì đó) làm một cách dễ dàng
downplay the role of: hạ thấp tầm quan trọng của (thứ gì đó)
come in handy: có thể hữu dụng

TOPIC 31: FILMS

1. What films do you like?
Yes, I do, in fact, I’m actually a movie buff. I find pleasure in watching different types of
movies and to be honest I have numerous personal favorites of each type of film. I can’t
imagine my life without watching films, it has been my favorite pastime.

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2. Did you often watch films when you were a child?
Only occasionally, at that time, my family weren’t really well-off and actually quite
frugal so my folks mainly bought DVDs for me to watch films at home rather than going
to the movie theater.
movie theater: rạp chiếu phim
3. Did you ever go to the cinema alone as a child?
No, I didn’t watch films at the cinema alone when I was little because none were near my
house. Also, my family wasn’t well-off, so a cinema ticket was out of reach for me. I
watched a movie on the big screen for the first time when I went to university, and I
was overwhelmed by the excellent sound and visual effects.
Well-off (adj.): giàu có
Out of reach (phr.): ngoài khả năng/ tầm với
Overwhelmed (adj): kinh ngạc
Sound effect (phr.): hiệu ứng âm thanh
Visual effect (phr.): hiệu ứng hình ảnh
4. Do you often go to the cinema with your friends?
No hardly ever. As a matter of fact I can’t remember the last time I went to a movie with
a friend. If I did go to the cinema, my company would normally be my brother. And we
would only go when there’s a blockbuster.
go to a movie: đi xem phim
5. Do you think going to the cinema is a good way to spend time with friends?
I think it depends on individual preference. For some people who are moviegoers,
cinemas are ideal places because they can discuss while watching, which can create
a bond between them. But other people would choose different ways to spend quality
time together. They can head to a coffee shop, order their favorite drinks and pass on
gossip.
Moviegoer (n.): người hay đi xem phim chiếu rạp
Bond (n.): mối quan hệ/ sự gắn kết
Quality time (phr.): thời gian chất lượng
Pass on gossip (phr.): nói chuyện tầm phào

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 TOPIC 32: HELPING OTHERS
1. Do you usually help people around you?
Yeah, I try to help others whenever I can. It's like a simple way to make a positive impact
on someone's day or situation. Whether it's lending a hand with a task, offering advice, or
just being there to listen, I think helping others is a fundamental part of being human.
Lend a hand: Giúp đỡ ai đó.
Example: When my neighbor was moving, I lent a hand by helping him carry his
furniture into his new house. (Khi hàng xóm của tôi đang chuyển nhà, tôi giúp đỡ bằng
cách giúp anh ta mang đồ đạc vào ngôi nhà mới của mình.)
Offering advice: Đưa ra lời khuyên
Example: If you're ever in doubt, don't hesitate to ask for advice; I'm here to offer
guidance. (Nếu bạn bao giờ cảm thấy hoài nghi, đừng ngần ngại hỏi về lời khuyên; tôi ở
đây để đưa ra hướng dẫn.)
Being there to listen: Ở bên cạnh để lắng nghe
Example: Sometimes, people don't need solutions; they just need someone who will be
there to listen and understand. (Đôi khi, người ta không cần giải pháp; họ chỉ cần ai đó sẽ
lắng nghe và hiểu mà thôi.)
2. How do you help people around you, such as neighbors, family, and friends?
It depends on the problem that they are encountering. For emotional ones, all I need to do
is be a good listener so people can have a chance to confide in me. And if it’s possible, I
will try to provide verbal encouragement or incentivize them. Or sometimes, I can help
my friends by offering them financial support and I’m really glad to do so.
Confide in somebody: tâm sự với một ai đó
Verbal encouragement: sự động viên bằng lời nói
Incentivize (v): khuyến khích
Financial support: hỗ trợ về vấn đề tài chính
3. Have you done voluntary work?
4. Did your parents help you a lot when you were young?
Yeah, my parents were always there to help me when I was young. From the basics like
feeding me, dressing me, and making sure I was safe, to helping with schoolwork
and guiding me through life's challenges, they were my go-to support system.

