Kho Ý tưởng speaking part 3 Kho Ý tưởng speaking part 3 Kho Ý tưởng speaking part 3 Kho Ý tưởng speaking part 3 Kho Ý tưởng speaking part 3 Kho Ý tưởng speaking part 3 v
LOVE, DATING & MARRIAGE
Who will pay for the wedding costs? Man, woman or both? Why?
• Men have to pay for the wedding costs because it is a courteous gesture
• Women have to pay for the wedding costs to show that they are independent and capable of taking on the same social roles as men
• Both have to pay for the wedding costs to show that they have equal power in the marriage
What do you think is the best age to get married?
• The best age to get married is the early to mid-30s since that is typically when a person is most stable in their professional and personal life
• The best age to get married is the late 30s to mid-40s At that point, they are more secure in terms of their finances and plans in life
Do you think weddings in your country waste a lot of money?
• A traditional wedding in Vietnam is very extravagant and grand, so obviously a lot of money has been spent organizing it
• It is a waste of money because weddings don’t have to be that opulent
• It is not a waste of money as a wedding is an important occasion and it should be treated as such
At what age do most people in your country get married?
• Most people in Vietnam get married by their mid-20s as it is commonly encouraged by society to find a spouse and start a family as early as possible
• Most people in Vietnam get married by their early to mid-30s as that is when they are most financially and mentally secure in their life
Is it better to be single or to be married?
• It depends on what a person wants in life If they want to stay single, then they should stay single If they want to be married, then they should get married
• It’s better to remain single as you can have more time to develop yourself as a person
• It’s better to be married as it is a vital opportunity for you to mature as a person and as a spouse
ADVERTISING
How do advertisements attract attention?
• Advertising attracts attention by using cool imagery and sound design to entice viewers to continue watching them
• Advertising can also feature famous people such as actors and athletes to convince their fans to use the products that are being advertised
Do advertisements actually influence people to buy things? How?
• Some advertisements succeed in convincing people to buy things by showing how cool they are and how those that don’t use them are not cool at all
• In most cases not as audiences are smart enough to know when they are deceived into buying something that may ultimately not be useful at all
Do you think advertising should be allowed to interrupt TV or radio programs? What are the alternatives?
• Advertising shouldn’t be allowed to interrupt radio or television programs as they will break people’s immersion in these programs
• An alternative would be to only play these advertisements at the end and beginning of each program, not in the middle of it
What are the different methods of advertising?
• Advertising can come in many forms They can be shown on television, in newspapers and magazines, on the Internet through social media and in the streets through massive billboards
Do you think that ads create a desire for more and more material possessions?
• There are some advertisements that can engender greater materialism as they can show how cool possessing a particular product can be
• Advertisements do not succeed in creating a desire for more material possessions as audiences are smart enough to not fall for the exaggerated claims and imagery of these advertisements
ANIMALS & PETS
How do people feel about the protection of wild animals?
• Generally speaking, people care about the protection of wild animals as they are important in maintaining ecological balance
• People tend to not care about protecting wild animals as they don’t see it as a pressing problem in their lives in comparison to some other issues
Have you seen any TV programs about animals?
• I have seen many programs on TV about wild animals They are often played on channels such as National Geographic, Discovery and the BBC
• I haven’t seen many TV programs about wild animals because they don’t interest me
What should we do to protect endangered animals?
• We can build sanctuaries that can house these endangered animals and protect them for future generations That way their survival will be guaranteed
• We can also start a petition to send to the government for them to make and enforce laws intended to guarantee the survival of these endangered species
What can children learn by having a pet?
• Children can learn to be caring towards others through owning a pet
• Children can learn how to be more responsible for their own possessions
Why do some people not like pets?
• Some people don’t like pets because they can make a huge mess by defecating or peeing all over the house
• Some people don’t like pets because they can continually make noise in an annoying way which can drive them to insanity
LAW
Do you think that people obey the law all the time?
• I think that most people obey the law all the time as they think that living in accordance with it is the best way for them to live a comfortable life
• I think not all people obey the law all the time because some of them are under certain circumstances in which they are forced not to
Do people like being a policeman in your country?
• Most people do not like being a policeman in Vietnam as they may feel that upholding the law is too big of a burden to bear
• Most people like being a policeman in Vietnam since it comes with certain privileges
What qualities should a police officer have?
• A police officer should have good judgment of character because not everyone will break the law but only certain people
• A police officer must be morally sound because it can be easy for an officer to abuse their power
Why do some people prefer to be a lawyer over being a policeman?
• Some may choose to be a lawyer instead of a policeman because it is a less risky job
• Some may choose to be a lawyer instead of a policeman because they may prefer to uphold the law through the power of language
SCHOOL SUBJECTS
How do schools teach math in your country?
• Vietnamese schools teach math through textbooks
• Vietnamese schools teach math through repetition and memorization
Do you think students should be able to choose the subjects they like?
• Students should be able to choose whatever subjects they like because not all of them may be relevant to their future career
• Students should not be able to choose whatever subjects they like because it is important for them to have a more complete knowledge base
What subjects should be added to high school?
• One subject that should be added is information technology
• One subject that should also be added is philosophy
Which is the most useful subject?
• There are no subjects that are more useful than others All of them are useful in their own ways and they serve different purposes to students
• The sciences, which include math, physics, biology and chemistry are the most useful subjects
Can the students in your country choose their favorite subjects?
• Students in Vietnam cannot choose their favourite subjects because the
Ministry of Education believes that all subjects are important
• Students in Vietnam cannot choose their favourite subjects because the education system doesn’t allow them to
CELLPHONES
For children, from what age do you think it becomes suitable for them to use cellphones?
• I think it would be appropriate for children to use cellphones from the age of 7 or above as that is when their brains are well-developed enough
• It would not be appropriate for children at toddler age to use cellphones because they would not understand how they work
Is it common for children to use cellphones in your country?
