Some people think that success in life comes from hard work and determination, while others think

that there
are more important factors such as money and appearance. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

money and appearance:

 Financial resources provide individuals with greater access to high-quality educational opportunities ( có
tiền -> attend prestigious uni or study abroad -> acquire advanced knowledge -> competitive academic
advantage -> higher job chances )

 Appearance can open doors to broader career and social opportunities. ( phạm vi: entertainment: singer,
actor. physical attractiveness can influence first impression, which is crucial for các ngành trên to attract
viewers-> reputation and earn more money)

hard work and determination:

 Determination helps overcome obstacles ( người from disadvantaged backgrounds by their resilience and
dedication to absorb knowledge and skill -> broaden the chance for career advancement -> attain a
handsome income. ví dụ J.K. Rowling )

 Hard work and determination are key factors that help people achieve lasting success.( unlike attractive
singers may gain a large following quickly, but without continuous training and high-quality
performances, their fame often fades over time. By contrast, dedicated singers who consistently improve
their skills can keep audiences engaged for many years.-> develop resilience and creativity, enabling
them to thrive in an ever-changing music industry.

Nowadays, more people move away from their friends and families for work. Do the advantages outweigh the
disadvantages? +

In many countries, some students live with their families while studying, but other students prefer to attend
universities in other cities. Do the advantages of living away from home outweigh the disadvantages?

disadvantage:

 Lack of immediate emotional support

This is particularly evident for many students studying in a university far from their house. When having a bad grade
or being rejected for scholarships, such students may lack timely emotional support, such as supportive
conversations or comforting family meals that can help them remain optimistic. As a result, they may get into
serious mental health issues such as depression or stress.

 Weaken understanding of traditional values, especially among the youth

Particularly, due to the demanding academic timetables and geographical remoteness, many individuals - not be able
to attend some annual festivals such as the Lunar New Year festival -> reduce the chance to instill traditional values
or respect for cultural heritage. result: undermine emotional connections to their roots.

advantage:

 students can gradually foster their independence when they reside apart from their families.( opportunity to
organise their daily routines, balance household chores, and participate in leisure activities without constant
parental supervision-> require prioritise tasks, allocate time effectively, and accountable for meeting
commitments-> develop a sense of self-discipline-> crucial for professional success.)

 living separately can reduce conflicts that frequently stem from generational differences. (older
generations - distinct social norms and values -> arguments. example: banned from dressing chic or trendy
clothes versus formal and traditional clothes -> result: living far -> foster healthy relationships.)

In the past, knowledge was stored in books. Today, people store knowledge on the internet.

Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

disadvantage:
  A significant issue is that much of the information available online lacks credibility ( educational topics ->
unverified content/ chưa reviewed by experts -> không differentiate between re/unreliable infor ->
misunderstandings)

 The widespread reliance on the internet can foster passivity.( given quick solutions offered by
technological advancements, such as Chat GPT,-> become increasingly dependent on the device for
completing tasks, such as homework and online assignments-> limit the development of critical thinking
and independent learning skills-> hinder academic growth in the long run.)

advantage:

 global reach of information on the internet. ( access a vast array of academic materials, journeys, and
multimedia resources from across the world-> bridge education gaps between regions and encourage cross-
cultural learning and collaboration, laying the foundation for a more open and diverse global learning
environment.)

 accessing knowledge online is often more cost-effective than traditional methods ( vd Duolingo -> provide
free and easy access to educational content -> eliminate the need for expensive textbooks or private courses
-> reduce financial burdens on families ( esp those from disadvantaged backgrounds )

Today more people put their private information (address, telephone and plastic card numbers) online to do
their daily activities (banking, shopping, socializing). Is this a positive or negative development?

positive:

 Immediate access and rapid transaction processing. ( storing information from previous visits-> log into
conveniently their accounts on platforms like Shoppe and complete transactions quickly without having to
re-enter their details each time-> save time and encourage consumers to shop more often-> boost
consumption and economic development)

 Storing personal information online enables companies to identify and reach potential customers more
effectively ( khi users save details such as payment info -> businesses: build detailed consumer profiles ->
deliver targeted recommendations/ match interest. result: boost sales, users’ experiences.)

negative:

 the substantial risk of data breaches.( sharing sensitive details-> vulnerable targets for cybercriminal. eg:
receive fraudulent calls and messages from criminals pretending to be legitimate authorities: police ->
deceive them into transferring money or revealing further personal information-> danger their assets
through sophisticated scam and identity thief.)

 collecting personal data often results in intrusive advertising that undermines users’ privacy ( companies
extensively track individual online activities -> bombard them with targeted ads without user consent -
>result: persistent surveillance -> disturbing + sense of being monitored and manipulated )

Some people think that the main purpose of schools is to turn children into good citizens and workers, rather
than to benefit them as individuals. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

agree:

 Educating skilled workers can drive economic growth. ( teach STEM subjects-> provide a strong
foundation of technical knowledge, such as scientific thinking, data analysis skills, and familiarity with
modern tools-> apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios, such as operating advanced machinery or
developing innovative solutions-> enhance productivity and efficiency-> economic progress.)