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Guiding me through life's challenges: Hướng dẫn tôi vượt qua những thách thức trong
cuộc sống
Example: My parents have always been there to guide me through life's challenges,
offering wisdom and encouragement when I needed it most. (Phụ huynh của tôi luôn ở
bên để hướng dẫn tôi vượt qua những thách thức trong cuộc sống, cung cấp sự khôn
ngoan và động viên khi tôi cần nhất.)
Support system: Hệ thống hỗ trợ
Example: Friends and family can form a strong support system during difficult times,
providing emotional and practical assistance. (Bạn bè và gia đình có thể tạo thành một hệ
thống hỗ trợ mạnh mẽ trong những thời điểm khó khăn, cung cấp sự hỗ trợ cảm xúc và
thực tế.)
5. Have you helped someone in the community?

TOPIC 33: FISH AND FISHING

1. How popular is fishing in your country? (Why/Why not?)
Absolutely, fishing is a pretty popular pastime in my country. With a coastline and
numerous lakes and rivers, there are plenty of opportunities to cast a line and reel in a
catch, and I think it’s also a great way to get close to nature.
a pretty popular pastime: một sở thích khá phổ biến
Example: Fishing is a pretty popular pastime among people of all ages in my country.
(Câu cá là một sở thích khá phổ biến trong mọi lứa tuổi ở quê tôi.)
reel in a catch: kéo cá lên sau khi câu được
Example: It's always exciting to reel in a catch after patiently waiting for hours. (Luôn
luôn là một cảm giác thú vị khi kéo cá lên sau khi đã kiên nhẫn chờ đợi trong nhiều giờ.)
get close to nature: tiếp xúc gần gũi với thiên nhiên
Example: Fishing allows you to get close to nature and appreciate the beauty of the
outdoors. (Câu cá cho phép bạn gần gũi với thiên nhiên và trân trọng vẻ đẹp của không
gian ngoài trời.)
2. Do you know any places where you can see many fish? (Where/Why?)
Yes, I've had the pleasure of visiting places where fish are abundant. Snorkeling
in crystal-clear waters surrounded by colorful fish is like entering a different world. It's a
breathtaking experience.
crystal-clear waters: nước biển trong suốt như pha lê
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Example: Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters allows you to see the underwater world with
amazing clarity. (Lặn ở nước biển trong suốt như pha lê cho phép bạn nhìn thấy thế giới
dưới nước một cách rất rõ ràng.)
a breathtaking experience: một trải nghiệm đáng kinh ngạc
Example: Swimming with dolphins in the open sea was a breathtaking experience I'll
never forget. (Bơi cùng cá heo trên vùng biển trống là một trải nghiệm tuyệt vời mà tôi sẽ
không bao giờ quên.)
3. How do you feel about eating fish? (Why/Why not?)
Oh, I definitely enjoy eating fish. There's something about a well-cooked fish dish that's
both delicious and healthy. It's like a win-win for your taste buds and your body.
Well-cooked: nấu chín đúng cách
Example: A well-cooked steak should be tender and juicy, with the right level of
doneness. (Một miếng thịt bò nấu chín đúng cách phải mềm và ngon, với mức độ chín
phù hợp.)
4. Would you ever keep fish as pets? (Why/Why not?)
In my opinion, people keep fish as pets for various reasons. One of the main reasons is
their calming presence. I mean watching fish swim gracefully in an aquarium can
be incredibly soothing and therapeutic for some.
calming presence: sự hiện diện tạo nên sự thư giãn cho người xem
Example: Fish are often kept as pets because of their calming presence. (Người ta thường
nuôi cá làm thú cưng vì sự hiện diện mang tính thư giãn của chúng.)
incredibly soothing and therapeutic: cực kỳ dịu dàng, nhẹ nhàng và có tính chất chữa lành
Example: For many people, watching fish swim gracefully in an aquarium can be
incredibly soothing and therapeutic after a long day. (Đối với nhiều người, việc theo dõi
cá bơi thanh nhã trong hồ có thể mang lại một cảm giác nhẹ nhàng và có tính chất chữa
lành sau một ngày dài.)

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