IELTS FOCUS

BOOSTER 2 - SPEAKING

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Contents
Module 1 Study ............................................................................................................................................ 2
Module 2 Home & Hometown................................................................................................................... 11
Module 3 Work .......................................................................................................................................... 20
Module 4 Food ........................................................................................................................................... 30
Module 5 Sports & Exercise ....................................................................................................................... 39
Module 6 Media ........................................................................................................................................ 50
Module 7 Relationships ............................................................................................................................. 60
Module 8 Advertising................................................................................................................................. 71
Module 9 Further Study & Future Plans .................................................................................................... 82
Module 10 Natural Environment ............................................................................................................... 92
Module 11 Cooking & Special occasions .................................................................................................. 102
Module 12 Transport ............................................................................................................................... 112
Practice test 1 .......................................................................................................................................... 123
Practice test 2 .......................................................................................................................................... 125
Module 13 News Sources ........................................................................................................................ 127
Module 14 Leisure Activities .................................................................................................................... 138
Module 15 Technology & Equipment ...................................................................................................... 149
Module 16 Money & Finance .................................................................................................................. 159
Module 17 Employment .......................................................................................................................... 169
Module 18 Clothes & Fashion .................................................................................................................. 180
Module 19 Population ............................................................................................................................. 191
Module 20 International Events .............................................................................................................. 201
Module 21 Communication ..................................................................................................................... 212
Module 22 Tourism.................................................................................................................................. 222
Module 23 Health .................................................................................................................................... 233
Module 24 Art & Culture ......................................................................................................................... 243
Practice test 3 .......................................................................................................................................... 253
Practice test 4 .......................................................................................................................................... 255

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Module 1 Study

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
STUDY
1. School curriculum (n) A. An official record showing that
/skuːl kəˈrɪk.jə.ləm/ you have successfully finished a
E.g: Maths is an essential part of the school curriculum. course of training or study, have
2. Co-ed (adj) the skills necessary to do
/ˌkoʊˈed/ something, etc.
E.g: Many schools are keeping students together in co-ed
classrooms. B. (Of schools) Admitting members
3. Single-sex (adj) of one sex only; not co-ed
/ˌsɪŋ.ɡəlˈseks/
E.g: I went to a single-sex school. C. The subjects that are included in a
4. Concentrate (v) course of study or taught in a
/ˈkɑːn.sən.treɪt/ school, college, etc.
E.g: It is difficult to concentrate on my work if there is a lot
of noise. D. Stay away from school or work
5. Attend (v) without permission or explanation
/əˈtend/
E.g: Which school do your children attend? E. To get a degree, especially your
6. Literacy (n) first degree, from a university or
/ˈlɪt.ər.ə.si/ college
Example: Vietnam has a literacy rate of almost 94%.
7. Sit for an exam (phr.) F. To take an exam
/sɪt fər ən ɪɡˈzæm/

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 E.g: You will have all your personal belongings inspected G. (Of a school or an educational
before you sit for an exam to ensure that no one is able to system) Where girls and boys are
cheat. taught together
8. Qualification (n)
/ˌkwɑː.lə.fəˈkeɪ.ʃən/ H. To go regularly to a place
E.g: Good qualifications are really important if you want to
get a well-paid job. I. The ability to read and write
9. Graduate (v)
/ˈɡrædʒ.u.eɪt/ J. To give all your attention to
E.g: I graduated from high school in 2009. something and not think about
10. Play truant (phr) anything else
/pleɪ ˈtruː.ənt/
E.g: My friend is getting into trouble over playing truant
from school.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• study from scratch: from the beginning
• head and shoulders above: far superior to
• pay (s.o) a compliment: to give someone a compliment; to offer someone an admiring comment
• work like a dog: to work very hard

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Adding information to your answer: because, but, so, although

• I like Maths because it helps me have better problem-solving skills.
• Next week I’m going to sit for the final exam, so I have to study hard.
• My friend likes studying Maths, but he hates literature.
• I love studying English, although it’s difficult to learn a lot of new words.

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D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
STUDY
• Which school/university are you
studying now?
Sample response:
I’m studying at Ho Chi Minh Open
University. It’s located in downtown Ho
Chi Minh City, so it takes me about
nearly half an hour to go there by
motorbike.
Suggested response:
I’m studying in… It’s located in…, so it
takes me…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What subjects are compulsory in your school/university?

Sample response:
In my school, we have to take Maths and Physics, but we can choose other subjects like Physical Education
and Computer Science if we want to.
Suggested response:
In my school/university, we have to…, but we can choose…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What exams do you take?

Sample response:
At the end of high school, I have to take University Entrance exam. It’s really difficult, so we have to work
like a dog before sitting for this exam.

Suggested response:
At the end of…, I have to…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
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 ………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What do you like most about your school?

Sample response:
I guess the aspect I find most enjoyable is the environment. This is because most classrooms are air-
conditioned and equipped with projectors. It’s also a great place to study because my friends and teachers
are all very nice to me as well, although many of them are head and shoulders above me. Besides, teachers
usually pay students a compliment when these students study well in class.

Suggested response:
I guess the aspect I find most enjoyable is ... This is because… and…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

A. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Introducing a Part 2 Talk.
• I’m going to talk about…
• I’d like to tell you about…
• I want to talk about…

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B. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe a subject you enjoyed studying at school

You should say:
• When and where you started studying it
• What lessons were like
• What made the subject different from other subjects
And explain why you enjoyed the subject

Suggestions
Some easy subjects to talk about: Sports, Music, Art, Languages.
Some other subjects that are difficult to talk: Maths, Physics, History.
The easiest subject to talk: A foreign language.

Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary

Nouns: native tongue, dialect, verbal communication, written communication
Verbs: be fluent in…, converse with…, chat with…
Adjectives: understandable, (un)intelligible, meaningful, meaningless
Idioms:
Have a chinwag (= have a conversation)
• When I travelled to France, I tried to have a chinwag with the locals.
All Greek (= a language that one doesn’t understand)
• When I went to China, I tried to converse with some people but the native tongue was all Greek to
me.

Focus on Grammar
You need to use mostly past tenses:

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 • At that time, I was studying in the elementary/middle/high school.
• My favourite subject used to be…
• I used to enjoy it because…
• I remember the teacher always used to…

Sample Response

I’m going to talk about English, which used to be one of my favorite subjects at school.
I started studying this subject when I was studying at high school few years ago. In fact, it is one of many
compulsory subjects that many Vietnamese students have to learn in order to communicate openly with
foreigners, as well as study higher and find a job in multinational companies.

This subject is different from others, because it has rules of grammar. This language also has words that
need to be pronounced and spelt correctly, otherwise it would cause difficulty or even misunderstanding
for native speakers. Also, English is a good communication tool, so if learners can master this language,
they can gain access to lots of English-written books and articles without facing much difficulty.

I used to enjoy this subject because it gave me a lot of knowledge about many common topics, such as
hobbies and music. Besides, the teacher taught this subject really well. Because he used to study
Linguistics in a foreign university, he has lots of experience in studying and teaching this language to
learners. I remember the teacher always used to correct our pronunciation as well as our spelling. Thanks
to him, my English skills have improved a lot, and I could speak and write more fluently.

That’s all I want to talk about this subject.

Suggested Response

I’m going to talk about ………………….…………………………………………………….., Your own keywords

which….………….………………………………………….…………….…………………………… ………………….………………………
I started studying this subject when ….…………………….…………………………… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
This subject is different from others, because ….……….…………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
I used to enjoy this subject because ………………….………………………………………..…………….……………………….…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….

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 ………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….

PART 3
STUDY
• Is higher education too expensive in your
country?
Sample response:
I think that it is very costly to go into
higher education in my country. This is
because most schools and universities
have recently hiked the prices up, making
it extremely difficult for most people to
afford it.

Suggested response:
I think that it’s… because… and…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Should all students pay for their university education?

Sample response:
The way I see it, many students should have a free higher education, especially if they can't afford the
fees but have consistent high grades. Take many countries in Europe as an example. They offer free higher
education to students obtaining high grades in high school, which encourages them to develop their
learning and progress into a good profession.

Suggested response:
The way I see it, many students should (not)… because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

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 • What advantages do universities bring to society?
Sample response:
I think that there are many positive things that universities can offer the communities around them. Firstly,
they bring more students into the area for one, which means housing will be in demand. Also, for students,
they benefit from having a high level of education, which can then be translated into skills in the workplace.

Suggested response:
I think that there are many positive things that universities can offer the communities around them.
Firstly, ………………………… Also, ………………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

PART 1
• What do you study at school/university?
• What is your favorite subject? Why?
• Do you get along with your classmates?
• What would like to study in the future?
PART 2

Describe a subject you would like to study in the future

You should say:
• Why you want to study that subject
• What things about that subject you find particularly interesting
• Where it is possible to study that subject
And say if you think you will start studying it soon or not, and why

PART 3
• What kinds of courses are useful for university students?
• Why do some students dislike studying at school?
• What school activities are good for schoolchildren?
• Should schoolchildren learn both arts and science?

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Module 2 Home & Hometown

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
HOME & HOMETOWN
1. Detached house (n) A. A set of rooms for living in, usually
/dɪˈtætʃt haʊs/ on one floor of a building
E.g: We’d love to buy one of the new detached houses
being built near the lake. B. Houses where people live rather
2. Bungalow (n) than to places where they work
/ˈbʌŋ.ɡəl.oʊ/
E.g: Many people move to a bungalow when they retire, so C. In or towards the center of a city,
they don’t have to climb the stair as they get older. especially its main business area
3. Cottage (n)
/ˈkɑːtɪdʒ/ D. A house that is not joined to
E.g: We stayed in a cottage on a farm. another house on either side
4. Flat / Apartment (n)
/flæt/ E. A small house, especially in the
/əˈpɑːrt.mənt/ countryside
E.g: They lived in a five-room flat/apartment on the ninth
floor. F. An area where people live that is
5. Hall of residence (n) outside the centre of a city
/ˌhɔːl əv ˈrezɪdəns/
E.g: Linh lived in a hall of residence for her first year at G. (Of a group of people) Having
university. strong relationships with each
6. Residential area (n) other and taking a close, friendly
/ˌrezɪˈdenʃl ˈeriə/ interest in each other’s activities

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 E.g: Our town is growing rapidly with several new and problems
residential areas currently being developed.
7. Suburb (n) H. A building for university or college
/ˈsʌbɜːrb/ students to live in
E.g: For a child from the suburbs, a trip to the city was a
great adventure. I. To live in the buildings of a
8. Downtown (n) university or college and the land
/ˌdaʊnˈtaʊn/ around them
E.g: Shopping downtown in HCMC is an experience not to
be missed, because prices are extremely cheap compared J. A house built all on one level,
to most western countries. without stairs
9. Close-knit (adj)
/ˌkloʊsˈnɪt/
E.g: This is a close-knit community and there’s always
someone to turn to if you need help.
10. To live on campus (v)
/lɪv ɑːnˈkæm.pəs/
E.g: I like living on campus, because I don’t have to go far
to lectures or the student’s union bar.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• within walking distance: not very far, close enough to reach by walking
• to own your own home: to have bought the property you live in
• to get on the property ladder: to buy a property with the aim of buying another bigger or more
expensive one later in life

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Asking the examiner to repeat the question

• I’m sorry, I didn’t catch that. Could you say that again?
• I’m sorry, I didn’t hear you. Could you repeat the question, please?
Asking the examiner to explain a word/phrase
• I’m sorry but I don’t quite understand the word/phrase […]. Can you explain it to me?
• I’m a little confused about the word/phrase […]. Can you tell me what it means?
• Sorry, can you explain what […] means?

D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1

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 HOME

• Do you live in a house or an apartment?

Sample response:
I’m currently living in a three-story house with four
bedrooms and three bathrooms, with a dining area
and kitchen. It also has a small yard at the front of the
house.
Suggested response:
I’m (currently) living in a… with… It also has…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Would you like to move to a different home in the future?

Sample response:
Yes, I would. Although my current accommodation is perfectly fine, I would love to own my own home. I
suppose once I retire, I’ll want to get on the property ladder, so I’d love to own a luxury apartment in the
city.
Suggested response:
Yes, I would/No I wouldn’t. Although…, I would…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMETOWN
• Where is your hometown?
Sample response:
I was born in Ho Chi Minh City, which is located in the Southern part of Vietnam. It’s one of the most
populous cities in Vietnam with millions of dwellers.

Suggested response:
I was born in…, which is located in… It’s…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
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 ………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What do you like (most) about your hometown?

Sample response:
I guess the aspect I find most enjoyable about my hometown is the hospitality. This is because in this city,
many people are living within walking distance of others and willing to give others a hand when they need
help.

Suggested response:
I guess the aspect I find most enjoyable about my hometown is... This is because… and…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

A. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Introducing a Part 2 Talk (review)
• I’m going to talk about…
• I’d like to tell you about…
• I want to talk about…
Concluding a Part 2 Talk
• So, …
• To sum up, …
• As you can see, …

B. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe a famous building in your city

You should say:
• Where the building is located
• What it looks like
• What it is used for
And how often you visit this place.

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Suggestions
An easy building to describe is a multi-functional building, e.g. a shopping and entertainment centre

Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary

Nouns: landmark, architecture, structural design, skyscraper, office, block, residence
Verbs: construct, erect, renovate, demolish
Adjectives: prominent, well-known, elegant, well-designed, contemporary, (un)attractive
Idioms:
Put up (= build)
• They are putting up new apartment blocks.
Do up (= repair)
• They should do up some of the old-fashioned houses.
Pull down (= demolish)
• They are pulling down older neighborhoods to make way for the new skyscrapers.

Focus on Grammar
Use present perfect tense:
• I’ve actually been there a few times.
Use past continuous and past simple:
• The first time I visited this place, I took quite a few photos while I was walking around.

Sample Response

I’m going to talk about Landmark 81, which is one of the most well-known buildings in Ho Chi Minh City.
In fact, it’s a super-tall skyscraper in the city with 81 stories in total, making it becomes the tallest building
in Vietnam to date. It is located in the Vinhomes Central Park urban area, on the western bank of the
Saigon River, next to the Saigon Bridge connecting District 2 and Binh Thanh District. The skyscraper is a
mixed-use building, with the state-of-the-art construction comprising of luxury hotels, excellent
restaurants, office space and vibrant commercial centers.

The first time I was there with my friends was about a year ago, and I was instantly captivated by how
marvelous it is, so I took quite a few photos while I was walking around. Inside, there are dozens of
astonishing pubs, bars, and coffee shops inside, where visitors can grab a bite to eat or have a great dining
experience with their family or their friends. You can have a great shopping experience in here with a
broad range of many lifestyle brands such as jewelries, cosmetics and so on. Outside, the public park
nearby is also an ideal place for visitors in search of fresh air and peaceful ambiance for outdoor activities.
However, the way I see it, what makes this place so special is its Observation Deck called Skyview. Located
from the 79th to the 81st floor, it’s the perfect place to enjoy panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City. Visitors
can see a close-up of the city’s famous sights through a telescope and the most advanced touchscreen
system, giving them special feelings.

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As you can see, Landmark 81 is surely a great spot that offers so many entertainment and dining
possibilities that you could easily spend almost a whole day there. Because of this, I’ve been there few
more times with my friends to go shopping or just enjoy the vibrant atmosphere there.

That’s all I want to talk about this famous building.

Suggested Response

I’m going to talk about………………………………, which is……………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
In fact, it’s ………………….…..……………………………………….…………………………… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
It’s located in ………………….……………...……………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
The first time I was there was about……………………………….…………………………………………………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
……………………….………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
However, the way I see it, what makes this place so special is ………………….………………………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………………………..……….……………………….……
As you can see, …………………….……………………….……………….…………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

That’s all I want to talk about this famous building.

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PART 3
HOME & HOMETOWN

• How easy is it to find a place to live in

your country?
Sample response:
Well, in our country, it is quite difficult for many
people to find an accommodation, especially in
big cities. This is because not many Vietnamese
people have enough money to buy their homes
due to increasing house prices, not to mention
there is a shortage of available properties in cities
in recent years.

Suggested response:
Well, in our country, it is (quite) difficult/easy to… This is because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think it's better to rent or to buy a place to live in?

Sample response:
For me, I’m convinced that renting a house is a more preferable choice. Although I admit that paying rent
in advanced is required on a frequent basis, if you live in a shared house with a roommate, it could help
you save a lot of money. Also, it would be easier for tenants to move to another place when they have a
new job in another region or have children.

Suggested response:
For me, I’m convinced that … is a more preferable choice. Although… Also…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What are some of the pleasures involved in making a home for ourselves?
Sample response:
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I suppose it starts with house-hunting. This is because finding an ideal home is not easy, and it would
keep many people busy over a long time. However, when they finally find such a home, in my opinion,
most of them know they could be pleased with the home they buy as well as its location.

Suggested response:
I suppose… This is because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

PART 1

HOME
• What is your favorite room?
• Would you prefer living in a house or a flat?
• How long have you lived there?
• How long do you expect to continue living there?
HOMETOWN
• Is your hometown well-known for something?
• How would you describe the climate of your hometown?
• How has your hometown changed over the last ten years?
• Would you say your hometown is a good place to live in?
PART 2

Describe a historical building you have visited

You should say:
• Where the building is located
• What it looks like
• What it is used for
And say whether this building is popular with tourists.

PART 3
• Do people in your country enjoy visiting historical places?
• How important is it to protect historical places?
• Do you think people should have to pay to visit these historic buildings?
18
19
Module 3 Work

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
WORK
1. Employee (n) A. A formal way to say 'job'.
/ɪmˈplɔɪ.iː/
E.g: My company has several hundred employees. B. Businesses and industries that are
2. Commute (v) owned or controlled by the
/kəˈmjuːt/ government
E.g: It is taking longer for people to commute to work
because of traffic problems. C. Working more than contracted
3. Occupation (n) hours
/ˌɑːkjuˈpeɪʃn/
E.g: He gave up his occupation as a farmer and became a D. To make the same journey
teacher. regularly between work and home
4. Career (n)
/kəˈrɪr/ E. Working a fixed number of hours
E.g: I took this new job because I felt that the career but having flexibility with start and
prospects were much better. finish times
5. Salary/Wage (n)
/ˈsæləri/ /weɪdʒ/ F. Businesses and industries that are
E.g: He receives a good wage because he works for a privately owned
prestigious company.
6. The public sector (n) G. Money paid each month to an
/ðə ˌpʌblɪk ˈsektər/ employee for their work

20
 E.g: You get a good pension if you work for the public
sector, but the salary is not always so good. H. Someone who is paid to work for
7. The private sector (n) someone else
/ðə ˌpraɪvət ˈsektər/
E.g: Most graduates hope to work in the private sector I. The time worked in a job that is
when they finish university as there are more opportunities not normal hours
and the pay is better than the public sector.
J. Working life or a particular job
8. Flexitime (n)
during one's working life that gets
/ˈfleksitaɪm/
better in terms of salary and
E.g: They have introduced flexitime at my work place so I
position
usually start at 10am now and finish at 6pm.
9. Overtime (adj)
/ˈəʊvərtaɪm/
E.g: The employees often work overtime but they are not
given extra money so it is not fair.
10. Shift (n)
/ʃɪft/
E.g: She is a nurse so she has to work in shifts. One week
she does the morning shift, and then the next week she will
do the night shift.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• a good team player: somebody who can work well with other people
• to be called for an interview: to be invited to attend an interview
• to be your own boss: to have your own business
• to meet a deadline: to finish a job by an agreed time

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Expressing a Preference:
• I prefer working (to studying) because…
• My preference is working because…
• If I had the choice, I’d (rather) work because...
• If I have the choice, I'll work because…

21
D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
WORK
• What do you do?
Sample response:
I’m currently working for a language center
called Vietop as an English language teacher. I
was called for an interview a year ago, and soon
afterwards I joined there. I’ve been a full-time
employee since then.
Suggested response:
I’m (currently) working for… as a/an… I joined
there about…, and…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Why did you choose that job?

Sample response:
Well, this is because I’m really interested in teaching profession, and I usually have a lot of fun with my
students during lessons. Besides, I am offered a good wage there, so I don’t have to worry much about
money.
Suggested response:
Well, this is because… and… Besides, …
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you enjoy your job?

Sample response:
Yes, I do. For me, being able to help students is a rewarding experience, and as I’ve said earlier, I have a
lot of fun when teaching there. Most of my colleagues are good team players, as they usually give me a
hand when I need help at work.

Suggested response:
Yes, I do/No, I don’t. For me, …
22
 ………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What responsibilities do you have at work?

Sample response:
Well, my main responsibility is to prepare lessons carefully and then teach them to the best of our ability.
I also have some other tasks to carry out like marking essays, filling out attendance sheets and writing
reports to meet deadlines.

Suggested response:
Well, my main responsibility is… I also have some other tasks to carry out like…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

A. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Extending your talks: in fact, for example, or, also, but, and, because
• I love teaching and I really like the working environment here.
• I really like working environment here. I also want to give myself a challenge and learn more
about my job.
• I like teaching foreign languages. For example, I love teaching English.
• I really want to learn how to teach Speaking or Writing skills.
• I’ve tried teaching Writing skills, but I’m not excel at grammar.
• I might make mistakes sometimes. In fact, I usually make a lot of grammatical mistakes when I
write fast.
• I'm really good at Speaking skills, because I used to study with an American teacher.
Sample Paragraph (with some revisions)
I love teaching and I really like the working environment here, and I also want to give myself a
challenge and learn more about my job. In other words, I really like teaching foreign languages. For
example, I love teaching English, and I really want to learn how to teach Speaking or Writing skills.
I’ve tried teaching Writing skill, but I’m not excel at grammar as I might make mistakes sometimes. In
fact, I usually make a lot of grammatical mistakes when I write fast. However, I'm really good at
Speaking skill, because I used to study it with an American teacher and I’ve taught this skill to many
students for quite a while.

23
B. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe your dream job

You should say:
• What kind of things you would do in that job
• What the working conditions would be like
• What kind of workplace you would work in
And say if you think you will be able to get a job like that or not, and why

Suggestions
Choose any job that involves a variety of activities (a travel guide, a journalist, a teacher, etc.). Then you
can talk about many aspects of the job as well as the job itself.

Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary

Nouns: profession, line of business, occupation, line of work
Verbs: be involved in…, share responsibility for…, work within a team…
Adjectives: hectic, exhausting, taxing, intricate, undemanding
Idioms:
Work flat out (= work very hard)
• Sometimes I have to work flat out.
On the go (= very busy)
• I've been on the go all day, and I'm really tired.

24
Get to the bottom of (= solve)
• I'm not sure what is causing the problem, but I'm determined to get to the bottom of it.
Take charge of (= manage)
• His boss asked him to take charge of the office for a few days while she was away.

Focus on Grammar
You must use conditional structures:
• I guess my dream job would be something like…
• It would allow me to…
• I would have the opportunity to…
• It might even be possible for me to…

Sample Response

Well, I guess my dream job would be something like teaching, which is a job that I’m really interested in.
I have always wanted to become a teacher, because I’ve been inspired by many teachers who taught me
when I was a student. They not only taught me about the book and course related to it, but they also
taught me about life and realistic things. In fact, I’d probably enjoy being an English language teacher, as
this language is what I find intriguing and fascinating.

As far as I know, there are many different aspects of my job comprising different skills. When it comes to
teaching, this occupation involves teaching students general English, academic English, exams and so on.
This requires a detailed knowledge of grammar, syntax as well as teaching methods, which would allow
me to give myself a challenge and learn more about this job. It might be even be possible for me to carry
out some tasks like marking essays, filling out attendance sheets and writing reports.

When it comes to working environment, I suppose I would have the opportunity to work and be trained
on a regular basis. To be able to be a good teacher, I would like to get to know how to communicate with
students in order to take charge of my classes better, as well as how to deal with conflicts and get to the
bottom of them when they arise during lessons, otherwise it would be exhausting when I don’t know how
to do so. In Ho Chi Minh City, there are a lot of public and private schools that I can choose to work, but I
guess private schools are my preferable choice, because it would allow me to have a better income and
career prospects in comparison with public ones.

Finally, being an English teacher is an important goal for me to work harder. Therefore, I need to improve
my teaching skills as well as getting teaching qualifications like TESOL or CELTA, so that I am suitably
qualified for this job.

That’s all I want to talk about my dream job.

25
Suggested Response

I’m going to talk about ………………….…………………………………………………….., Your own keywords

I have always wanted to become…………………………………, because …..…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
As far as I know, there are many different aspects of my job involving
………………….………………………
different skills. ………………….………….………………………………………….…………… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
When it comes to working environment, ………………………….…………………….……………...……………………….…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
Finally,………………….………………………………… ……………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
That’s all I want to talk about my dream job.

26
PART 3
WORK
• Which jobs would you say
are most respected in your
country?
Sample response:
Well, I haven’t thought about
this much, but I suppose some
professions like medical and
teaching ones may be the most
highly-acclaimed ones. It’s
mainly because these
professions are more financially
rewarding compared to manual
jobs like farmers or carpenters.

Suggested response:
Well, I haven’t thought about this much, but I suppose… It’s mainly because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Would you prefer to work for a company or go into business for yourself?
Sample response:
If I had the choice, I’d rather be my own boss. Although I admit that running one’s own business requires
a great deal of knowledge in many fields like marketing, accounting and management, I do feel far more
comfortable with it. By doing so, I can choose the people that I want to work with, and I can challenge
myself, be creative and learn how to run business better.

Suggested response:
If I had the choice, I'd rather... Although… By doing so, …
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

27
 • What factors do you think should be considered to determine the salary of a person?
Sample response:
I guess there are many of them that should be taken into consideration, one of which is years of
experience. This is because most experienced employees working for a long time in a company are more
able to deal with most tasks better than those who just recently joined. Performance reviews are also
needed to be considered, as most employers base their pay decisions at least partly on individual
performance, which is an important variable when being considered for a pay increase or promotion.

