Topic 1: Accomondation

PART 1
Describe a house or apartment you would like to live in the future.

Answer

I’d like to talk about a modern lakeside house that I hope to live in someday. I imagine it
being located on the outskirts of Hanoi, in a quiet area that’s still close enough to the city for work. I
picture myself moving there in my early thirties when I’m more financially stable and ready to settle
down.
The house would be a minimalist two-storey building with large windows, plenty of natural
light, and a small garden overlooking the lake. Whenever I think about this place, I feel calm and
grounded because it represents a lifestyle that allows me to slow down and focus on my wellbeing.
Living there would positively influence my life by improving my mental health, helping me
maintain a better work-life balance, and giving me a peaceful space to recharge after stressful days.
It’s not just a home to me; it’s a symbol of the life I want to build.

PART 2
1. Do you think homes will look different in the future?
I believe homes will look significantly different in the future due to both technological development
and environmental concerns. Future houses will likely be more compact but much smarter, equipped
with systems that automate daily routines and reduce energy consumption. Smart devices will
manage lighting, temperature, and security. Many urban homes may adopt vertical designs, while
rural homes might integrate more green spaces to create environmentally friendly living conditions.
2. Do you think it’s better to rent or to buy a place to live in?
Whether renting or buying is better really depends on a person’s lifestyle and financial situation.
Buying provides long-term stability and can be a solid investment. However, renting is more
suitable for people who value mobility, like young adults who move frequently for education or
career development. With rising property prices, many people now choose renting because it offers
flexibility without long-term financial pressure.
3. What factors will contribute to whether a place is good to live in or not?
The livability of a place is shaped by infrastructure, environment, and social connections. Good
infrastructure means efficient transport, clean water, and stable electricity. A clean and green
environment affects health and overall comfort. Finally, the community’s culture matters; a place
where residents respect shared spaces and support one another tends to create a more positive living
experience. These factors together determine the quality of daily life for residents.
Topic 4: Learning Language
PART 1:
Describe a foreign language learning experience that you have had or that you know about.
You should say:
• where you learned the language
• how you studied or practiced it
• what difficulties you faced
and explain whether you think this was an effective way to learn a language.
Follow up question:
– Have you ever tried learning a foreign language in a similar way?
– Would you like to learn another language in the future?
Answer

A foreign language learning experience that has had a big impact on me is the period when I first
studied English seriously at a private language center. It was around the time I entered high school,
and I realised that English was essential not only for academic purposes but also for future job
opportunities. Because of that, I decided to commit to a structured program rather than learning on
my own.

I studied English through a combination of methods. In class, we focused a lot on speaking and
listening, using real-life situations and interactive activities. Outside class, I practiced by watching
movies with subtitles, listening to podcasts, and keeping a vocabulary journal. The biggest difficulty
I faced was building confidence to speak. I often knew the words in my head, but I hesitated
because I was afraid of making mistakes. It took time, but with practice, I gradually became more
fluent and natural.

Looking back, I think this method was effective because it balanced formal instruction with real-
world exposure. It taught me that learning a language isn’t about memorising rules, but about using
the language actively and consistently. This experience also shaped my study habits and made me
more open-minded about learning other languages in the future.

PART 2:
1. Why do people today feel the need to learn foreign languages?
In today’s globalised world, people learn foreign languages for education, career advancement, and
global communication. In a connected world, speaking multiple languages gives individuals access
to more information and opportunities. It also helps them travel more easily and understand other
cultures better.

2. What are the advantages to society when citizens can speak multiple languages?
The fundamental advantage is the creation of a more culturally resilient and dynamic society.
Multilingualism is scientifically linked to better cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills at a
population level. This cognitive boost translates directly into innovation and a greater capacity for
cross-cultural collaboration in fields like scientific research and diplomacy.