 Promoting moral values and civic awareness at school helps to build a civilised society. ( teaching giá trị:
ethics, empathy, and responsibility -> shape their attitudes: respect, sense of community from the early age
-> lay a groundwork for harmonious society ( vì strong moral character -> ít engage in criminal behaviors)

disagree:

 they play a vital role in providing students with foundational knowledge necessary for their future
professional success. ( For example: schools often have career orientation programs, which can allow
 students to choose a career path suitable for their qualities and passion-> easily have a good occupation
during competitive employment market-> have a stable and high income)

 foster social and communication skills ( teamwork projects, extracurricular activities -> express their ideas
clearly, negotiate differences -> build confidence and enhance interpersonal competence -> result: better
equipped to build good networks and manage conflicts in the long-term future)

Money for postgraduate research is limited, so financial support from the government, so financial support
from the government should only be used for scientific research, not for less useful research. To what extent
do you agree or disagree?

agree:

Allocating money to scientific research can reduce the potential risk in a highly dangerous work environment. It is
true that because machines are not susceptible to hazardous substances, they can replace humans to directly
participate in dangerous occupations, such as working at nuclear power plants. Thus, robots can have precision
control in hostile environments as well as significantly reduce the likelihood of injury and death among human
workers.

 reduce the financial burden on governments.

disagree:

 Governments should also distribute resources to historical research ( nghiên cứu về root causes and
underlying motives triggering world war-> implement peace and national rights agreements giúp societies
avoid repeating the mistakes of previous generations và create harmonious coexistence among nations. )

 Health research plays a vital role in developing vaccines to combat infectious diseases. (During the
COVID-19 outbreak, due to investing money in investigating newly emerging viruses, scientists created
effective vaccines such as Pfizer and Moderna in under a year. This achievement greatly reduced severe
cases and deaths, which could save millions of lives.

People increasingly talk about money. Why is this? Is it a positive or negative development?

Cause:

 Chief among these is the steady rise in the cost of living.( as expenses of basic necessities, such as food,
clothing, and healthcare continue escalate-> households: find difficult to cover their monthly bills->
financial pressure has compelled them to talk more openly their struggles in daily conversations as a way
to seek emotional and financial support)

 In addition, the rapid development of social media platforms such as Facebook and TikTok has further
reinforced this tendency. ( social tiện và widespread -> giúp comfortably share every aspects of their lives (
personal financial experiences from budgeting to investing ) -> transparency -> inspire - adopt
healthier financial habits, learn practical strategies )

Negative:

 It can foster a materialistic culture. ( conversations centre on materialistic achievements such as luxury cars
or designer brands -> lead to overconsumption or dissatisfaction. For those from disadvantaged
backgrounds -> trigger social comparison -> self-worth and even mental issues )

 An excessive focus on money can also encourage people to pursue wealth at any cost, even through
unethical or illegal means.( When financial success is seen as the ultimate measure of achievement, some
individuals may resort to fraud, corruption, or exploitative practices to get ahead. Such behaviour ->
harms victims and undermines trust within society but also fosters a culture where moral values are
compromised for material gain.

Nowadays the eating habits of people around the world are changing, causing them many health problems
including obesity. Why do people tend to eat so badly? What can be done to improve their eating habits?

reasons:
  Chief among these is the increasingly hectic pace of modern life.( employees in many sectors: such as
financial and information technology often work long hours, which make them lack time and energy to
prepare nutritious meals-> fast food: KFC is the ideal opt for them to give them energy needed to stay
productivity through the day.)

 Another significant factor is the pervasive influence of advertising ( ví dụ: major brands: coca cola run
appealing ads, emphasizing its affordability and taste while neglecting potential health risks -> boost
positive feeling và nhiều người consume. result: normalise poor dietary choices + khó để adopt healthier
lifestyles )

solutions:

 The foremost solution is to raise public awareness about the importance of healthy eating habits.( school
launch campaigns to educate students about the long-term consequence of poor diet, incorporate nutrition
lessons into their curricula-> result: empower young people to make informed dietary choices, cultivate
long-term habits that contribute to their overall well-being)