Suggested response:
I guess there are many of them that should be taken into consideration, one of which is… This is
because… X is/are also needed to be considered, as…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

WORK

PART 1
• What do you like about your job?
• What do you dislike about your job?
• How many hours do you work each day?
• Would you like to change to another job in the future?
PART 2

Describe a job you would be interested in doing

You should say:
• What it is
• What skills are needed for the job
• What makes it interesting
And explain why you would like this job

PART 3
• “Job satisfaction depends on our attitudes, not on the job itself.” Do you agree?
• Why is job satisfaction important and how can it be maintained and developed?
• In your opinion, how can job satisfaction be measured?
• How does job satisfaction influence the quality of life and well-being of employees?
28
29
Module 4 Food

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
FOOD
1. Home-cooked food (n) A. The most important meal of the
/hoʊmkʊkt fuːd/ day, usually eaten in the evening
E.g: Although home-cooked food is usually not as delicious
as the one served in restaurants, it is much more beneficial B. A small amount of food that is
to your health. eaten between meals, or a very
2. Processed food (n) small meal
/ ˈprɑːsest fuːd/
E.g: Try to avoid processed foods like flavored nuts and C. Food has some sort of chemical or
cereal bars. It is much healthier to eat organic food. industrial treatment in order to
3. Organic food (n) cook it, preserve it, or improve its
/ɔːrˈɡæn.ɪk fuːd/ taste or appearance
E.g: Organic food is often fresher, because it doesn’t
contain preservatives that make it last longer. D. The food and drink usually eaten
4. The main meal (n) or drunk by a person or group.
/ðə meɪn mɪəl/
E.g: Dinner is the main meal of the day for most people. E. Food cooked at home from
5. Takeaway (n) individual ingredients or food
/ˈteɪk.ə.weɪ/ cooked using raw and fresh
E.g: We were too tired to cook so we ordered a takeaway ingredients which are made
from a Vietnamese restaurant. personally

30
 6. Snack (n)
/snæk/ F. The characteristic of frequently
E.g: I had a huge lunch, so I'll only need a snack for dinner. changing, or of including many
7. Cuisine (n) different types or things
/kwɪˈziːn/
E.g: The restaurant has a large dining room serving superb G. Food that is produced or practised
local cuisine. without using artificial chemicals
8. Variety (n)
/vəˈraɪ.ə.t̬i/ H. A meal cooked and bought at a
E.g: Many markets usually offer a variety of fresh fruits and shop or restaurant but taken
vegetables. somewhere else to be eaten
9. Diet (n)
/ˈdaɪ.ət/ I. The feeling that you want to eat
E.g: It is important to have a healthy diet. People must eat food
plenty of fruit and vegetables.
10. Appetite (n) J. A style of cooking
/ˈæp.ə.taɪt/
E.g: You'll spoil your appetite for dinner if you have a cake
now.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to have a balanced diet: to eat the correct types and amounts of food
• to make your mouth water: to make you feel very hungry for something
• quality justifies the bill: when a product is worth buying due its good quality, even if it's expensive
• to eat like a horse: to eat a lot

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Expressing Likes and Dislikes:

LIKES:
• My favourite food is chocolate.
• I like/enjoy/love chocolate.
• I’m (quite/rather) keen on chocolate.
• I’m really into chocolate.
DISLIKES:
• My least favourite food is cheese.
• I dislike cheese.
• I don’t much care for cheese.
• I can’t stand cheese.

31
D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
FOOD
• What kinds of food do you particularly like?
Sample response:
Well, I really enjoy eating many Vietnamese foods like pho
and banh mi, because such foods make my mouth water
whenever I see them. I also like eating ready meals and
takeaways, because I’m really lazy to cook at home.
Suggested response:
Well, I really enjoy eating… because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Are there any food you dislike?

Sample response:
Yes, there are. My least favorite one is spicy food, because I cannot handle the heat of it, so chilli and hot
pepper are in the top of my must-avoid list. If I eat any dish cooked with these seasonings, my stomach
will be upset for sure.
Suggested response:
Yes, there are…/No, there aren’t…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you prefer to eat at home or eat out?

Sample response:
My preference is dining out. Despite being much more expensive, many restaurants usually offer a variety
of dishes, and most of which taste more delicious than home-cooked meals and their quality justify the
bill. In addition, eating at restaurants is a good way of getting together with my friends whenever we have
free time.

Suggested response:
My preference is… This is because/Although/Despite… In addition,…

32
 ………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What are some traditional foods in your country?

Sample response:
There’s a mixed variety of food in Vietnam. However, I guess pho would be the most popular one, because
it’s well-known to the locals and tourists alike. This food has a delicious taste and its price is reasonable.
You can also try some other traditional Vietnamese foods like Bun bo Hue and banh mi, as they are tasty.

Suggested response:
There’s a mixed variety of food in Vietnam. However, I guess… would be the most popular one,
because… You can also…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

A. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Extending your talks: using Relative Clauses (which, who, where,…)
• I once tried sushi.
ð I once tried sushi, which is a Japanese food.
• I’m working as a chef in a Korean restaurant.
ð I’m working as a chef in a Korean restaurant, where I learn how to make Korean foods like
bulgogi or kimbab.
• I've always been an admirer of Gordon Ramsay.
ð I’ve always been an admirer of Gordon Ramsay, who is a celebrity chef.

33
B. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe a special meal that you have eaten

You should say:
• Where you had this meal
• What food you had
• Why it was special
And say whether this type of meal is common in your country

Suggestions
Try to mention all bullet points, but focus more on the food aspect.

Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary

Nouns: cuisine, meal, regional dish, speciality dish, delicacy, flavor, service
Verbs: eat out, dine out, eat at home, feast on sth
Adjectives: scrumptious, appetizing, wholesome
Idioms:
Wolf down (= eat very quickly)
• When I’m in a hurry, I wolf down some fat food.
Sink one’s teeth into (= eat some special food)
• I love to sink my teeth into a juicy steak.
Something about it (= something strange or special)
• I can’t stand seafood. There’s just something about it I’m not sure about.

Focus on Grammar
Use a mix of past tenses:
• It was about a week ago, at that time I ate out with my friends…
• I had never gone to a restaurant before, so I was quite excited…

Use a future tense + a past tense:

• I don’t think I’ll ever forget the cake that we had eaten…

34
Sample Response

Well, I’ve had many meals, but the most special one that I’ve ever had in my life was on my Mom’s birthday
last year, which was prepared by all of my family members and some of my friends.

On that day, my sister and I planned to surprise her and prepared her favorite foods at home. However,
because there were a lot of foods that we needed to prepare, I asked some of my friends to come over
for some help. While my sister and I baked a birthday cake and cooked some regional Vietnamese dishes
like pho and Bun bo Hue, my friends were in charge of setting up a table and decorating the living room
with balloons and flowers.

Everything had been done properly a little bit earlier before my Mom came home from work. When she
opened the door and turned on the lights, she was surprised when seeing a colorful “Happy birthday
Mommy” banner sticked on the wall in the living room. Standing in front, my sister gave her a bouquet of
red roses, her favorite flowers. We then enjoyed the scrumptious meal and shared our best memories
with my Mom.

After the party, we gathered together in the living room. My Mom made a wish and blew candles. She
said in tears that she was over the moon and she was proud of us. She also gave us great hugs and thanked
us a lot for doing this for her.

That’s all I want to talk about this special meal.

Suggested Response

Well, I’ve had many meals, but the most special one that I’ve ever had Your own keywords
in my life was ………………….…………………………………………………….., which…. ………………….………………………
On that day ………………….………………………………………….…………………………… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
After the party, ………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
35
 ………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about this special meal.

PART 3
FOOD
• What foods are popular in your
country?
Sample response:
In Vietnam, rice is a staple food. We
usually eat it for breakfast, lunch and
dinner. It can come with different kinds
of food such as pork, beef or chicken. In
addition, tropical fruit, like dragon fruit
and rambutan, is also popular here. You
can find such fruit in most wet markets
or supermarkets with reasonable prices.

Suggested response:
In Vietnam, … is a staple food. We eat it for… In addition,…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• In your opinion, what is a balanced diet?

Sample response:
The way I see it, a balanced diet is one that gives your body the nutrients it needs to function correctly.
Without it, your body is more prone to disease, infection, fatigue, and poor performance. Therefore, it’s
important to consume different kinds of food in daily meals, such as fresh fruit, vegetables, grains, nuts
and meat.

Suggested response:
The way I see it, a balanced diet is… Without it, your body is… Therefore, it’s important to…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

36
 ………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think people enjoy their food as much as they should?

Sample response:
No, I don’t think so. I’ve seen many people, especially young ones, prefer a quick snack during break time
at work, or some of them even bolt their food down in order to get back to work as soon as possible.

Suggested response:
Yes, I think so. /No, I don’t think so. I’ve seen many people…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

FOOD

PART 1
• What do you think about Western food?
• Do you like to cook?
• Do you have a healthy diet?
• Do you like tasting new food?
PART 2

Describe your favorite food

You should say:
• What the food is
• How do you know about this food
• How it is made
And explain why it is your favourite food

PART 3
• Do you think most people in your country eat healthily?
• Do many people eat in restaurants in your country?
• What's the difference between restaurant food and home-cooked food?
• Do you think that cooking is a pleasure or a burden for most people?
37
38
Module 5 Sports & Exercise

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
SPORTS & EXERCISE
1. Fitness program (n)
/ ˈfɪt.nəs ˈproʊ.ɡræm/ A. A sport in which people walk fast,
E.g: If you are a true beginner to exercise or have not but not as fast as a full run
exercised in decades, starting a health and fitness program
is a daunting task. B. To become physically stronger
2. Active rest (n)
/ˈæk.tɪv rest/ C. A specific building where people
E.g: Active rest between lessons helps children to study can do different sports
more effectively.
D. A timetable of activities to keep
3. Brisk walking (n)
you in a good shape
/brɪsk ˈwɑː.kɪŋ/
E.g: Brisk walking is a great exercise for those who want to
E. The activity of running at a slow,
lose weight.
regular speed, especially as a form
4. Jogging (n) of exercise
/ˈdʒɑː.ɡɪŋ/
E.g: He usually goes jogging for half an hour before F. A leisure time during which you
breakfast. exercise
5. Strenuous (adj)
/ˈstrenjuəs/

39
 E.g: It is recommended to drink a lot of water after G. A person that helps you to train on
strenuous exercises. a one-to-one basis
6. Sports center / Fitness center (n)
/ˈspɔːrts sentər/ /ˈfɪtnəs sentər/ H. Needing or using a lot of effort or
E.g: A sports center usually offers a range of leisure energy
facilities and classes for all ages.
7. Sports facilities (n) I. A period of physical exercise that
/ ˈspɔːrts fəˈsɪlətis/ you do to keep fit
E.g: I chose this gym because it offers a wide range of
sports facilities. J. The equipment and services
needed to do a sport
8. Personal trainer / Sports coach (n)
/ˌpɜːrsənl ˈtreɪnər/ /ˈspɔːrts kəʊtʃ/
E.g: It's much easier to train with a personal trainer /
sports coach than alone.
9. Workout (n)
/ˈwɜːrkaʊt/
E.g: She does a 20-minute workout every morning.
10. Strengthen (v)
/ˈstreŋkθn/
E.g: Many exercises are designed to strengthen your
stomach muscles.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to be keen to do sth (to be keen on doing sth): to be very interested in doing something
• to be out of condition (to be out of shape): to be in bad physical condition, to lose strength
• to keep fit: to stay in a good shape
• to get into shape: to become fit
• to build muscle: to gain muscle by working out
• to take up doing sth: to start doing something new (usually sport)
• to train hard: to train with effort and passion
• to warm up: to perform light exercises to prepare for a hard workout
• to work out: to exercise in gym

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Expressing Reasons for Likes and Dislikes:

LIKES:
• I like playing badminton because/since...
• The main reason I like badminton is that it’s…
• What I like best about badminton is…
• The thing I like best about badminton is…
DISLIKES:
40
 • I don’t like to go jogging because/since...
• The worst thing about jogging is…
• I don't like jogging very much because it's too…
• I’m not keen on going jogging. This is because I find it…

D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
SPORTS & EXERCISE

• Do you like playing sports?

Sample response:
Absolutely yes. I’ve played sports since I was a child, and there are many sports that I find interesting
and fun. This activity also helps me keep fit on a regular basis.
Suggested response:
• Absolutely yes. I’m keen on it because…
• Not really. I’m not really into such activity because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

41
 ………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you prefer individual sports or team sports?

Sample response:
If I had the choice, I’d rather take part in team sports because I value teamwork. Playing soccer or
basketball with others also gives me much more joy than playing alone.
Suggested response:
• I prefer… to… because…
• My preference is… because…
• If I had the choice, I’d (rather)… because…
• If I have the choice, I’ll… because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What sports are popular in your country?

Sample response:
Football is definitely the favorite sport in Vietnam. Generally speaking, I’d say that the majority of high
school and university male students regularly play football. As well as this, I think many people, especially
old people and young females, also love badminton and jogging.

Suggested response:
… is definitely the favorite sport in Vietnam. Generally speaking, I’d say that… As well as this,…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Are boys and girls good at the same sports?

Sample response:
Definitely not. Generally speaking, the majority of boys have greater strength than girls, although I admit
that there are still some girls who are very strong. Therefore, these boys are better at doing strenuous
exercises like jogging and basketball, while more moderate physical activities, such as brisk walking and
tai chi, are more suitable to young females.

42
Suggested response:
• Yes, they are. Both are good at…
• Definitely not. Generally speaking, …
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

A. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

How to finish talking in Part 2
If you finish your story and you know you have answered the four points on the card adequately, and
you also know that you have spoken for a decent length of time, but if the examiner doesn't seem to
realize you have finished, you should immediately tell the examiner that you have finished. There are
many ways to do so.
Short versions:
• I’ve finished now.
• I guess that’s it.
• I think that’s all.
• That’s all I have to say.
Longer versions:
• Well, that’s my story about […].
• That’s all I want to talk about […].

B. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

43
 Describe a sport that you enjoy watching or playing
You should say:
• What the sport is
• Where and when you watch or play
• Why you like watching or playing this sport
And say whether it is popular in your country

Suggestions
It is actually quite difficult to describe many common sports, such as football and basketball, because each
sport has its own specialist vocabulary. It is much easier if you choose a range of sports, such as athletics.
It is probably easier to describe why you like playing it (especially the physical benefits).

Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary

Nouns: team sport, solo sport, spectator sport, physical activity, squad
Verbs: compete, challenge, get fit, lose weight, stay healthy
Adjectives: strenuous, physical, energizing, revitalizing
Idioms:
Have a crack at (= have a try at)
• I had a crack at baseball but it was too strenuous for me.
Get into shape (= become fit)
• I’ve been trying to get into shape by going to the gym.

Focus on Grammar
You can use a wide range of tenses:
• I’ve been doing this for years.
• I originally took up this activity 4 years ago.
• I used to do it every day but now I only spend a few hours a week doing it.
• I will never forget the first time I tried this.

Sample Response

I’d like to talk about athletics, which is a range of sports that I love watching.

To be more specific, it’s a group of sporting events that involves competitive running, jumping, throwing,
and walking. As far as I know, the most common types of athletics competitions are track and field, road
running, cross country running, and race walking.

The first time I watched it was about a few years ago, when Summer Olympics was organized in Rio de
Janeiro, Brazil. Back then, I was really interested in this event since it attracts thousands of athletes from
around the world participate in a variety of competitions, so I usually watched athletics on TV whenever I
have free time, usually in the evening to relax after a long day at university.
44
Although there are many sports organized in this event, I was only keen on watching athletics, because
there was fierce competition between individual athletes, which made this sport become exciting to me.
Another interesting thing about this sport is that there are so many different types of people and body
shapes and personalities across all the different disciplines. In other words, it is very inclusive of people
from many different backgrounds. Besides, the way I see it, athletics is truly an international sport. It is
cool to know they are so many countries involved in the sport, so seeing famous athletes challenge
themselves as well as compete against each other is thrilling.

Finally, when it comes to the popularity of this sport in Vietnam, I’d say that it’s quite famous to many
people of all ages as a way of keeping fit and staying healthy, especially young males and females. Many
of them even choose athletics as their main sports career. In South East Asia, there’s a biennial multi-sport
event involving participants from the current 11 countries called SEA Games, and it’s similar to Olympic
Games. During such event, many Vietnamese families usually gather together in front of the TV to watch
their athletes compete against opponents from other countries, and lots of gold medals have been gained
thanks to these athletes’ remarkable effort.

That’s all I want to talk about this sport.

Suggested Response

I’d like to talk about……………………, which …………………………………………….. Your own keywords

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………….………………………
To be more specific, …………….………………………………….…………………………… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
The first time I watched/played it was about ………………………………………., ………………….………………………
when….……………………………….………………………………………………………………… ………………….………………………

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
I was only keen on watching/playing this sport, because …………………………………………….……………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………………….……………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
Finally, when it comes to the popularity of this sport in Vietnam, I’d say that ………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
45
 ………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about this sport.

PART 3
SPORTS & EXERCISE

• How important is exercise for people’s health?

Sample response:
For me, exercise is incredibly important for people’s health, because it helps them to have a sound mind
and build up mental strength. It specifically can help people sleep better, especially who have mild
depression and low self-esteem. Plus, exercise can give people a real sense of accomplishment and pride
at having achieved a certain goal – like running with a longer duration than usual.

Suggested response:
• For me, exercise is (incredibly) important for people’s health, because…
• Doing exercise is important up to a point, but…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What kind of personality traits should a professional athlete have in order to succeed?
Sample response:

46
Well, there are many of them that I can think of, but self-confidence would be the most important one.
This is because it is not rare for athletes to have a bad day which affects their performance for no obvious
reasons, which might negatively affect their confidence in general. In days like that, there is a slim chance
of doing well. Determination is also another trait that I can think of. Professional athletes need to be
determined and always try their best, no matter how hard it seems. Take football players as an example.
When they lose a match or miss a goal, they have to get right back up and try again until the end of the
match.

Suggested response:
Well, there are many of them that I can think of, but … would be the most important one. This is
because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you believe in talent or hard work?

Sample response:
The way I see it, hard work is much more important than talent. Although I admit that talent is an inborn
quality that gives you a smart way to achieve your goals, just because you have talent doesn’t mean you
can go on the field and be the star of the team. If one is not willing to put in the work to harvest and
cultivate their talent, then the talent itself is essentially useless. Take Cristiano Ronaldo as an example.
Despite being in his mid-thirties, he is still able to play football much better than most others in his age
thanks to his perseverance and self-discipline regarding training on a frequent basis. In other words, hard
work and perseverance will beat out pure talent any day, especially when it comes to sports.

Suggested response:
• The way I see it, hard work is (much) more important than talent, because…
• For me, talent plays a (much) more important role than hard work, because…
• I believe both of them are equally important. While talent…, hard work…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

47
HOMEWORK

SPORTS & EXERCISE

PART 1
• What sports or physical activities do you regularly do?
• Which sport or game would you like to be good at?
• Do you prefer watching or playing sports?
• How do people in your country keep fit?

PART 2

Describe a sport that you like to try

You should say:
• What the sport is
• Why you would like to try it
• Whether this sport is popular in your country
And say whether you think you will start doing this in the near future

PART 3
• Why do you think sports are important?
• Do you think famous sportspeople are good role models for children?
• Do you agree that sports stars earn too much money?
• Do you think children get enough exercise these days?

48
49
Module 6 Media

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
MEDIA
1. Media (n)
/ˈmiː.di.ə/ A. Anything that happens, especially
E.g: The media often write about famous people. something important or unusual
2. Report (v)
B. A piece of writing on a particular
/rɪˈpɔːrt/
subject in a newspaper or
E.g: Journalists report the news from all over the world.
magazine, or on the internet
3. Event (n)
/brɪsk ˈwɑː.kɪŋ/
C. A picture, short film, song, etc.
E.g: This year's Olympic Games will be the biggest ever
that tries to persuade people to
sporting event.
buy a product or service, or a
4. Celebrity (n) piece of text that tells people
/səˈleb.rə.t̬i/ about a job, etc.
E.g: Reporters also like to write about celebrities, such as
Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber.

50
 5. Advertisement / Advert (n) D. Something that people watch on
/æd.vɝːˈtaɪz.mənt/ /ˈæd.vɝːt/ television or listen to on the radio
E.g: There are too many adverts on TV and in the papers.
6. Article (n) E. TV, radio, newspapers, magazines
/ˈɑːrtɪkl/ and the Internet, considered as a
E.g: The newspaper published a toughly worded article group
about racist behaviour.
7. Program (n) F. Events of political or social
/ˈprəʊɡræm/ importance that are happening
now
E.g: I chose this gym because it offers a wide range of
sports facilities.
G. An online newspaper is the online
8. Current affairs (n) version of a newspaper
/ˌkɜːrənt əˈferz/
E.g: The programme was a mixture of current affairs, H. Give information on the news
health and gardening.
9. Online newspaper (n) I. Newspapers have small pages and
/ˈɑːn.laɪn ˈnuːzpeɪpər/ short articles with a lot of pictures
E.g: She does a 20-minute workout every morning. and stories about famous people
10. Tabloid (n)
/ˈtæblɔɪd/ J. Someone who is famous,
E.g: Tabloids often attract readers with sensational especially in the entertainment
headlines. business

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to surf the net/Web: to spend time looking at different pages on the Internet
• go viral: quickly and widely spread or popularized especially by person-to-person electronic
communication
• to take by storm: to captivate people ‘s attention; when something becomes very popular.
• to raise/life the curtain: to make something public

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Talking about personal habits

• I usually get the news online.
• While I’m studying/working, I often listen to the radio.
• Sometimes I read online news.
• As a rule, I don’t read magazines.
• Whenever I can, I usually watch TV.

D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
51
PART 1
MEDIA
• Where do you usually get the news from?
Sample response:
Well, I regularly get the news from Facebook
and some online newspapers like VnExpress or
CNN, because these forms of media are more
accessible for me and give me the latest
updates about current affairs, politics and the
society in general. Sometimes I get the news
when watching TV.
Suggested response:
Well, I regularly get the news from… and… because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you read magazines? Which one?

Sample response:
Yes, I do. Saigon Times is the magazine that I love reading regularly, and it’s also one of the most widely
circulated Vietnamese magazines. It’s a weekly publication including coverage of economy and business
in addition to local news.
Suggested response:
• Yes, I do. … is the magazine that I love reading regularly, and…
• No, I don’t. To be honest, I’m not interested in reading them because… I prefer … instead as…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you often read a newspaper?

Sample response:
No, not really. This is because newspapers these days have become somehow obsolete in comparison
with other forms of media, so I prefer to read online news to keep updated, which is definitely more
accessible and easier for me.

Suggested response:
52
• Definitely yes. Whenever I can, I…
• No, not really. This is because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• In which kinds of circumstances do you usually listen to the radio?

Sample response:
It’s hard to say… Now I think I only listen to it when commuting by bus once in a while. I used to do so a
lot about 20 years ago when I was an elementary student, as the Internet and smartphones were not
common back then. At home, I usually turned on the radio and listened to music programs and podcasts
to relax after a long day at school.

Suggested response:
It’s hard to say… Now I think I only listen to it when…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

A. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

How to answer the one or two Follow-up Questions after finishing Part 2 Talk
Summary:
• Not every candidate as asked a follow-up question.
• Most follow-up questions are 'Yes/No' questions.
• Give a somewhat short answer but not just a simple, "Yes" or "No".
Examples: After finishing “describing a TV program that you have seen”
• Examiner: Do you often watch sitcom?
ð Candidate: Yes, I do. This genre is fun and witty for me.
• Examiner: Do your friends like watching it?
ð Candidate: No, not really. Most of them prefer watching reality TV shows instead.

B. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

53
 Describe a TV program that you have seen
You should say:
• What type of program it is
• What it is about
• How often you watch it
And say whether it is popular in your country

Suggestions
Choose a famous TV series, such as Journey to the West (Tây Du Ký), Dad! Where are we going? (Bố ơi
mình đi đâu thế?) or any long-running series that you have seen.

Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary

Nouns: telly (= TV), episode, series, soap opera, documentary, sitcom, audience, viewer
Verbs: be based on, sit in front of the telly, televise, air (= broadcast)
Adjectives: long-running, witty, enlightening, mind-numbing (= boring), attention-grabbing (=
interesting), pre-recorded
Idioms:
Watch the box (= watch TV)
• I often watch the box at weekends.
Channel surf (= change TV channels frequently)
• I usually sit in front of the telly and channel surf.

Focus on Grammar
Use a mix of present and past tenses:
54
• I remember when I originally saw the first episode…
• The show is still running to this day.
• They have aired repeats of the show many times over the years.

Sample Response

I’d like to talk about How I Met Your Mother, which is one of many long-running TV series that I’ve seen.

To be more specific, it’s an American sitcom that ran from 2005 to 2014 with 9 seasons and 208 episodes
in total, and it was aired every Monday. This series follows the main character, Ted Mosby, and his group
of friends in New York City's Manhattan. As a framing device, Ted, in the year 2030, recounts to his son
and daughter the events that led him to meet their mother.

The first time I watched How I Met Your Mother was about a few years ago, when I was a university
student. Back then, one of my friends told me that this is an attention-grabbing series that I should watch,
so I decided to watch the pilot episode first. Soon afterwards, I was gradually interested in this series, and
I usually watched this series in the evening in front of the telly to relax after a long day at school. As long
as I watched, this show gets better with time. I laugh so hard with the show that my sides hurt every time
I watch. There are many interesting characters in the show, but Barney Stinson is my favorite one, since
he’s really witty. In other words, the humor in this show is edgy and unpredictable, which is the main
reason why it attracts a lot of TV viewers.

Finally, when it comes to the popularity of this series in Vietnam, I’d say that it is quite well-known to
many young people, as many of them have had the tendency to watch sitcom to relax and have fun. In
addition to this, those who want to learn English and improve their listening skills also prefer watching
this series in order to both learn some idiomatic expressions and learn more about American culture and
their sense of humor.

That’s all I want to talk about this TV program.

Suggested Response

I’d like to talk about……………………, which ……………………………………..……… Your own keywords

To be more specific, ………………………………………………..…………………………… ………………….………………………
On that day ………………….………………………………………….…………………………… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
The first time I watched it was about …………………………………………………... ………………….………………………
when …...................................................................................................... ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

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 ………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
….……………………………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
….……………………………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
Finally, when it comes to the popularity of this program/series in Vietnam, I’d say that ……………..……….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………………….………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about this TV program.

PART 3
MEDIA
• Media studies should be a compulsory subject
in schools. Do you agree?
Sample response:
Yes, I totally agree. This is because there have been
some radical changes in the past few years
concerning the role of the media and the way
information is transmitted, in which there is an
ever-increasing demand for new stories. As a result,
if students do not have sufficient knowledge about
the media in general, it would be challenging for
them to keep track of the latest events.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I totally agree. This is because…
• No, I don’t think so. This is because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

56
 ………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• In what ways and to what extent has the evolution of the Internet changed people’s lives?
Sample response:
Well, there are many ways that people’s lives have changed due to the evolution of the Internet. One of
them is that it’s an invaluable research tool and can provide us with a wealth of knowledge, as the
information you need is usually available at the press of a button. For example, with a stable Wi-Fi
connection, you can use your smartphone or laptop to gain access to online news or social media
platforms like Facebook or Twitter within a few seconds. Another one could be that the Internet is also a
source of entertainment. Many Internet users can stream available music videos or soundtracks online
instantly, or they can watch online movies whenever they can.

Suggested response:
Well, there are many ways that people’s lives have changed due to the evolution of the Internet. One of
them is (that)… because… Another one could be (that)…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What are the drawbacks of the dependence on the Internet?

