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IELTS SPEARKING PART 1

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1. Study

Describe your education

I started primary school when I was 7. 5 years later, I went to secondary school at

12. Then at 16, I made it to a high school for gifted students in my hometown. In my country, highschool education lasts 3 years, then I went onto higher education at the Foreign Trade University where I’m currently studying economics.

What is your area of specialization?

Well, my major is External Economics. I have mastered the basics of economics and socio-economics, combined with business knowledge mainly related to the import and export business.

Why did you choose to study that major?

I think it would help to fulfill my dream of introducing my country’s agricultural products to the world. Vietnamese goods have a real potential, but they still struggle to make a name for themselves, you know.

Do you like your major? (Why?/Why not?)

Yes, of course. Studying economics, especially external economics is interesting and practical. It helps me to keep up with current affairs and it improves my analytical and problem-solving skills as well.

What kind of school did you go to as a child?

As a child, I attended a public elementary school. It’s quite a big school in my hometown which provides both high quality education and a supportive environment, so I think I was quite lucky.

Xem thêm >> bộ dự đoán IELTS Speaking part 1, bộ dự đoán IELTS Speaking part 2 3, bộ dự đoán IELTS Writing task 2

What was your favourite subject as a child?

Well, I used to be very passionate about drawing when I was a little girl. It was fun to work with brushes and colors, you know, as it was the time when I could indulge in my own creative world.

Do you think your country has an effective education system?

To be honest, I don’t think so. Our system has somehow become unduly stressful, does not promote creativity and the ability to be critical due to the fact that our society still cares way too much about grades and schools consequently focuses on an exam- driven curriculum, which I find quite impractical.

(Possibly) Are you looking forward to working?

Absolutely! It’s great to join the workforce, especially when I can do the job I love. Not only will it pay the bills, but it’ll also give me the joy of making a contribution. It’s hard to be happy and fulfilled without working, you know.

VOCABULARY

Higher education (chương trình đại học) [n] post-18 learning that take places at universities

Example: According to a research, nearly 50 percent of Vietnamese students in U.S. higher education are studying either business or engineering, with business-related majors making up 38 percent of all enrollments in 2012/13

Master (tinh thông, nắm vững) [v] learn how to do sowmthing well

Example: She lived in Italy for several years but never quite mastered the language. Make a name for oneself ( trở nên nổi tiếng) [idiom] become famous and respected by a lot of people

Example: By the time he was thirty-five, he had made a name for himself as a successful railway contractor

Keep up with (cập nhật thông tin về cái gì) [idiom] be aware of

Example: Even though he’s been travelling, he’s kept up with what’s going on back home

Analytical (thuộc về phân tích) [adj] using analysis or logical reasoning

Example: Analytical skills are essential in the workplace to ensure necessary problem solving occurs to keep productivity and other areas of the workforce functioning smoothly

Elementary school (trường tiểu học) [n] primary school, school for children between 7-11 years old (in Vietnam)

Example: It’s essential that children at the official entry age for elementary school

attend classes fully.

Unduly (quá mức, không chính đáng ) [adj] excessively/ to a level that more than is necessary, acceptable, or reasonable

Example:

For every new parents, the decision about whether to vaccinate his or herchild has b een unduly stressful

Exam-driven curriculum (chương trình học để phục vụ cho các kỳ thi) [expression] the courses taught a school, college, which focus on teaching what will be on the exam

Example: Many parents believe that exam-driven curriculum can change their kid’s attitude towards school in profoundly negative ways.

Pay the bills (trang trải cuộc sống) [ idioms] provide enough income to sustain one’s lifestyle

Example: Being a dentist isn’t so glamorous, but it pays the bills

2. Work

What do you do?

I’m currently working as a graphic designer for a fashion magazine for youngsters

What are your responsibilities?

Well I’m mainly responsible for designing the cover of the magazine. I normally work with the concept team to make sure that the final product will both attract the potential buyer’s attention and express the theme of the magazine.

Why did you choose to do that type of work (or, that job)?

I guess it’s because of my artistic passion. The process of creating beautiful things is somehow intriguing to me, so I chose to be a graphic designer, which combines both art and technology. It’s quite interesting, you know.

Is there some other kind of work you would rather do?

Well, if possible, I’d like to be a freelance writer. Actually I’m a big fan of action movies, and I also care about healthy living, so, I’d love to write about these topics and share my stories with people of the same interest.

Describe the company or organization you work for

My company is not huge, it’s just a small art designoffice, but is definitely an inspirational workplace with a young, creative, and extremely passionate team. We work on the basis of mutual understanding and respect for each other, so it’s kind of an ideal environment for me.