 Another effective measure is for governments to impose stricter regulations on the advertising of
unhealthy food products. ( ví dụ: có legislative power, governments -> mandate companies to limit the
frequency of junk foods commercials or show clear health warnings on their ads such as potential disease
related when overconsuming -> promote more mindful consumption -> reduce exposure to such unhealthy
products )

Many people believe that the best way to produce a happier society is to ensure that there are only small
differences in earning between the richest and the poorest members. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?

agree:

 it can create an equal society.( due to reducing wealth disparity, people can access to a similar quality
education regardless of marginalized communities-> equip individuals with the knowledge and skills
needed to compete fairly in job market-> result: break the cycle of the poverty-> enhance long-term
economic growth)

 it would alleviate mental health issues. ( small disparities in income -> decline the materialistic culture
where people, esp those from disadvantaged backgrounds when having social comparison, can promote the
sense of self-esteem. result: foster the positive mindset -> harmonious coexistence among communities. )

disagree (other solutions)

 green environment

 invest in sports facility

People often

think about creating an ideal society, but most of the time fail in making this happen. What is your opinion
about an ideal society? How can we create an ideal society?

opinion:

 green environment

 equal quality in education

cách tạo ra

 invest in renewable energy

 free education programmes

The values that we learn from our parents and family have a greater influence on our future success than
knowledge and skills we learn at school. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

agree:
  foster healthy habits lifestyles ( living with families -> học được từ bố mẹ các regular morning exercises,
balanced meals, adequate sleep -> good physical health -> energetic and higher productive -> lợi thế cạnh
tranh trong công việc)

 parents can provide personalized supervision and moral direction(. Unlike teachers, who must divide their
attention among many students, parents can closely monitor their child’s behaviour and choices, helping to
detect and prevent risky behaviours, such as smoking, skipping classes, and breaking laws. Staying away
from illegal and harmful activities helps them maintain a clean personal record, which in turn increases
their chances of securing scholarships, employment, or other opportunities in the future.)

disagree:

 academic knowledge required for career advancement ( ngành như medicines, engineering, law -> deep
understanding of abstract theories and principals only gained through formal edu at school. result: without
solid academic foundation at school -> hinder opportunities to enter a high-skilled workforce for handsome
income. )

 develop social competence. (It is true that schools can create an equal environment between students and
their peers, which is free from adult bias, preventing students from overreliance on their parents.
Consequently, they can gain a sense of confidence and independence when communicating with other
people, allowing them to improve essential social skills, such as cooperation and assertiveness.)

Some people think that children should start school at a very early age, but others believe that children
should not go to school until they are older. Discuss both views and give your opinion start school at a very
early age:

 Childcare centers support holistic development from an early age. ( Nowadays, childcare centers often
implement professional programs about physical development, such as running or climbing, that are
planned thoroughly by experts researching the development of children and introduced carefully through
the guidance of trained teachers. As a result, children are given safe access to outdoor activities with proper
supervision of teachers, which can not only improve children’s flexibility and endurance, but also allow
them to learn how to control and coordinate their body movements.)

 Early schooling can alleviate considerable stress for working parents.( due to hectic work schedule-> limit
time and energy to provide consistent care and educational activities-> lead to a sense of guilt and anxiety-
> result: early school-> ensure children receive proper supervision, structured learning, and social
interaction-> concentrate on job with greater peace of mind.

go to school when they are older:

 One compelling argument is that older children are generally better equipped to cope with health-related
challenges that arise in educational settings. ( younger children -> underdeveloped immune systems ->
more susceptible to common infections through shared toys, meals. By contrast, older children: better
immune system -> adapt to school environment with fewer health disruptions. result: avoid anxiety in
parents and financial burden for medical healthcare )

 it may reduce financial strain on low-income families.( early school education, particularly high-quality
daycare or prehouse, often expensive-> pressure on parents who may be struggling to meet basic
necessities-> result: keeping at home-> families: reallocate resources to other priorities and strengthen
family bonds through daily care and interaction.)

Art classes, such as painting and drawing, are as important to a child's development as other subjects, so it
should be compulsory in high schools. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

agree:

 First of all, art fosters creativity and abstract thinking, which are increasingly important in today's
innovation-driven world. ( for example: sketch scenes from a story or design visual narratives-> organise
information imaginatively and communicate ideas beyond conventional frameworks-> result: build
confidence in proposing original solutions and approaching problems from multiple angles and skills ->
crucial for diverse fields: architecture and engineering.)
  art classes offer a valuable outlet for emotional expression. ( those who are introverted or experiencing
personal difficulties, struggle to express complex emotions through language alone-> painting and clay
modelling allow them to process and convey feelings in a safe, non-verbal way-> cultivate emotional
intelligence and strengthen resilience.)

disagree:

 One key concern is the issue of student motivation.( not all students are naturally drawn to the arts, and
forcing them into art classes might cause disengagement. For example, a student passionate about science
or computer programming views a mandatory art assignment as a waste of time-> frustration and lack of
focus in other subjects-> a one-size-fits-all could lower overall enthusiasm.)

 not every student will benefit from art education in terms of their future career path.( Career in
medicine/business/law → Visual arts not very useful → Schools force all students to learn it → Students
have less time for subjects they’re good at or need for future → hinder Personal growth and career
preparation.)