Sample response:
Well, the way I see it, there are two main negative aspects of this issue. One of them is the information
overload. In the ever-changing world of technology, there is an ever-increasing demand for new stories
and as a result, trying to keep track of the latest events becomes almost impossible for many people,
especially elderly ones who are not really good at technology. Computer criminals is another problem of
the dependence on the Internet, because they’re getting better and better, and you should be on your
guard against hackers gaining illegal access into your system in numerous ways.

Suggested response:
Well, the way I see it, there are two main negative aspects of this issue.
One of them is (that)…
… is another problem of the dependence on the Internet, because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

57
HOMEWORK

MEDIA

PART 1
• Where do most people in your country get their news?
• Do you prefer reading an electronic book or a real book?
• Which is more popular where you live, newspapers or magazines?
• In the future, do you think more people then today will read magazines, or fewer people?

PART 2

Describe a newspaper or magazine that you have read

You should say:
• What type of newspaper or magazine it is
• How often you read it
• What you like about it
And say whether it is popular in your country

PART 3
• Do large media organizations have too much influence?
• What is the most important medium for people in your country?
• How important are newspapers?
• In what ways and to what extent do adverts influence people?

58
59
Module 7 Relationships

60
A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
RELATIONSHIPS
1. Nuclear family (n) A. A baby or a very young child
/ˌnuːkliər ˈfæməli/
E.g: Not everybody nowadays lives in the conventional B. (Often disapproving) A stubborn
nuclear family. person is determined to do what
2. Extended family (n) he or she wants and refuses to do
/ɪkˌstendɪd ˈfæməli/ anything else
E.g: It is difficult for him to maintain contact with members
of his extended family. C. Happy and positive
3. Infant (n)
/ˈɪn.fənt/ D. A family consisting of two parents
E.g: She has five children, the youngest of whom is still an and their children, but not
infant. including aunts, uncles,
4. Adolescence (n) grandparents, etc.
/ˌædəˈlesns/
E.g: Adolescence brings about major changes in a young E. To care for and protect
person’s body. somebody/something while they
5. Cheerful (adj) are growing and developing
/ˈtʃɪrfl/
E.g: She manages to stay cheerful despite everything. F. A family unit that includes
6. Considerate (adj) grandmothers, grandfathers,
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 /kənˈsɪdərət/ aunts, and uncles, etc. in addition
E.g: My boss is always polite and considerate towards her to parents and children
employees.
7. Stubborn (adj) G. Kind and helpful
/ˈstʌbərn/
E.g: He's very stubborn and it drives me mad sometimes. H. To encourage the development or
8. Pessimistic (adj) growth of ideas or feelings
/ˌpesɪˈmɪstɪk/
E.g: The doctors are pessimistic about his chances of I. Thinking that bad things are more
recovery. likely to happen or emphasizing
9. Nurture (v) the bad part of a situation
/ˈnɜːrtʃər/
E.g: She wants to stay at home and nurture her children. J. The period of time in a person's
10. Foster (v) life when they are developing into
/ˈfɑːstər/ an adult
E.g: I'm trying to foster an interest in classical music in my
children.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to bring up a child: to care for a child until he or she is an adult
• to get on well with: to understand someone and enjoy similar interests
• to have a lot in common: to share similar interests
• to keep in touch with: to keep in contact with
• to lose touch with: to not see or hear from someone any longer
• to see eye to eye: to agree on a subject
• to be well-matched: to be similar to
• to work at a relationship: to try to maintain a positive relationship with someone

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Contractions
• I am the baby of my family.
ð I’m the baby of my family.
• I would like to get on well with my friends.
ð I’d like to get on well with my friends.
• We have got a lot in common.
ð We’ve got a lot in common.
• …

62
D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
RELATIONSHIPS

• Are you more similar to your mother or

your father?
Sample response:
Well, I’m more similar to my father because
we’re both tall and have brown eyes. We’ve
also got a lot in common: we both like
eating foreign food and playing sports
whenever we have free time.
Suggested response:
Well, I’m more similar to… because…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How often do you go out with your family?

Sample response:
Well, we like spending a lot of time together, so we try to go out once a week, usually on Saturdays or
Sundays. We all like being in the fresh air, so we usually go for a walk around a big public park nearby in
the morning when it’s quiet. Sometimes we go shopping together to buy some clothes and food.
Suggested response:
• Well, we like spending a lot of time together, so we try to go out…

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• Not usually, I think. This is because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you prefer spending time with your family or your friends?

Sample response:
If I had the choice, I’d rather spend time with my family, because they’re the most important people in
my life. Although friends are fairly important to me, they can come and go, while my family is always on
my side as long as I need them, so I’ll appreciate my family when I can.

Suggested response:
• I prefer… to… because…
• My preference is… because…
• If I had the choice, I’d (rather)… because…
• If I have the choice, I’ll… because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you come from a large family?

Sample response:
No, I don’t. I come from a small family: just my parents, my older brother and me, so I’m the baby of my
family. We have a close relationship with each other, since we’re living in the same house and doing a lot
of things together, like eating dinner and watching TV together in the living room.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I do. There are… people in my family: …
• No, I don’t. I come from a small family: just my...
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

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………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

A. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Speaking your thoughts when you have to pause
When we tell a little story in our own language, there are times when we need to pause and think
about something such as a word, a name, a fact and more details to add. This is quite natural and you
should not be afraid of this situation. However, when we speak our own language, we don't suddenly
become silent when we need to pause to think of something. Instead, we say certain words or short
expressions to communicate to the listener what is happening in your mind. You should try to do the
same when speaking in English.

Below are some examples of the things people say when 'thinking aloud' when they need to pause
while telling a story. These are not questions that you speak as if asking the examiner a question but
rather, questions that you are asking yourself.

• “Um, let me see. What else can I tell you?”

• “Hmm, what else is there?”
• “What else can I tell you about Cristiano Ronaldo?” (For example, if you are describing a
sportsperson.)
• “What have I forgotten to tell you? ... Oh yes, ...”

Even while you are speaking these things, your brain is still working on trying to find that something to
say. If you have practiced speaking these and similar sentences in natural conversation with your
speaking partners, these sentences will come naturally to you if and when you need them in the test.

B. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe a family member that you like

You should say:
• Who the person is
• Why you like this person
• What things you do together
And say whether you think you are similar to this person

65
Suggestions
Choose a family member (father, mother, brother, sister, etc.).

Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary

Nouns: youngster, kid, relative, sibling, shared interests (= similar hobbies)
Verbs: get together, hang out with, socialize
Adjectives: youthful, chummy, immature, sociable, gregarious, outgoing, extrovert, introvert
Idioms:
Own flesh and blood (= family, relative)
• Obviously, my siblings are my own flesh and blood so I love them very much.
A sounding board (= a good person to talk to)
• My father really knows my skills and interests, so I can use him as a sounding board when I have
problems.

Focus on Grammar
Use a mix of past tenses:
• I’ve lived with him since I was born…
• I used to live with my family until I moved to another place.
Use future structures:
• I will always remember how he...
• I will never forget how he...

Sample Response

I’d like to talk about my dad, who is the family member that I like the most.

I’ve lived with him since I was born. Although he’s quite old and not as strong as he used to be, he has a
calm and sociable personality. However, the most interesting thing is that despite being significantly
different in age, we have the shared interests like playing some sports, such as football and badminton,
so I guess this is the main reason why we’ve got along well with each other. Hmm… what else is there…?
Ah, we also have similar tastes in movies and TV programs. He loves watching action and sci-fi, and so do
I. Sometimes we also talk about daily life, and my dad really know my skills and interests, so I can use him
as a sounding board when I have problems.

Um… let me see. What else can I tell you?... Oh yes…

Another thing that I’d like to talk about him is that is a very hard-working person. Even though he has
retired for some years, he’s still working at home as a part-time graphic designer to have some money to
take care of himself as well as his family, and I’ve never heard him complain about hard work or things
like that. In other words, he always puts his family first. I feel like he’s willing to do everything to make his
wife and children smile, and he always makes time for me and my brothers and sisters. I hope one day I’ll

66
be able to take care of my own family and be a wise man as he is. Besides, he’s my own flesh and blood,
so I love him very much.

That’s all I want to talk about him.

Suggested Response

I’d like to talk about……………………, who………………………………………………… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
I’d lived with him/her since………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Another thing that I’d like to talk about him/her is that …………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about him/her.

PART 3
RELATIONSHIPS
• How important is it for people to have
friends?
Sample response:
Well, I think having friends is extremely
important, because most people need someone
to talk about their daily life, their own problems
and share good times with as well. If a person
didn’t even have a true friend, it’d be terribly
lonely for that person.

Suggested response:
• Well, I think having friends is extremely
important…
• Hmm… I don’t think friends play a vital role in our life as many people think…
67
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What personal qualities do you think a real friend should have?

Sample response:
I think there are some traits that a real friend should possess. One of them is being honest and trustworthy,
because you’ll likely to tell them your secrets and private details, so it’s necessary to be able to trust them.
I also think that friends should be caring and supportive, so they can listen to you when you tell them your
problems and can help you when you’re in need.

Suggested response:
I think there are some traits that a real friend should have/possess.
One of them is…
I also think that friends should be…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Would you say that friends are more important than family?
Sample response:
I don’t think so, because no matter how much time spending with friends, most people will spend time
with their family at the end of the day. I also think that family has a more considerable influence, as they
are the people living with us for a long time and know well about our interests and personality.

Suggested response:
• Definitely yes, because…
• I don’t think so, because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

68
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

RELATIONSHIPS

PART 1
• Do you see your friends very often?
• Have you known each other for a long time?
• Is there anything you usually do with your friends?
• Do you prefer going out with many friends or just a few?
PART 2

Describe a close friend

You should say:
• Who the friend is
• Where and when you first met
• What you like about this friend
And say whether this person is friendly with other people

PART 3
• Do you think that after-hour friendships between working colleagues are appropriate?
• Do you think that social media is changing the way that we relate to our friends and family?
• Do you think that people who enter into a long-term relationship, should continue with their
friendships from their single days?
• In what ways and to what extent do adverts influence people?

69
70
Module 8 Advertising

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
ADVERTISING
1. Advertisement / Advert / Ad (n) A. A small piece of paper advertising
/æd.vɝːˈtaɪz.mənt/ /ˈæd.vɝːt/ /æd/ a product or event, which is given
E.g: Advertisements have been started to place in popular to a lot of people
magazines.
2. Billboard (n) B. To make somebody do something
/ˈbɪlbɔːrd/ by giving them good reasons for
E.g: Drivers were distracted by a huge billboard featuring doing it
an underwear ad.
3. Flyer (n) C. Catchy music or words are
/ˈflaɪər/ pleasing and easy to remember,
E.g: Her job is to hand out flyers for the club on street like the sort often used in
corners. advertising
4. Slogan (n)
/ˈsloʊ.ɡən/ D. A very large board on which
E.g: Apple announced their new campaign in 1997 with its advertisements are shown,
slogan “Think Different”. especially at the side of a road
5. Persuade (v)

71
 /pərˈsweɪd/ E. A short easily remembered
E.g: She was persuaded into buying an expensive dress. phrase, especially one used to
6. Target (v) advertise an idea or a product
/tɑːrɡɪt/
E.g: The advert for the energy drink is targeted specifically F. A notice, picture or film telling
at young people. people about a product, job or
7. Catchy (adj) service
/ˈkætʃi/
E.g: Many ads attract World Wide Web surfers with snappy G. To direct advertising, criticism, or
a product at someone
graphics and catchy slogans.
8. Distinctive (adj)
H. Causing someone to believe
/dɪˈstɪŋktɪv/
something that is not true
E.g: Uniqlo has lots of clothes with a distinctive style.
9. Misleading (adj)
I. Not very good or original, and
/ˌmɪsˈliːdɪŋ/
without style, in a way that is
E.g: Adverts must not create a misleading impression.
embarrassing but funny
10. Cheesy (adj)
/ ˈtʃiːzi / J. Having a quality or characteristic
E.g: Many horror movies these days are too cheesy. that makes something different
and easily noticed

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to advertise a product: to make a product known generally or in public, especially in order to sell it
• to catch somebody’s attention: to cause one to become interested in something
• to convey a message: to express a thought, feeling, or idea so that it is understood by other people
• to display a logo: to put a logo in a place where people can see it easily; to show a logo to people
• to hand out flyers/brochures: to give flyers/ brochures to other people on a group or place
• to pay attention to: to take notice of something
• to play advert on TV/on the radio: to advertise on TV/on the radio
• to put up a poster/banner: to put a poster/banner on a wall so that people can see it
• to stand out: to be much better than other similar people or things

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Explaining
• The reason why... is because / is that...
• One possible explanation (for that) is...
• To understand why..., you first need to...
• You could look at it this way:...

72
D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
ADVERTISING
• Are there many advertisements in your country?
Sample response:
Definitely yes. They appear all over the place from the
streets to social media with a high density. As well as this, if
you stop in front of the traffic light at a street corner when
they go red, flyer distributors will come and hand out flyers
to you.
Suggested response:
Definitely yes/No, not really…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Why do you think there are so many advertisements now?

Sample response:
Well, I think one possible explanation for that is that they’re the easiest way to reach customers in order
to grab their attention to a particular brand or product, so these customers will be able to choose an
appropriate one. Another reason is that advertisements play a vital role in marketing strategy that a
company apply to target potential customers.
Suggested response:
• The reason why there are so many adverts now is that…
• Well, I think one possible explanation (for that) is…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What are the various places where we see advertisements?

Sample response:

73
There are many locations where advertisements can be seen. One of them is definitely on the Internet.
When you surf the Web, you can see a variety of them on social media as well as online newspapers,
usually on both sides of these websites. Lots of adverts can also be seen through other forms of
communication like flyers, billboards or banners put up on the streets.

Suggested response:
There are many locations where advertisements can be seen. One of them is…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How do you feel about advertisements?

Sample response:
Generally speaking, I’m quite indifferent to them. I’ve seen a lot of adverts, some of which are quite funny
and generate a lot of interest and hype, but I don’t usually buy a product because of such factors. Nothing
persuades me more than hard facts, or personal recommendations when it comes to actually purchasing
something.

Suggested response:
• Generally speaking, I’m quite indifferent…
• Sometimes I find them a little bit annoying and disappointing, because...
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

A. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Going back into the STORY if you finish too quickly (<1 minute)
Some candidates don't give enough details when they talk about the four points on the task card and
they find that they have finished their little story too quickly. If they have only spoken for, say, 45
seconds, the examiner will be reluctant to say anything and reluctant to accept that the story is finished
because it is still much less than 1 minute. In this situation, the candidate usually sits there silently, trying

74
 to think of more to say while his or her fluency score starts to drop to a lower level. If you find yourself
in a similar situation, (even if you have spoken for a little more than 1 minute but you still feel your story
was too short), the thing to do is to return to something that you said previously in your story and add
more details.

If you decide to 'go back into your story' to add some details, it can be done quite easily and naturally
by first telling the listener what you are doing so the listener doesn't become lost or confused by what
you are saying. This is showing good coherence. You can do this by saying these phrases:

• "Oh, when I told you about..., I forgot to say that..."

• "As I mentioned before,..."
• "As I was saying,,..."
• “Oh, I forgot to say (that)...”
• “I forgot to mention (that)…”
• “Oh, I forgot to add (that)...”
• “I forgot to tell you one thing...”

In other words, this is the way people sometimes talk when they tell a natural story in real life and it is
quite acceptable in the Speaking test!

B. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe an advertisement that you have seen

You should say:
• What type of advertisement it is
• What it is about
• When you first saw it
And explain why you like it (or remember it)

Suggestions
Just choose an advert that you’re interested and remember a lot of information about it.
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Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary
Nouns: a long-running TV campaign, public awareness, target audience, celebrity endorsement
Verbs: influence, alter one’s lifestyle, appear, convey a message, launch a product
Adjectives: catchy, colorful, humorous, musical, serious, amusing, entertaining, memorable, strange
Idioms:
Go viral (= to quickly become extremely popular on the Internet through social media)
• Their amazing video of the project has now gone viral with millions of views.
Gain followers/subscribers (= to get more followers on social media)
• In order to gain more followers, we’ve identified effective hashtags.
Put (something) on the map (= to make a product famous)
• This new marketing campaign will help put our product on the map.
In the long run (= over a long period of time)
• We are putting a lot of time and money into this project, but in the long run it will be worth it.

Focus on Grammar
Use a mix of tenses:
• I can remember the first time that I saw it.
• It used to be broadcast every night at prime time.
• It is still being shown today.

Sample Response

I’d like to talk a great ad that I’ve seen recently, which is the one for Kentucky Fried Chicken or KFC, an
American fast food restaurant chain that specializes in fried chicken. I've seen this brand advertised
everywhere, on posters, banners TV commercials and online ads.

The advert shows a picture of a white-haired, smiling man called Colonel Sanders smiling and holding a
bag full of fried chicken. As far as I know, this man became a prominent figure of American cultural history,
and his image remains widely used in KFC advertising to this day. I think the aim of this advert is to target
children and young teenagers, and popularizes chicken as one of the most delicious fast food that they
can eat as well.

The advert is interesting because as I mentioned before, the company is perhaps trying to influence and
attract children and capture more potential young customers. They are presenting the food as something
special. However, fried chicken, in my opinion, is not truly a healthy food for children and young people,
as this kind of food contain a lot of fat and cholesterol, probably leading to some health problems like
diabetes and obesity when excessively consumed. Maybe this kind of advertising manipulates both
children and young teenagers, and encourages them to pester their parents to buy as much chicken as
possible as it’s delicious.
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Oh, I forgot to tell you about one more important thing about this advert. Apart from chicken, it also
introduces other kinds of food that are available in their menu like hamburger and rice, as well as some
combos for customers to choose when they want to order a takeaway or eat at any KFC restaurant.

That’s all I want to talk about this advert.

Suggested Response

I’d like to talk a great ad that I’ve seen recently, which is the one Your own keywords
for.………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
I’ve seen this brand advertised on…………………………………….…………………… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
The advert shows …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
The advert is interesting because ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about this advert.

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PART 3
ADVERTISING
• What is the role of advertising?
Sample response:
Well, not only does it help people to make
choices among products through
informing them about new things, but it
also creates a need in people to buy
something. As a result, people feel more
self-confident when they keep up with the
latest trends and improve their self-image.

Suggested response:
Well, not only does it…, but it also… As a
result,…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think that there should be a limit on advertising?

Sample response:
Yes, I’m convinced that advertising should be limited more strictly. In other words, governments should
put restrictions on the deceptive use of marketing in order to promote. This is because in this increasingly
materialistic society, the main purpose of advertising is to sell, thus it is not rare for advertisers to resort
to dishonest tactics in order to increase sales. By running constant advertising campaigns which target a
particular age group, for example, advertisers create needs to this group for expensive or even overpriced,
leading to wasting a lot of money buying unnecessary stuff.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I’m convinced that advertising should be limited more strictly…
• No, I don’t think so. This is because…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

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………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How do adverts promote materialism?

Sample response:
I suppose adverts promote this belief in some ways. The first one is that such ads creates new needs and
desires among people. For example, they affect most teenagers who try to follow fashion and make a
positive impression in order to be accepted by their peers, as emphasis is put on looks not on character
and they are judged by their appearance. These ads also often encourage consumers to replace their old
possessions by purchasing the newest and best model instead of offering products that are built to last,
which fosters a "throwaway society".

Suggested response:
I suppose adverts promote this belief in some ways. The first one is that… These ads also…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

ADVERTISING

PART 1
• Are there any TV channels in your country that don’t have adverts?
• Do you enjoy watching adverts on TV?
• What are the best ways for ordinary people to advertise something they want to sell in your
country?
• What type of advertisement do you prefer to use for getting information?
PART 2

Describe an advertisement that persuaded you to buy a product

You should say:
• What advertisement it was
• Whether it was shown on TV, radio or newspaper
• What was good about that advertisement
And explain why do you think that advertisement attracted you to buy the product

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PART 3
• What do you think about advertisements that target children and young teenagers?
• What are the advantages to companies of advertising on the Internet rather than TV?
• What is it that makes an advert effective?
• What things do advertising companies do that might give it a bad name?

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81
Module 9 Further Study & Future Plans

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
FURTHER STUDY & FUTURE PLANS
1. Goal (n) A. Able to do something well
/ɡəʊl/ because of training and practice
E.g: My best friend continues to pursue his goal of
becoming a photographer. B. A person who is very talented in
2. Reputable (adj) one specific field
/ˈrepjətəbl/
E.g: If you bought your computer from a reputable C. Having a good reputation and able
company, they should refund your money. to be trusted
3. Aptitude (n)
/ˈæptɪtuːd/ D. Something that you hope to
E.g: My son has little aptitude for sport. achieve
4. Expertise (n)
/ˌekspɜːrˈtiːz/ E. Skilled and experienced
E.g: It is difficult to find staff with the level of expertise
required for this job. F. To be in charge of a business,
5. Proficient (adj) campaign, etc.
/prəˈfɪʃnt/
E.g: He studied Chinese and became proficient in the G. Natural ability or skill at doing
language. something

82
 6. Aspire (v)
/əˈspaɪər/ H. Very enthusiastic or determined
E.g: Most of his students aspire to a career in business. because you really want to do
7. Motivated (adj) something
/ˈməʊtɪveɪtɪd/
E.g: Our staff members are hard-working and highly I. An enthusiastic person who works
motivated. very hard
8. Subject specialist (n)
/sʌb.dʒekt ˈspeʃəlɪst/ J. Expert knowledge or skill in a
E.g: My math teacher was a real subject specialist. Thanks particular subject, activity or job
to him math is my favourite subject now.
9. Eager beaver (n)
/ˌiːɡər ˈbiːvər/
E.g: My friend is an eager beaver. He studies everything
with pleasure and gets great marks.
10. Run (v)
/rʌn/
E.g: He has no idea how to run a business.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to be acquainted with sth: to be familiar with something, having read, seen or experienced it
• to be aware of sth: to realize or know something
• to be familiar with sth: to be well-known to you; often seen or heard and therefore easy to recognize
• to be proficient in/at (doing) sth: to be able to do something well because of training and practice
• to be up on sth: to have the most current knowledge about a particular subject or issue
• to have the knowledge of: to have the information, understanding and skills that you gain through
education or experience
• to have the ability to do sth: the fact that sb/sth is able to do something
• to have the know-how in/about sth: to have the knowledge of how to do something and experience
in doing it
• to set one’s heart on (doing) sth: to want to get or achieve something very much

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Speculating about the future

• I imagine/suppose/guess...
• I foresee + NOUN + V-ing…
• I predict + NOUN + will be…
• Well, I'm not sure but...
• Well, I've never thought about that before but ...

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D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
FURTHER STUDY & FUTURE PLANS
• What job would you like to have ten years from now?
Sample response:
Well, I’m not sure, but I guess 10 years later I’ll be working
as an English language teacher, as I’m studying this language
in my university at the moment. I hope I’ll be more proficient
in both improving my English skills and teaching this
language to as many students as possible as well.
Suggested response:
Well, I’m not sure, but I guess 10 years later I’ll be working as a/an... because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How useful will English be for your future?

Sample response:
I guess it’d play an important role for my future career for some reasons. First, I’ll be teaching English to
as many people as possible, so I’ll definitely have the know-how in this language. I also predict myself will
be using English to communicate with my colleagues at university, especially with native ones.
Suggested response:
• I guess it’d play an important role for my future career for some reasons…
• I’m not sure, but I suppose it won’t be extremely important, because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think math is important?

Sample response:
Definitely yes. This subject is important because it helps us think analytically and have better reasoning
abilities. Such abilities can be a very important strategy that is applicable to other issues in life. Math can
84
also be helpful for balancing your budget, because you will have a good understanding of how to make
sure that your costs are less than the money you have. Balancing one’s bank account, for example, is an
important life skill that requires math in order to subtract balances.

Suggested response:
• Definitely yes. This subject is important because…
• No, not really. This is because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How do you think your life will change in the future?

Sample response:
It’s very difficult to say, but I guess there won’t be any significant changes, at least in the near future. My
job routine now is quite fixed, so there isn’t much room for flexibility to take up other things. Besides, I’m
a young person, so I think I’ll be facing more ups and downs in life, and I'm pretty much excited and at the
same time quite worried about it.

Suggested response:
• It’s very difficult to say, but I guess…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

A. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Different ways to talk about future goals
• I’d love to + V
• I hope to + V
• One of my goals/dreams is + to-V
• I aim to + V
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B. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
Describe any future plan or ambition you have
You should say:
• What the plan/ambition is
• How long you have had this plan/ambition
• Why you want to do this
And say whether you think you will do this in the near future

Suggestions
Choose the easiest option - say that you would like to move to
another country. This gives you lots of lifestyle aspects to
describe (including work and study).

Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary

Nouns: aspiration, desire, ambition, aim, intention, objective
Verbs: have big ambitions, be proficient in, have knowledge of,
have the skill
Adjectives: motivated, excited, successful, reputable
Idioms:
A dream come true (= a wish or a dream that has become a reality)
• My vacation to Hawaii was like a dream comes true.
Build castles in the air (= to make plans that can never come true)
• Don’t build castles in the air, just find some work to make some money first.

Focus on Grammar
Use a mix of tenses, especially future and conditional tenses:
• Ever since I was a kid, I have had the desire to ...
• I have never been the kind of person to build castles in the air.
• It would really be a dream come true if I could...
• I really hope that I will be able to...

Sample Response

I’d like to talk about one of my ambitions that I have, which is moving to the UK to study.

I just thought about this idea about two years ago, because I’ve studied English language at my current
university. After getting a Bachelor’s degree, I have a plan to go to University of Warwick, which is a
reputable university in the UK, in order to study Master of TESOL, and I aim to get a degree in this
university within a year, as I want to study there as a full-time student.

86
The reason why I aim to do so is mainly because my desire is to have more knowledge of teaching English
to non-native speakers, so that in the future I’ll be able to work as a English language teacher in a
university as well. In other words, when studying this course, I’ll have a chance to both develop a strong
understanding of different methodological approaches and be more proficient in tailoring syllabus to mt
interests and career goals by choosing relevant modules and assignment topics. Another reason is that as
far as I know, Warwick University have trained students for over 30 years, with expert teaching and world-
class facilities, which I believe would be an ideal environment for me to study.

Hmm… what else I can tell you? Oh yes, my scholarship application has been just accepted a few days ago,
making me feel motivated to study as early as possible. However, as for when I’ll enroll in this course, I’m
not really sure since current circumstances around the world as a result of the COVID-19 virus make it
very difficult to know when and how next academic year will start, or indeed whether my personal
circumstances will permit me to take the scholarship. So, I’ll just wait to be in touch until then.