Do you enjoy your work?

Most of the time. It’s rewarding to co-work on projects with amazing people in an open and supportive environment to bring out an art production that will ultimately give me a sense of satisfaction and pride.

What do you like about your job?

Well, the perk of being a graphic designer is that you’ll surround yourself with inspiring images everyday. My daily working life involves seeking out inspiration in all sorts of places, researching incredible illustrations and graphics, and creating them too. It’s great, I think.

What do you dislike about your job

What I don’t like about this job is that our personal taste in design varies, and normally I’ll have to do a thousand edits to get the final product that meets the demand of my boss while still * relating / staying faithful to /remaining trueto the initial concept.

* conform means ‘to behave according to the usual standards of behaviour that are expected by a group or society’ – this does not relate to things like ‘concepts’. (Possibly)Do you miss being a student?

Sometimes, when I’m burdened with heavy workloads or the pressure of everyday life, I recall the memories of being a student. We were all carefree and innocent back then. It’s a precious time that I cherish.

VOCABULARY

theme (đề tài,chủ đề) [n] the main subject of a talk, book, film, etc

Example: The father-daughter relationship is a recurring theme in her novels. Intriguing ( hấp dẫn, gợi thích thú) [adj] very interesting because of being unusual or mysterious

Example: The Huns are intriguing not only because of their notoriously hawkish history, but also because of their place as middlemen between Mongol and Turkic ethnicity

On the basis of (trên cơ sở) [idiom] base on

Example: Discrimination on the basis of race, gender, age or disability is not allowed.

Rewarding (bổ ích, đáng làm) [adj] giving pleasure, satisfation

Example: The most rewarding aspect of living forever is you have unlimited time to perfect your abilities and accumulate wealth.

Ultimately (cuối cùng thì, rút cục) [adv] at the end of a process, period of time, etc. Example: Everything will ultimately depend on what is said at the meeting with the directors next week.

Perk ( đặc quyền, thù lao thêm) [n] an advantage or something extra that you are given because of your job

Example: A company car and a mobile phone are some of the perks that come with the job.

Conform (to sth) (tuân theo) [v] obey the rule or reach the necessary stated standard Example: Before buying the baby’s car seat, make sure that it conforms to the official safetystandards.

Cherish (yêu mến, coi trọng) [v] keep hopes, memories in your mind because they are important to you and bring you pleasure

Example: I cherish the memories of the time we spent together

Wild animals

Do you like to watch TV programs about wild animals?

When I was a high school student, I loved watching wild animal TV programs. I personally like the big, cinematic documentaries like Planet Earth, Life, North America, and Frozen Planet. They’re so incredibly well-made that I could watch them all day.

Where can you see wild animals?

Well, you can see wild animals in the zoo. But to tell the truth, I hate the zoo. I like to see them in the wild, in their home. Not in a tiny enclosures where they get sick or overweight due to lack of exercise. I agree, some zoos are good, taking good care of the animals, but most zoos have tiny enclosures where animals are cramped.

In which country do you think you can see many wild animals?

I think every country has wild animals but it is not easy to see them as they live in the forest. However, if you go to Kangaroo Island, South Australia, you will have the chance to spot not only the Australia’s national icon: the kangaroo but also seals, penguins, koalas, echidnas and even whales off the island’s shores.

Vocabulary:

Enclosure (n) a piece of land that is surrounded by a fence or wall and is used for a particular purpose

=> the winners’ enclosure

Picnic

Did you go on a picnic when you were a child?

Well, I’d say I did. I remember when I was about ten years old, my family members often gathered together and had picnics in the backyard of my uncle’s house. It was

a large and beautiful backyard surrounded with flowers and big trees. Those were one of the most memorable moments in my childhood.

How often do you go on a picnic now?

Well at the moment I rarely go on a picnic. Instead, my family and I go on a short holiday at the weekend once a month. It may be a trip to a mountainous area or the beach around 50-100kms from Hanoi.

Where do you go on a picnic? Why?

I think a park or forest with beautiful green surroundings is the ideal green spot to host a picnic because it will give you plenty of space to invite a lot of people and keep you entertained with fun games after enjoying your picnic dishes.

Happiness

Is there anything that makes you feel happy lately?

Yes. There is. My mom visited me three days ago and will stay with me for one week. I am truly happy to see her and have her by my side. The moment I get home after a long hard working day and see her making dinner for me, this makes me really emotional, recalling the old days when I was still a kid, living with the unconditional love of my mother.

What do you do to stay happy?

Well, I just stop caring about things that annoy me, disturb me or make me angry. I just leave them alone if I can’t deal with them. This is mostly meant for people I dislike or requests I can’t fulfill; maybe questions I can’t answer. Then I will try to focus my energy on something that gives me fulfillment instead.