• It is extremely common to see children using cellphones in Vietnam because their parents are very lenient in giving them one
• It is extremely common to see children using cellphones in Vietnam because they are becoming more affordable every year
What do teenagers in your country use cellphones for?
• Teenagers in Vietnam use their cellphones to make calls and text messages as well as play games, watch videos and make posts on social media
What are the advantages/disadvantages of using a cellphone?
• An advantage to using a cell phone is that it is very portable so people can make calls from anywhere at any time
• A disadvantage to using a cell phone is that it can be a source of distraction
Why are so many people addicted to social apps?
• Many people are addicted to social media because they are anxious to know what their friends are doing
• Many people are addicted to social media because they would feel lost and hopeless if they don’t share what they are doing to their friends online
CITY & COUNTRYSIDE
What kinds of people live in the countryside?
• The kind of people who tend to live in the countryside are farmers because that’s where all farms are typically located
• Manual labourers are also typically found living in the countryside because most factories and workshops are located there
What do people living in the countryside like to do?
• Since there aren’t many options for entertainment in the countryside, those who live there like to gather and have a drink
• People living in the countryside also like to host visitors since not many of them come to the area
Do you think it is better to live in the city or in the countryside?
• I think it’s better to live in the city because there are more fun things to do there
• I think it’s better to live in rural areas because they offer a more tranquil and relaxed atmosphere than living in the city
Do you think landmarks make a city more famous, why?
• Landmarks can make a city more famous because they can help to immediately identify it
• Landmarks don’t always make a city more famous because it can be defined by other things such as its culture and pace of life
What interesting things can we do in big cities?
• There are plenty of things to do in big cities First, we can visit museums and art galleries as most of them are located in cities to attract the largest crowd possible
• Many shops, malls and supermarkets can be found in big cities so there is no shortage of choices for where to go shopping
• Most if not all nightclubs are located in cities so there are plenty of opportunities for people to go out and have fun for the night
MUSIC
Why do you think that some local singers or musicians aren’t as successful as some from other countries?
• One reason for this is foreign singers have easier access to popular platforms where they can share their music than some local singers
• One reason for this is local singers often sing songs that are reflective of their culture, which may not be as easily accessible to global audiences as songs from foreign singers
Do you think the Internet has affected the music industry? In what ways?
• The Internet has affected the music industry by making all genres more accessible to mainstream listeners
• The Internet has affected the music industry by making it easier to pirate entire albums and share them for free
Do you think there will be further changes in the music industry in the future?
• I think there may come a time where music can be automatically generated by artificial intelligence rather than through the creativity of the human mind
Do you think the music young people listen to in your country is becoming more globalized? Why/Why not?
• These days young people in Vietnam are listening to more music from abroad thanks to the Internet
HANDWRITING
• I would argue that handwriting is still important since it is a basic motor skill that every person has to learn at a young age
• I would argue that handwriting is no longer important since it is slowly being replaced by typing on a keyboard on either a phone or a computer
Is it possible to improve a student’s handwriting after years of practice?
• I think after many years of practice, a student’s handwriting will get better
• I think it’s not possible to improve a student’s handwriting after many years of practice because it can only be made better up to a certain point
Are handwriting problems more common in boys?
• I would say that handwriting problems are more common among boys since they are not as graceful in their hand movements as girls
• I would say handwriting problems are common in both boys and girls
What is the future of handwriting?
• The future of handwriting is looking somewhat bleak since it is slowly being replaced by typing on keyboards Due to the growing usage of computers and smartphones, people are becoming less inclined to write things by hand
Do you think that handwriting expresses personality?
• A person’s handwriting can indicate who they are as a person For example, if their handwriting is cursive and beautiful, then it indicates that they are well- educated and well-behaved by their parents and teachers
WEATHER
Do you think the weather has an influence on people’s mood?
• The weather can have an effect on people’s mood For example, if it’s a sunny day then people will likely be happier and more optimistic about the day to come
• The weather doesn’t have a tangible influence on people’s mood since there are other things that can affect it more heavily
How do you feel about the climate in recent years?
• I feel that the climate in Vietnam has been somewhat inconsistent as of recently On some winter days it would be unnaturally warm and on some summer days it would be unusually chilly
• I feel that the climate in Vietnam is becoming rather extreme Each summer would get progressively hotter than the last and the winters are becoming shorter
What are the possible results if the temperature continues going up?
• If the global temperature continues to rise, then the polar ice caps will continue to melt thus causing a drastic rise in sea levels
• If the global temperature continues to rise, then there will be more occurrences of droughts, especially in areas that are often deprived of water
What do people usually do in winter?
• Since the weather is so cold during winter, people tend to stay inside their homes to stay warm
During the snowy winter season, many engage in outdoor winter activities They engage in playful snowball fights, construct whimsical snowmen, and enjoy exhilarating winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding These activities bring a sense of joy and merriments to the cold winter months.
Do children enjoy extremely cold weather?
• If the cold weather is extreme though, then it’s much less enjoyable because children are more likely to freeze up and get sick
WORK/JOB
Is salary important to you? What is the impact of salary on doing work?
• The salary of a job is important to me because I have to earn enough to support myself
• The impact of the salary on one’s work should not be taken lightly It can be a source of motivation for people to either continue or quit working
What kinds of preparation should people do for a job interview?
• Firstly, people should do preliminary research on what the company does and what its mission statements are
• Secondly, people should make a CV that lists all of their qualifications and past jobs
Why do some people keep changing their jobs?
• One reason why people keep changing jobs is because they are not satisfied with the working conditions
• Another reason why people keep changing jobs is because they want to challenge themselves with a new line of work and new experiences
What should a good employer do?