That’s all I want to talk about my goal.

Suggested Response

I’d like to talk about one of my ambitions that I have, which is …………… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
I just thought about this idea about………………………………… ago, because ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
The reason why I aim to do so is mainly because …………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about my goal.

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PART 3
FURTHER STUDY & FUTURE PLANS

• Why do people make

plans?
Sample response:
Well, people make plans so
that they can do things
efficiently and make
progress. It’s important to
have the plan not because
our plan always works out,
but because the process of
making that plan helps us be
intentional about our choices
in the moment. When we
know what we have to do
and what we should be
doing, we can determine in the real-life day how to handle the interruptions and the temptations.

Suggested response:
Well, people make plans so that…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Why do some people hate making plans?

Sample response:
There are some possible explanations of this. One of them is that some people think it’s totally a waste of
time. There are so many things to do, and doing anything instead of planning seems way more productive
for them, while in fact planning helps them think ahead about potential obstacles and prerequisites to
what they need to do, so they can save time in the long run. Procrastination could be another reason why
some can’t stand making plans. They delay planning for success because they think that it is too early to
plan, they are not ready, or they may not need a plan at all. However, the more they procrastinate, the
harder it is to come up with effective plans that lead to success.

Suggested response:

88
There are some possible explanations of this.
One of them is…
…could be another reason why some can’t stand making plans.
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Is this important for teenagers to set goals?

Sample response:
Yes, it is. Learning how to set goals is an important life skill for teens, because if they have goals, they are
less likely to wander aimlessly through life and will be motivated to work hard to reach their greatest
potential as well. Working toward a goal can also help teens not only learn about themselves, but it also
helps them create bigger goals for themselves in the future, and in order to be successful, they have to
identify the steps they need to take to reach those goals. Teenage goals don't have to be life-altering, they
could be as simple as saving up enough money to purchase a beautiful dress or getting high marks in a
specific subject.

Suggested response:
Yes, it is. Learning how to set goals is an important life skill for teens, because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

FURTHER STUDY & FUTURE PLANS

PART 1
• Do you make plans everyday?
• What is the latest plan you make?
• What is the hardest part of making plans?
• Are you good at managing your time?
PART 2

89
 Describe a future plan which is not related to work or study
You should say:
• What the plan is
• When you thought of the plan
• Who is involved in the plan
And say how you think you will achieve the plan

PART 3
• How do you think education system might change in the future?
• If you could alter the education system in your country, what would you do?
• In your opinion, what characteristics make a good teacher?
• Is a university education considered high status in your country?

90
91
Module 10 Natural Environment

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
1. Highway (n) A. Part of a café which is outdoors or
/ˈhaɪweɪ/ on the pavement or sidewalk
E.g: National Route 1A is a key highway of Vietnam.
2. Boutique (n) B. Causing harm or damage
/buːˈtiːk/
E.g: Magonn is a bohemian, start-up fashion boutique with C. Having too much traffic and
a fantastic young women’s line. movement is made difficult
3. Pavement café (n)
/ˈpeɪvmənt kæˈfeɪ/ D. A main road for travelling long
E.g: A modest pavement café is the preferred dining option distances, especially one
for even wealthy Vietnamese. connecting and going through
4. Skyscraper (n) cities and towns
/ˈskaɪskreɪpər/
E.g: Landmark 81 is a super-tall skyscraper in Ho Chi Minh E. (Of a building or place) in very bad
City, Vietnam. condition; that has not been taken
5. Bustling (adj) care of
/ˈbʌslɪŋ/
E.g: Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most bustling and F. A small shop that sells fashionable
vibrant cities of Vietnam. clothes or expensive gifts

92
 6. Congested (adj)
/kənˈdʒestɪd/ G. Extremely unpleasant or bad
E.g: In Ho Chi Minh City, congested roads are normal on
holiday weekends. H. A very tall modern building,
7. Smoggy (adj) usually in a city
/ˈsmɑːɡi/
E.g: Hanoi is the smoggiest city in Vietnam. I. Full of people moving about in a
busy way
8. Run-down (adj)
/ˌrʌn ˈdaʊn/
J. Relating to or affected by smog (=
E.g: He made a fortune buying run-down houses and fixing
a mixture of harmful smoke,
them up to sell.
gases, and chemicals in the air)
9. Detrimental (adj)
/ˌdetrɪˈmentl/
E.g: Emissions from the factory in the city are widely
suspected of having a detrimental effect on health.
10. Horrendous (adj)
/həˈrendəs/
E.g: The traffic around the city is horrendous.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to litter: to throw rubbish in inappropriate places
• to get back to nature: to live a life that is closer to nature
• to go back to basics: to start paying more attention to the most important aspects of something

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Explaining a word when you have forgotten (or don't know) the word
• It's a thing that...
• It's a type of...
• It's something you...
• He/ She's a person who...
• It's something like...
• It's similar to...
• It's kind of like a...

D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1

93
 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
• Where do you live
now?
Sample response:
Well, I’m now living in Ho
Chi Minh City, which is
located in the South of
Vietnam. It’s one of the
biggest cities in Vietnam,
and it’s also a famous
tourist attraction because
there are many places that
foreigners can go in this city,
like backpacker streets and
shopping centers.
Suggested response:
Well, I’m now living in..., which is located in… It’s…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What is the area like where you live?

Sample response:
In Ho Chi Minh City, there are a number of shopping malls, backpacker streets and fashionable boutiques
as well, most of which are within walking distance of my house. Another point is that because of the
increasing number of vehicles on the streets, traffic congestion has become a huge challenge here,
especially during rush hour, so I usually use public transport when I want to go to a specific destination.
Suggested response:
In…, there are a number of… Another point is that…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

94
 • Do you like your hometown?
Sample response:
Definitely yes. I’m really into many things when living here. This is also where my family and most of my
friends live, and the atmosphere here is welcoming. Besides, it’s a youthful and vibrant city, with lots of
high-rise buildings, skyscrapers and nightclubs as well.

Suggested response:
• Definitely yes. I’m really into many things when living here…
• No, not really. This is because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you like living in the city?

Sample response:
Yes, I do, because I can go out with my friends and have a drink with them at a pavement café, as well as
go shopping with them in fashionable boutiques. Besides, there are lots of nightclubs where I can go to
dance and chill out after a hard day’s work.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I do, because I can…
• No, I don’t. This is because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

A. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Speaking in general
• On the whole,…
• As a rule, ...
• In general, …

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 • Generally (speaking), ...
• For the most part, ...
• Typically/Usually, …

B. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe a natural environment that you like (e.g. forest, lake, park, mountain)
You should say:
• Where it is
• What you can see there
• What people do there
And explain why you like this particular natural environment

Suggestions
It is better to invent one rather than talk about a real one. You can talk about “a newly-developed
riverside park with botanical gardens’’, for example.

Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary

Nouns: habitat, a bamboo wooded area, lush shrub, gorgeous flower, stunning plant life, rock sculpture
Verbs: like being in the fresh air, encourage
Adjectives: tranquil, unspoiled, spectacular, clean
Idioms:
Get closer to nature (= able to see things in nature like trees and animals, able to have a good
experience in nature)
• When we were camping in the mountains, we got really close to nature. We even saw a bear!

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Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city (= get away from busy and frenetic activity or
excitement of the city)
• I want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and live a quiet and simple life in some
remote area.

Focus on Grammar
Use present perfect tense:
• I’ve actually been there a few times.
Use past continuous and past simple:
• The first time I visited this place, I took quite a few photos while I was walking around.
Use future tense:
• It’s going to be enlarged next year; it will include a boating lake.

Sample Response

I'm going to talk about an amazing place in my hometown called Zoo and Botanical Gardens.

It’s located close to District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City, and as far as I know, they’re listed as one of the oldest
zoos in the world, since they were founded about more than 100 years ago. There are lots of animals
exhibited in the zoo, along with a wide variety of trees and plant species.

The Ho Chi Minh Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a popular place to while away an afternoon and is visited
by locals and tourists, especially those who want to get closer to nature. This is because there are a
number of different sections to explore including the animal conservation area, orchid garden and plant
conservation centre and a children’s amusement area as well. Besides, the zoo exhibits a diverse range of
animals including monkeys, tigers and hippos, and it also aims to help animal conservation of endangered
species through a breeding-in-captivity program. The way I see it, this area can be used as a knowledge
centre where visitors can learn more about the species on display and how to protect them for the future.

Hmm… what else I can tell you?

Oh yes, there are many reasons why I like this place. When I visited it the first time two years ago, it was
tranquil with not many people, so I took quite a few photos while I was walking around the zoo. Since
then, I’ve been there a few more times. Also, I think the Ho Chi Minh Zoo and Botanical Gardens brings a
truly amazing feeling to witness natural scenery, with lots of surrounding trees and gorgeous flowers.
Generally speaking, all those things make this place a popular attraction for those who want to get away
from the hustle and bustle of the city.

That’s all I want to talk about this amazing place.

Suggested Response

I'm going to talk about an amazing place in my country called ……………. Your own keywords

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………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
It’s located …………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
This is a popular place to……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
and is visited by…..…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
There are many reasons why I like this place.……………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about this amazing place.

PART 3
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
• Which environmental
problems are people most
concerned about in your
country?
Sample response:
Well, I think many Vietnamese
people are most concerned about
global warming, which I suppose is
as a result of excessive emissions
of greenhouse gases. This causes
us to experience much hotter
summers, and they’re particularly
worrying in the Central and the South of the country where there is a real risk of drought due to the

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consistent lack of rainfall. The extinction of many species is considered as another critical issue, with
increasing numbers of endangered species like rhinos and white tigers killed in recent years.

Suggested response:
Well, I think many Vietnamese people are most concerned about…
…is considered as another critical issue…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What should the government do to protect the environment?

Sample response:
There are some practical measures that policymakers should take to protect it. One of them is cutting
carbon emissions. They can encourage many citizens to use public transport on a more regular basis rather
than private one, as transportation has become the major source of CO2 emissions in recent years.
Another measure could be recycling. The government needs to ensure that all of recycling materials are
being reused as they should be, as well as throw bags in with mixed recyclables.

Suggested response:
There are some practical measures that policymakers should take to protect it. One of them is (that)…
Another measure could be (that)…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How about individuals? What measures can they take to protect the environment?
Sample response:
There are a lot of ways on how individuals can do to protect the environment. They should reduce energy
use by turning off appliances when they’re not using them. This will consequently help minimize electricity
consumption. They can also ese a fuel-efficient car, or if they are traveling in short distances, take a walk
or ride a bicycle would be more preferable.

Suggested response:
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There are a lot of ways on how individuals can do to protect the environment. They should…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

PART 1
• Do you take an interest in nature?
• Have you ever participated in any environmental events?
• Do you think pollution is a big problem nowadays?
• Do you or your family take steps to help the environment?
PART 2

Describe a river, lake or sea that you have visited

You should say:
• Where this place is
• Why you went there
• What you liked about this place
And say whether you would like to go there again

PART 3
• What do you think is the main danger the world faces in terms of the environment?
• What examples are there of how we damage the natural world?
• In which ways do we respond well to environmental problems?

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101
Module 11 Cooking & Special occasions

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
COOKING & SPECIAL OCCASIONS
1. Ingredient (n)
/ɪnˈɡriːdiənt/ A. A small separate part of a bulb of
garlic (= a plant used in cooking)
E.g: The exact ingredients of Coca Cola are a trade secret.
2. Recipe (n)
B. To cook something liquid, or
/ˈresəpi/
something with liquid in it, at a
E.g: Baking a cake isn't difficult - it's just a matter of
temperature slightly below boiling
following the recipe.
3. Marinade (n)
C. A mixture of oil, wine, spices, etc.,
/ˌmærɪˈneɪd/
in which meat, fish or other food
E.g: Pour the marinade over the beef and leave it for 24
is left before it is cooked in order
hours.
to make it softer or to give it a
4. Clove (n) particular taste
/kloʊv/
E.g: This recipe takes four cloves of garlic. D. To move a liquid or substance
5. Sour cream (n) around, using a spoon or
/ˌsaʊər ˈkriːm/ something similar, in order to mix
E.g: Sour cream plays an important role in some of our it completely
favorite dishes, from biscuits to savory sauces, potato salad
and so on.
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 6. Simmer (v) E. Cream made sour by adding
/ˈsɪmər/ special bacteria
E.g: Leave the vegetables to simmer for a few minutes.
7. Marinate (v) F. A set of instructions telling you
/ˈmærɪneɪt/ how to prepare and cook food,
E.g: Marinate the chicken in white wine for a couple of including a list of what food is
hours before frying. needed for this
8. Serve (v)
/sɜːrv/ G. To place something over or in
E.g: Breakfast is served in the restaurant between 7.00 and front of something in order to
11.00. hide, protect or decorate it
9. Cover (v)
H. A food that is used with other
/ˈkʌvər/
foods in the preparation of a
E.g: Cover the chicken loosely with foil.
particular dish
10. Stir (v)
/stɜːr/
I. To pour a marinade over meat or
E.g: She paused to stir some milk into her coffee.
fish; to be left in a marinade

J. To give somebody food or drink,

for example at a restaurant or
during a meal

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to be more of a chore than a pleasure: something you do rather unwillingly
• to follow a recipe: to cook a meal using instructions
• to cut up: to cut into pieces
• to whip up: to prepare a meal very quickly

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Expressing Quantity with Countable and Uncountable Nouns

• We have some oil and some onions...
• We don’t have any/many onions.
• We don’t have much oil.
• We have a lot of/lots of rice.
• We have a lot of/lots of onions.
• There’re a few onions.
• There’s a little oil.

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D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
COOKING & SPECIAL OCCASIONS
• Do you like cooking?
Sample response:
Not really. I’m not really interested in it
because it’s more of a chore than a pleasure
for me. Although sometimes I like preparing
a special meal for family or friends who
come over, everyday cooking is a bit boring.
Suggested response:
• Yes, I really do, because…
• Not really. I’m not really interested in it
because…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Who did the cooking in your family when you were a child?
Sample response:
Definitely my mom. She did it when I was young, since she used to work as a chef in a restaurant, so she’s
really good at it. Sometimes my dad also cooked when my mom felt tired, but he only knew the basics,
like fried eggs and boiled veggies.
Suggested response:
… did it when I was young, …
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

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………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think that it’s important to know how to cook well?

Sample response:
Definitely yes. Despite not being interested in cooking, I admit that people who can cook well, especially
girls, are very charming. Besides, it’s necessary for everybody to know the basics, since it isn’t healthy to
only rely on fast food or pre-prepared meals.

Suggested response:
• Definitely yes…
• No, not really. This is because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Who is the best cook you know?

Sample response:
I guess that’s Gordon Ramsay. I knew him quite a few years ago when I watched Hell’s Kitchen and
MasterChef. Although he went berserk most of the time when other chefs didn’t cook as well as he
expected, he’s proficient in cooking a wide variety of food like beefsteak, salmon and so on.

Suggested response:
I guess that’s…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

A. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Contrasting conjunctions

105
 • But: the most common conjunction in English for contrasting two facts
• Whereas: also used to contract two facts. It’s more formal than but
• But instead (= in the place of): it’s used when you choose to do another thing rather than the first
thing

B. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe a favorite dish that your family cooks for a special day or festival
You should say:
• What the dish is called
• Which special day or festival it is cooked for
• How it is cooked
And explain why it is a family favorite

Suggestions
The easiest choice for this topic is a birthday cake for a person’s birthday party.

Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary

Nouns: celebration, a birthday bash (= a birthday party), pleasure, shindig, greeting card, surprise
Verbs: celebrate, cheer up, eat at home, get together, grow older
Adjectives: overjoyed, scrumptious, unexpected
Idioms:
Throw a party (= have a party)
• My mom threw a party for my 21st birthday!
Push the boat out (= to spend a lot of money on celebrating something)
• My mom and my friends really pushed the boat out for my birthday.

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Focus on Grammar
Use a mix of past tenses:
• It was my 18th birthday, at that time I was studying at...
• I’d never had a birthday party before so I was quite thrilled.
Use a future tense + past tense:
• I don’t think I’ll ever forget the cake that my mom made.

Sample Response

I'm going to talk about a birthday cake that my mom made for my birthday.

It was my 21st birthday, at that time I was still being a university student. Back then, my mom wanted to
throw a birthday party for me and invited some of my best friends to come over, so she asked me if I want
to have a birthday cake as usual. I was a little bit surprised because I was older, but that was a good idea,
so I agreed.

The ingredients for this cake are a little sugar, milk, flour, cocoa, some large eggs and raspberry jam. My
mom bought all of these ingredients at a supermarket nearby. First, my mom heated the oven to a high
temperature before whisking the oil, sugar, eggs and milk in a bowl until smooth. Then, she sieved the
flour, cocoa into another large bowl, then gradually mixed in the wet ingredients. As for the raspberry
layer, she stirred the jam and the defrosted raspberries together. Once the cakes are cool, she whipped
the cream with the sugar to soft peaks, then gently folded half the raspberry mixture through the cream.

I love this cake because is so delicious and sweet. Besides, it has lots of flavor that I really like. I don’t
think I’ll ever forget the cake that my mom made.

That’s all I want to talk about this kind of food.

Suggested Response

I'm going to talk about.…………………………………… that……………………………. Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
It was ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
The ingredients for this dish are………………………………………………………………………………………………….……………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

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………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
There are many reasons why I like this place.……………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about this kind of food.

PART 3
COOKING & SPECIAL OCCASIONS
• Are there many vegetarians in
your country?
Sample response:
Definitely yes. The number of
Vietnamese people following
vegetarianism has been
increasing recently. In the past, it
was commonly thought that old
people or those following a
religious, like Buddhism, will be
vegetarian. However, recently
I’ve seen that youngsters also
join to vegetarian community
because of many reasons.

Suggested response:
• Definitely yes…
• Just a few, I guess…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

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………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Why do you think some people choose to be vegetarians?

Sample response:
There are many reasons I can think of. Some people follow a largely vegetarian diet because they can’t
afford to eat meat. Besides, vegetarianism has become more appealing and accessible, thanks to the year-
round availability of fresh produce, more vegetarian dining options, and the growing culinary influence of
cultures with largely plant-based diets. Parental preferences, religious or other beliefs, and health issues
are other common reasons for choosing to be a vegetarian that I know.

Suggested response:
There are many reasons I can think of…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Is the food that people eat today in your country different to the food that people used to eat in
the past?
Sample response:
Yes, I think there are major differences between food preference then and now. In the past, Western
wasn’t really popular for the majority of Vietnamese people, but nowadays, there are already a lot of fast
food restaurants attracting lots of young people to eat hamburgers or pizza, so I think people these days
don’t eat as much healthy foods compared in the past. Also, I think people in the past are more concerned
of eating at the right time. However, nowadays, people tend to skip meals because of several reasons
such as dieting, busy schedules and what have you.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I think there are major differences between food preference then and now…
• I think there isn’t many changes between then and now…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

109
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

COOKING & SPECIAL OCCASIONS

PART 1
• How often do you cook?
• What dishes are you best at cooking?
• Does anyone in your family like to cook?
• Do your parents know how to cook?
PART 2

Describe a popular meal from your country that you like to eat
You should say:
• What the meal is
• When you eat it
• Why it’s popular in your country
And explain why you like it

PART 3
• What kinds of food are popular in your country?
• Is it true that each region has its own special food?
• Do you think that food plays an important part in festivals?
• How is food eaten on special occasions different from food eaten on ordinary days?

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111
Module 12 Transport

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
TRANSPORT
1. Rush hour (n)
/ˈrʌʃ aʊər/ A. The fastest rate at which you are
E.g: You should take alternate routes during the evening allowed to drive in a particular
rush hour. area
2. Gasoline / Petrol (n)
B. (Of a surface) Not even; with a lot
/ˈɡæsəliːn/ /ˈpetrəl/
of bumps
E.g: The price of gasoline has risen sharply in recent years.
3. Penalty (n)
C. Working or operating quickly and
/ˈpenəlti/
effectively in an organized way
E.g: There is some information about traffic violation
penalty fees for car drivers in Vietnam, you should read it
D. The busy part of the day when
before going there.
towns and cities are crowded,
4. Speed limit (n) either in the morning when
/ˈspiːd lɪmɪt/ people are travelling to work, or in
E.g: He was driving over the 40 kmph speed limit in the the evening when people are
city. travelling home
5. Commuter (n)
/kəˈmjuːtər/ E. A type of punishment, often
E.g: The five o’clock train is always packed with involving paying money, that is
commuters.

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 6. Jam-packed (adj) given to you if you break an
/ˌdʒæm ˈpækt/ agreement or do not follow rules
E.g: The train was jam-packed with commuters.
7. Efficient (adj) F. A liquid obtained from petroleum,
/ˈmærɪneɪt/ used as fuel in car engines, etc.
E.g: Bicycles are a cheap and efficient form of transport.
8. Bumpy (adj) G. Full of people or things that are
/ˈbʌmpi/ pushed closely together
E.g: The road was getting bumpier and we had to hold on
to our seats. H. Someone who regularly travels
9. Detour (n) between work and home
/ˈdiːtʊr/
E.g: We had to make a detour around the flooded fields. I. Repairs that are being done to the
10. Roadwork (n) road; an area where these repairs
/ˈrəʊdwɜːrk/ are being done
E.g: There are delays on the road because of roadwork.
J. A longer route that you take in
order to avoid a problem or to
visit a place

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to break down: (of a machine or vehicle) to stop working because of a fault
• to get itchy feet: to want to travel
• to hitch a lift: to get a free ride in a passing vehicle
• to be off the beaten track: to be in a place where few people go, far from any main roads and towns
• to travel light: to travel with a minimum load or minimum luggage.

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Review common conjunctions

Conjunctions Meanings Examples

because the reason why I usually go to work by train
because it’s convenient.
but in contrast I usually go to work by train,
but sometimes I walk.
and in addition I travel 27km by bus and 3km
by boat every day.
so the result of I don’t have a car, so I walk to
work every day.

113
 or another way/alternative I use a bicycle, or I walk to
school
then one thing happens after I walk to the bus stop. Then, I
another get on the bus.

D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
TRANSPORT

• What form of transport do you prefer to use? Why?

Sample response:
My preference is definitely motorbikes because of their reasonable price and convenience as well.
Compared to public transport, I can go to any destination I want by a motorbike without having to wait
for a long time, and it also doesn’t consume a lot of gasoline/petrol like cars or buses.
Suggested response:
• I prefer... because…
• My preference is... because...
• If I had the choice, I'd rather + V... because ...
• I have the choice, I'll + V …
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

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………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How much time do you spend travelling on a normal day?

Sample response:
Well, it normally takes me about an hour or so, since I have to commute from my home to my workplace
on a daily basis by a motorbike. If there’re a lot of traffic jams, it would take me longer because I have to
make a detour to avoid them.
Suggested response:
Well, it normally takes me about…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you use public transport? Why/Why not?

Sample response:
No, not so often, because I have my own motorbike, and my office is not far from home. Besides, there
aren’t any buses that go past my office, which is quite inconvenient to me. I only take a bus when I need
to travel to another district or province.

Suggested response:
• Definitely yes, because…
• No, not so often, because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How good is the public transport where you live?

Sample response:

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To be honest, the quality of public transport services in my hometown is poor. If I want to take a bus, I
usually have to walk a long distance to the nearest bus stop, and it takes me about 30 minutes to get
there, which is not convenient. Besides, although it’s quite easy to take a bus during daytime, it’s very
difficult to find one in the evenings, especially after 7pm.

Suggested response:
• I think it’s efficient up to a point…
• To be honest, the quality of public transport services in my hometown is poor…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

A. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Clarifying
• What I mean is …
• My meaning is ...
• In other words, …
• That is to say, ...
• Let me put that another way.
• To put that another way, ...
• What I'm trying to say is …
• My point is that ...
• More specifically, ...

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B. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe your favorite form of public transport

You should say:
• What type of the transport it is
• How often you use it
• Why it is your favorite
And explain why it is popular in your country

Suggestions
Candidates often misunderstand the meaning of
public transport. Public transport includes trains, buses, taxis, river ferries, underground trains (metro)
and trams. It does not include bicycles, cars or air travel. Buses or trains are probably the easiest to
describe.
Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary
Nouns: transport network, bus system, minicab, traffic, congestion, delay, fare, commuter, journey, rush
hour
Verbs: commute, catch a train/bus, travel
Adjectives: old-fashioned, modern, (in)efficient, well-organized, government-subsidized
Idioms:
Packed like sardines (= very crowded)
• During rush hour the buses are always jam-packed. Actually, the passengers are packed like
sardines.
Pile-up (= traffic accident)
• Sometimes there are serious pile-ups on the main roads.
Get stuck in traffic (= get stuck in a traffic jam)
• Buses always get stuck in traffic during rush hour.

Focus on Grammar
Use a mix of tenses:
• When I was younger, I used to take the train about one year.
• If I have the choice, I will generally opt to take a bus.
• The train system has recently been upgraded.

Sample Response

I’d like to talk about buses, which are the public transport that I like the most.

When I was a university student, I used to take a bus about nearly four years, because the university is
really far from my home. Back then, it took me about more or less than two hours to travel back and forth.
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During such a period of time, I could do plenty of things while sitting in the bus, like listening to music or
sleeping for a while before arriving in front of the university. However, since I’ve graduated, at the
moment I don’t use it to travel as often as I used to be, and I’ve owned a motorbike for quite a few years.
Sometimes I take a bus when I want to travel to another district or to the suburbs.

However, buses are still my favorite means of public transport for some reasons. One of them is their
reasonable price. What I mean is that their price is much cheaper than other means of transport like taxis
and trains, because they’re government-subsidized. Buses are also reasonably efficient at getting you
towards your final destination, and you don’t have to worry about getting stuck in traffic, so it is always
reassuring that you will probably get to wherever you are going on, like going to school or to work. I guess
the only thing making it inconvenient is that the buses are always jam-packed during rush hour, especially
in the evenings when the majority of passengers go home.

As for the popularity of this means of transport, as I’ve mentioned before, many Vietnamese people,
especially schoolchildren and university students, prefer travelling by buses because of its reasonable
price. Besides, as long as students bring their Student ID card when catching a bus, the bus fares will be
reduced. Bus travelling is also comfortable with most passengers because the air conditioning in these
buses is always adjusted, so that they don’t have to sit in their winter jacket all the time if it’s freezing
outside or sweat entire journey during summer season.

That’s all I want to talk about my favorite means of public transport.

Suggested Response

I’d like to talk about ………………………, which are the public transport that Your own keywords
I like the most. ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………..……………………………………………………………………………………………………. ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
It’s my favorite means of public transport for some reasons………………………………………………………………….…
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

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As for the popularity of this means of transport, ………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about my favorite form of public transport.