Can you stay happy all the time?

Truthfully, I believe it’s impossible to remain always happy. There will always be times when you’ll feel sad, depressed. The feeling of sadness is inevitable in life, but I always try to be optimistic about the situation I’m dealing with as much as possible. This helps not only myself but others around too, being positive about life helps those around us by in a way somehow sharing the positivity.

Is it important to be happy?

Yes. It is. In my opinion, happiness has been linked to better decision-making and improved creativity. So, rather than success being the key to happiness, I believe that happiness could in fact be the key to success.

Vocabulary

Unconditional (adj) without any conditions or limits

She gave her children unconditional love.

Fulfillment (n) the feeling of being happy and satisfied with what you are doing or have done

to find personal fulfilment

IELTS SPEAKINGPART 2 & IELTS SPEAKINGPART 3

Describe someone who is older than you that you admire

Who he / she is What he / she did

What you know about his / her life story

And explain how much you know about sports.

(Who he is)

Today I’m going to talk about a football player who has recently caught the attention of the entire nation of Vietnam – Bui Tien Dung. Dung is a professional football player competing in the Vietnam national team as a goalkeeper. Even though Dung is pretty young, he has managed to gain the respect of football fans for his skills, as well as adulation from females because of his handsome appearance.

(What he did)

What makes Bui Tien Dung stand out is his remarkable goalkeeping skill which, together with the skill of his teammates who were competing with a steely determination, has enabled Vietnam to qualify for the final of the AFC U23 for the first time. Every TV channel and newspaper carried the story. Dung is praised by sports commentators, professionals and fans in general as bold and reliable. His saves, especially those in penalty rounds, contributed to the strengthening of Vietnam’s defence and gave his teammates the confidence to push forward and attack the opposing team.

(What you know about his life story + explain how much you know about sports) Frankly, I’m not much of an avid sports fan, and I only watch sports matches occasionally. Therefore, I rarely dig deep into the personal life of sports stars. However, what I do know about Bui Tien Dung is that he came from a rather underprivileged family, and was not exposed to professional training right from the start. It was his passion for football that convinced his parents to allow Dung to pursue it professionally and his perseverance led to his recognition.

Vocabulary

Từ vựng chủ đề Media and advertising

1. to carry a story

Meaning: to include an item in a news report

Example: The media nowadays carries too many stories about celebrities and not enough serious news.

Từ vựng chủ đề Sports and exercise

1. sports commentators

Meaning: people who are experts on sport and talk or write about it in the media Example: Not only sports stars, but even some sports commentators have become well-known celebrities.

2. a sports fan

Meaning: a person who takes a keen interest in sport

Example: While I think that it is healthy to be a sports fan, people should remember that for most people, sport is just entertainment, not a matter of life and death.

Other vocabulary:

adulation (sự ngưỡng mộ) [noun]

Meaning: admiration and praise, sometimes when this is exaggerated Example: TV celebrities enjoy the adulation of their fans wherever they go.

to stand out (nổi bật) [phrasal verb]

Meaning: to be much better or more important than somebody/something

Example: Her ability at mathematics makes her stand out from the rest of the class.

steely (cứng rắn, sắt đá) [adjective] Meaning: having a strong, hard character

Example: During the race, her expression had a look of steely determination to win.

save (pha cứu bóng) [noun]

Meaning: an action by a goalkeeper that stops a goal being scored

Example: During the match, there were great saves by the goalkeepers of both teams.

defence (sự phòng ngự, phòng thủ, bảo vệ) [noun]

Meaning: the players in a sports team whose main role is to prevent the opponents from scoring a goal

Example: The success of the team was based on their strong defence.

to push forward (tiến về phía trước) [phrasal verb] Meaning: to advance, despite difficulties or opposition Example: The soldiers pushed forward to attack the enemy.
avid (cuồng nhiệt) [adjective]

Meaning: very enthusiastic about something (often a hobby) Example: She has taken an avid interest in Western music.

to dig deep into something (tìm hiểu sâu hơn về cái gì) [expression] Meaning: to search thoroughly for information

Example: You’ll need to dig deep into the records to find the figures you want.

perseverance (sự kiên trì) [noun]

Meaning: the quality of continuing to try to achieve a particular aim despite difficulties

Example: They showed great perseverance in the face of the challenge of climbing the mountain.

Describe a skill that you think you can teach other people.

You should say:

What it is

Who you can teach?

How you can teach others

And explain how you feel about teaching others

(What it is)

Well, first of all, I have learned many skills that I can share or teach to others. And I would like to talk about the one which took me a long time to master. It’s playing the piano.