• A good employer should look after the well-being of their subordinates If they are sufficiently taken care of by senior staff, then employees will have the motivation to continue working for the company
Employees value employers who proactively support them in navigating challenges in both their professional and personal lives Providing ample assistance fosters a sense of loyalty and retention within the workforce By prioritizing employee well-being, employers establish a positive and inclusive work environment, encouraging individuals to remain dedicated to their roles and the organization.
What are the disadvantages of working overtime?
• One disadvantage is employees will have little time to themselves They won’t have the opportunity to pursue their hobbies or hang out with their friends for instance
• Another disadvantage is employees will grow more tired and find it more difficult to continue their work
PUBLIC SPEAKING
Why do people get nervous when they have to give a speech?
• One reason for this is they may not have practiced giving their speech beforehand They have not adequately memorized it and as a consequence they will more likely fumble their words
How can people improve their public speaking skills?
• One way would be to practice giving a speech or monologue in front of a mirror so that people can learn to project themselves authoritatively
• Another way would be to attend a debating course where people can learn how to structure their speech and deliver it with conviction
What kinds of people should be invited to give a speech?
• Obviously, it should be those who have experience in giving speeches in the past since they know how to deliver a speech in front of an audience
What is required to be a good public speaker?
• The first thing would be a clear voice A speech needs to be heard loud and clear by a large audience
• The second thing would be good presentation skills A speech needs to be presented in a way that captures the attention of the audience
On what occasion would you be a good listener?
• When someone is delivering an interesting monologue or speech, I would listen closely to pay attention to every word that is being said
• I would also listen well to a song I particularly like so that I can appreciate how the song is composed
SHOPPING
Why do some people choose to do their shopping in a street market rather than the shopping mall?
• The cheap price is one reason why many people think local markets are better places for shopping Local small business vendors often sell their products at reasonable prices
• People can make a bargain when they make a purchase in a street market; compared to the listed prices of products in the shopping malls
How often do people in your country go shopping?
• It depends, to be honest I think girls and women do it more frequently than boys and men A lot of people often purchase things on a daily basis while others do very little shopping
• Vietnamese people often go out for groceries daily since they don’t have the habit of shopping to stock up for the week and they prefer having fresh food
What kinds of places are popular for shopping in your country?
• Almost everybody goes to the market or supermarket once a day to get fresh vegetables and meat
• Some have preference for convenience stores like Circle K or Vinmart to buy fresh drinks or snacks in the morning or after long working hours
Do you think online shopping will replace shopping in reality?
Online shopping, while convenient, presents certain drawbacks Firstly, the inability to physically examine products before purchase can lead to dissatisfaction and a higher likelihood of returns Additionally, the absence of hands-on scrutiny may result in customers receiving subpar products that fail to meet quality expectations.
• Yes, there are some benefits of online shopping First, it is a quicker and cheaper way to shop since people can buy products at home without having to go to stores
22 or shopping malls Second, online shopping allows people to have a wider range of choices as they can compare different brands and products
How has online shopping become popular these days?
• They can search for exactly what they want
• Shopping convenience: when consumers are able to shop online, they don’t have to worry about store hours The activity is literally a 24/7 affair
• No crowds or queues: it allows people to avoid long lines and crowds
TIME MANAGEMENT
What is the main reason people don’t have enough time?
• They multitask a lot: they might think that you are getting more done and saving time by multitasking
• They don’t track or budget their time: this is vital to taking control of their day
• They are disorganized: they waste time looking for misplaced items and lower their productivity
How can people balance their time between work and private life?
• Set boundaries and work hours: when you leave the office, avoid thinking about upcoming projects or answering company emails
• Set achievable goals by implementing time-management strategies, analyzing your to-do list, and cutting out tasks that have little to no value
Is it important for people to relax during the day?
• Calm the mind: physical relaxation can also reduce anxiety and mental strain
• The ability to think more clearly and make better decisions
• Reduces blood pressure and improves blood flow
• When you take time to put your feet up, your muscles loosen
Do old people and young people manage time in a similar way?
• Old people would like to put more time on leisure activities as they are retired from working and have plenty of time to do what they like at ease For example, they will probably spend more time in the nearby garden, or travel around
• Young people tend to put priority on work, therefore, their time management would be more work-oriented, and other things such as family time and social activities
How would you teach your children time management?
• Be a role model: parents should demonstrate their behaviour for them to follow
• Help them make a hierarchy of priorities to make better time management decisions For example: prioritise the following values: family, school, personal development, community and friends
• Provide children with the necessary tools they need to succeed: alarm clocks, wrist watches and personal calendars
TOYS
Do you think it’s better for a child to play with their toys alone or with other kids?
• Playing with their toys alone: Some toys are educational and important for early learning: a great way for children to develop skills such as spatial awareness, motor skills and hand-eye coordination safe way to explore the world and learn about colors, shapes and textures
• Playing with other kids: Enables them to develop communication skills, teaches a child how to manage one’s emotions and behavior, while also being considerate of other children’s feelings, learn the importance of cooperation, honesty, sharing, and giving chances to others
Why do parents buy lots of toys for their children?
• Many people are willing to pay for something their child begs for simply because they want some peace
• Some parents are materialistic They think that if they buy many toys for their children, they are good parents
• Parents buy toys to keep their children quiet and out of their way
• The power of advertising encourages parents to purchase toys for their offspring
What are the differences between today’s toys and older toys?
• In the past: simple toys that were often handmade Nowadays: mass produced toys (electronic toys: computer games)
• Children had to use their imagination and creativity to find enjoyment in using them in the past while today’s toys stimulate less creativity in children
• Entertainment for children now is much more digitized: many children are hooked to tablets or smartphones to play games and watch videos
Do you think advertising that targets children should be banned?