PART 3
TRANSPORT
• What types of public
transport can be found in
your country?
Sample response:
Well, there’s a mixed variety
of public transport in
Vietnam. When you want to
go to a specific destination,
you can find lots of buses and
taxis on the roads, or if you
want to travel to another
region or city, plane is also a
good choice. The way I see it, most people prefer travelling by buses because of their reasonable price
and convenience.

Suggested response:
Well, there’s a mixed variety of public transport in Vietnam…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Are there any public transport problems in your country?

Sample response:
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Yes, there are. Traffic congestion is more serious in Vietnam because there is a continuous increase of
private vehicles like cars and motorbikes. During peak times, vehicles are always jam-packed, and
sometimes there are serious pile-ups on the main roads. Additionally, lots of old vehicles make a lot of air
pollution, since in the past there weren’t many people take emissions into consideration when buying
them.

Suggested response:
Yes, there are…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What measures could be taken to reduce problems of congestion in cities?

Sample response:
There are many ways that congestion could be reduced in big cities. Using CCTV or closed-circuit television
at junctions is one of them, because this will allow traffic managers to see breakdowns, collisions and
other causes of congestion. Enforcing existing road traffic laws is also necessary. In other words,
governments can impose a stricter ban with heavier fine on traffic violation. This is because driving at an
inappropriate speed, jumping red lights, or driving through restricted areas all contribute to fatalities and
injuries, so it would be better to impose such law as early as possible.

Suggested response:
There are many ways that congestion could be reduced in big cities.
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

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HOMEWORK

TRANSPORT

PART 1
• What’s the most popular mode of transportation in your hometown?
• Which do you prefer: public or private transport?
• Do people in your country drive to work?
• Do you think people will drive more in the future?
PART 2

Describe a vehicle you would like to have

You should say:
• What it is
• How you first heard of it
• What it looks like and what it would be used for
And explain why you would like to own its

PART 3
• Do you think people like to travel far away from home? Why?
• Do you think that transport problems are worse in urban or rural areas?
• Has travel become safer in recent years than that was in the past?
• Should the government in a country focus more on rail transports or road transports? Why?

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122
Practice test 1
PART 1

In this first part I’d like to ask you some questions about yourself. So first of all let’s talk about where you
live.
TOPIC 1: House or flat
What kind of housing do you live in? / Do you live in a house or a flat?
Do you live alone or with your family?
Could you please describe the place you live in?
Is there anything which needs to be improved in your house/flat?

Now let’s move on to talking about reading.

TOPIC 2: Reading
Do you like reading?
What kind of books do you read?
Do you read electronic books?
Do you read books related to your profession?

Let’s talk about tea or coffee

TOPIC 3: Tea or Coffee
Do Vietnamese people like to drink tea or coffee?
Do you prepare tea or coffee for the guests at home?
When was the last time you drank tea or coffee?

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PART 2
OK, now I’m going to give you a topic and I’d like you to talk about it for one to two
minutes. Before you talk you’ll have one to two minutes to think about what you are
going to say and you can make some notes if you wish, do you understand?
I’d like you to describe a family member who you spend the most time with. (One
minute preparation)
OK, one minute is over. So remember you have one to two minutes to talk so don’t
worry if I stop you. I’ll tell you when the time is up…Can you start speaking now?

Describe a family member who you spend the most time with
You should say:
Who this person is?
What kind of person he /she is?
What you usually do together?
And explain why you spend most time with him/her?

PART 3
OK, we’ve been talking about a family member and now I’d like to discuss with you
some more general questions related to this.

- What are the benefits of younger and older generations living together?
- How about the drawbacks?
- Which do you prefer, support from family members or friends? Why?

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Practice test 2
PART 1:

In this first part I’d like to ask you some questions about yourself. So first of all let’s talk about your
hometown.
TOPIC 1: Hometown
What's the most attractive part of your hometown?
Has your hometown changed much in recent years?
For you, what benefits are there living in a big city?
Do you think you will be still living in your hometown in the future?

Now let’s move on to talking about food and cooking.

TOPIC 2: Food & Cooking
Who does most of the cooking in your house?
What kind of food do you cook or usually like to cook?
What is your favorite dish?
What do you think is the healthy diet?

Let’s talk about writing

TOPIC 3: Writing
What different types of writing do you do, for example letters, e-mails, reports or essays?
Do you prefer writing with a pen or using a computer?
Do you write more or less now than you did a few years ago?
Do you like to write stories or poems?

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PART 2

OK, now I’m going to give you a topic and I’d like you to talk about it for one to two minutes. Before you
talk you’ll have one to two minutes to think about what you are going to say and you can make some
notes if you wish, do you understand?
I’d like you to describe a new skill you learned that you think is important. (One minute preparation)
OK, one minute is over. So remember you have one to two minutes to talk so don’t worry if I stop you. I’ll
tell you when the time is up…Can you start speaking now?

Describe a new skill you learned that you think is important

You should say:
What it is
Whether it is difficult or not
How you learned it
And explain why you think it is important

PART 3
OK, we’ve been talking about a new skill you learned and now I’d like to discuss with you some more
general questions related to this.

- What skills are important for the success of business?

- What is the difference between required skills in the past and those at present?
- What kinds of skills should successful people have?
- Do you think teamwork and communicative skills are important? Why?

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Module 13 News Sources

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
NEWS SOURCES
1. Disclosure (n) A. Not allowed; banned
/ˈrʌʃ aʊər/
E.g: Any public disclosure of this information would be very B. Able to show good judgement
damaging to the company. about the quality of
2. Regulation (n) somebody/something
/ˌreɡjuˈleɪʃn/
E.g: They are introducing new policies and regulations for C. An official rule or the act of
e-commerce. controlling something
3. Controversial (adj)
/ˌkɑːntrəˈvɜːrʃl/ D. Saying that someone or something
E.g: They hold widely divergent opinions on controversial is bad or wrong
issues like abortion.
4. Critical (adj) E. To select or remove a particular
/ˈkrɪtɪkl/ type of information from
E.g: The report is highly critical of safety standards at the something
factory.
5. Prohibited (adj) F. The act of making something
/prəʊˈhɪbɪtɪd/ known or the fact that is made
E.g: Smoking on site is strictly prohibited. known

127
 6. Significant (adj)
/sɪɡˈnɪfɪkənt/ G. To refuse to give something or to
E.g: The 1992 reform made very significant contributions to keep back something
the development of many rural areas.
7. Discerning (adj) H. Extremely important or necessary
/dɪˈsɜːrnɪŋ/
E.g: The discerning customer will recognize this as a high- I. Causing disagreement or
quality product. discussion
8. Crucial (adj)
J. Large or important enough to
/ˈkruːʃl/
have an effect or to be noticed
E.g: Price will be a crucial factor in the success of this new
product.
9. Filter (v)
/ˈfɪltər/
E.g: Reports of the accident began to filter in.
10. Withhold (v)
/wɪθˈhəʊld/
E.g: She was accused of withholding information from the
police.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to be deceptive about sth: to be likely to believe something that is not true
• to keep sth under wraps: to keep something secret
• in moral grounds: because of reasons stemming from or relating to one's own personal moral or
ethical principles.
• in confidence: in secret or private
• at the discretion of sb: if something happens at someone's discretion, it can happen only if they
decide to do it or give their permission.

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Present Perfect Tense

This tense is used to talk about an action, which happened in the past, still has a connection with the
present.

Examples:
Have you ever read a newspaper from start to finish? Yes, I have.
Have you ever bought a magazine? Yes, I have. I bought my magazine when I was a teenager.

D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

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PART 1
NEWS SOURCES

• Have you ever read a foreign newspaper?

Sample response:
Yes, I have. I’ve read The Economist for nearly a year. It’s an international weekly newspaper printed in
magazine-format and published digitally that focuses on current affairs, international business, politics,
and technology. The most significant thing about this newspaper is that individual articles are written
anonymously.
Suggested response:
• Yes, I have. I’ve read… for…
• No, I haven’t…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How often do you read a newspaper?

Sample response:

129
Not often. I’m not really interested in reading newspapers, and I’m too busy with my work so I don’t have
much free time reading them. I only get news on social media like Facebook or Twitter.
Suggested response:
• I usually read it…
• Not often…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Which other sources can people use to find out about the latest news?
Sample response:
There are many of them that can be used to do so. I’ve seen many people get news on social media like
Facebook and Twitter, since there are many verified newspapers posting their news on this medium. TV
is another choice for people to update news. Most TV channels are on air 24/7, which means audiences
can choose any news channel that they want to watch.

Suggested response:
There are many of them that can be used to do so…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think that it's important to know about news from other countries? Why / Why not?
Sample response:
I think yes, because it’s nice to see what's going on and what are the other countries' aims, and it also
helps you to compare one country with another.

Suggested response:
• I think yes, because…
• I don’t think so, because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

130
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

A. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Suggested methods for preparing for Part 2 Talk
1. Put a clock, a stopwatch or some other timing device on your desk. If you can, set it so that it can
tell you when 1 minute has passed.
2. Have a piece of paper and a pencil ready for making notes.
3. If possible, have a tape recorder ready to record what you say. A recording of your 'little story' will
help you analyze how well you spoke and help you to fix some of your weaknesses in speaking.
However, if you don't use a tape recorder, don't worry too much because you will still get the
practice you need.
4. Now go to the new Part 2 topic (= a Part 2 topic that you have not read before) and strictly give
yourself only 1 minute to read it and prepare to answer it. Don't give yourself 2 minutes to think
about the topic and certainly don't give yourself 5 or 10 minutes to think about the topic. Make
notes if you want to. If I have a link to notes for this topic, don't read them now – wait until you
do your in-depth preparation after this first attempt at answering the question.
5. After you have thought about the topic for 1 minute, set the timer at 2 minutes, turn on the tape
recorder and speak your answer for more than 1 minute but no more than 2 minutes. Close to 2
minutes is much better than just a little more than 1 minute.
6. After you have spoken your little story, listen to yourself on the tape and think about ways you
could have spoken better.

B. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

131
 Describe a newspaper or magazine that you have read
You should say:
• What type of newspaper or magazine it is
• How often you read it
• What you like about it
And say whether it is popular in your country

Suggestions
It is probably easier to describe a magazine for this topic because magazines usually have more features
than newspaper. Choose a general lifestyle and interest magazine such as Forbes, Time, National
Geographic. However, if you want to describe a newspaper, you can talk about The Economist, VnExpress
or Tuổi Trẻ Newspaper.
Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary
Nouns: feature, editorial, comment, photojournalism, film and book reviews, headline
Verbs: publish, comment, edit
Adjectives: attention-grabbing, eye-catching, in-depth
Idioms:
Hot off the press (= freshly printed, as of a periodical.)
• The latest edition of the student newspaper is hot off the press, and my class is going to distribute it
at lunch.
Break the news (= to reveal information, often that which is bad or upsetting)
• Who is going to break the news of her husband's accident?
Take out a subscription (= pay for a subscription)
• I decided to take out a subscription to a gardening magazine.

132
Focus on Grammar
Try to use some past tenses as well as present tenses:
• I first came across this magazine when I was in university.
• I have been reading it for about 2 years now.
• I used to have a subscription (It was delivered to my address by post).

Sample Response

I’d like to talk about The Economist, which is one of some newspapers that I have read.

It’s an international weekly newspaper printed in magazine-format and published digitally that focuses on
current affairs, international business, politics, and technology.

Although I get news from The Economy every two weeks, I usually read an issue almost every day, because
there are a lot of in-depth articles to read. For me, news items in this newspaper are written coherently
and professionally. Besides, there has also been a complete audio edition of the paper available on every
Thursday, recording the full text of the newspaper in MP3 format. Audio files for each newspaper issue
are free for subscribers and available for a fee for non-subscribers.

There are many things I like about this newspaper. It’s a liberal magazine generally in favor of free markets
and global trade, which means I can gain a lot of knowledge about many different topics as well as current
affairs around the world, and it’s very concise and also structured in a way which allows me to ignore
sections which aren't relevant to my interests. Besides, although I admit that The Economist is denser and
a more far more demanding read than others like The New York Times or BBC News, the way I see it, it
provides more insight and more analysis regarding economics and current affairs.

That’s all I want to talk about this newspaper.

Suggested Response

I’d like to talk about ……………………………………, which is one of some Your own keywords
newspapers/magazines that I have read. ………………….………………………
It’s …………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………..……………………………………………………………………………………………………. ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

133
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
There are many things I like about this newspaper/magazine…………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about this newspaper/magazine.

PART 3
NEWS SOURCES

134
 • How do most people get their news in your country?
Sample response:
Well, in Vietnam, there are many ways to do so depending on regions and groups of people. People living
in rural areas usually buy traditional newspapers or watch TV on a regular basis, as telecommunication
infrastructure and economic growth are still developing in these areas. However, in more economically
developed areas like big cities, using the Internet and mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets are
more common ways to update news instantly.

Suggested response:
Well, in Vietnam, there are many ways to do so…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How do you think people will get their news in the future?
Sample response:
I think in the future, people will prefer to use the Internet and their mobile devices to update news rather
than traditional newspapers and TV. This is because compared to traditional means of communication,
the Internet and mobile devices can offer instant news much faster. For example, many Vietnamese
people, especially young ones, usually use their smartphones or tablets to gain access to online
newspapers or social websites like Facebook or Twitter to update news around the world.

Suggested response:
I think in the future, people will prefer to… rather than… This is because…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you believe everything you read in the newspapers?

Sample response:
Not always. I know that before being published, many pieces of news and lots of stories in the newspapers
are edited and checked thoroughly by newspaper providers. The way I see it, most reports in newspapers
135
are biased in favor of one political party or a specific author’s perspective, which results in unreliable
information. In other words, I’ve seen journalists sometimes make claims in their reporting without
including evidence to back them up, and this can occur in the headline of an article or in the body.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I do…
• Not always…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

NEWS SOURCES

PART 1
• Do you often read newspapers?
• Do you prefer to read local news or International news?
• Which is more popular where you live, newspapers or magazines?
• Do you think newspapers will be very important to you in the future?

PART 2

Describe an interesting news that you read in the newspaper

You should say:
• What it was
• In which newspaper you read it
• When it happened
And explain why you think this news is interesting

PART 3
• How do the newspapers market themselves for increasing sales?
• What kind of marketing practices do these newspapers use?
• Do you think newspapers manipulate real stores for increasing their sales?

136
137
Module 14 Leisure Activities

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
LEISURE ACTIVITIES
1. Pastime (n) A. The skills of making objects, such
/ˈpæstaɪm/ as decorations, furniture, and
E.g: Watching television is still the most popular national pottery (= objects made from
pastime. clay) by hand
2. Indoor (adj)
/ˈɪndɔːr/ B. Having or involving a lot of energy
E.g: Cooking and watching TV are indoor pastimes.
3. Outdoor (adj) C. The activity of inviting people to
/ˈaʊtdɔːr/ your home and giving them food
E.g: I enjoy outdoor pursuits, like hiking and riding. and drink
4. Arts and crafts (n)
/ˌɑːrts ən ˈkræfts/ D. Any of many games, for example
E.g: The gallery has major exhibitions of arts and crafts. chess, in which small pieces are
5. Board game (n) moved around on a board with a
/ˈbɔːrd ɡeɪm/ pattern on it

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 E.g: All our old board games like Monopoly were gathering
dust in a closet. E. To select or remove a particular
6. Entertaining (n) type of information from
/ˌentərˈteɪnɪŋ/ something
E.g: We do a lot of entertaining.
7. Beneficial (adj) F. Existing, happening, or done
/ˌbenɪˈfɪʃl/ outside, rather than inside a
E.g: Relaxation classes can be beneficial to people of all building
ages.
G. Not changing and therefore boring
8. Energetic (adj)
/ˌenərˈdʒetɪk/
H. An activity that is done for
E.g: I tried aerobics but it was too energetic for me.
enjoyment
9. Challenging (adj)
/ˈtʃælɪndʒɪŋ/
I. Helpful, useful, or good
E.g: She doesn't find the general knowledge crossword
challenging enough.
J. Difficult, in a way that tests your
10. Monotonous (adj)
ability or determination
/məˈnɑːtənəs/
E.g: The housewives were asked if they found housework
monotonous.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to take part in (an activity): to do an activity with other people
• to do sth for fun: to do something just for pleasure
• to be keen on sth: to enjoy doing something
• to be into sth: to be interested in something
• to be a fan of sth: to like doing something a lot
• to chill out: to relax completely, or not allow things to upset you
• to take up a hobby / take a hobby up: to start a new hobby
• to hang out (with sb): to spend time with someone

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Adverbial phrases
Adverbial phrases can express why we do something: purpose.

Examples:
• I like to chat with my friends online for fun.
• I also love going to the movies to relax.

There are two basic groups of adverbial phrases:

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 • to + verb: to relax, to spend time with my friends, to enjoy myself, to have fun, to be creative, …
• for + noun: for fun, for enjoyment, for entertainment, for communication, …

D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
LEISURE ACTIVITIES

• What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Sample response:
Well, I love listening to music in my spare time. It
makes me feel better after a long day at work,
especially when I listen to the music type I love (my
favorite genres of music), like rap and rock.
Suggested response:
• I love… in my spare time…
• … is my favorite leisure activity…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What did you enjoy doing in your free time as a child?

Sample response:
When I was around 10 years old, I was into computer games a lot. I used to play them for a long time,
probably a few hours on weekdays and about 7 to 8 hours at weekends to have fun. I usually stayed up
late at night to play games and then woke up really late with tired eyes (the next day with panda – eyes)
Suggested response:
When I was (around/about) … years old, I…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

140
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you prefer to spend your free time with other people or alone?
Sample response:
I prefer to be alone in my spare time, because it will help me to get things done. When I’m alone, I won’t
be interrupted to work or relax, and I often do a lot more stuff when there are no distractions.

Suggested response:
• I think I prefer… because…
• My preference is… because…
• If I had the choice, I'd rather + V... because...
• If I have the choice, I'll + V… because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Is there some other hobby or sport you would like to try? Why?
Sample response:
Yes, there is. I’d like to take up musical instruments, especially the guitar. I believe that playing them is
can help me to relieve stress. Besides, if I play these instruments well, I can join a musical group to both
develop my skills and relationships with new kinds of people as well.

Suggested response:
• Yes, there is. I’d like to take up…
• No, I don’t have any, really…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

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PART 2

A. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Talking about personal experiences in Part 2 Talk
In Part 1 of the Speaking test, you will have the chance to talk about your experiences on a variety of
familiar topics. In addition, in Part 2 of the Speaking test you will be asked to talk for 1 to 2 minutes on
a topic that will also be based on your personal experiences. Although you probably won’t find Part 1
questions difficult to answer, it is important that you vary your language when introducing personal
experiences. Here are some examples of phrases you can use:
• I once…
• I remember when…
• Back when I was…
• I don’t remember exactly when, but…
• (Just) the other day…

B. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe your favorite leisure activity

You should say:
• What the hobby is
• What you like about it
• Why you started doing it
And say whether this hobby is popular in your country

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Suggestions
This is probably the easiest of all Part Two Topics. It really doesn’t matter what hobby you describe.
Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary
Nouns: leisure pursuit, spare time, pastime
Verbs: amuse oneself by, unwind by, kill time by
Adjectives: fascinating, captivating, time-consuming, appealing
Idioms:
Take up (= start)
• I’ve recently taken up swimming.
Take part in (= to do an activity with other people)
• I frequently take part in group activities.
Get into (= enjoy)
• Recently I’ve been getting into fishing.
Have a go at (= try)
• I’d really like to have a go at guitar.

Focus on Grammar
You can use a wide range of tenses:
• I’ve been doing this for years.
• I originally took up this activity 4 years ago.
• I used to do it every day but now I only spend a few hours a week doing it.
• I will never forget the first time I tried this.

Sample Response

Well, I guess one of my favorite leisure pursuits is playing the guitar.

I took up this hobby when I was a university student. Back then, my older brother taught me some basic
guitar techniques, and then I learnt how to play the guitar by watching some YouTube tutorial videos and
surfing some guitar websites. I also frequently took part in a musical group to both develop my skills and
relationships with new kinds of people as well.

There are many things I like about this hobby. I feel relaxed when I play the guitar, and I think that it can
help me relieve stress. The other reason I like it is that my favorite songs can be played by the guitar.
Whether I enjoy acoustic, folk to metal, rock or pop, many songs can be played using this musical
instrument. Even if the song doesn’t contain guitar parts, it can still be played. Once the chords are learnt,
it is simple to strum along to my favorite songs and feel good about it!

I think this pastime is very popular in Vietnam, because lots of people know others who play the guitar
that has inspired them to want to learn. As well as this, the idea of playing it with friends and family sounds
inspiring to the majority of young people. Also, as I’ve said earlier, there are some basic chords that once
143
you’ve mastered them, you can play lots of popular songs, since lots of popular music in Vietnam have
common chord progressions and simple strumming patterns.

That’s all I want to talk about my favorite pastime.

Suggested Response

Well, I guess one of my favorite leisure pursuits is.................................... Your own keywords
I took up this hobby when ………………….………………………………………….…….. ………………….………………………
………..……………………………………………………………………………………………………. ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
There are many things I like about this hobby …………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
I think this pastime is very popular in Vietnam, because…………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about my favorite pastime.

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PART 3
LEISURE ACTIVITIES

• How have the type of leisure activities changed in your country over the last fifty years?
Sample response:
I think there have been many changes of these activities in Vietnam over the last five decades. People
used to do a lot of group activities like playing cards or sports. However, nowadays they’re more likely to
use the Internet to play games or stream music videos. As well as this, children used to play outside with
others more often, whereas now they spend lots of their free time inside to sleep or watch TV.

Suggested response:
I think there have been many changes of these activities in Vietnam over the last five decades…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Why do you think older generation enjoy different leisure activities to the younger generation?
Sample response:
Well, it seems to me that most old people are less energetic than young ones, so they need less energetic
activities. For example, I’ve seen many old people in Vietnam enjoy indoor pastimes, like board games
and embroidery, as these pastimes don’t require a lot of energy as playing sports. In contrast, there’s an
increasing tendency among the young generation to use technology in their free time, since they grow up
in a different era to the older generation. To put that another way, most young people often use laptops
or smartphones to surf the Web and listen to music.
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Suggested response:
Well, it seems to me that most old people… In contrast, …

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do men and women enjoy the same type of leisure activities?

Sample response:
No, I don’t think so. Although there are some hobbies that both genders are interested in like going to the
cinema and listening to music, it seems to me that there are other hobbies that are more popular with
one gender. For example, there are much more men of all ages love watching or playing soccer, while
dancing and embroidery are more preferable for the majority of women.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I think so…
• No, I don’t think so…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

LEISURE ACTIVITIES

PART 1
• What do you usually do after work or classes?
• Do you prefer staying at home or going out during evenings?
• Do you like to travel in holidays?
• What do you like to do in the weekends?

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PART 2

Describe a new sport or hobby you would like to take up

You should say:
• What it is
• Why you like it
• How you would start it
And explain why you want to start it

PART 3
• What kind of free-time activities are typical in your country?
• In your opinion, who is responsible for encouraging children to take up different leisure
pursuits?
• Do you think people have less time for leisure activities now compared to the past?
• Do you think that technology has changed the types of leisure activities we enjoy these days?

147
148
Module 15 Technology & Equipment

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
TECHNOLOGY & EQUIPMENT
1. Gadget (n)
/ˈɡædʒɪt/ A. A network where users can access
E.g: Nowadays almost everybody owns a gadget. the Internet without the use of
fixed cables
2. Wi-Fi hotspot (n)
/ˈwaɪ.faɪ ˈhɑːtspɑːt/
B. Modern, recent, or containing the
E.g: Our university has a Wi-Fi hotspot, which is very
latest information
convenient.
3. Wireless network (n) C. Easy for people who are not
/ˈwaɪr.ləs ˈnetwɜːrk/ experts to use or understand
E.g: We have installed a wireless network at home.
4. Cutting-edge (adj) D. Very modern and with all the
/ˌkʌtɪŋ ˈedʒ/ newest features
E.g: Tech giant Apple is reportedly planning to release three
cutting-edge iPhones next year. E. A person who is expert in or
5. Advanced (adj) enthusiastic about technology,
/ədˈvænst/ especially computers
E.g: Japan has very advanced technology.
6. Up-to-date (adj)

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 /ˌʌp tə ˈdeɪt/ F. An advanced piece of technology,
E.g: Teenagers think it is important to have the most up-to- like smartphone
date technology.
7. User-friendly (adj) G. Media used to interact with other
/juːzər ˈfrendli/ people
E.g: Modern mobile phones such as the iPhone are very
user-friendly. H. A public place where you can
8. Social media (n) access the Internet
/ˌenərˈdʒetɪk/
E.g: Facebook is the biggest social media in the world. I. To open a computer file (= a
collection of stored information),
9. Techie (n)
a website, etc. in order to look at
/ˈteki/
or change information in it
E.g: The latest innovation came from a bunch of young
techies in the research lab.
J. Modern and well developed
10. Access (v)
/ˈækses/
E.g: Most people use their phones to access the Internet.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to access websites/email: to visit websites/email
• to back up files: to make a copy of files in case of a computer problem
• to be stuck behind a computer: to use computer for a long period of time
• to boot up: to start a computer
• to browse websites: to search for websites
• to go online: to use the Internet
• to navigate a website: to find what you need on the website
• to pull the plug: to end an activity
• to surf the web: to look through websites, searching for something you need, or simply for
entertainment

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Auxiliary verbs and adverbs to talk about the future (won’t, might/may, could, will probably, will)
Examples:
• Mandarin will probably be the most popular language.
• English probably won’t be useful anymore!
• I will definitely pass the final exam.
• I definitely won’t be at school.

D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

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PART 1
TECHNOLOGY & EQUIPMENT
• Do you enjoy using technology?
Sample response:
Definitely yes. I usually use my computer and smartphone every day to go online. It’s really convenient
because I can access websites and email
Suggested response:
• Definitely yes…
• No, not really…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you use the Internet for your studies?

Sample response:
Definitely yes. I’m a university student, so I have to go online to read articles from reliable sources on a
regular basis. Besides, since I’m studying English language, I usually access online dictionaries to look up
some new words I don’t understand when reading articles written in English.
Suggested response:
• Definitely yes…
• No, not really…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you have your own computer?

Sample response:
Yes, I do. I have a desktop PC with high speed at home, which makes my studying day feel easy. I also have
a laptop to use whenever I have to go to university. Despite not being as fast as the desktop PC, it’s very
convenient and portable.

Suggested response:
151
• Yes, I do…
• No, I don’t have any…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think it is important to learn how to use a computer?