3. Do you think language learning will become easier or harder in the future?
It will certainly become easier, largely due to the imminent power of advanced Machine Learning.
The reason is that personalized AI tutors will be able to tailor lessons to individual learning styles
and correct subtle errors in real-time, functioning as a highly effective, perpetual mentor. This
technology promises to democratize language learning, making it a highly accessible skill globally
Topic 5: Holiday

PART 1
Describe a holiday that you have enjoyed.
You should say:
where you went
who you went with
what activities you did there
explain why this holiday was enjoyable for you.
Follow-up question:
Have you ever experienced a similar holiday?
Would you like to go on a holiday like this?

The most memorable holiday I’ve enjoyed was a trip to the historical coastal city of Hoi An,
renowned worldwide for its well-preserved architecture and charming lantern-lit streets. For this
trip, I went with my entire immediate family, including my parents and siblings. It was planned as a
much-needed family reunion, allowing us to spend several consecutive days together after a long
period of separation due to work. We spent our time exploring the ancient town by bicycle, which
offered a slower pace than walking and allowed us to observe the local life closely. We also took a
highly engaging cooking class focusing on the region’s unique cuisine, and, of course, spent time
with the local tailors having custom clothes made. This holiday was incredibly enjoyable because of
the sheer cultural immersion it provided. The palpable sense of antiquity combined with the vibrant,
welcoming atmosphere of the locals made for a profoundly rich experience, enhanced by the
gastronomic delight of the regional food..

PART 2
1. Why do people enjoy taking holidays?
Beyond the primary need for stress mitigation, people enjoy holidays because they satisfy a
fundamental human need for novelty and exploration. They offer a temporary escape from the
monotony of routine, providing new visual, auditory, and cultural stimulation. This exposure to
different environments is crucial for stimulating intellectual curiosity and providing fresh
perspectives that are often necessary for solving long-standing problems back home.

2. What are the benefits of spending holidays with family?

Spending holidays with family is vital for allowing everyone to reconnect on a deeper level. In the
home environment, interactions are often transactional (chores, schedules); holidays allow for
purely social, relaxed interactions. This continuous, shared experience strengthens kinship bonds
and provides invaluable time for children to learn social cues and patience through navigating
shared schedules and travel logistics.

3. Do you think people spend too much money on holidays nowadays?

The perception that people spend too much is often accurate, as it relates to prioritizing superficial
luxury over genuine experience. For example, people often allocate huge sums to first-class travel or
luxury accommodation but then skimp on meaningful cultural activities or local dining. The
resulting financial deficit at home can create post-holiday stress, indicating that the resources were
not effectively invested for maximum restorative value.
Topic 7: Social Networking Sites
Part 1:
Describe a social networking site you use.
You should say:
When you first started using it
How often you use it
What you mainly use it for
And explain why you enjoy using it
Follow up question: Do you use this social networking site?

Answer

The social networking site I use frequently is Instagram, the highly popular photo and video-
sharing platform. I first started using it in late high school, around the time that visual media
consumption started to dominate online interaction. I now use it multiple times a day, though
usually in short, targeted bursts rather than sustained, long-term browsing. My primary use is for
visual curation—I follow accounts dedicated to my niche interests like interior design, travel
photography, and complex culinary arts. It serves as a visual bulletin board for inspirational
content. I also use it to quickly check the social spheres of close friends and family. I enjoy using
Instagram because of its highly immersive and aesthetically driven nature. It’s a very engaging
way to consume content that bypasses text, making it highly effective for promoting creative
exploration and providing immediate mental escapism from demanding work tasks.

Part 2:
1. What are the main advantages and disadvantages of social networking sites?
A key advantage is the ability for small businesses and independent artists to gain market access
and promote their work to a global audience with virtually no operational overheads. The
significant disadvantage, however, lies in the constant threat of privacy breaches and the sites'
propensity to foster a culture of conspicuous consumption, which promotes materialism and can
lead to financial irresponsibility among users.