• Children don’t have the ability to pay for those products
• This way of advertising is manipulative and immoral: advertisements encourage children to nag and beg their parents
What factors should you keep in mind while purchasing a toy?
• The age of the child: if a child is too young, we shouldn’t give them toys which contain small parts that they could swallow
• Whether the toy will continue to entertain the child for a certain period of time (make sure that it’s worth buying)
POLITENESS
Are people today as polite as people were in the past?
In the contemporary social landscape, the rigid class hierarchies of the past have given way to a more egalitarian society While social status may still play a role, it is no longer the sole determinant of respect Instead, personal qualities such as work ethic, integrity, and kindness hold greater sway in shaping individuals' standing within society.
• I think that social media and cell phones have helped people to keep themselves polite Because their actions can be recorded at any time, more people will choose to act politely rather than being rude
Why is it important to show respect to others?
• Yes, because it shows that they have good manners helps them earn others’ respect
• Being polite is like having good social skills – it can help one widen their social network, which is beneficial to their private lives and career
How do people show politeness in your country?
• When a junior properly greets seniors and talks to them politely with sufficient and correct honorifics
• Politeness also shows during a meal, when people need to wish the others to have a nice meal
How do you deal with impolite people?
• One of the best ways to defuse rude and negative behavior is to stay friendly and positive This gives the other person a chance to calm down and adjust their behavior to match yours Kindness can be a wonderful antidote to rudeness
• Use humor to defuse a difficult person Humor can create a diversion and break the tension, allowing everyone to laugh it off
To halt rudeness, confront the perpetrator directly and request a change in behavior Ignoring disrespectful conduct perpetuates the cycle and undermines self-respect Assertively addressing incivility prevents further abuse and ensures that boundaries are respected.
What kinds of behavior are considered impolite?
• Not thanking people when they do something for you
• Not saying excuse me when you interrupt someone
• Cutting in between the lines in ATM queues/ cash counters at stores
• Talking loudly in public places
• Browsing through cell phones/ laptop while someone is talking to you
BOOKS & READING
What kinds of books do old people like to read?
• Old readers tend to place a greater emphasis on historical books or literature The books that offer a detailed account of an era, such as World War II, are also very popular among seniors
• For old readers in Vietnam, they tend to be captivated by poetries and romantic novels Especially, ladies love beautiful, romantic, old-fashioned love stories with happy endings
How do you think people will read in the future?
• I think it depends on what they would read If you mean novels; yes, I think less and less people will read them With a huge availability of media, starting with a plethora of DVD’s and CD’s to Spotify and Netflix, I guess people will prefer watching movies than reading books
• Reading still plays a dispensable role in the future All these high school kids still read their text books quite a lot Professionals will always have to continue developing themselves and books are one of the most prominent ways of doing so
Do you think that the internet and television will eventually make books obsolete?
• Although we have access to the internet nowadays, I don’t think so because there are book lovers who enjoy reading books
• Watching the screen for a long time will make your head dizzy but this is different when it comes to books You get to have a peaceful environment, without any noise It’s really calming
• Staring at a screen for too long may hurt people’s eyes or head, making them prefer physical books
Do you think that it is more valuable to read a book than to watch television?
• Reading books is better than watching television because it provides active learning for learners while the latter is passive
• Reading can greatly enhance people’s imagination For example, the individuals make different images in their mind and use their imagination to put the story together when they read some articles or sentences whereas the TV audience just passively accepts information from the TV screen
• Reading is like cardio for your brain More precisely, your brain will function a lot better It allows people to have a young and sharp mind even in old age
What kind of books are considered good reads in your opinion?
• I believe books that are suitable for a reader’s age and do not contain any hate speech or offensive materials are a good choice
• If a book can grab readers’ interest, makes them think, or helps them learn something new then it is a good read For me, a captivating story and character development in it are always key indicators for a good book
• I often enjoy books simply because they are educational and are based on real events
CULTURE
Do you think it’s important to know about other cultures?
• Definitely, you can not only find out interesting things but also find it easier to interact with people from other countries when you have a chance to meet them in person
• Having a better grasp of other cultures makes it a lot easier for people to do business with their foreign partners since they can make better impressions and avoid potential misunderstandings
How can we benefit from learning about other cultures?
• In business, it is necessary to know a little bit about whatever culture you plan to work with to avoid losing the chances of doing business For instance, in Muslim cultures, shaking hands with your left hand is considered extremely rude
If you know that, you would not do that and annoy those you cooperate with
• It helps people to understand how the world works, to see the world through a different lens, and in many cases, it helps one to understand the culture they come from
• When you live in a foreign country, learning about its culture helps establish a close rapport with the local people
Do you think that learning foreign languages can help us understand foreign cultures?
• Mastering the nuances of a language, people are able to understand people who grew up with an entirely different set of values and beliefs For example, just looking at all the Chinese idioms dealing with family demonstrates the value they place on this relationship and tells us a little about the family construct and potential dynamics
• If you are learning a language, you should talk to native speakers of that language By interacting with them, you learn more about their cultures
What are some things that define a culture?
• The first type is ideas and symbols: includes the values, beliefs, symbols, and language that define a society
• The second type is artifacts (material objects): includes the society’s physical objects, such as its tools and technology, clothing, eating utensils, and means of transportation
What do you think is the best way to learn about another culture?
• Obviously the most effective way to learn about a culture is to go there and experience it If you can feel the culture with your own eyes, it will be a lot easier for you to accept everything
• You can also learn a lot about other cultures by reading books about them
Reading about people's experiences in foreign lands is a wonderful thing
FAMILY
In a typical family, who plays the leading role?
• Fathers could be the breadwinner of the family by supporting financially for the family Besides, they also have the responsibility for taking care of the home and their children
• Mothers could be mainly responsible for the household and their kids Moreover, in a fast-paced modern society, mothers have also switched the role of fathers to become financial supporters in a family
In your country, what kinds of family members usually live together?