(Who you can teach)

During my school days, I attended piano classes from a professional trainer at my school. I remembered the sessions were full of laughter because there were other people who also tried to play the piano with me. I had been learning the piano for more than 10 years, and didn’t skip for a long time. I believe I have all the skills required to teach Piano either individually or in a group now.

(How you can teach others)

Actually, my brothers intended to send their kids to my home to learn the piano sometimes. Well, I am not hesitant to teach them. However, learning piano is quite challenging as you might find the students difficult to teach and think of giving up

sometimes. But if that happens to my nieces, I’ll try to inspire them so that they can get rid of negative thoughts and get back on track soon.

And explain how you feel

Overall, from my point of view, playing piano is not too difficult if you are passionate about it. It only takes people around 1 year to learn to play confidently and smoothly for the services.

Part 3

Should teachers be funny when they teach?

I think it depends on each teaching style. Educators should only use humor with which they are comfortable. A teacher does not have to be funny to be effective.

What qualities should teachers have?

Well, I think a teacher should have the ability to speak clearly and audibly, and can modulate voice where necessary for effect. And they also should have the ability to explain difficult materials succinctly. Avoid the over-use of technical jargon — if used, they must explain the meanings and relevance.

Which age group is the best at learning new things?

Learning is a life-long process. There is no specific age to learning something new. However, it is said that the age 5 to early twenties are the best for academic learning as at those ages, concentration levels are better.

Describe local news that was interesting to you

You should say:

What the news was about

When you got this news

And explain why the local news was interesting to you

(What the news was about)

I’m going to describe local news that was interesting to me. The weather of my locality has been experiencing serious turbulence these days, which is only about a week ahead of the summer holiday. It has been raining for the past few days which has intruded on our ordinary life to a great extent. Therefore, when I watched the daily weather forecast on TV informing that the weather would be okay in the next month, with sunlight and warmth, I felt great joy inside me.

(When you got this news)

Actually, the rainy season has become one of the specialties of my ancient city. Due to the foul weather and heavy rain, life in the city has been standing still. It has been immensely uncomfortable for most residents to go out and even work in such heavy showers. Yesterday, while I was having dinner with my family, we felt a sense of relief to hear on the local channel about the beautiful weather of our city during this summer holiday, because we were planning on a summer vacation. The rainy season last summer fell short of our expectations, so I really expected a balmy summer this year.

(And explain why the local news was interesting to you)

The most important thing is that if the weather is stable and nice as described, people in my city will be able to enjoy their summer holiday to the fullest. Amid the unfavorable weather, everybody seems to be sluggish and demotivated. To be honest, the thought of being forced to repeat tasks in the rain virtually exhausts me and I’m really scared that the situation would ruin my precious days off of the year. So, when the information was officially revealed, I became cheerful. I plan to do a lot of activities during this long break in an upbeat mood.

Describe a tall building in your city you like or dislike

You should say:

Where it is
What it is used for
What it looks like
And explain why you like it

Answer:

(Where it is)

I’d like to describe a modern structure that has left a striking impression on me since the first time I saw it. It’s called the Bitexco Financial Tower which is the second tallest building in Vietnam with 68 floors. The building has a prime location right in the Ho Chi Minh center and can be recognized from any angle in the city.

(What it is used for)

Due to the rapid development of the economy in Saigon, this skyscraper is constructed to fulfill the need for international standard office space in the city. In addition, it also functions as a commercial and leisure center for city dwellers and tourists.

(What it looks like)

The Bitexco Financial Tower is covered with glass and steel with the design concept taken from the shape of a lotus bud, the Vietnamese national flower. Thus, this high- rise building is not only the symbol of rapid development but also represents Vietnamese culture. From a distance, the building is still huge, rising up to the sky. (And explain why you like it)

I really like this building because of its unique structure and symbolic meaning making it definitively stand out. This is also the reason why nowadays it has become one of the must-see attractions in the city. You can enjoy the spectacular panoramic view overlooking the city from the upper part of the building.

Good vocabulary:

Striking (adj): interesting and unusual enough to attract attention Ex: She bears a striking resemblance to her older sister.

Prime (adj): excellent, the best available

Ex: The store has a prime position at the entrance of the shopping center.

Skyscraper (noun): a very tall building in a city

Ex: The contractor is building a new eighty-story residential skyscraper in downtown Houston.

High-rise (adj): a building that is very tall and has a lot of floors Ex: The city was overlooked by a ring of high-rise buildings.

Stand out (phrasal verb): to be easily seen; to be noticeable Ex: She’s the sort of person who stands out in a crowd.