2. How have social networking sites changed the way people interact?
They have profoundly altered interaction by making communication increasingly reliant on non-
verbal cues—such as emojis, reactions, and short-form video content—which risks reducing the
emotional depth of exchanges. Furthermore, they contribute to the formation of digital echo
chambers, where algorithms prioritize like-minded views, leading to increased social polarization
in political and cultural discussions.

3. What are the differences between how young people and older people use social networking
sites?
Younger demographics use these platforms heavily for identity performance and seeking instant
feedback, often involving highly specialized, rapidly evolving content forms like TikTok trends.
Older generations, by contrast, utilize them mainly for archival purposes—sharing photos, tracking
the major life milestones of family—and tend to engage in less frequent and more text-based
interactions, focusing on maintaining existing kinship bonds.
Topic 9: Personality
PART 1
Describe an interesting old person
You should say:
Who this person is
Where did you meet with him
What characteristics you most like on him
And explain why you think this person is interesting

Follow up question: Do you find this person interesting?

I would like to speak about an interesting elderly neighbor of mine named Ms. Thao, who is a
retired architect. She lives two houses down and is a truly fascinating character. I primarily interact
with her in our communal garden, where she spends her afternoons tending to her remarkable bonsai
collection, a ritual she maintains with fastidious devotion. The characteristic I most admire about
her is her fierce independence and unflappable composure. Despite living alone, she manages her
life and garden with immense skill and rarely relies on others, which is deeply inspiring. She also
has a wonderful, dry sense of humour that often catches me off guard. I find Ms. Thao so
interesting because she views life with a unique philosophical detachment. She experienced
significant historical shifts in her lifetime, and she often shares anecdotes that provide incredible
vicarious experience on coping with change and maintaining personal values. Her sense of
resilience and self-possession is a powerful lesson in aging with grace and dignity.

PART 2
1. Do you think beauty only relates to a person’s appearance?

Definitely not. Limiting beauty to appearance is a very reductive viewpoint. Real beauty is
intrinsically linked to a person’s moral constitution and their ability to bring about positive change.
For example, individuals who dedicate their lives to humanitarian work or environmental
advocacy possess a profound spiritual luminosity that easily outshines any transient physical
appeal.

2. What do you think are the most important qualities for friends to have?

The most important qualities include mutual respect and strong ethical alignment. Mutual respect
means valuing each other's opinions and personal boundaries, which is crucial for interpersonal
health. Ethical alignment ensures that you share fundamental values and worldviews, making it
easier to trust the friend's judgment and navigate complex moral dilemmas together without
conflict.

3. Do you think it is impossible to make real friends on the internet?

It is certainly not impossible, and in fact, the internet often facilitates high-quality friendships
among people who would otherwise never meet. When geography is no longer a constraint,
individuals can connect over highly specific, niche interests, leading to a deeper initial bond based
purely on shared passion and intellectual connection, bypassing the superficial constraints of
physical proximity.
Topic 11: Shopping
PART 1
Describe something you bought online that was useful for you.
You should say:
what the item was
when you bought it online
why you chose to buy it online instead of in a store
and explain how you felt after using it.
Follow-up question:
- Have you ever bought a similar item online?
- Would you prefer to buy this item online or in person?

I'd like to describe something I purchased online that proved to be an invaluable asset to my work:
an ergonomic mechanical keyboard. I bought it online about six months ago, shortly after taking
on a new professional role that required many consecutive hours of daily typing. The reason I chose
to buy it online instead of in a physical store was largely due to the item's highly technical
specifications. I needed to compare very niche market segments, looking closely at details like the
specific type of mechanical switch, keycap material, and the programmable macros offered by
global manufacturers. Physical stores rarely stock this level of specialized inventory, and the
comprehensive peer-reviewed analyses and detailed product reviews available online were
instrumental in helping me make an informed decision. After using it for several months, I felt an
intense sense of relief and satisfaction. The keyboard significantly reduced the wrist strain and
fatigue I had been experiencing, leading to markedly enhanced professional productivity. It has
truly proven to be an indispensable tool for maintaining my long-term well-being and efficiency.