• In an extended family, there are three or four generations sharing the same roof including grandparents, parents, and their offspring
• However, in modern society, the nuclear family has been an increasing trend, which will consist of parents and children only
Do young and middle-aged people live with old people?
• In Vietnam, a large family is the home of three or more generations living together I think having the elderly at home can bring a lot of advantages to two other age groups
Upon retirement, seniors play a vital role within their families by contributing to household chores such as cleaning and laundry, allowing younger members to focus on their careers Furthermore, their wisdom and experience make them invaluable advisors, providing guidance and support to their younger relatives.
Is the nanny and/or the daycare center the third parent?
• These days, parents have to go to work to earn a living, so they have their children taken care of by the childcare center or babysitters day by day
Consequently, these people play a role as kids’ third parents
• At this stage, an infant and toddler still need much love, care, and attention to promote healthy brain development These people will tailor care, activities, and learning moments to a child’s individual needs
Where is the best place to raise a family?
• Living in urban areas enables people to have a decent job for financial support before building a home
• There is a wide range of service centers to ensure a sufficient life such as good education for their kids and better health care systems for their families
EDUCATION
Should schools teach both arts and science?
Incorporating science education into school curricula is crucial for its impact on students' future career prospects Science-based disciplines foster critical thinking and quantitative reasoning abilities, providing a solid foundation for diverse professional paths By embracing science, students unlock opportunities not only in science-related fields but also in industries such as business, engineering, information technology, and healthcare Science education empowers individuals with skills that transcend scientific domains, enabling them to excel in a wide range of professions.
• Art-involved classes are of paramount importance to students’ well-rounded development Thanks to these lessons, students can promote their creativity and imagination by expressing their thoughts in symbols and pictures Besides, this can help students to discover their potential aesthetic talents, then assist them to nurture their gifted features
What kinds of courses are useful for university students?
• Technology-related courses should be included in university curriculums Given the fact that the world now has been experiencing a fast-paced development of technology It’s crucial for students, especially ones studying at university who are about to participate in the labor workforce in the future to be equipped with sound knowledge of technological applications
• For example, office employees are required to be proficient at computer skills such as typing documentaries and applying to some Microsoft programs like Words or Excel and so on Therefore, students will confer advantages in working places if they’re trained in these skills at their university
What school activities are good for schoolchildren?
• Definitely, it would be extracurricular activities such as community services and educational clubs Along with helping your child establish a growth mindset through teamwork and problem-solving challenges, pursuing interests outside of the academic curriculum may help teach your child how to set a better work-life balance when they become adults
Do many people in your country study abroad?
Studying abroad provides Vietnamese students with significant advantages, primarily by granting them access to advanced education systems Developed nations like the US and UK possess renowned institutions with highly qualified faculty and state-of-the-art facilities These environments foster academic growth and enhance practical skills, empowering students toexcel in their respective fields and opening doors to various opportunities.
Does education guarantee a good job?
• A good education can ensure a decent job in the future Obviously, these diplomas or degrees show that you have acquired a level of skill and depth of subject knowledge that should make it easier to land a good job For example, careers in law, medicine, education, and engineering, just to name a few, all require a minimum education, which includes acquiring a college degree
• Other factors such as soft and technical skills are also a determinant of better job opportunities Specifically, in an increasingly competitive business world, degrees are not enough When participating in a working environment, employees have to show their ability to work with others and some indispensable skills for their jobs such as computing skills or communication skills
FOOD & EATING
Are there many vegetarians in your country?
• Most Vietnamese people who go on a vegetarian diet are the elderly It has been scientifically proven that they are the ones to be more vulnerable to some kind of old-age illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, some cancers, and dementia due to diets high in calories or fat
• Moreover, Vietnamese youngsters also have a tendency to switch to vegetarian meals to stay away from obesity and to get lean, especially women
Is the food that people eat today in your country different from the food that people used to eat in the past? (if yes, in what ways has it changed?)
• In the past, due to poverty and the lack of technological applications in food manufacture, the diversity of food types was limited People in the past used to consume more starchy foods such as rice and sweet potatoes or some fresh food they grew in their farming lands such as vegetables or fruits
• These days, with the help of technology, food selection is much more varied
One must be mentioned is the appearance of fast food This type of food industry varies from tastes and flavors to packaging Therefore, they become more and more popular among people in modern society
More and more people are overweight nowadays What do you think might be the cause of this?
• Overconsumption of unhealthy foods: When it comes to the advent of junk food, it stems from the trend of following Western countries People nowadays tend to consume more dishes from foreign cultures such as pizza, burgers, or fried chicken, which consist of a higher amount of fat Therefore, there is a more likelihood of obesity compared to the past
• A sedentary lifestyle: In terms of an inactive lifestyle, people nowadays are occupied with work and study, so they don’t have enough time for physical training Take an office worker as a specific example of this They have a nine- to-five job in an office which enables them to come back home only at 5p.m full of fatigue after a hard-working day They all feel out of energy to practice sports or any physical activities Therefore,
Do you think a vegetarian diet is better than a diet that includes meat?
• From a vegetarian’s experience: it is much better to remove meat from the food list Their diets are usually lower in fat and higher in fiber from vegetables and fruits, which has been scientifically proven as a key to holistic health
Therefore, vegetarians generally have a lower risk of developing high blood pressure, several forms of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity
• However, meat is of paramount importance to every bodybuilder or those who have intensive physical training, especially white meat They are in need of protein to build their muscles or their physical strength, which can be found on a large scale on chicken breast
How many meals a day should people eat?