Must-see: used to tell people that something is so good or interesting that they should see it.

Ex: Sydney is one of the world’s must-see cities.

Panoramic (adj): with a view of a wide area of land

Ex: As my friend showed me his panoramic photo of the mountain, I could point out the entire mountain system and all of the valleys.

Part 3:

1.How easy is it to find a place to live in your country? Answer:

(Give a direct answer to the question). Well, finding a residential area in Vietnam is not so difficult. (Explain your reason or reasons). Anyone can find a place they want to live in, such as a house or an apartment. Thus, it depends mostly on how much they can pay to meet the basic residential requirements and where exactly they want to live. (Give an example (often a personal example)). Most of the time, those young adults on a tight budget like me, find it hard to buy a house because of the unaffordable prices so we usually choose a rental one. Wealthier people, by contrast, can purchase a house more easily.

Good vocabulary:

Residential (adj): suitable for living in; consisting of houses rather than factories or offices

Ex: Nictheroy is practically a residential suburb of Rio de Janeiro.

Depend on how/ what (phrasal verb): to be affected or decided by something Ex: Whether we need more food depends on how many people turn up.

Be on a tight budget (phrase): doesn’t have lot of money to spend

Ex: I’m on a tight budget this month, so I can’t go out to dinner with you. Unaffordable (adj): costing so much that people do not have enough money to pay for it

Ex: Health insurance is now unaffordable for many people.

Describe a place (not your home ) where you are able to relax.

You should say

Where the place is
How you know this place
What you do there
And explain why you think it is a good place for reading and writing

Answer

(where the place is)

I’m going to describe a coffee shop called Tranquil, where I often spend my time engrossed in reading and writing. It’s actually quite a long way from my house, but that doesn’t put me off visiting there again and again.

(how you know this place)

This coffee shop came highly recommended by one of my friends, a writer. She loves cosy places which possess real character, in which she can spend hours writing film scripts, and this is one of her favourite haunts. She took me there about three months ago, and I fell in love with it at first sight. It is a romantic old spot with wooden tables, vintage book desks, and beautiful windows, all works of traditional craftsmanship.. Each floor has separate areas, and I felt like I was lost in a

wonderland, with many seats specially situated to offer beautiful views through various windows.

(what you do there)

As a freelancer, I visit Tranquil frequently to read over my documents and do my online jobs. Sometimes, I even come across some fascinating reading matter on their desks, because there are a large number of books and documents donated to this coffee shop by loyal customers and book lovers. So, I broaden my literary horizons in some unexpected directions. I have also joined a literary appreciation circle there, which meets every month to discuss books which we have all read.

(and explain why you think it is a good place for reading and writing)

I have to admit that, though I’m hard to please, I’m always satisfied when I go there, secure in the knowledge of a pleasurable visit . Not only is its design uniquely relaxing, but Tranquil’s service is second to none. You always get good, consistently delicious food at Tranquil, whether you have lunch or just morning coffee or afternoon tea. The atmosphere is warm and homely with gentle music and quiet people, which suits bookworms like me down to the ground.

Từ vựng chủ đề Reading:

1. to be engrossed in

Meaning: to be completely focused on something

Example: A good work-life balance is important, because if people are too engrossed in their work, their family life may suffer.

2. to come highly recommended

Meaning: to be praised enthusiastically by one or more people

Example: Books by classic authors always come highly recommended, but works by talented young writers should not be overlooked.

3. to read over

Meaning: to read something carefully from beginning to end to look for mistakes or to check details

Example: Attention to detail is important in many jobs, so the practice of reading over one’s written work should be taught at school and university.

4. to broaden one’s literary horizons

Meaning: to extend the limit of your knowledge or interests by reading widely Example: Schools should broaden the literary horizons of students by encouraging them to read in class and at home.

5. literary appreciation

Meaning: pleasure that you have when you recognise and enjoy the qualities of a good piece of writing

Example: Children develop literary appreciation if they are encouraged by parents and teachers to love reading.

6. secure in the knowledge

Meaning: not worried because you are sure that nothing bad will happen

Example: Students who work hard throughout the year will be confident when they take exams, secure in the knowledge that they are well-prepared.

Từ vựng chủ đề Traditional vs Modern:

1. to possess character

Meaning: to have an interesting or unusual quality

Example: Whereas most modern buildings look the same, the architecture that survives from the past possesses real character.

2. works of craftsmanship

Meaning: objects made by people who are very skilled at making things by hand Example: The museums of every city are full of beautiful works of craftsmanship made by skilled workers in past centuries.

Vocabulary

Put off [phrasal verb]

Meaning: to cause someone to lose interest or enthusiasm

Example: She wanted to be a nurse, but the thought of night shifts put her off.