PART 2
1. Why do many people choose to shop online nowadays?
Many people choose online shopping because it facilitates informed decision-making. The ability
to make side-by-side comparisons of hundreds of products, read diverse user experiences, and
check authenticity certificates is far more efficient than visiting multiple physical shops.
Additionally, the ease of utilizing digital coupons and integrated loyalty programs makes the
financial benefit tangible and immediate.
2. What are the advantages to society of having more people shop online?
One key advantage is enhanced consumer protection through the transparency of review systems.
Online feedback mechanisms hold manufacturers and sellers to account, which can raise the overall
quality and reliability of goods across the market. Furthermore, it enhances economic participation
by people with mobility issues or those living in remote areas, ensuring they are not marginalized
from accessing essential goods.

3. Do you think online shopping will replace physical stores in the future?
No, the complete obsolescence of physical stores is unlikely. They will continue to hold relevance
by focusing on providing crucial socialization and an immediate physical touchpoint, which is
essential for certain categories like high-fashion clothing or furniture where the tactile experience
is paramount. Future physical stores will become highly curated brand experience centers rather
than mere transactional outlets.
Topic 13: PLACES OF INTEREST
PART 1
Describe a place of interest you have visited.
You should say:
Where it is
What you saw there
Why people visit it
and explain why it was memorable for you.
Follow-up question: Would you like to visit a similar place?

I’d like to describe the Imperial Citadel of Hue, which is a magnificent historical complex located
in the central Vietnamese city of Hue. I visited it a few years ago. What I saw there was an
expansive labyrinth of ancient palaces, intricate gateways, and the heavily fortified walls of the
Forbidden Purple City, much of which still bears the scars of war. Despite some sections being in
ruins, the remaining structures, such as the Noon Gate and the Thai Hoa Palace, display remarkable
architectural complexity and detailed craftsmanship. People primarily visit this place to experience
firsthand Vietnam's feudal past, learn about the history of the country's last imperial dynasty, and
witness a physical testament to national resilience. The visit was profoundly memorable for me
because of the palpable sense of antiquity it carried. Standing amidst the ancient stones, you feel a
genuine connection to history, and the sheer contrast between the former grandeur and the signs of
decline offered a deep moment of historical reflection.
PART 2
1. Why are some places of interest well preserved?
Some places are well preserved primarily because of their national significance and, often, their
designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This status attracts crucial financial capital and
technical expertise necessary for sophisticated conservation. Furthermore, the local political will to
protect these sites is strong because they represent an irreplaceable asset that underpins the region's
cultural identity and tourism revenue.
2. How can tourism be managed to protect a place of interest?
Effective protection relies on balancing economic benefit with environmental stewardship. This
involves diverting funds generated from tourism directly back into conservation projects and
investing in infra-structural improvements outside the site's core. Furthermore, introducing
detailed visitor education programs that stress respectful conduct and the fragility of the artifacts
is crucial for fostering a sense of collective responsibility.
3. Do you think technology changes how people visit places of interest?
Undeniably. Technology has made the entire visit experience far more personalized and
interactive. Visitors no longer rely solely on static plaques; instead, they use apps that provide
contextual information through audio guides or use QR codes to access high-definition imagery
and research papers about the artifacts. This shift transforms a passive viewing experience into an
active, self-directed learning journey.
Topic 15: Environment
PART 1
Describe an environmental problem that has occurred in your country.
You should say:
what causes the problem
what harmful effects it has
what has been done to solve this
Explain why you think this problem is so important to solve.
Follow-up question: Is there the same problem where you live?