Sample response:
Yes, I believe so. Being computer-literate is necessary because most human activities are done by using
computers. If people know how to use a computer, they will work or study more effectively.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I believe so.
• No, I don’t think so…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

A. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Talking about personal experiences in Part 2 Talk
In Part 1 of the Speaking test, you will have the chance to talk about your experiences on a variety of
familiar topics. In addition, in Part 2 of the Speaking test you will be asked to talk for 1 to 2 minutes on
a topic that will also be based on your personal experiences. Although you probably won’t find Part 1
questions difficult to answer, it is important that you vary your language when introducing personal
experiences. Here are some examples of phrases you can use:
• I once…
• I remember when…
• Back when I was…
• I don’t remember exactly when, but…
• (Just) the other day…

152
B. FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe something useful you use every day

You should say:
• What the object is
• What you use it for
• Why it is useful
And say whether it was expensive to buy

Suggestions
Many people describe computers or mobile phones. These are fine but you must remember to use some
topic-specific vocabulary in your description – don’t just list different functions and features.
Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary
Nouns: laptop, desktop PC, tablet, worldwide web, online shopping, chat, forum, online gaming
Verbs: surf (the Web/the Net), browse (website), sit in front of (the computer)
Adjectives: digital, electronic, virtual, computer-literate, handy (= useful), versatile, multifunctional,
multipurpose, indispensable, valuable to…
Idioms:
Call up (= find and read)
• I can use the Internet to call up current news items.
Do by hand
• I prefer to do some tasks by hand, like writing letters.

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Focus on Grammar
You can use many different tenses for this topic:
• I make use of it …
• I’ve had it for 2 years …
• I originally bought it ….
• My life would be difficult without it because …
• I couldn’t imagine life without it.

Sample Response

Well, I’d like to talk about my desktop PC, which is one of some handy things that I use every day.

I use this computer for many reasons. Online gaming is one of them, because I’m a big fan of games, and
I usually spend a few hours to play games with many players and my friends for entertainment. As well as
this, I also love going online shopping. I often sit in front of the computer to surf some online websites,
buying some items like books and some pairs of shoes as well. Besides, sometimes I chat with my friends
and my coworkers on some social media websites like Facebook and Twitter.

This computer is handy to me, because it can help me do a lot of activities more effectively rather than by
hand. Besides, I’m computer-literate, so I’m not faced with a lot of difficulties when using it and I usually
make use of it whenever I can. In other words, this computer is indispensable to me, and I couldn’t imagine
life without it.

As for whether it’s expensive to buy, I’d say that mine is not that expensive. I bought the desktop PC from
DELL about many years ago, and it just took me about 500$, which I think is a reasonable price compared
to other brands like HP or Alienware.

That’s all I want to talk about something that is valuable to me.

Suggested Response

Well, I’d like to talk about …………………………………………………, which is Your own keywords
one of some handy things that I use every day. ………………….………………………
I use it for many reasons. .………………….………………………………………….…….. ………………….………………………
………..……………………………………………………………………………………………………. ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
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I think this gadget/device is useful because ……………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
As for whether it’s expensive to buy, I’d say that………….…………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about something useful/handy/valuable to me.

PART 3
TECHNOLOGY & EQUIPMENT

• Do you think people need to know much about computers?

155
Sample response:
Yes, I believe so. This is because if they’re computer-literate, they will probably work or study more
effectively. In order to do this, there’s definitely a couple of things everyone should know about using a
computer. For example, they need to know how to navigate a website and enter a web address when
using a Web browser like Chrome or Firefox, and it’s also necessary to be able to surf the net for the
information they need.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I believe so. This is because…
• No, not really. This is because…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How much has technology improved how we communicate with each other?
Sample response:
Well, thanks to technology, I think there have been many changes regarding communication. It has
profoundly affected our ways of communication and made it more accessible and affordable. For example,
it would be difficult to communicate with a person living in a foreign country, but recently thanks to some
available online chatting apps like Skype and Facebook Messengers, we can contact anyone we want
regardless of distance and time difference.

Suggested response:
Well, thanks to technology, I think there have been many changes regarding communication…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do men and women view technological devices differently?

Sample response:
Yes, I do. The way I see it, men are more interested in technological gadgets than the other gender. I mean,
most of those men are techies, so they want to try using as a lot of gadgets as possible and learn all their
156
new functions as well. The majority of women, however, just simply consider smartphones and tablets as
means of communication with others to perform a particular function, like chatting with their friends
online and calling their friends and family.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I do…
• No, I don’t…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

TECHNOLOGY & EQUIPMENT

PART 1
• Do you use any gadgets on a daily basis?
• Has the Internet made your job / studies easier?
• How much time do you spend using a computer at work or at home?
• Have you ever bought anything online?

PART 2

Describe a piece of electronic equipment that you use often (except computers)
You should say:
• What it is
• Where/When you bought it
• What you use it for
And explain why you like it

PART 3
• What are the advantages of smart phones these days?
• In the future people’s work are heavily affected by technology. Do advantages outweigh the
disadvantages?
• Do you agree that there are still many more major technological innovations to be made?
• Could you suggest some reasons why some people are deciding to reduce their use of
technology?

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158
Module 16 Money & Finance

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
MONEY & FINANCE
1. Wealthy (adj) A. The money earned by an
/ˈwelθi/ employee, esp. when paid for the
E.g: With their natural resources, they are potentially a very hours worked
wealthy country.
2. Generous (adj) B. To be able to buy or do something
/ˈdʒenərəs/ because you have enough money
E.g: It was generous of you to lend me the money. or time
3. Pricey (adj)
/ˈpraɪsi/ C. An amount of money that parents
E.g: Eating out is a bit pricey. regularly give to their child to
4. Wages (n) spend as they choose
/ˈweɪ·dʒəz/
E.g: They are prepared to work for wages well below the D. An amount of money that is given
legal minimum. to somebody regularly or for a
5. Salary (n) particular purpose
/ˈsæləri/
E.g: She's on quite a decent salary in her present job. E. A fixed amount of money agreed
6. Allowance (n) every year as pay for an
/əˈlaʊəns/ employee, usually paid directly
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 E.g: I couldn't have managed at college if I hadn't had an into his or her bank account every
allowance from my parents. month
7. Discount (n)
/ˈdɪskaʊnt/ F. Having a lot of money,
E.g: They usually give you a discount if you buy multiple possessions, etc.
copies.
8. Pocket money (n) G. Something on sale at a lower price
/ˈpɑːkɪt mʌni/ than its true value
E.g: My dad gives me £5 a week pocket money.
H. Expensive
9. Bargain (n)
/ˈbɑːrɡən/
I. A reduction in the usual price
E.g: The airline regularly offers last-minute bookings at
bargain prices. J. Modern and well developed
10. Afford (v)
/əˈfɔːrd/
E.g: I don't know how he can afford a new car on his salary.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to pay (sb) back (sth): to return money that you borrowed from somebody
• to build up savings: to create or develop savings
• to live on minimum wage: to live on the lowest wage that an employer is allowed to pay by law
• to give a deposit: to give a sum of money into a bank account
• to run out of money: to have no money left

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Collocations
Many words in English often ‘go together’ with other words. This is called ‘collocation’.
Examples:
• spend money
• earn money
• make money
• save money
• waste money
• borrow money
• lend money
• …

It’s a good idea to use collocations in the Speaking test. This shows examiner that you have a good
vocabulary. Therefore, it’s necessary to make a list of useful words and add to the list as you see new

160
 words when you read and listen, and also to write down words which go together. You may want to
group words under headings to help you remember them.

D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
MONEY & FINANCE

• Is money important to you?

Sample response:
Absolutely yes. If I have enough money, I can take care of myself and my family as well. Besides, I can do
a lot of things when I have a lot of money, like going shopping and spending money on my favorite food
and drinks. I think having enough money makes my life more meaningful.
Suggested response:
• Absolutely yes…
• No, not really…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

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 • Are you good at saving money?
Sample response:
No, I don’t think I’m good at it. In fact, it’s been a serious issue to me, since I usually buy things on
impulse when I go to a supermarket. That’s the reason why I generally run out of money at the end of
the month.
Suggested response:
• Yes, I think so.
• No, I don’t think I’m good at it…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think it is ok to lend money to friends or family members?

Sample response:
Yes, I think it’s acceptable to some extent. Although I don’t really like some people who borrow money
from others too much, it’s okay to lend some money to others as long as it serves a good cause.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I think it’s acceptable to some extent…
• Definitely not…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think you will have lots of money in future?

Sample response:
Actually, I’m not sure about this. Right now, I can only say that I’m working hard to get a better well-paid
job, but I don’t know how long it will probably take me to do so. But in the future, I’ll definitely maintain
a good lifestyle and invest a lot of money on gold and government stocks.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I believe so.

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• No, I don’t think so…
• Actually, I’m not sure about this…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe something you have bought recently

You should say:
• What it was
• Where you bought it
• Whether it was good value
And explain why you bought it

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Suggestions
You can choose anything that you have bought recently – a car, a bicycle, etc. The most important thing
is to try to expand your answers as much detail as possible based on the given bullet points
Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary
Nouns: retailer, price tag, bargain
Verbs: purchase (= buy), splash out on (= pay a lot of money for), be good value
Adjectives: luxurious, pricey (= expensive), discounted, popular

Focus on Grammar
You can use past tenses and present tenses for this topic:
• I recently bought…
• I went to a supermarket, and while I was walking around…
• It’s very useful to me because…
• Since then, I’ve kept this item for quite a long time…

Sample Response

Well, I’d like to talk about my Samsung Galaxy S9 Phone, which I bought recently.

I bought it a year ago when I went to a local mobile phone shop called FPT Shop. I went there because it
sells a variety of mobile phones from different brands, and I preferred Samsung Galaxy S9 for some reason.
Back then, I needed a clear and high-resolution camera to take pictures, and I also needed to browse the
Internet on the mobile when I am out as well. The phone that I bought cost me about nearly 10 million
VND, which was a large amount of money for me since I was only a university student then. I knew that
there were some less pricey phones from other brands, but I decided to choose this phone.

As for its value, it’s definitely handy to me. Although I have my own desktop PC at home, I usually have to
go out of my home on a regular basis due to work requirements, so I use the phone for browsing the
Internet. Besides, since this is an android device, I can easily install my preferred apps or games from
Google Play and often play these games in my leisure time. In other words, I’m happy with the phone
indeed.

That’s all I want to talk about something I purchased recently.

Suggested Response

Well, I’d like to talk about ……………………………………………………………………., Your own keywords

which I bought recently. ………………….………………………
I bought it when ……………..………………….………………………………………….…….. ………………….………………………
………..……………………………………………………………………………………………………. ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

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………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………….
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
As for its value, …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about something I purchased recently.

PART 3
FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE
Comparison questions in Part 3
When you answer Comparison questions in Part 3, be sure to use contrast connectives, such as:
but / whereas / on the other hand / however

MONEY & FINANCE

165
 • Could you tell me how people express wealth and affluence in your country?
Sample response:
Well, I’m convinced that clothes and private vehicles are the most common things for many people to
show their status in Vietnam. For example, wealthy people might wear expensive labels as a symbol of
their status or drive an expensive car to show they have lots of money. Some others, like a CEO or a doctor,
consider their job as an expression of wealth.

Suggested response:
Well, I’m convinced that…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What are the advantages and disadvantages of consumerism?

Sample response:
Well, I believe that consumerism is positive in terms of creating jobs and boosting the economy. What I
mean is, the more things people buy, the greater the need for production, so more people will be
employed. However, the most significant drawback of consumerism is that become too concerned about
buying the latest product or item, which I think make many people become greedier. In other words, I’ve
seen many, especially the young generation, want to have what others have.

Suggested response:
I believe that consumerism is positive in terms of…
However, the most significant drawback of consumerism is that…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How do you think technology has affected purchasing behavior?

Sample response:
I think it has considerable impacts on the way people purchase things, actually. Take the Internet as an
example. People can buy things from all over the world, so they have much more choices. I mean, they
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can buy things online on a computer or by a smartphone regardless of geographical distance or locations.
Technology has change shopping patterns considerably, and I think it’s a remarkable improvement.

Suggested response:
• I think it has considerable impacts on the way people purchase things, actually…
• I suppose it doesn’t have many significant effects on the way people spend their money buying
things…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

MONEY & FINANCE

PART 1
• When was the last time you lend someone money?
• When did you borrow money last time?
• Do you think you’re a generous person?
• Have you found any bargains recently?

PART 2

Describe something you bought which you were not happy with
You should say:
• What the thing was
• Where / When you bought it
• Why you were not happy with it
And say what you did about the situation

PART 3
• Why is it important for people to save some of their money?
• In your view, should children be taught how to manage money?
• Do you think that girls are better at saving money than boys?
• Do you think money make people happy?

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168
Module 17 Employment

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
EMPLOYMENT
1. Self-employed (adj)
/ˌself ɪmˈplɔɪd/ A. A period of time working as an
E.g: I decided to become self-employed. apprentice; a job as an apprentice
2. Sedentary (adj)
/ˈsednteri/ B. A building or room where people
E.g: My doctor says I should start playing sport because my perform their jobs, or these places
lifestyle is too sedentary. generally
3. Well-paid (adj)
C. (Of work, activities, etc.) In which
/ˌwel ˈpeɪd/
E.g: She was not well-paid and found it difficult to provide you spend a lot of time sitting
for her family. down
4. Apprenticeship (n)
D. To be responsible for controlling
/əˈprentɪʃɪp/
or organizing someone or
E.g: He had served his apprenticeship as a plumber.
something, especially a business
5. Certificate (n)
or employees
/sərˈtɪfɪkət/
E.g: She has a certificate in Drama Education.
E. A document given by a college or
6. Diploma (n)
university to show that you have
/dɪˈpləʊmə/
passed a particular exam or
E.g: It’s hard to find a good job if you don’t have a high
finished your studies
school diploma.
7. Promotion (n)
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 /prəˈməʊʃn/ F. Not working for an employer but
E.g: Her promotion to Sales Manager took everyone by finding work for yourself or having
surprise. your own business
8. Workplace (n)
/ˈwɜːrkpleɪs/ G. Something on sale at a lower price
E.g: In the new digital workplace, employers are finding it than its true value
difficult to recruit individuals with experience in growing e-
businesses. H. Earning or paying a lot of money
9. Manage (v)
/ˈmænɪdʒ/ I. To share or exchange information,
E.g: Organizers are looking for someone to manage the news, ideas, feelings, etc.
project.
10. Communicate (v) J. The act of raising someone to a
/kəˈmjuːnɪkeɪt/ higher or more important position
E.g: We only communicate by email. or rank

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to be your own boss/to run your own business/to be self-employed: to have your own business
• to be a good team player: to be somebody who can work well with other people
• to be stuck behind a desk: to be unhappy in an office job
• to be/get stuck in a rut: to be in a boring job that is hard to leave
• to take early retirement: to retire early (retire: to reach an age when you are allowed to stop working
for a living)
• to be well paid: to earn a good salary
• to work with your hands: to do manual work

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Like or Would like

To talk about things we enjoy doing now, we use:
• I like doing…
• I like to do…

To talk about something that we want to do in the future, we use:

• I would do (I’d do) …
• I would like to do (I’d like to do) …

D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
EMPLOYMENT
170
 • What’s your current job?
Sample response:
I’m currently working for a language center called Vietop as an English language teacher. I was called for
an interview a year ago, and soon afterwards I joined there. I’ve been a full-time employee since then.

Suggested response:
• I’m (currently) working for… as a/an…
• Actually, I’m still unemployed/a student…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Why did you choose that job?

Sample response:
Well, this is because I’m really interested in teaching profession, and I usually have a lot of fun with my
students during lessons. Besides, I am offered a good wage there, so I don’t have to worry much about
money.
Suggested response:
Well, this is because… and… Besides, …
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
171
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you get on well with your co-workers?

Sample response:
Yes, I think so. My coworkers are really friendly, and they usually help me when I’m in need. We also
nearly the same age as each other, so we have a lot in common. I mean, we all love listening to music
and reading books.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I think so…
• No, not really…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What was your first day at work like?

Sample response:
Well, I’ve been working there for more than 2 years, so it’s quite difficult for me to remember clearly my
first day at work, but from my vague memory, it was fantastic since my coworkers were really nice to get
along with.

Suggested response:
• Well, my first day at work was…
• Well, it’s quite difficult for me to remember clearly my first day at work, but…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

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PART 2

FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe your dream job

You should say:
• What the job is
• What you would have to do every day
• What skills or qualifications you would need
And explain why you would like this job

Suggestions
Choose any job that involves a variety of activities (a travel guide, a journalist, a teacher, etc.). Then you
can talk about many aspects of the job as well as the job itself.

Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary

Nouns: profession, line of business, occupation, line of work
Verbs: be involved in…, share responsibility for…, work within a team…
Adjectives: hectic, exhausting, taxing, intricate, undemanding
Idioms:
Work flat out (= work very hard)
• Sometimes I have to work flat out.
173
On the go (= very busy)
• I've been on the go all day, and I'm really tired.
Get to the bottom of (= solve)
• I'm not sure what is causing the problem, but I'm determined to get to the bottom of it.
Take charge of (= manage)
• His boss asked him to take charge of the office for a few days while she was away.

Focus on Grammar
You must use conditional structures:
• I guess my dream job would be something like…
• It would allow me to…
• I would have the opportunity to…
• It might even be possible for me to…

Sample Response

Well, I guess my dream job would be something like teaching, which is a job that I’m really interested in.
I have always wanted to become a teacher, because I’ve been inspired by many teachers who taught me
when I was a student. They not only taught me about the book and course related to it, but they also
taught me about life and realistic things. In fact, I’d probably enjoy being an English language teacher, as
this language is what I find intriguing and fascinating.

As far as I know, there are many different aspects of my job comprising different skills. When it comes to
teaching, this occupation involves teaching students general English, academic English, exams and so on.
This requires a detailed knowledge of grammar, syntax as well as teaching methods, which would allow
me to give myself a challenge and learn more about this job. It might be even be possible for me to carry
out some tasks like marking essays, filling out attendance sheets and writing reports.

When it comes to working environment, I suppose I would have the opportunity to work and be trained
on a regular basis. To be able to be a good teacher, I would like to get to know how to communicate with
students in order to take charge of my classes better, as well as how to deal with conflicts and get to the
bottom of them when they arise during lessons, otherwise it would be exhausting when I don’t know how
to do so. In Ho Chi Minh City, there are a lot of public and private schools that I can choose to work, but I
guess private schools are my preferable choice, because it would allow me to have a better income and
career prospects in comparison with public ones.

Finally, being an English teacher is an important goal for me to work harder. Therefore, I need to improve
my teaching skills as well as getting teaching qualifications like TESOL or CELTA, which are requirements
in order to teach English in most language schools, so that I’ll be suitably qualified for this job.

That’s all I want to talk about my dream job.

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Suggested Response

I’m going to talk about………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
I have always wanted to become…, because………………………………………………………………………………...............
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
As far as I know, there are many different aspects of my job involving different skills. …………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
When it comes to working environment, ………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Finally, ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about my dream job.

PART 3
FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE
Talking about future trends and changes in Part 3
Below are some useful phrases to talk about future trends and changes:
• In the future, …
• In the next 5 years, …

175
 • Over the course of this century, …
• Over the next decade, …
• In years to come, …
• In 50 years from now, …

EMPLOYMENT

• What do you think

workplace will be like in
the future?
Sample response:
Well, it’s very hard to say,
but I guess in years to come,
communication within the
workplace will be
completely streamlined.
This is because the modern
workplace has undergone
dramatic changes, in which
digital platforms have had a
massive impact on the way
we work and how we use
our offices. There are a growing number of open platforms like Slack, which allow for instant
communication and collaboration. Emails will probably still be used in the future, but software will evolve
to allow a more personalised experience for workers.

Suggested response:
Well, it’s very hard to say, but I guess in years to come, …

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How do you think that jobs will be different in the future?

Sample response:
I guess over the next decades, many occupations will probably undergo considerable changes because of
technological innovations. Manual labor jobs appear to be most at risk, while jobs that require empathy,

176
like social workers and caretakers, are least at risk. This is because artificial intelligence algorithms and
intelligent machines will be co-workers to humans. As a result, the human workforce will need to develop
a level of comfort and acceptance for how man and machine can collaborate using the best that both
bring to the workplace.

Suggested response:
I guess over the next decades, many occupations will probably undergo considerable changes because of
technological innovations...

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think that people will need more training and qualifications?
Sample response:
Yes, I totally agree with this idea. Over the course of this century, technology will definitely continue to
evolve the role humans play in the workforce, so everyone will be required to adapt their skills throughout
their working lives. For example, most employees are required to learn how to use a computer and
gadgets like smartphones and tablets in order to communicate with their coworkers and employers more
effectively. In addition, the higher the qualification, the more likely an employee will receive a higher
salary, so I think employees really should start seeing qualifications as an investment. Recently there is an
increasing number of available online distant learning courses, allowing them to study even while they’re
in full-time employment without having to take time off work.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I totally agree with this idea...
• No, I'm not entirely convinced by this argument…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

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HOMEWORK

EMPLOYMENT

PART 1
• Do you prefer working alone or with others? Why?
• What do you dislike about your job?
• What do you do after work?
• Where do you want to see yourself in 10 years?

PART 2

Describe a paid job you ever did or someone you know ever did
You should say:
• What the job was
• How long you or this person kept this job
• How you/ this person found this job
And say how you feel about this job

PART 3
• Do you think that the length of the working week will change in the future?
• Do you think that salaries will increase enough to cover the cost of living?
• What will be the role of machines in the workplace of the future?
• What do you think the situation of female employees will be like in the future?

178
179
Module 18 Clothes & Fashion

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
CLOTHES & FASHION
1. Casual clothes (n) A. Formal clothes are suitable for
/ˈkæʒuəl kləʊz/ serious or official occasions
E.g: She felt comfortable in casual clothes and wore them
most of the time. B. To wear a particular type of
2. Formal clothes (n) clothes
/ ˈfɔːrml kləʊz/
E.g: My clothes for work tend to be quite formal. C. Fashionable and attractive
3. Shop (v)
/ʃɑːp/ D. Casual clothes are not formal or
E.g: I like to shop at Routine for clothes. not suitable for special occasions
4. Match (v)
/mætʃ/ E. To be the right size or shape for
E.g: The shirt and pants match perfectly. someone or something
5. Fit (v)
/fɪt/ F. To buy things in shops
E.g: I tried the dress on but it didn't fit.
180
 6. Dress (v) G. Following a style that is popular at
/dres/ a particular time
E.g: I have to dress in a suit and tie for work.
7. Fashionable (adj) H. A room for changing clothes in,
/ˈfæʃnəbl/ especially before playing sports
E.g: It's not fashionable to wear short skirts at the moment.
8. Stylish (adj) I. If two colours, designs, or objects
/’staɪlɪʃ/ match, they are similar or look
E.g: Her preference is for comfortable rather than stylish attractive together
clothes.
9. Old-fashioned (adj) J. Not modern; belonging to or
/ˌəʊld ˈfæʃnd/ typical of a time in the past
E.g: Wearing a hat is now regarded as rather old-fashioned.
10. Changing room (n)
/ˈtʃeɪndʒɪŋ rʊm/
E.g: She usually spends a lot of time trying on clothes in a
changing room.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to be on trend: to be very fashionable
• to dress for the occasion: to wear clothes suitable for a particular event
• to get dressed up: to put on nice clothes, often to go out somewhere special
• to go out of fashion: to not be in fashion any more
• to have an eye for (fashion): to be a good judge of
• to have a sense of style: the ability to wear clothes that look stylish
• to keep up with the latest fashion: to wear the latest fashions
• to look good in: to wear something that suits you
• to mix and match: to wear different styles or items of clothing that aren’t part of a set outfit
• to take pride in one’s appearance: to pay attention to how one looks

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Relative clause
A relative clause usually starts with who, that or which and comes immediately after the noun it is
describing.

Examples:
• Dolce & Gabbana, which is a famous Italian fashion house, selling exclusive clothing for both men
and women.
• I usually wear tie and shoes that are suitable to go to work.
• …

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D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
CLOTHES & FASHION

• What type of clothes

do you like to wear?
Sample response:
Well, I prefer wearing casual
clothes, because they’re
simple and comfortable. For
me, a pair of jeans and a shirt
would be perfect. Sometimes
I also dress up for special
occasions, but to be honest, I
don’t feel as comfortable as
when I wear casual clothes.

Suggested response:
• Well, I prefer…
• I love wearing…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Are clothes and clothing fashions important to you? (Why/Why not?)

Sample response:
To some people, clothes and fashion are very crucial because they are the way of expressing themselves.
On the other hand, I view clothes as the things that help to cover ourselves. On top of that, when it comes
to clothes and fashion, I value comfort over trends.
Suggested response:
• Yes, they are…
• No, they aren’t…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

182
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What kind of clothes do you dislike?

Sample response:
I dislike wearing long, baggy clothes, especially jeans. Rarely do I wear these any more, and if I do, it’s
because the baggy jeans I have are old and worn, so I’m wearing them to do stuff around the house, and
not in public.

Suggested response:
• I dislike wearing…
• I hate…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What different clothes do you wear for different situations?

Sample response:
At work, I usually wear a shirt and a pair of trousers, since dressing formally for work is required in my
workplace. However, when staying at home, I only wear T-shirts and baggy shorts, and sometimes when
I have to go to special occasions like wedding parties, I probably wear a tuxedo.

Suggested response:
At work, I usually wear… However, …

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

183
PART 2

FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe the type of clothes you like wearing

You should say:
• What type of clothes you like
• Why you like them
• Where you buy them
And say whether these clothes are popular in your country

Suggestions
Remember the topic card states ―type of clothes, not a particular item of clothing. Some examples
could be sports clothes, traditional Vietnamese clothing, expensive designer label clothes or fashionable
clothes.
Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary
Nouns: clothing, boutique, garment, trend, clothes
Verbs: flaunt, show off, dress up
Adjectives: stylish, chic, well-made, hard-wearing
Idioms:
184
The in thing (= fashionable, trendy)
• Deep V-necks are becoming the in thing for wedding dresses lately.
At the height of fashion (= extremely fashionable)
• Sports clothing is at the height of fashion.
Up-to-the-minute fashion (= the trendiest fashion)
• I don’t really follow up-to-the-minute fashions.
Dressed (up) to the nines (= wearing fashionable or formal clothes)
• If a person is dressed (up) to the nines, then it usually means they want to impress someone.

Focus on Grammar
Try to include some past tenses:
• When I was younger, I used to prefer wearing…
• As I got older, I started to get into trendy clothes.
• This style of clothing didn’t use to be so fashionable.
• It started becoming trendy about 5 years ago.

Sample Response

Well, I’m going to talk about ao dai, which is a Vietnamese national garment.
This type of clothing is worn by both sexes, but now it’s most commonly worn by women. In its current
form, it is a long, split tunic dress worn over trousers. Many Vietnamese females of all ages wear ao dai
for formal occasions, at school or for work.