Cosy [adjective]

Meaning: comfortable and pleasant, especially (of a building) because of being small and warm

Example: It’s much better to have a small cosy room than a big cold one.

Haunt [noun]

Meaning: a place that somebody often visits or where they spend a lot of time. Example: This bar is one of the favourite haunts of staff from the college nearby.

Spot [noun]

Meaning: a particular area or place

Example: She always sits in the same spot in the library, near the window so that she can look out over the gardens.

Freelancer [noun]

Meaning: someone who works on different projects with different companies instead of being a company employee

Example: He started off his career working as a freelancer with several design firms.

Come across [phrasal verb]

Meaning: to meet or find somebody/something by chance

Example: I came across some interesting old photos while I was looking through the drawers of my desk.

Pleasurable [adjective] Meaning: giving pleasure

Example: A visit to the Tower of London is a very pleasurable experience, because the Tower has a real feeling of history.

Second to none [expression]

Meaning: as good as or better than all others

Example: The delicious Thai food in this restaurant is second to none.

Homely [adjective]

Meaning: plain or ordinary, but pleasant

Example: The hotel is homely and comfortable rather than luxurious.

Down to the ground [expression]

Meaning: if something suits you down to the ground, it suits you perfectly because it is convenient or the best option for you

Example: As he has classes in the morning and afternoon, his part-time job in the evenings suits him down to the ground.

Part 3

How do students relax themselves?
What activities do employers organize to help employees relax?
Do people nowadays have more ways to relax than in the past?
Do you think natural scenery is more helpful than indoor activities?

Describe a puzzle (jigsaw, sudoku)

You should say:

What it is like

How easy or difficult it is How long it takes you to solve And how you feel about it

(What it is like)

I think a puzzle is a perfect way to challenge our brains. Ever since I was a kid, I have been curious about things and used to disassemble and reassemble my toys to see how they worked. Solving puzzles is a thought-provoking and mental exercise that people of all ages should be in the habit of. I have found the solution to many puzzles and today, I’m going to describe one that I did a few years ago. The puzzle’s name is Sudoku, which has its origin in Japan and it is extremely popular among people of all ages.

(How easy or difficult it is)

Sudoku is a number game in which missing numbers are to be filled into a 9 by 9 grid of squares which are subdivided into 3 by 3 boxes so that every row, every column, and every box contains the numbers 1 through 9. I vividly remember my father introduced me to this game. At first, It seemed quite easy and more like child’s play so I accepted the challenge but soon I realized it’s not that easy. Sudoku is indeed a “brain game” that requires a variety of cognitive skills, such as quick decision making, spotting patterns, and applying logical reasoning.

(How long it takes you to solve)

Eventually, I solved the puzzle in 1 hour. After that experience, my sister and I became more interested in the puzzle and we bought every Saturday a newspaper and together solved it with great enthusiasm. Seeing my interest develop, my father bought me a Sudoku puzzle book. The more I played, the more absorbed I was in the task; therefore, my concentration skills were also vastly improved thanks to this.

(And how you feel about it)

I really enjoy Sudoku. As I see it, every time you place a new number on the Sudoku grid, you are utilizing different parts of your brain. Sudoku is fun for so many different people because it rewards so many different styles of thinking – some people are more methodical with solving Sudoku puzzles, searching across the rows and columns for easily identifiable numbers to place. Other people like to use more of a random approach, and scan the grid for opportunities wherever they might arise. No matter how your brain works best, chances are you can apply your thinking skills to Sudoku.

Vocabulary:

disassemble [v]: to separate something into its different parts: tháo rời Eg: This video shows you how to disassemble a television set.
thought-provoking [adj]: making you think a lot about a subject: kích thích suy nghĩ

Eg: It’s such a thought-provoking film.

in the habit of [expression]: If you are in the habit of doing something, you do it regularly or often: có thói quen làm gì

Eg: They were in the habit of giving two or three dinner parties a month.

vividly [adv]: in a way that is very clear, powerful, and detailed in your mind: một cách sống động

Eg: I vividly remember my first day at school.

child’s play [expression]: something that is very easy to do: một thứ dễ dàng Eg: For her, computer programming is child’s play.

cognitive [adj]: connected with thinking or conscious mental processes: liên quan đến nhận thức

Eg: Some of her cognitive functions have been impaired.

enthusiasm [n]: a feeling of energetic interest in a particular subject or activity: sự nhiệt tình

Eg: I find that I’m losing my enthusiasm for the game.

absorbed [adj]: + in sth: very interested in something and not paying attention to anything else: hứng thú với việc gì

Eg: Simon was so absorbed in his book that he didn’t even notice me come in.

methodical [adj]: controlled and systematic.: có phương pháp

Eg: The economy’s slow, methodical growth is likely to continue into next year

approach [n]: a way of considering or doing something: cách tiếp cận Eg: Michael is always very logical in his approach.