The most critical environmental problem that has repeatedly plagued major cities in my country,
particularly Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, is severe air pollution. The problem is largely caused by
a confluence of factors: firstly, massive vehicular emissions from an exponentially increasing
number of old, non-compliant motorbikes and cars. Secondly, the unchecked expansion of
industrial activities on the urban periphery contributes significantly. Lastly, during the dry season,
seasonal agricultural practices like straw burning in neighboring areas exacerbate the issue. The
harmful effects are profound and multifaceted: primarily, there is a clear correlation with a surge in
respiratory illnesses and chronic conditions, significantly reducing public health outcomes and
life expectancy. Economically, it translates to reduced worker productivity and higher healthcare
expenditure. To solve this, the government has introduced stricter emissions control standards
(like Euro 4/5) and is investing heavily in developing a comprehensive public transport
infrastructure. I believe this problem is so important to solve because clean air is a non-negotiable
public good; failure to address it fundamentally undermines our human capital and severely
degrades the country’s global image and attractiveness to foreign investment.

PART 2
1. What kinds of pollution are serious in your country?
Besides air pollution, water pollution is severely serious, mainly caused by industrial waste and
untreated sewage being discharged directly into rivers and canals, leading to environmental
degradation. Secondly, plastic waste is a major problem; the high volume of single-use plastic
consumption leads to vast landfill saturation and ocean contamination, threatening marine
biodiversity and our seafood supply chain.
2. What can individuals do to protect our environment?
Individuals can make an enormous difference through responsible consumption and energy
efficiency. We can significantly reduce our carbon footprint by minimizing meat consumption,
prioritizing sustainable shopping, and making conscious choices to reduce or eliminate single-use
plastics. Furthermore, participating in local community clean-up initiatives or advocating for
stronger environmental policies helps foster crucial collective responsibility.
3. Why is it important for children to learn about the environment?
It is paramount for children to learn about the environment because they are the future
environmental stewards. Early education instills a strong sense of moral obligation and an
understanding of ecological interdependence. By learning about sustainability from a young age,
they can develop responsible consumption behaviors and possess the necessary knowledge and
critical thinking skills to address future climate crises and make informed decisions about resource
management.
Topic 17: Foreign language
PART 1
Describe a foreign language which you are learning/learnt.
You should say:
Which foreign language you are learning/you learnt.
How you feel about this language (Easy or difficult; interesting or boring to learn…)?
How this language helps you in your life.
Follow-up question: Do you learn the same foreign language as A? Or others?

I’m going to discuss Mandarin Chinese, which is the foreign language I have undertaken to learn,
viewing it as a long-term strategic investment. I began learning it primarily for its profound
geopolitical and economic importance. Regarding my feelings towards it, I find the language
intellectually stimulating yet simultaneously overwhelmingly demanding. The system of four
main tones is a constant challenge, requiring a high degree of auditory precision that English
speakers often lack, but the biggest bottleneck is undoubtedly the sheer complexity of the
character-based writing system. I dedicate a substantial amount of time to rote memorization and
stroke order. Despite the hurdles, the language is already enriching my life by expanding my
professional horizon. It provides a clear competitive advantage in my chosen field, which has
strong ties to the Asian market, and it grants me direct access to some of the world's most ancient
and seminal texts and philosophical works.
PART 2
1. How to learn foreign languages effectively?
The most effective approach is a methodical combination of active and passive immersion. This
requires daily active practice focused on spontaneous interaction with native speakers to build
fluency, coupled with passive exposure through media like podcasts or foreign films to internalize
the language’s natural cadence and rhythm. Crucially, effective learners must prioritize consistent,
low-stakes practice over intermittent intensive cramming.

2. What are the advantages of learning a foreign language?

The advantages are multifold: they include improved cognitive agility and significantly enhanced
career mobility. Learning a language has been shown to improve multitasking skills and potentially
delay cognitive decline in later life. Professionally, multilingualism serves as a major competitive
differentiator in the globalized labor market, opening up specialized, higher-paying roles in
international trade and diplomacy.

3. Should children learn a foreign language at an early age?

Absolutely. Introducing a foreign language early is paramount, ideally before the age of 10.
Research indicates that young children’s brains are better equipped to acquire language naturally,
enabling them to achieve a more authentic native-like accent than those who start later. This early
linguistic exposure also contributes to overall intellectual acceleration and stronger general
problem-solving abilities across other academic domains.