I love wearing it because I look so elegant and glamorous. When I wear it to go to some formal occasions,
my friends usually compliment me a lot on this outfit, like I look incredibly beautiful and charming.

When it comes to the popularity of ao dai, I think most Vietnamese people love wearing it, especially
females, because it’s more suitable for walking because of the inclusion of pants underneath the dress
and is commonly worn as daily clothes. For example, I used to see a lot of Vietnamese female teachers or
tour guides wearing this traditional piece of clothing at work. As well as this, many Vietnamese love
wearing it for special occasions such as weddings, Tết celebrations, and there are some specific colors of
ao dai that are worn for worship and ritual ceremonies. For me, it’s an outfit that will always be
fashionable and beautiful.

That’s all I want to talk about my favorite type of clothing.

Suggested Response

Well, I’m going to talk about………………………….……………, which……………… Your own keywords

……….………………………………………….………………………………………….……………… ………………….………………………

185
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
I love wearing it because ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
When it comes to the popularity of this type of clothing, …………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about my favorite type of clothing.

PART 3

FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Giving your personal opinion in Part 3
You are also expected to use a range of phrases when giving your personal opinion on a subject. The
following options can help you show the examiner flexibility when expressing personal opinions:
• I believe…
• In my opinion, …
• It seems to me that…
• From my perspective, ,…
• As I see it, …

186
CLOTHES & FASHION

• Do all people enjoy shopping for clothes?

Sample response:
No, I don’t agree with this idea. I admit that there are many people, especially the young generation,
love wearing newest branded clothes from head to toe to create a good impression and confirm their
own social status. However, some others like middle-aged and elderly people aren’t interested in
following the latest fashion trends. What I mean is, most of them prefer wearing comfortable and
practical clothes, and they don’t want to squander their money on clothes.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I think so. This is because…
• No, I don’t agree with this idea…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

187
 • Why do some people like shopping with friends?
Sample response:
As I see it, there are many possible explanations for this. Many people like going shopping with friends
who are also into fashion, and their friends would prevent them from making bad choices and can suggest
good styling ideas when choosing appropriate clothes. As well as this, when going shopping with friends,
many people can get outfit ideas that they wouldn’t normally come up with themselves.

Suggested response:
As I see it, there are many possible explanations for this…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Why women like to do shopping?

Sample response:
I guess there are many reasons behind this trend. The majority of women have a lot of fun going shopping
because they get to visit new stores, see new products and explore the purchasing options. Shopping with
friends and family also help these women spend some fun time with them. As well as this, shopping is a
therapeutic activity, and I’m convinced that it takes many women away from the troubles of daily life and
lets them focus on new and appealing things.

Suggested response:
I guess there are many reasons behind this trend…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

188
HOMEWORK

CLOTHES & FASHION

PART 1
• Do you think the brand of clothing is important?
• What kind of clothes do people in your country usually wear?
• Do you wear different styles of clothes now compared to 10 years ago?
• Do your friends wear the same kinds of clothes as you?

PART 2

Describe your favorite piece of clothing

You should say:
• Where you got it
• When you got it
• How often you wear it
And explain why it is your favourite piece of clothing

PART 3
• Why people like shopping for clothes online?
• What risks would take when shopping online? Why?
• What special clothes do people in your country wear on official or formal occasions?
• What is the different dress style between boys and girls?

189
190
Module 19 Population

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
POPULATION
1. Lively (adj) A. Strong, healthy, and good at
/ˈlaɪvli/ sports
E.g: It's hard work teaching a class of lively children.
2. Athletic (adj) B. The condition of being extremely
/æθˈletɪk/ poor
E.g: She looks very athletic.
3. Cold-hearted (adj) C. The appearance of a particular
/ˌkəʊld ˈhɑːrtɪd/ disease in a large number of
E.g: She said that the city’s decision to close the homeless people at the same time
shelter was cold-hearted.
4. Humble (adj) D. Showing you do not think that you
/ˈhʌmbl/ are as important as other people
E.g: He's very humble about his success.
5. Life expectancy (n) E. The amount of money and
/ˈlaɪf ɪkspektənsi/ comfort people have in a
E.g: Japanese people have a very high life expectancy. particular society

191
 6. Standard of living (n)
/ˌstændərd əv ˈlɪvɪŋ/ F. Not showing any love or sympathy
E.g: The standard of living in many developing countries is for other people; unkind
low.
7. Poverty (n) G. Full of energy and enthusiasm;
/ˈpɑːvərti/ interesting and exciting
E.g: The problem of poverty is particularly acute in rural
areas. H. The length of time that a living
8. Industrialized (adj) thing, especially a human being, is
likely to live
/ɪnˈdʌstriəlaɪzd/
E.g: At the end of the 19th century, Britain was the most
I. Having developed a lot of industry
industrialized society in the world.
9. Urban (adj)
J. Of or in a city or town
/ˈɜːrbən/
E.g: Pollution has reached disturbingly high levels in some
urban areas.
10. Epidemic (n)
/ˌepɪˈdemɪk/
E.g: Over fifty people died during the flu epidemic last
winter.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to have a good sense of humor: to be very able to see things as funny
• to have a low/high standard of living: to have low/high amount of money to live in a particular
society
• to be well-off: to be rich
• to be badly-off: to have little money and few of the things you need to live

C. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
POPULATION

192
 • Are you happy to be the age you are now?
Sample response:
Yes, I think so. I’m working as a full-time employee
with decent wages, so I can take care of myself and my
family as well. Besides, I also have some free time to
take up some new hobbies, like playing soccer and
musical instruments, so I’m quite satisfied with my life
for now.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I think so…
• No, not really…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• When you were a child, did you think a lot about your future?
Sample response:
No, not a bit. I didn’t think much about it when I was young, since I was too busy with studying. What I
mean is, back then I spent much of my free time learning many subjects and doing homework, and
sometimes I played games to relax after a hard day at school, so yeah, I focused on what I was doing back
then rather than overthinking about my future.
Suggested response:
• No, not a bit.
• I’d say yes…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

193
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think you have changed as you have got older?

Sample response:
Yes, I believe so. To be honest, in the past, I was quite lazy and was even considered as a rebellious,
immature boy. However, my friends and family said that I have become more mature, responsible and
selfless. Thinking about it, I suppose all experiences are valuable even the painful ones and I think they
help to shape me who I am now.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I believe so…
• No, I don’t think so…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What will be different about your life in the future?

Sample response:
It’s very hard to say, but I guess I’d have a bright future ahead. This is because I have a stable job, and it’s
the job I really love doing without feeling very stressed it. Thanks to this, I have sufficient amount of money
to take care of (support) myself and my family, and I can also spend some of it to buy clothes and have
some drinks with my friends when I have free time.

Suggested response:
It’s very hard to say, but I guess…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

194
PART 2

FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe an old person who has influenced you

You should say:
• Who he/she is
• How you know this person
• How he/she has influenced you
And say whether this person has influenced other people

Suggestions
It is probably easier to talk about an old family member or an old teacher.
Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary
Nouns: tutor, mentor
Verbs: put in plain words, explain
Adjectives: well-respected, inspiring

Focus on Grammar
Use a mix of past tenses:

• We first met when I was studying in my primary school.

• He used to be my English language teacher.
Use future tenses:
• I will always remember how he...
• I will never forget how he...

195
Sample Response

Well, I’m going to talk about my English language teacher, who has a strong influence on my life.
I first met him when I started high school. Back then, he was both an English language teacher and the
vice principal of my school as well. I used to see him on every Thurday morning when I had English
classes.

Although he doesn’t smile often, he’s a friendly and talkative man. Besides, he is optimistic and
enthusiastic when teaching English to students. When he tells stories in English, his sense of humour and
style of storytelling always crack us up. Sometimes he is serious, but I really like the way he delivers
lessons to students in class, as we can understand vocabulary and grammatical structures easily. He
always encourages us to study and practice more and more, because he really wants us to improve our
skills in this language.

He also has a strong influence on other people for some reason. Despite having been retired for several
years, most students still keep contact with him to practice English with him, or even have a drink
together whenever they have free time. Besides, he is admired mainly because of his patience and
kindness, as well as his willingness to help. In other words, he’s one of the nicest people I know.

That’s all I want to talk about this person.

Suggested Response

Well, I’m going to talk about………………………….……………, who has a Your own keywords
strong influence on my life. ………………….………………………
I first met him when…………………………………….………………………………………… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
He also has a strong influence on other people for some reason.……………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
That’s all I want to talk about this person.

196
PART 3
FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE
Modal verbs
Modal verbs: would, could, may or might is used to express uncertainty or possibility, and to make
suggestions.

Examples:
• Their diet might have a lot to do with it.
• Their quality of life would be good.

POPULATION

• In your country, what is the attitude towards old people?

Sample response:
Generally speaking, the majority of old people in Vietnam are well-respected. For example, when you
travel in the city by buses or trains, it’s common for people to offer their seats to older people, or when
eating, one always lets the oldest person begin eating first. In other words, old people are held in high
regard because people recognize that their long lives give them wisdom and experience. If someone has
a problem, they need advice about, they will almost certainly talk to an elderly person.

Suggested response:
Generally speaking, the majority of old people in Vietnam are…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

197
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Who do you think should take responsibility for looking after old people?
Sample response:
Well, it’s very hard to say, but I think old people should be taken care of by their children. This is because
these old people raised their children and brought them up, so the children should repay their parents by
taking care of them when they are old. I’m also convinced that the government should also take the same
responsibility, because old people have put a lot of effort to work for nearly their entire life, so these old
people deserve to receive pension on a regular basis.

Suggested response:
Well, it’s very hard to say, but I think…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What should family members do for their elderly parents or grandparents?

Sample response:
The way I see it, it’s very important for family members to provide their elderly relatives with material
needs and comfort, such as safe housing and good food. Some older people cannot do the same tasks that
they could do when they were younger, so they need someone to cook and clean for them. However,
showing love and affection to elderly family members is also essential, because being old can be a lonely
experience, and knowing that your family loves you and cares for you can be a wonderful comfort.

Suggested response:
The way I see it, it’s very important for family members to…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

198
HOMEWORK

POPULATION

PART 1
• Do most people live in houses in your country?
• What activities people in your hometown usually do?
• Do most people in your country follow fashion?
• Do most people in your country get two days off a week?

PART 2

Describe a neighbor who you get on well with

You should say:
• Who the neighbor is
• How long you have known this person
• What you like about this person
And say how often you see this person

PART 3
• Why do old people today live longer than in the past?
• What can young people learn from elderly people?
• Do old people in your country have opportunities to attend any forms of classes?
• Are there any advantages to being old?

199
200
Module 20 International Events

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
INTERNATIONAL EVENTS
1. Athletics (n) A. The activity of lifting heavy
/æθˈletɪks/ objects either as a sport or for
E.g: We love to watch the Olympics - especially the exercise
athletics.
2. Gymnastics (n) B. To have an influence on someone
/dʒɪmˈnæstɪks/ or something, or to cause a
E.g: Did you watch the Olympic men's gymnastics? Their change in someone or something
routines on the high rings and the parallel bars were
amazing. C. An organized event in which
3. Weightlifting (n) people try to win a prize by being
/ˈweɪtlɪftɪŋ/ the best, fastest, etc.
E.g: Having a weightlifting routine can have a profound
effect on your physical fitness efforts. D. The general name for a particular
4. Postpone / Delay (v) group of sports in which people
/pəʊˈspəʊn/ /dɪˈleɪ/ compete, including running,
E.g: The Tokyo Olympics have been postponed until 2021 jumping, and throwing
by the International Olympic Committee.
201
 5. Affect (v) E. To delay an event and plan or
/əˈfekt/ decide that it should happen at a
E.g: Farmers and market gardeners have been badly later date or time
affected by the drought.
6. Inconvenience (v) F. To cause someone to admire or
/ˌɪnkənˈviːniəns/ respect you
E.g: Budget cuts in bus and train services will greatly
inconvenience commuters. G. A person who is watching an
7. Spectator (n) event, especially a sports event
/ˈspekteɪtər/
E.g: The new football stadium can hold 75,000 spectators. H. To cause problems or difficulties
8. Competition (n) for someone
/ˌkɑːmpəˈtɪʃn/
I. To offer to do something that you
E.g: England has to win tonight's qualifying match to go
do not have to do, often without
through to the next round of the competition.
having been asked to do it and/or
9. Volunteer (v)
without expecting payment
/ˌvɑːlənˈtɪr/
E.g: I volunteered to help clean up the beach. J. Physical exercises and activities
10. Impress (v) performed inside, often using
/ɪmˈpres/ equipment such as bars and ropes,
E.g: He tried to impress his teachers by using big words in intended to increase the body's
all his essays. strength and the ability to move
and bend easily

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to make a profit: to make money from business or investments
• to make a loss: to lose money from business or investments
• in the short term: during the period of time that is not very far into the future
• in the long term: not immediately but at some time in the future
• to develop closer ties/relations with sb: to develop a strong connection with other people or
organizations

C. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1

202
 INTERNATIONAL EVENTS
• What kind of sports do you
prefer?
Sample response:
My preference is working out in the
gym. This helps me keep my body
in a good shape in the long term. At
the moment I’m having a personal
trainer, he guided me how to train
properly, and I’ve got along well
with him since I started going to the
gym.

Suggested response:
• I prefer... because…
• My preference is... because ...
• If I had the choice, I'd rather + V... because...
• If I have the choice, I'll + V... because…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you do any kind of sports during weekends?

Sample response:
Weekend is the only time in the week that I am free from my study, so I usually take advantage of this
opportunity to play some sports like soccer or badminton with a couple of friends. Once in a while, I also
go cycling around my neighborhood to get some fresh air.
Suggested response:
• Absolutely yes…
• No, I don’t…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

203
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What sports are popular in your country?

Sample response:
I suppose soccer is popular in Vietnam. This is because many Vietnamese people of all ages are very
supportive of our national soccer team, and many families usually gather together in front of the TV to
watch the team play against foreign teams. Besides, lots of students also play this sport at the weekends
in a soccer field.

Suggested response:
I suppose… is/are popular in Vietnam…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Who is your favorite athlete?

Sample response:
I really admire Cristiano Ronaldo, who’s a famous Portuguese footballer. He’s played very well in most of
his matches on the soccer field, but what I like most about him is that he usually does charity, whether
it’s for surgeries of young fans, rebuilding destroyed homes or sponsoring hospitals.

Suggested response:
• I really admire…
• Actually, I have no one in particular…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

FOCUS ON SPEAKING

204
 Describe a sporting event that you have seen
You should say:
• What the event was
• Where or when you saw it
• What you liked about it
And say whether you would like to watch this type of event again

Suggestions
There are many possible choices for this topic but the easiest is probably the Olympic Games. This topic
is quite easy because there are many different features that you can talk about
Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary
Nouns: international occasion, prestigious competition, the world’s most celebrated sports meeting,
opponent, spectator, stadium, media, athlete
Verbs: take part in/participate in, keep fit, get into shape
Adjectives: globally-renowned, well-known, famous, popular

Focus on Grammar
Use mainly past tenses:
• It was actually the first time I had seen this prestigious sporting competition.
• It was broadcast live on TV.
• I spent hours watching the main events.
• I was quite surprised to notice that…

205
Sample Response

Well, I’m going to talk about the Olympic Games, which is one of many sporting occasions that I have seen.

The modern Olympic Games are leading international sporting events featuring summer and winter sports
competitions, in which thousands of athletes from around the world participate in a variety of
competitions. They’re organized every four years, alternating between the Summer and Winter Games
every two years in the four-year period.

The first time I watched such sporting events was about a few years ago, when the 2016 Summer Olympics
was organized in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Back then, I was really interested in this event since it attracts
thousands of athletes from around the world competing in a variety of competitions. I usually watched
the Olympics on TV, mostly in the evening to relax after a long day at university.

There are many things that makes the Olympics my favorite sporting event. I really love watching sports,
and the Olympics include a wide range of sports, such as soccer, athletics and so on. Besides, I’m thrilled
to watch the competition between many international athletes who are often driven by competitions and
the once-in-a-lifetime experience as well as patriotism. For me, it’s fun seeing the medal count and see
what are the top -performing countries at the Games. Because of this, I’ll definitely watch the Olympics
more regularly in the future.

That’s all I want to talk about the Olympics.

Suggested Response

Well, I’m going to talk about …………………, which is one of many sporting Your own keywords
occasions that I have seen. ………………….………………………
…………………………………….……………………………………………………………………….. ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
The first time I watched such sporting event(s) was about…………..……………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
There are many things I really like about this event/these events……………………………………………………………..

206
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about this sporting event/these sporting events.

PART 3

FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Give reasons in Part 3
In Part 3, you will often be expected to give reasons, to say why something is done, what is the
purpose. There are several ways to express purpose.

to + V
• …to impress other countries
• …to raise their status
• …to attract other visitors
for + Noun
• …for national pride
• …for economic reasons
• …for profit
• …for status
so (that) + modal verb (can/could/will/would)
• …so (that) they can impress other countries
• …so (that) they can attract visitors
• …so (that) they will make a lot of money
• …so (that) they could make a profit
• …so (that) they would improve international relations

When the purpose is negative, use so (that) + won’t/wouldn’t.

• The official issued maps so that athletes and visitors wouldn’t get lost.
• He’s removing the obstacle so that she won’t fall over.

INTERNATIONAL EVENTS

207
 • Can you suggest reasons why governments host international events?
Sample response:
I think there’re a number of reasons for this. The way I see it, the main purpose is to impress other
countries, raise their status in the world and probably improve international relations. As well as this, I’m
also convinced that governments like to host such events, so that they can attract overseas visitors for a
large amount of money. In other words, I believe they do it for profit as well.

Suggested response:
I think there’re a number of reasons for this…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Any country which decides to hold a large international event will need to spend more money on
infrastructure. Why?
Sample response:
Well, I guess spending on infrastructure to upgrade public facilities is the main reason. If a country would
like to organize an international sporting event like World Cup or the Olympics, it will definitely need to
construct more hotels for accommodation and more stadiums in many big cities, so that it can attracts
more visitors. Apart from this, holding such an event will also require the host country to make
improvements to the public transportation system to ensure that visitors can get around easily.

Suggested response:
Well, I guess… is the main reason…

208
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think international sport competitions are more likely to divide countries or bring them
closer together?
Sample response:
In my opinion, in the short term, these international sporting events are likely to divide countries, because
there will be winners and losers, so relationships between these countries could be negatively affected to
some extent. However, in the long term, they might develop closer cultural ties or closer business and
economic relations, because by doing so, the brands of sports equipment and clothes are globalized
thanks to such international relations. For example, Nike, an American multinational corporation that is
mainly engaged in footwear, has a lifetime endorsement deal with a globally-renowned footballer named
Cristiano Ronaldo. What I mean is, both sides have made substantial amount of profit since they signed
the deal about more than 10 years ago.

Suggested response:
In my opinion, in the short term… However, in the long term…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

INTERNATIONAL EVENTS

PART 1
• Do you think it is important to play a sport?
• What sport would you like to try in the future?
• How do people in your country stay fit?
• Is it important for children to play sports?

209
PART 2

Describe a major event that has taken place in your country

You should say:
• What it was
• When and where it took place
• What happened
And explain why the event was/is important

PART 3
• How people celebrate public events?
• In your opinion, should the event be prepared in advance?
• Why do you think some people think national celebrations are a waste of government money?
• Who tends to enjoy national celebrations more: young people or old people? Why?

210
211
Module 21 Communication

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
COMMUNICATION
1. Digital age (n) A. The Internet considered as an
/ˈdɪdʒɪtl eɪdʒ/ imaginary area without limits
E.g: Investors seem unsure about the long-term future of where you can meet people and
the music industry in the digital age. discover information about any
2. Browser (n) subject
/ˈbraʊzər/
E.g: The latest version of the browser allows you to listen B. A system that makes it possible for
to the radio while you surf the net. many messages or large amounts
3. Cyberspace (n) of information to be sent at the
/ˈsaɪbərspeɪs/ same time and very quickly
E.g: You can find the answer to almost any question in between computers or other
cyberspace. electronic devices
4. Word processor (n)
/ˈwɜːrd prɑːsesər/ C. A computer program that makes it
E.g: Microsoft Word is the most popular word processor possible for you to read
available. information on the Internet
5. High-tech (adj)
/ˌhaɪ ˈtek/ D. To make someone able to do
E.g: The Internet and all sorts of high-tech gadgets are something, or to make something
changing the way children learn. possible
212
 6. User-friendly (adj)
/ˌjuːzər ˈfrendli/ E. Using the most advanced and
E.g: The notebook's user-friendly features allow fast and developed machines and methods
simple document conversion.
7. Broadband (n) F. A program used for preparing
/ˈbrɔːdbænd/ documents and letters, or a
E.g: Internet connection via broadband offers many computer for doing this
advantages.
8. Allow (v) G. The present time, in which many
/əˈlaʊ/ things are done by computer and
E.g: Students are only allowed to use the equipment under large amounts of information are
supervision. available because of computer
technology
9. Enable (v)
/ɪˈneɪbl/
H. To (cause to) work, be in action or
E.g: The app enables you to create your own designs and
have an effect
share them with friends.
10. Operate (v)
I. To give permission for someone to
/ˈɑːpəreɪt/
do something, or to not prevent
E.g: The video provides instruction on how to operate the
something from happening
computer.
J. Easy for people to use

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to connect to the Internet: to use a computer, phone, etc. in order to use the Internet
• to access a database: to be able to use or obtain a database
• to store information: to put or keep information for use in the future
• to download information from…: to copy or move programs or information into a computer's
memory, especially from the Internet or a larger computer
• to upload information on(to)…: to copy or move programs or information to a larger computer
system or to the Internet
• to surf the Net/Internet: to spend time visiting a lot of websites on the Internet

C. FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE

Allow and Enable
Someone/something allows someone/something to do something
If A allows B to happen, A creates the opportunity for B to happen.

Someone/something enables someone/something to do something

If A enables B to happen, A gives B the opportunity to do something or make it possible.
213
 Examples:
• A modem allows you to connect to the Internet.
• A modem enables you to connect to the Internet.

D. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
COMMUNICATION

• How long have you had your mobile

phone?
Sample response:
I own it for quite a long time. My dad bought
it for me about a few years ago, and it’s handy to
me because I can use it to surf the Net and chat
with my friends and coworkers when I have to go
out. Besides, it’s not as heavy as other mobile
phones from other brands, so I like it a lot.

Suggested response:
• I own it for quite a long time…
• Not too long…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How much time do you spend on the Internet every day?

Sample response:
I think it takes me about 3 to 4 hours a day to surf the Net. I usually get the most recent news from online
newspapers, and I also spend some time chatting with my friends and coworkers as well. Sometimes I
shop online whenever there’s a discount on things I want to buy, like clothes and books.
Suggested response:
I think it takes me about… I usually…

214
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How do you prefer to stay in touch with your friends or your family?
Sample response:
My preference is face-to-face communication, because it provides a feel of friendliness, which in turn
boosts the success of my relationships, whether they are personal or business relationships. Sometimes I
use emails or phones to keep contact with my relatives and friends, but the way I see it, these forms of
communication are not really effective.

Suggested response:
• I prefer... because…
• My preference is... because...
• If I had the choice, I'd rather + V... because...
• If I have the choice, I'll + V... because…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

FOCUS ON SPEAKING

215
 Describe a website that you have used
You should say:
• What the website is
• How you found out about it
• What you used it for
And say whether you have used other websites similar to this one

Suggestions
If you choose a website with many features, it is much easier. Good choices are Facebook.com,
YouTube.com or Tiki.vn, because they have so many functions.
Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary
Nouns: web-based community, message forums, music downloads, online games, online shopping
Verbs: take part in/participate in, keep fit, get into shape
Adjectives: globally-renowned, well-known, famous, popular

Focus on Grammar
Use past tenses and present tenses:
• I first discovered it by accident – I followed a link from another website.
• I have been using for it about 2 years now.
• Now it’s much more popular than it used to be.

Sample Response

Well, I’m going to talk about Facebook, which is a website that I’ve used very often.

It’s an American online social media and social networking service founded by Mark Zuckerberg and his
friends at Harvard College. I don’t remember exactly how I found out this website, because it’s been a
long time since I started using this website. I mean, the first time I knew about Facebook was about more
than 10 years ago, so what I can remember is that I first discovered it by accident when I followed a link
from another website.

I’ve used this website for many purposes. It enables to me to chat or videocall my friends and my
coworkers almost instantly when I want to contact them, and keep me up-to-date with my friends’ activity
on news feed as well. As well as this, each Facebook user has a profile page with information and status
updates, allowing many users to tell everyone what they’re doing or thinking, and they can even upload
their photos or videos if they love to.

As for whether I’ve used other websites that are similar to Facebook, well, I used to use Twitter for a short
time, but I stop using it due to its limited functions. Apart from this, I don’t know any other web-based
communities that are as similar as Facebook.

That’s all I want to talk about this website.

216
Suggested Response

Well, I’m going to talk about ………………………….., which is a website that Your own keywords
I’ve used very often. ………………….………………………
…………………………………….……………………………………………………………………….. ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
I’ve used this website for many purposes. …………..…………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
As for whether I’ve used other websites that are similar to…………………………., …………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about this website.

PART 3
FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE
Second conditional
This grammatical structure is used for situations that are imagined, not real.

Examples:
• If poor people had access to the Internet, they would find weather forecasts more helpful.
• If people searched the job websites, they could find a suitable job.

COMMUNICATION

217
 • Can you tell me how modern
communication technology has
changed people’s lives?
Sample response:
Well, I suppose it has
considerable impacts on our lives.
With modern devices like laptops
or smartphones, people can now
communicate instantly with
others on the other side of the
world. I mean, they can contact
their family, friends and their
coworkers to talk or even do business, regardless of time zones and locations. As well as this, today we
do online shopping a lot more than in the past, and there are varieties and price comparison tools,
enabling customers to choose products that they want to purchase with reasonable prices.

Suggested response:
Well, I suppose it has considerable impacts on our lives…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think communication technology has had any negative impact on the quality of people’s
lives? Why?
Sample response:
Yes, I admit that such technology has some downsides. There’re repeated interruptions in our lives. What
I mean is, someone is always texting or the phone is ringing, and you can’t get away from it most of the
time. Internet addiction is another negative effect too, because the majority of teenagers and young
people play on their computer or smartphone for hours and hours, which means they don’t prefer to
socialize with others.

Suggested response:
Yes, I admit that such technology has some downsides…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

218
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• How can communication technology, such as the Internet, help people in developing countries?
Sample response:
I think such technology will be handy for people in these countries in many ways. It can give them new
ideas, enabling them to learn new skills and get a lot of information. Take weather forecasts as an example.
If people in developing countries, especially farmers and fishermen, checked these forecasts, they could
find out the best time to go fishing or farming, and they would also get some sound farming and fishing
advice online.