• Breakfast plays an important role in providing people with energy for the day In my country, we can have “banh mi” or rice for breakfast
As a crucial part of daily nutrition, lunch plays a vital role in maintaining optimal energy levels and cognitive function throughout the day Consuming lunch replenishes blood sugar, providing the necessary fuel to power the afternoon and enhance focus and concentration This sustenance supports productivity and alertness, maximizing performance during the remainder of the workday.
• Finally, although dinner should be optional, it is advisable that people should not skip dinner for some reason Eating a healthy and light dinner will help your body maintain its levels and functions This will also clear your bowels Also, dinner is essential because, after a long day full of activities and exertion, your body needs to fuel up
FREE TIME & HOBBIES
How do people in your country spend their free time?
Extroverts are individuals characterized by their outgoing and sociable nature They tend to seek out social interactions and activities They engage in various pursuits to entertain themselves, such as joining clubs, making new friends, and participating in social events These activities provide them with opportunities to connect with others and experience a sense of community.
• On the other hand, introverted people tend to idle away the hours staying indoors and spending quality time with their families
How does finance affect the way people spend their free time?
• Affluent people: Expensive pursuits playing golf or chilling out at spas because to them, hobbies are not only a way of recreation simply, but also a way for them to show their prosperity Some kinds of hobbies require the players to have abundant financial resources like golf
• Low and average income people: Hobbies appear to be a way of entertainment, no less than that They don’t want to waste their money on it
Where do young people in this country usually spend their free time?
• Recreational places such as shopping malls, bars or pubs, eateries, and so on
These places are fully equipped with advanced technological applications for people to enjoy their hobbies in their leisure time For example, in shopping malls, people tend to hit the cinema to enjoy a blockbuster recently released with marvelous animation and sound effects
Do men and women spend their free time differently? How?
• Men: extreme activities: playing sports, doing gym, and so on because they can meet the physical requirements Moreover, most males pay more attention to building their bodies to show off their strength to others
• Women: activities require less physical involvement: shopping and hanging out with friends Or even the majority of women devote their free- time to domestic activities and childcare
Do people’s leisure time activities change as they get older? How?
• The elderly: They often spend their spare time doing some slight physical activities like doing yoga or jogging in the park It is understandable that they just want to improve their health conditions, especially in the complicated situation of Covid-19
• The young nowadays: They tend to focus on their social activities such as hanging out with friends and playing some extreme sports like gymnastics and football to name a some They seem to center their lives on pleasing themselves after a hard-working of studying and working
FRIENDS
Why do some people lose contact with their childhood friends?
• People nowadays are separated from their old friend’s relationships because they no longer see an eye to eye on the same problems compared to in the past
• Moreover, they gradually lack face-to-face interaction and see no mutual connection because they have their own work to do and spend their own time budget on other daily activities
How do people in your country make friends these days?
• The majority of online users nowadays use social networks such as Facebook or Twitter to share their opinion or seek others with the same hobbies, concerns, or interests as them
• Moreover, the virtual world is open for everyone all around the world to get connected with each other
Why is it easier to make friends on the internet than in reality?
• Without geographical constraints: With the help of the Internet, people can create new relationships with people all over the world via virtual networks (For example, Facebook with its friend's suggestion features enables people to have a connection with others based on the information they provide on the page.)
• Various topics of interest are shared on social networking sites: For example, on Facebook, there are a bunch of groups that allow people to join and share their interests with others, thereby making friends with those who have one or more topics in common
What qualities do you think are important in a friend?
• A friend should be understanding and helpful so that he can help you at the time you face any difficulty or troublesome situation in your life Let’s say, if you need money, a good friend would help you with the money you can borrow at the time of financial constraints
Do you think it is a good idea to borrow money from a friend? Why or why not?
• Lending money to friends can lead to financial problems for you and potentially cause relationship damage, especially if they might have trouble paying it back
• This emotional damage can often feel worse than losing money It's wise to avoid mixing money with family–but if you still feel compelled to lend them money, be prepared for the possibility that you won't get it back
PLAN
What should be planned on a daily basis?
• Daily plans should focus on setting priority for the most crucial and urgent tasks people must perform for both professional life and personal life
• Those who don’t make a detailed plan or to-do list each day might fall behind their schedule, or even worse, forget a major event such as the birthday of someone who is dear to their heart
In general, do you think planning is important?
• Firstly, plans allow people to manage their time wisely and productively
Individuals without concrete plans may struggle to determine priorities and objectives.* Consequently, they may expend time on inconsequential tasks that do not align with their goals.
• Secondly, those who make plans regularly tend to take better control of their life and be more satisfied with them This is mainly because they are more well- prepared for unexpected situations and are less prone to worries or anxiety
When do young children start to make plans for themselves?
• As early as possible, maybe at the age of 4 or 5
• Developing planning skills is vitally important, especially during the formative years and children can begin the process of planning in small tasks (Example:
Like what they’re gonna wear to school tomorrow, or which zoo they’re visiting over the weekend.)
• Trivial stuff and things really but this will set them up nicely for the future when they have to deal with huge plans or massive decisions
GENDER ROLES
Is it possible for women to join the army in your country?
• In current society, it is not mandatory for females to attend the army However, they can still become a soldier if they want In reality, they are often assigned with less physically demanding positions such as medical staff and chiefs
• Some women can achieve important positions in the military if they are competent enough and have excellent strategic skills
Is it compulsory for men to join the army in your country?
• According to Vietnamese legislation, it is mandatory for all men from 18 - 27 years old to serve in the military For citizens who are studying at college or university, they are temporarily suspended from calling for military service until their graduation
• Some people who suffer from cardiovascular diseases or HIV - AIDS will not have to perform military obligations
In your country are the responsibilities of a mother the same as the responsibilities of a father to their families?