Part 3:

What are popular number puzzles and word puzzles?
Why do parents let their children play puzzles?
What kinds of puzzles improve people’s intelligence?
Why are mystery stories attractive to people?

1. What are popular number puzzles and word puzzles?

(Give a direct answer to the question) There is a wide range of fascinating number puzzles and word puzzles. (Explain your reason or reasons) For word puzzles, crosswords have always been one of the most popular word games. (Give an example (often a personal example)) A crossword is a word puzzle consisting of a grid of squares and blanks into which words crossing vertically and horizontally are filled according to given clues. (Explain your reason or reasons) For number puzzles, we have mathematical puzzles, those related to mathematical facts and objects. (Give an example (often a personal example)) To solve mathematical puzzles, you should be good at mathematical arguments or calculations.

2. Why do parents let their children play puzzles?

(Give a direct answer to the question) I think because parents acknowledge the profound effects of puzzles on youngsters’ development. (Explain your reason or reasons) For kids, playing with blocks, puzzles, and shape games helps them develop spatial skills. These play a fundamental role in the development of spatial awareness and later come into play when the topics of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are addressed. (Explain the opposite or alternative) Furthermore, keeping the young mind active also allows them to reduce stress levels and fatigue.

3. What kinds of puzzles improve people’s intelligence?

(Give a direct answer to the question) Well, jigsaw puzzles can help with that. (Explain your reason or reasons) Doing a puzzle reinforces connections between brain cells, improves mental speed and is an especially effective way to improve short-term memory. (Explain the opposite or alternative) Besides, solving a puzzle cube can also promote one’s thinking and is an ideal exercise for intensive concentration. While solving a Rubik’s Cube, one has to rack their brain to come up with different solutions, thereby strengthening their brain cells.

4. Why are mystery stories attractive to people?

(Give a direct answer to the question) I think it is simply because reading great mysteries captivates our imagination. (Explain your reason or reasons) We live in a world where we try to come up with an explanation for almost everything, so topics that defy our basic reasoning can quickly catch our attention, pique our curiosity, and activate our imagination. (Explain the opposite or alternative) Mysteries are a fun logic puzzle like sudoku. Readers feel accomplished once all of the parts are put into place. Mysteries force people to think outside the box, sharpening critical thinking skills.

Vocabulary:

fascinating [adj]: extremely interesting and attractive: thú vị, lôi cuốn Eg: Your trip to Alaska sounds absolutely fascinating.
calculation (n): a mathematical determination of the size or number of something.: sự tính toán

Eg: A calculation is a deliberate process that transforms one or more inputs into one or more results, with variable change.

profound [adj]: (of a state, quality, or emotion) very great or intense.: rất lớn Eg: For these women and for hundreds of other men and women who have experienced tremendous loss, the past year has piled myriad emotions on top of profound sadness.
come into play [expression]: start to have a use or an effect in a particular situation: bắt đầu có ảnh hưởng

Eg: In the summer months, a different set of climatic factors come into play.

fatigue [n]: extreme tiredness: sự mệt mỏi Eg: She was suffering from fatigue.
intensive [adj]: involving a lot of work or activity done in a short time: tập trung, chuyên sâu

Eg: These are highly intensive courses for business and professional people.

rack one’s brain [expression]: make a great effort to think of or remember something: vắt óc suy nghĩ

Eg: She racked her brains, but there was nothing she could tell him

strengthen [v]: make or become stronger.: mạnh hơn, làm vững mạnh

Eg: Positive reinforcement is the delivery of a stimulus that strengthens the behavior.

captivate [v]: to hold the attention of someone by being extremely interesting, exciting, pleasant, or attractive: thu hút

Eg: With her beauty and charm, she captivated film audiences everywhere.

defy [v]: to refuse to obey a person, decision, law, situation, etc.: thách thức Eg: It is rare to see children openly defying their teachers.

Describe a time that you were shopping in a street market or an outdoor market

You should say: When it was Where it was

What you bought

How you felt about the shopping experience

(When it was)

I first paid a visit to a street market in spring two years ago, when I was traveling abroad. I was lucky to have arrived in time for such warm, sunny weather, which really enhanced my overall experience.

(Where it was)

The market was called the Chinatown Market in Singapore, located not so far from the iconic Merlion. Being the shopaholic that I am, I was extremely excited to see a crowded, busy shopping area full of different merchandise.