Suggested response:
I think such technology will be handy for people in these countries in many ways…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

COMMUNICATION

PART 1
• Do you use emails?
• Do you prefer emails or text messaging?
• Do you think it’s important to reply to emails immediately after you receive them?
• Do you think people will still write letters in the future?

PART 2

Describe a piece of advice you recently received

You should say:
• When this happened
• Who gave you the advice
• What the advice was
219
 And explain how you feel about the advice

PART 3
• Do you think men chat more than women?
• Why are social networks so popular nowadays?
• How can encourage shy children to talk more?
• Do you think the Internet has negative impacts on children?

220
221
Module 22 Tourism

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
TOURISM
1. Climate (n) A. The general appearance of the
/ˈklaɪmət/ natural environment, especially
E.g: Ho Chi Minh City has a hot climate. when it is beautiful
2. Scenery (n)
/ˈsiːnəri/ B. Positioned on, or relating to the
E.g: This area has some of the most awesome sceneries coast
3. Policy (n)
/ˈpɑːləsi/ C. To limit the size, amount or range
E.g: They believe that Europe needs a common foreign and of something
security policy.
4. Regulation (n) D. The general weather conditions
/ˌreɡjuˈleɪʃn/ usually found in a particular place
E.g: To comply with government hygiene regulations, there
must be a separate sink for hand washing. E. Related to the differences
5. Coastal (adj) between groups of people caused
/ˈkəʊstl/ mainly by their financial situation
E.g: Nha Trang is a coastal city in Central Vietnam

222
 6. Mountainous (adj) F. Having a lot of mountains
/ˈmaʊntənəs/
E.g: Ha Giang is a wild and mountainous region. G. A set of ideas or a plan of what to
7. Sustainable (adj) do in particular situations that has
/səˈsteɪnəbl/ been agreed to officially by a
E.g: Marketing plays a key role in a company's plan for group of people, a business
sustainable business development. organization, a government, or a
8. Socio-economic (adj) political party
/ˌsəʊsiəʊ ˌekəˈnɑːmɪk/
H. To control something, especially
E.g: Higher education typically correlates with a higher
by making it work in a particular
socio-economic status and better living conditions.
way
9. Restrict (v)
/rɪˈstrɪkt/
I. An official rule or the act of
E.g: The government has restricted freedom of movement
controlling something
into and out of the country.
10. Regulate (v)
J. Able to continue over a period of
/ˈreɡjuleɪt/ time
E.g: The travel industry is regulated by a set of guidelines.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• the developing world: countries with little industrial and economic activity and where people
generally have low incomes
• the developed world: countries with a lot of industrial activity and where people generally have high
incomes
• to promote understanding: to improve an ability to understand why people behave in a particular way
and to forgive them when they do something wrong
• problems associated with sth: problems connected to sth
• to upload information on(to)…: to copy or move programs or information to a larger computer
system or to the Internet
• to be economically viable: to be able to succeed when it comes to economy

C. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
TOURISM

223
 • Do you like travelling?
Sample response:
Absolutely yes. I usually travel to
a coastal city or a mountainous
area in my country to chill after
long weeks of working. When
travelling, I’d like to know more
about traditional customs and
local cuisine as well, because
doing so will bring me a
wonderful experience.

Suggested response:
• Absolutely yes…
• No, not really…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What is your favorite type of holiday?

Sample response:
I love beach holiday the most. This is because I can do a lot of activities when going to the beach, like
sunbathing and swimming. I can also go along the beach to enjoy the fresh air and take in spectacular
coastal scenery.
Suggested response:
• My favorite type is…
• I love… the most…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

224
 • What do you do on holidays?
Sample response:
I love doing many things when taking a vacation, like going to a mountainous region to chill with my friends.
For example, many months ago, I used to go to Ha Giang, a mountainous area in the Northwest of Vietnam,
to spend many days trekking through forests and over mountains with my best friend. That trip was
awesome because the villages there are charming and the surrounding scenery is superb.

Suggested response:
• I love… when taking a vacation…
• On holidays, I usually do…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Are there many tourists visiting your country?

Sample response:
Absolutely yes. There are a lot of tourists from other countries paying a visit to Vietnam, and most of
them love going to many different tourist attractions in big cities. For example, in Ho Chi Minh City, I’ve
seen many European tourists going to (paying visits to) some museums or enjoying local dishes like pho
and banh mi in some local restaurants, and they usually stay for more than a week before going home.

Suggested response:
• Absolutely yes…
• Probably yes…
• No, I don’t think so…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

PART 2

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FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe a city you would like to visit

You should say:
• Where the city is
• Why you would like to visit this city
• What you know about this city
And say whether you think you will visit this place in the future.

Suggestions
Choose any city that you know something about. The trick with this topic is to talk about a city in a
different country (e.g. New York) or a city in a different region (e.g. Nha Trang, Vung Tau)
Focus on Uncommon Vocabulary
Nouns: native customs, renowned, indigenous culture, landmark, package tour, independent travel,
tourism, tourist, tourist trap, sightseeing, holiday-maker, travel agent
Verbs: go backpacking, go sightseeing
Adjectives: touristy, tacky, overdeveloped, exclusive, luxurious
Idioms:
Off the beaten track (= to a place not usually visited by tourists)
• When I go backpacking, I prefer to go off the beaten track.
Rough it (= live in uncomfortable conditions, like camping)
• When we went camping, we had to rough it two days on the mountain.
See the sights (= visit the famous places)
• I always try to see the sights.

Focus on Grammar
226
You must use conditional sentences because the topic card says – a city you would like to visit:
• If I had the option to choose any city, I would probably pick...
• The reason why I would select this place is because I would love to...and I might be able to...
Use a present perfect tense + past simple tense:
• Ever since I was a kid, I have always had a real yearning to visit this place.

Sample Response

Well, I’m going to talk about Nha Trang, which is a city that I’d like to visit in the near future.

Nha Trang is a coastal city, and it’s located in Khanh Hoa Province, on the South-Central Coast of
Vietnam. It’s very far from Ho Chi Minh City, about a few hundred kilometers.

There’re many reasons why I’d select this place. (First of all) It’s renowned for its beaches and has
developed into a popular destination for international tourists, attracting large numbers of backpackers.
It’s also very popular with Vietnamese tourists, with Nha Trang Bay being widely considered as amongst
the world's most beautiful bays. So, if I had the option, I would probably spend time lying on the beach
watching sun rising in the morning and having dinner on the sand in the evening. In addition to this,
there are plenty of activities that I might be able to do in this city. What I mean is, I’d love to spend all
day seeing the sights, meeting up with some of my friends there and playing sports as well. At night, I
might be able to see some traditional and modern dancing too.

As for when I’ll visit this place in the future, I think next summer would be an ideal time for me. This is
because right now I’m still busy with my work, so I need some time to plan my itinerary several weeks
before the trip.

That’s all I want to talk about this city.

Suggested Response

Well, I’m going to talk about …………………………………, which is a city that Your own keywords
I’d like to visit in the near future. ………………….………………………
It’s located in…………….………………………………………………………………………….. ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
There’re many reasons why I’d select this place. ..…………………………………………………………………………………..
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
227
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
As for when I’ll visit this place in the future, ………………………………………………….…………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about this city.

PART 3
FOCUS ON FUNCTIONAL LANGUAGE
Giving an opinion in Part 3
In response to most questions in Part 3, you’ll give an opinion.

There are several ways to begin your answer. These are not the only ways, and it is possible to answer
directly without using one of these opening phrases. However, an opening phrase sounds more natural
and gives you a little more thinking time.

Positive
• I believe in…
• I’m in favor of…
Neutral
• To my mind, …
• As far as I’m concerned, …
• In my opinion/view, …
• Personally, I think…
Negative
• I don’t believe/think…
• I’m against…
• I’m not sure…
• I have my doubts about…

228
TOURISM

• Are there negative impacts

that tourism can have on the natural
environment?
Sample response:
Yes, there are many of them. If we think
about how the tourists get to their
destination, pollution is a serious impact
stemming from tourism. What I mean is,
most tourists have to travel by plane,
bus, train or car, and gases emitted from
these means of transport cause air
pollution and noise pollution. As well as
this, tourism infrastructure like hotels
and roads, results in natural habitats being destroyed, because there is an increasing number of local and
foreign travelers paying a visit to popular tourist attractions like beaches and museums

Suggested response:
• Yes, there are many of them…
• No, I don’t think so…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What do you think is the best way to travel: alone, with friends or on a package tour?
Sample response:
I’m in favor of travelling with friends, because it’s more flexible and economical. Although I admit that you
don’t have to worry about accommodation or transport when going on a package tour, going with friends
help me share my expenses with them. What I mean is, from baggage weight allowance to your hotel
room and food bill, you can split the costs, which means your overall expenses will become a lot cheaper.
As long as we have the same mindset when budgeting your travel allowance, I believe that everything will
run smoothly.

Suggested response:
I’m in favor of…, because…

229
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think travelling is a form of education? Why?

Sample response:
Yes, I believe so. It’s a great way to force personal growth, experience life through an entirely new lens
and learn about things that matter. What I’m trying to say is that you can learn about local cultures and
cuisine, so that you’ll be able to gain a better understanding of the differences and the commonalities
between your culture and another as well. In addition to this, although you’ll be faced with many
obstacles when travelling to another place, I believe that dealing with these situations will help you
learn a lot about yourself. Visiting places that you’ve never heard of before and being immersed in new
cultures can help you make an important decision regarding your future.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I believe so…
• No, I have my doubts about it…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

230
HOMEWORK

TOURISM

PART 1
• Who would you like to go on holiday with?
• Where do you plan to go for your next holiday?
• Which do you prefer local trip or international trip?
• What do you usually do while travelling?

PART 2

Describe a country you would like to visit

You should say:
• What the country is
• Why you would like to visit this country
• What you know about this country
And say whether you think you will visit this country in the future

PART 3
• What is the best way to save money while travelling?
• What are some of the problems of long-distance travelling?
• Has the way people travel changed over the last few decades?
• What kinds of tourists are likely to visit your country in the future?

231
232
Module 23 Health

A. FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
HEALTH
1. Addict (n) A. A medical examination to test
/ˈædɪkt/ your general state of health
E.g: Some drug addicts turn to crime in order to support
their habit. B. To recognize and name the exact
2. Check-up (n) character of a disease or a
/ˈtʃek ʌp/ problem, by examining it
E.g: She goes to her doctor for regular check-ups.
3. Disease (n) C. A physical defect that hinders
/dɪˈziːz/ normal or easy speech
E.g: Quarantine is important for Coronavirus disease
prevention. D. The process of helping someone
4. Epidemic (n) to stop taking drugs or alcohol
/ˌepɪˈdemɪk/
E.g: Over fifty people died during the flu epidemic last E. A person who cannot stop doing
winter. or using something, especially
5. Impediment (n) something harmful
/ˈkəʊstl/

233
 E.g: After an accident, Jim developed an impediment - he F. A drug that is used to reduce or
stutters. remove physical pain
6. Painkiller (n)
/ˈpeɪnkɪlər/ G. (An) illness of people, animals,
E.g: I had to take the painkillers last night, because I plants, etc., caused by infection or
couldn't handle the pain. a failure of health rather than by
7. Rehab (n) an accident
/ˈriːhæb/
E.g: After talking to a doctor, Jim decided to go to a rehab. H. (Of a disease) lasting for a long
8. Diagnose (v) time; difficult to cure
/ˌdaɪəɡˈnəʊs/
I. To speak or say something,
E.g: She was diagnosed with having diabetes.
especially the first part of a word,
9. Stutter (v)
with difficulty, for example
/rɪˈstrɪkt/
pausing before it or repeating it
E.g: She stutters a little, so be patient and let her finish
several times
what she's saying.
10. Chronic (adj)
J. The appearance of a particular
/ˈkrɑːnɪk/
disease in a large number of
E.g: She suffers from chronic pain in her knees. people at the same time

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• aches and pains: minor pains that continue over a period of time
• cuts and bruises: minor injuries
• to break a habit: to stop doing something that is a habit, especially something bad or harmful
• to be under the weather: to feel ill
• to feel poorly: to feel ill
• to make an appointment: to arrange a time to see the doctor
• to make a speedy recovery: to recover quickly from an illness
• to phone in sick: to call work to explain you won’t be attending work due to illness

C. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
HEALTH

234
 • Is it important to you to eat
healthy food?
Sample response:
Absolutely yes. I believe good nutrition
is an important part of leading a healthy
lifestyle. It can also help me reach and
maintain a healthy weight, and promote
my overall health as well.
Suggested response:
• Absolutely yes…
• No, not really…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What do you do to stay healthy?

Sample response:
Well, I usually eat healthy food like fruit and vegetables after lunch or dinner. I also do regular exercises
when I have free time to keep fit, especially at the weekends.
Suggested response:
Well, I usually…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you do any sport?

Sample response:
Yes, I do. I often play soccer with my friends in a local stadium every afternoon to keep fit, and I have a
lot of fun with them when playing. Sometimes I play badminton with my neighbors at the weekend too.

235
Suggested response:
• Yes, I do…
• No, I don’t…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• In your opinion, what is more important, eating healthy food or doing exercises?
Sample response:
Actually, the way I see it, both are equally important to stay healthy. While exercise is crucial for leading
a healthy life, it doesn't often promote weight loss because it increases appetite in many people, and this
makes them eat more calories in a day that contributes to weight gain. To avoid it, I think they should
always have heavy breakfasts and snack onto nuts in between their meals.

Suggested response:
• I prefer... because…
• My preference is... because...
• If I had the choice, I'd rather + V... because...
• If I have the choice, I'll + V... because…
• Actually, the way I see it, both are equally important…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

236
PART 2

FOCUS ON SPEAKING

Describe a time when you were ill

You should say:
• When this was
• What your symptoms were
• How long the illness lasted
And say how it affected your life at the time.

Suggestions
Common illnesses: cold, flu, etc.
Focus on Grammar
You must use past tenses because the topic card says – a time when you were ill:
• I caught a cold 2 weeks ago...
• I wasn’t able to get up due to this illness...

Sample Response

Well, I’d like to talk about when I had a cold, which happened about a few weeks ago.

Back then, I was enjoying my summer vacation with my family. Suddenly I had a runny nose and a sore
throat, and I couldn’t eat anything. Drinking water was even too difficult for me, and I couldn’t do anything
but sleeping for many days, so my parents decided to take me to a local doctor instantly to have a medical
check-up. I got a prescription of antibiotics and tablets from the doctor, and he told me that I needed to
take medicine every morning. Luckily, I made a recovery just after three days.
237
This illness affected me a lot. I couldn’t be active when I caught this cold, and my family got a little fed up
with me when I was under the weather. In other words, it was a bad experience, and I learnt that it’s
better to maintain a proper routine of doing exercise and eating healthily more regularly in order to
prevent any future illnesses.

That’s all I want to talk about the time when I was ill.

Suggested Response

Well, I’d like to talk about when ..................................................., which Your own keywords
happened about ………………………. ago. ………………….………………………
Back then, ….…………….………………………………………………………………………….. ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
This illness affected me a lot/a little. ..………………………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about the time when I was ill.

PART 3
HEALTH

238
 • Do you think people
pay enough attention to
their health today?
Sample response:
No, I don’t think so. Although
I admit that there’re few
people doing exercises on a
regular basis, most others
aren’t really aware of their
own health. These people
usually eat fast food during
lunch or dinner, and they
don’t do exercise very often
because of their tight
working or studying schedule.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I do…
• No, I don’t think so…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• In your opinion, how can people improve their health?

Sample response:
Well, I think they can do so in many ways. One of them is doing exercise on a regular basis, because it
would help reduce the risk of illnesses. For example, if many people take a brisk walk for half an hour a
day, it will dramatically reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and several forms of cancer. If they’re
too busy, doing exercise for 10 minutes is enough to make a difference.

Suggested response:
Well, I think they can do so in many ways…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

239
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think healthcare should be free?

Sample response:
Definitely not. In fact, the way I see it, people should pay for treatment and medical serices in the form
of additional taxes, so that the government can provide certain medical services with reasonable prices.
If they don’t pay such taxes, this will eat up the federal government’s budget, resulting in lacking funding
for social security and defense.

Suggested response:
• Yes, I totally agree with this idea…
• Definitely not…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

HEALTH

PART 1
• Do you have any unhealthy habits?
• In what ways do you try to stay healthy?
• Is it easy to keep fit where you live?
• Do you think more about your health now than when you were younger?

PART 2

Describe something you do to help you relax

You should say:
• What the activity is
• How often you do this
• Why you like this
And say whether this is popular in your country
240
PART 3
• Do you think most people worry more about their health as they get older?
• How can people be encouraged to stay healthy?
• What are the most popular ways of staying healthy in your country?
• Do women pay more attention to their health than men?

241
242
Module 24 Art & Culture

FOCUS ON VOCABULARY
ART & CULTURE
1. The arts (n) A. Used to refer to a style of music
/ði ɑːrts/ written in Europe between about
E.g: More government money (funding) is needed for the 1750 and 1830
arts.
2. Culture (n) B. An organized set of special events,
/ˈtʃek ʌp/ such as musical, art or film
E.g: The culture of a country is reflected in the art. performances
3. Creative (adj)
/kriˈeɪtɪv/ C. A physical defect that hinders
E.g: He is an incredibly creative person - he's written many normal or easy speech
books and plays and he can paint as well.
4. Classical (adj) D. A show or action involving the
/ˈklæsɪkl/ entertaining of other people by
E.g: I prefer classical music such as Mozart and Bach to dancing, singing, acting, or playing
modern day pop music. music
5. Musical (n)
/ˈmjuːzɪkl/ E. The systems of knowledge,
E.g: "The Phantom of the Opera" is one of the best experience, beliefs, values,
musicals that I have ever seen. attitudes, meanings, hierarchies,
6. Performance (n) religion that are shared by a
/pərˈfɔːrməns/ relatively large group of people
243
 E.g: There will be a performance of a famous play at the
National Theatre tonight. F. To be filled with the urge or ability
7. Festival (n) to do or feel something, especially
/ˈfestɪvl/ to do something creative
E.g: The Cannes Film festival has some great movies this
year. G. Producing or using original and
8. Exhibition (n) unusual ideas
/ˌeksɪˈbɪʃn/
E.g: There will be an exhibition at the weekend to show all H. A play or film in which part of the
of his latest paintings. story is sung to music
9. Inspired (adj)
I. An object that is made by a
/ɪnˈspaɪərd/
person, such as a tool or a
E.g: Shakespeare plays have inspired many young people to
decoration, especially one that is
take up writing and acting.
of historical interest
10. Artefact (n)
/ˈɑːrtɪfækt/
J. An event at which objects such as
E.g: The museam in town has many artefacts that were
paintings are shown to the public
found in the local area. Most are tools from the Stone Age.

B. FOCUS ON IDIOMATIC LANGUAGE

• to break new ground: to innovate or create something new
• to sink your teeth into sth: to become intensely involved, with one's utmost concentration, energy,
determination, or enthusiasm
• blank canvas: refers to something with no content such that it can be easily filled with completely new
things
• fine art: refers to something requiring highly developed techniques and skills
• to get the picture: to understand the situation without the need for more explanation

C. FOCUS ON SPEAKING
PART 1
ART & CULTURE

244
 • Do you like art?
Sample response:
No, I’m not interested in it. I used
to study painting with an artist
when I was an elementary
student, but I felt bored just after
a week learning it. I prefer to do
other things like playing games
and sports because they’re much
more fun to me.
Suggested response:
• Absolutely yes…
• No, I’m not interested
in it…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Do you think art classes are necessary?

Sample response:
Yes, I believe so. Learning arts, especially at a young age, can help stimulate children’s cognitive
development and encourage them to think outside the box. For example, I know there are some art
workshops helping learners to learn how to draw with basic techniques, which is inspirational to many
young people.
Suggested response:
• Yes, I believe so.
• Definitely not.
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

245
 • What kind of paintings do people like?
Sample response:
I’m not sure about this, but I guess the majority of people love looking at landscape paintings. I know
some old people hang such paintings at home and usually look at them when going home after a long day
at work. Portrait is also another kind of painting some people like. It could be portraits of someone
important to them, or even their lovely pets.

Suggested response:
I’m not sure about this, but I guess the majority of people love looking at…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• Is it easy to learn how to draw?

Sample response:
No, I don’t think so. In fact, it’s quite challenging for many people. Learning how to use paintbrush and
draw takes quite a long time to master, especially if you really want to be an artist, and it also requires
learners comes to the long-term commitment to arts that requires extreme practice and high patience.

Suggested response:
• Probably yes…
• No, I don’t think so…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
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PART 2

FOCUS ON SPEAKING

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 Describe a piece of artwork that you have seen before
You should say:
• Where you saw it
• What it was about
• When you saw it
And explain how you felt about it

Suggestions
Common illnesses: cold, flu, etc.
Focus on Grammar
You must use past tenses because the topic card says – a time when you were ill:
• I caught a cold 2 weeks ago...
• I wasn’t able to get up due to this illness...

Sample Response

I’d like to talk about the portrait of Mona Lisa, which is one of the most well-known paintings in the
world and also my personal favorite.

I saw it in a textbook when I studied History related to Italian Renaissance Period at school. It’s a portrait
by the Italian artist Leonardo da Vinci, and it’s considered as the best work of art in the world. The

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painting presents a long-haired woman with a friendly smile on her face, which was quite round, and
this woman has no clearly visible eyebrows or eyelashes.

I felt happy when looking at this painting. Whenever I look into the Mona Lisa’s eyes, it looks like she’s
smiling. Because of this reason, I think that the Mona Lisa is a masterpiece that attracts people with that
magical smile. The painting was done with an extraordinary perfection, and the brush strokes of it are
extremely smooth so that they are invisible to the naked eyes. Portraying a model in such a perfection
that the painting even looks like as if she has life, can only be done by a maestro.

That’s all I want to talk about this painting.

Suggested Response

I’d like to talk about ………………………………………., which is one of the Your own keywords
most well-known paintings in the world and also my personal favourite. ………………….………………………
I saw it when …………….………………………………………………………………………….. ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
I felt ..………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
That’s all I want to talk about this painting.

PART 3
ART & CULTURE

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 • In your opinion, why do people
enjoy art?
Sample response:
Oh well, that’s a difficult question
because I’m not specialized in art, but I
think many people have different tastes
in art. What I mean is, many people just
enjoy looking at the extraordinary work
when they visit a museum, while others
might just want to be confronted, or ask
questions about the works of art.

Suggested response:
Oh well, that’s a difficult question because I’m not specialized in art, but I think…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

• What makes a good painting?

Sample response:
From my perspective, I suppose there’re many factors making a painting become attractive. It could be
because of its colors and the images that painters draw on it, but it could also depend on each viewer’s
taste. I know some people like landscape paintings, but others love looking at portraits or still life ones.
Anyway, if that painting is one that the majority of viewers can’t take their eyes off, in my opinion, it’s a
masterpiece.

Suggested response:
From my perspective, I suppose…

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords

………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

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 • How do people in your country feel about art?
Sample response:
I think it’s the least popular subject in Vietnam. What I mean is, only the rich appreciate it, because most
of them have free time to go to a musical theater to listen to classical music, or visit a museum to enjoy
the beauty of paintings exhibited there. On the other hand, the vast majority of people, especially the
working class, don’t enjoy art much, and they prefer doing other things that are more practical to make a
living, like going to work in an office or running their own businesses.

Suggested response:
• I think it’s the least popular subject in Vietnam…
• Arts hold a special place in Vietnam…
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… Your own keywords
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………
………………….………………………………………….………………………………………….…… ………………….………………………

HOMEWORK

ART & CULTURE

PART 1
• Have you ever visited an art gallery?
• Is there any artwork on the wall in your room?
• Have you ever had art classes?
• Do you think arts should be a school subject?

PART 2

Describe a Painting you would like to have in your home

You should say:
• What is it
• How you know about it
• How much it would cost you
And explain why you want to have it in your home

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PART 3
• Do you think children should study art at school?
• How can children benefit from learning art?
• How has art changed in the last few decades in your country?
• How do you think art classes affect children’s development?

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252
Practice test 3

PART 1
Time: 4-5 minutes

Are you a student or do you work now?

1. Why did you choose this course/job?
2. Talk about your daily routine.
3. Is there anything about your course/job you would like to change?
4. I’d like to move on and ask you some questions about shopping.

Who does most of the shopping in your household?

1. What type of shopping do you like? (Why?)
2. Is shopping a popular activity in your country? (Why/why not?)
3. What type of shops do teenagers like best in your country?

Let’s talk about films.

1. How often do you go to the cinema?
2. What type of films do you like best? (Why?)
3. What type of films don’t you like? (Why not?)

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PART 2
Time: 3-4 minutes

Describe an important event in your life.

You should say:

• When it happened
• Who you were with
• What happened
And explain why you feel it was important.

Follow up questions:
1. Do you still think about this event often?
2. Can the other people involved remember this event?

PART 3
Time: 4-5 minutes

1. What days are important in your country?

2. Why it is important to have national celebrations?
3. How is the way your national celebrations are celebrated now different from the way they were
celebrated in the past?
4. Do you think any new national celebrations will come into being in the future?
5. Are there any celebrations from other countries that you celebrate in your country?
6. What are the benefits of having events that many people around the world are celebrating on the
same day?

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Practice test 4

PART 1
Time: 4-5 minutes

First I'd like to ask about your hometown.

1. What kind of place is your hometown?
2. Tell me about the most interesting place in your hometown.
3. What changes would you like to make to your hometown?

Now let's move on to talk about animals.

1. What kinds of animals are popular pets in your country? Why?
2. How are animals in your country used for work?
3. Are there any animals in your country that have special significance?

Let’s talk about travel.

1. How easy is it to travel in your country?
2. What form of transport is the most popular? Why?
3. Are there any parts of your country that are difficult to travel to? Why / Why not?

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PART 2
Time: 3-4 minutes

Describe an environmental problem that has occurred in your country.

You should say:
• The cause of the problem
• What effect it has had on your country
• The steps, if any, that have been taken to solve this
Explain why you think this problem is so important to solve.

Follow up questions:
1. Are other people concerned about this problem?
2. Do you talk about it with your friends?

PART 3
Time: 4-5 minutes

First, lets consider global environmental problems.

1. Tell me about some of the environmental problems that are affecting countries these days?
2. Do you think that governments around the world are doing enough to tackle the problems?
3. Why do some people not consider environmental problems to be serious?

Now we'll look at environmental problems and disasters caused by humans.

1. What do you consider to be the world’s worst environmental disaster caused by humans?
2. Why do you think environmental disasters caused by humans happen?
3. Do you think there will be more environmental disasters caused by humans in the future?

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