• In the past, men were usually the breadwinners who assumed the responsibility to handle finances and fulfill basic necessities of family members such as food, clothes and tuition fees Meanwhile, women often took care of children and did all the housework
• In modern society, husbands and wives share equal responsibilities and duties
Both men and women now can take on full-time jobs to earn money Likewise, fathers are more likely to do household activities and look after their offspring after work
What behaviors are deemed as appropriate for men but inappropriate for women?
While biological differences exist between males and females, these variations do not determine appropriate behaviors for either gender Societal prejudices deeply ingrained in our social fabric have assigned acceptable and unacceptable behaviors based on these biological distinctions However, these societal constructs do not reflect inherent abilities or limitations and should not dictate our understanding of gender roles.
• In Asian nations, women have to walk gently, talk quietly and smile sweetly
However, if a man performs these behaviours, he will be considered a gay and despised by people around
• By contrast, some masculine activities such as drinking and smoking are not suitable for women
• In current society, people are more open-minded, so both men and women now feel free to do and pursue what they want without worrying about social conformity
Is it OK for men to cry?
• In some cultures, boys are taught not to cry and hide their emotions since crying is considered as an expression of femininity and weaknesses in their cultures
Therefore, some phrases such as “big boy don’t cry” and “be a man” are thrown at them, damaging their self-worth and belittling their self-image
• However, crying can sometimes be healthy and beneficial, no matter your gender According to scientific research, crying is a release of sadness and disappointment Hence, men should be free to express their feelings through crying
HEALTH
Do women pay more attention to their health than men?
• Not exactly Nowadays, people have become more health conscious thanks to the propaganda in the media On top of that, everyone wishes to live a long and illness-free life, so both men and women exercise regularly and adopt healthy lifestyles
• Well, men aren’t taking their health as seriously as women This could be explained by the fact that some of them are in good health, so they are less likely to visit hospitals for checks-up than women Additionally, men are often unwilling and lack motivation to obtain health-related information
• Women tend to be more concerned about staying in shape There is a lot of social pressure for women to be thin and physically attractive For thousands of years, the only way for women to advance socially or economically was through marriage Being physically attractive helped them do this Women can now advance through work and other means but thousands of years of cultural expectations don’t disappear overnight
Could governments do more to promote healthier lifestyle options?
• Legislators should impose stringent laws on activities that engender public health For example, the prohibition of smoking in public spaces would not benefit smokers, but non-smokers as well since there is much evidence about the dangers of passive smoking such as asthma and lung cancer
To enhance the well-being of future generations, it is imperative that politicians mandate the Ministry of Education to incorporate health education into the school curriculum Teachers play a pivotal role in instilling healthy habits, empowering children with the knowledge to maintain balanced diets and the importance of regular physical exercise By integrating these critical lessons into the educational landscape, we empower students to make informed choices that will positively impact their physical and mental health throughout their lives.
• In addition, the government can propagate health issues such as obesity or nutritional imbalance via the Internet to raise citizens’ awareness
• Local authorities should provide residents with free exercise equipment and fitness activities in public places
What do old people in your country do to keep fit?
• Senior citizens in my country prefer simple exercises such as yoga, jogging and taichi In reality, these activities are less physically demanding and improve muscle flexibility Furthermore, they often practice these exercises within groups of people in nearby parks
• The elderly always pay attention to the amount of essential nutrients in their daily meals Specifically, they eat a lot of vegetables and fruits rather than indigestible dishes made from meat
Do you think that the tobacco companies should be held reasonably responsible for a person’s addiction to nicotine?
• Everyone knows that smoking is harmful for health but smokers are not at all bothered Smoking is a choice, no one forces people to smoke The general public has been well educated about the health risks and hazards of smoking, so people who smoke are fully informed about the possible consequences of their habit
Therefore, tobacco companies are not to be blamed for this addiction
Tobacco companies employ persuasive marketing tactics to lure and addict consumers, capitalizing on nicotine's highly addictive nature As quitting smoking proves challenging for many, the responsibility for this addiction rests heavily on these companies, who should be held accountable for the negative consequences of their targeted advertising campaigns.
Should smoking in restaurants be banned?
• Actually, people who do not smoke and only breathe smoke from cigarettes take the same amount of nicotine and toxic chemicals as smokers This may result in some respiratory diseases such as asthma or lung cancer; therefore, restaurants and other public spaces should have a ban on smoking
• It’s necessary to do so as restaurants can build a separate area for smokers In this way, they can still enjoy food while smoking Additionally, the prohibition of smoking is not feasible in some countries like Spain and France, where smoking is regarded as a milestone of maturity
INTERNET
What are some of the different reasons why people use the Internet?
• For entertainment purposes: watch films and videos, listen to music, play electronic games
• Improve knowledge: accessing a huge amount of information from different sources, taking part in online courses
• Connectivity: send emails, chat or call videos with other people in less than a minute
Some people say that different age groups have different tastes on Internet contents
• Older generations and adults are usually interested in information related to the environment, national politics, business, health and education
• Adolescents often pay attention to entertainment and lifestyles For example, they regularly update content about the latest fashion trends or popular songs all over the world
• Children are into animated videos
What influences can (or, does) the Internet have on children/teenagers?
• Positive impacts: Playing electronic games can promote concentration and creativity of children, and hey have more opportunities to improve their knowledge by attending online courses or self-studying with a huge amount of information on the Internet
• Negative impacts: Children may become addicted to the virtual world As such, they feel insecure to contact others in real life, leading to poorer interpersonal skills and several mental problems in the long run In addition, it leads to a sedentary lifestyle as they spend too much time online Furthermore, they may get access to malicious contents such as pornography sites, which is detrimental to their healthy development
Do you think parents should control what Internet sites their children visit on the Internet?