(What you bought)

As Singapore is famous as a tourist attraction, the market was thronged with tourists looking for souvenirs. I guess that’s the reason why the market was so full of souvenir shops. Strolling through the length of the street, I was bombarded with a diverse range of things for sale at prices to suit every pocket. Here, you can find everything you could ever imagine, ranging from food, bags and clothes to keychains and jewelry. I was told that the market was understood to be a place which offers acceptable quality at relatively low prices, which is rare in such a pricey place as Singapore. I ended up buying lots of t-shirts for my friends back home.

(How you felt about the shopping experience)

The visit was unforgettable. Visiting the market was a unique opportunity for me to dig deeper into Singaporean culture. Besides buying goods, I also managed to make small talk with the local stallholders and residents, which gave me a view into their daily lifestyle. That was far more interesting and vivid than any written description I have ever read about the country so far. In my opinion, a trip to Chinatown market would come highly recommended for anyone with a thirst for cultural experiences.

Vocabulary:

Từ vựng chủ đề Communication & Personality:

1. to be a shopaholic/a workaholic

Meaning: a person who spends too much time shopping/too much time working

Example: Although I sometimes enjoy shopping for bargains, I would not describe myself as a shopaholic because I have other interests too.

2. to make small talk/to exchange pleasantries

Meaning: to talk in a polite way about unimportant matters such as the weather

Example: I enjoy a serious discussion and I don’t like to make small talk or exchange pleasantries with others simply in order to be polite.

Ví dụ: Tôi thích những cuộc nói chuyện nghiêm túc chứ không thích nói chuyện xã giao với người khác chỉ vì phép lịch sự.

Từ vựng chủ đề Tourism:

1. to be thronged with tourists

Meaning: refers to the situation of a place having a great number of visitors crowded or considered together

Example: At weekends, London, in particular, is thronged with tourists, and certain areas of the city such as Oxford Street and Covent Garden are swarming with visitors.

Ví dụ: Vào cuối tuần, cụ thể ở London, đầy những du khách và một số khu vực tong thành phố như Oxford Street hay Convent Garden thì chật ních người.

2. to have a thirst for something

Meaning: to have a strong desire for something

Example: He has been all over the world, but he still has a thirst for seeing new places and enjoying new experiences.

Ví dụ: Anh ấy đã đi khắp thế giới, nhưng vẫn khao khát được đặt chân tới những nơi mới lạ và tận hưởng những trải nghiệm mới.

Từ vựng chủ đề Education:

1. to bombard someone with something

Meaning: to continually send someone something, esp. to inform or influence them.

Example: Every day it seems as if we are bombarded with e-mail messages warning of computer viruses.

Ví dụ: Ngày nào chúng tôi cũng như thể bị khủng bố bằng những tin nhắn qua email về việc cảnh báo có virus máy tính.

Từ vựng chủ đề Reading:

1. to understand somebody/something to be/have something

Meaning: to think or believe that something is true because you have been told that it is

Example: The President is understood to be in favour of more spending on the military.

Ví dụ: Chủ tích nước được cho là sẽ chi nhiều hơn cho quân sự

2. to dig deep (into something)

Meaning: to search thoroughly for information

Example: Computer technology has enabled authorities to dig deep into all kinds of personal records relating to ordinary citizens.

Ví dụ: Công nghệ thông tin đã cho phép chính quyền các nước tìm hiểu sâu về các loại thông tin cá nhân liên quan đến công dân của họ.

3. to come highly recommended

Meaning: to be praised by a lot of people

Example: Books by classic authors always come highly recommended, but work by new and talented writers should not be overlooked.

Ví dụ: Sách viết của các tác giả cũ thường được đánh giá cao, nhưng cũng không nên bỏ qua những tài năng mới.

Vocabulary:

to stroll [verb]: to walk in a leisurely, unhurried and relaxed way

Eg: I was really stressed after the exam, so I took a leisurely stroll in the park to relax.

to suit every pocket [expression]: at prices which either rich or poor people can afford

Eg: Oxford Street in London has a range of cheap and expensive shops with goods

to suit every pocket.

acceptable [adjective]: satisfactory, reasonable

Eg: Although the journey was dangerous, he was well-prepared and he considered the risks involved to be acceptable.

pricey [adjective]: expensive

Eg: As a poor student, I never eat in pricey restaurants.

to end up [phrasal verb]: to finish by doing something, after facing a decision.

Eg: I couldn’t decide where to go on holiday, so I ended up by choosing Thailand.

stallholder [noun]: a person who has a small area for selling goods in a market.

Eg: We bought some fish from a stallholder in the famous fish market near the port.

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