• Parents should monitor their children’s internet use because the internet is filled with unfiltered potential for kids to be exposed to harmful interactions like bullying and harassment, as well as inappropriate content
Parental control solutions empower parents with the ability to monitor their child's online interactions This allows them to swiftly intervene if they detect any suspicious activities, such as dangerous conversations with potential predators or scammers Moreover, by monitoring these communications, parents can gain valuable insights into their child's emotional well-being and promptly address any instances of cyberbullying, offering timely support and protection.
• While keeping an eye on the conversations your child is having online is a great way to keep them safe, it’s also an invasion of privacy that can damage your relationship with them as they get older Excessive parental supervision like this can also be a trigger in itself for children to set up fake accounts on games and social media that their parents can’t access so they are ‘free’ to be themselves – which can lead to even more problems in the future
What (kinds of) people don’t use the internet?
• Older generations are less likely to be online
• People who live in deprived areas are less likely to access the Internet
• People with poor technological skills are often reluctant to use the Internet
SPORTS AND COMPETITION
What kinds of sports are popular in your country?
• Team sports are ubiquitous in my country
• A typical example is football Whenever the national team wins a competition, people will definitely flood into the roads and join the cheering crowds to celebrate these magnificent events
What else can people do to keep fit besides sports?
• Another effective way for people to get lean is adopting a balanced diet, which contains a sufficient amount of nutrients including carbohydrates, gluten, fiber, vitamins and minerals
• It is also crucial for people to have a healthy lifestyle if they want to shed some pounds
• Breaking down the word, “healthy” means that you should go to bed early and get rid of some detrimental eating habits like consuming heavily-processed foods or sugary beverages, etc,
Do you think young people should play dangerous sports?
• Youngsters should not partake in risky sports especially when they are not equipped with safety gears and devices
• It all boils down to the fact that participants are easily prone to implicit accidents in these sports
• Evidently, several traumatic deaths have been reported in mountain climbing
What do parents do to make their children like sports?
• It is recommended that parents incentivize their children to take part in sport competitions at school and spend time playing with them in their spare time
• Parents should also set a good example for their children to follow as kids are easy to mirror every behavior of others
Should athletes be better role models?
• It depends on the public’s eye choice and what areas people are interested in If considering other areas such as politics or business which are not in the athletes’ expertise, audiences will not have to be concerned with their opinions
• For most parts, sports people are only worth looking up to if they are disciplined, perseverant and achieve success in their career
• Every dog has its day Therefore, when an athlete is no longer in his heyday he will be easily forgotten
LANGUAGE
Why do people want to learn a foreign language?
• People hunger for learning a non-native language due to its outstanding merits
• It can be a lingua franca, which is literally an optimal means of communication, a key to breaking all barriers ranging from cultural differences to racial and religious divergence,
• What’s more, having a proficiency in using a second language will also create more opportunities for individuals to work in multinational companies, thus quickly climbing up on the career ladder
Which language is likely to become dominant in the future?
• I reckon that English is likely to be the dominant language in the future for the sake of an increasingly globalized world
• As you can see, it has been used universally on almost all continents in the world from America and Europe where it originates to other remote regions in Asia, Africa and Australia
• More importantly, many enterprises both domestically and internationally now require applicants to have proficiency in English skills
Do you think that endangered languages should be protected or should we just let them fade away?
• Dying tongues are desperately needed to be preserved since their extinction subjects to the loss in language diversity As a consequence, when a language dies, a wide range of information is lost forever For example: the songs, anecdotes, and historical occurrences that document an important piece of human history
• A unique way of looking at the world will also disappear because each language has its own phrases, expressions, and grammatical rules that provide a different point of view and understanding of the world around us
What are the advantages & disadvantages of being monolingual?
• People will not have to face up to troubles of code-switching like struggling to find expressions in your mother tongues
• Despite the above-mentioned merit, there are various inconveniences of being monolingual: communication barriers, employment,
Should foreign language study be required?
• It is mandatory that non-native languages should be included in school curriculum
• A foreign language can be an effective means of communication
• A foreign language is considered a key to a successful career due to the prospects it brings to an individual when seeking a job
MONEY
Why do young people tend to waste money?
• The root cause why adolescents frequently spend an excessive amount of money on fashionable clothes and high-end technological gadgets is the desire for self- expression
• Another reason behind this phenomenon is the ubiquity of advertisements that encourage teenagers to purchase unnecessary items
How do people become rich?
• People become affluent thanks to their inheritance from their families
• Some people rise to become millionaires by their bare hands with splendid characters (For example: Jack Ma has built a billion-dollar enterprise although he used to be really poor)
• Sometimes, good fortune might be an important factor attributing to the wealth of an individual (For example: the story of the female owner of Hadilao, the most prestigious hotpot eatery in China)
Why do people often want more money, no matter how much they have got?
• It’s human instincts We’re all born with graspingness, and jealousy
• We’re all living in a materialistic world, where everything needs money
• To name a few, we have to pay for numerous services, ranging from healthcare, tuition fees, welfare and so on
• Moreover, people easily get envious of those who appear to be more exceptional than them, particularly in terms of financial ground
Why is it important for people to save some of their money?
• Savings can give people a better future and achieve a number of goals For example, they can buy a house, accumulate funds for their retirement, or purchase a vehicle You can secure your future, indulge in the best of things that life has to offer and live a very fulfilling life
• It provides for your children’s education: With a considerable amount of savings, you can fuel your children’s dreams and pay for the best schools and colleges across the world
• It gives your family security in case of an unfortunate event: By saving in a disciplined manner, you can make sure that your family is well-provided for In unfortunate times, your savings can act as a cushion for your loved ones and help them overcome any financial difficulty
In your view, should children be taught how to manage money?
• It is one of the most important life skills that can be helpful for every child in the future They should be taught how to earn, save and spend money wisely and appreciate the value of money
• Prevent children from impulse spending money In reality, kids are continually attracted by advertising on TV and social media Teaching children money management at an early age can help them avoid consumerism.