In many countries, more and more people choose to buy imported food rather than food produced locally.
Why do people buy imported food? What could be done to encourage people to buy local food?

reason:

 First, many consumers perceive imported products as safer due to stricter quality standards. ( EU fruits →
have organic labels → proves strict rules on pesticides, soil, and traceability → builds trust with health-
conscious buyers → they prefer imported fruits to local ones without such labels.)

 Another reason why certain imported food products have gained widespread popularity is their pervasive
presence in global media and entertainment. (Korean ramen & American snacks → shown in
movies/TV/social media as trendy & modern because distinctive packaging + recognisable branding →
boost desirability & cultural relevance → young consumers prefer them over local products.)

solution:

 local producers to upgrade the quality of their food products.(Use modern tech + eco-friendly farming +
stricter quality checks → make people trust local food again → keep quality consistent & transparent →
local food competes better with imports)

 governments play a vital role in promoting local food through public campaigns.( Invest in farmer training
and financial support → use social media (e.g., TikTok) to showcase safe farming & cultural stories →
build trust and highlight domestic food’s unique value → foster national pride and encourage especially
young people to buy local to support communities and preserve heritage.)

Many people think modern communication technology is having some negative effects on social relationships.
Do you agree or disagree?

agree:

 Modern communication technology can easily lead to misunderstandings.( unlike face-to-face interaction,
text-based messages lack non-verbal cues, such as tone, facial expressions, and body language-> crucial for
conveying emotions or intentions, especially discussing sensitive topic-> result: create inaccurate
perceptions-> erode trust and weak relationship)

 Such technologies can contribute to harmful relationship patterns, particularly in romantic settings ( hack
private information -> create fake identities -> start deceptive online relationships -> financial gain. result:
financial losses + mistrust in further emotional connections)

disagree:

 its ability to strengthen relationships( For example: due to social media platforms: Message or Zalo, people
live far from friends and family-> stay in touch through regular video call or instant messages->seek
emotional support or a sense of closeness regardless of physical distance-> relationship: preserve and
deepen-> foster a sense of belonging and emotional well-being in today’s fast-paced world)
  Modern communication tools can serve as powerful bridges for building new social bonds ( Discord: online
room simulation -> invite members across the globe -> opportunities to engage with people from diverse
cultural backgrounds. result: gain intercultural awareness + expand social networks -> bridge national
boundaries )

Some people think that we should invent a new language for international communication. Will the benefits
of this outweigh the problems associated with it?

global lingua franca: ngôn ngữ qte

advantage:

 A new international language would promote a sense of global identity.( people use the same language ->
feel that belong to a shared global community-> break down cultural barriers, reduce prejudice, encourage
mutual understanding among nations-> result: foster unity, peace and cooperation worldwide.)

 Reduce substantial expenses on translation and interpretation ( ngày nay: companies spend millions of
dollars - hiring professional translators và maintaining language support services -> nếu có global lingua
franca: reduce those costs -> allocated to other necessary needs: research for new appealing products or
high-skilled labour training)

disadvantage:

 A newly invented language would widen the generational gap. ( old people due to their declining health ->
face difficulties when learning a new language -> lack of communication with family members. result:
promote the feeling of isolation + aggravate: làm trầm trọng thêm mental health issues)

 bring many minority languages to the verge of extinction.( shift to artificial language for communication->
traditional languages: fall into disuse-> even abandoned in daily life-> global lingua franca: loss of cultural
identity, oral history, and special ways of thinking found in native language.)

Increasing numbers of developing countries are currently expanding their tourist industries. Why is this the
case ? Is it a positive or negative development? +

As international travel becomes cheaper, more and more countries are opening their doors to an increasing
number of tourists. Do you think the advantages of increased tourism to these countries outweigh the
disadvantages?

reason:

 driving economic growth. ( tourists: spend on accommodation, dining, transportation and cultural activities
-> businesses: open more homestays, souvenir shops, restaurants -> result: gain income + improve living
standards, esp in rural communities )

 increased tourism can support cultural preservation. (site or tradition thu hút nhiều khách ->generate
significant revenue-> allow governments có tiền to maintain historical buildings and culture festivals->
result: safeguarding cultural identity-> pass next generations)

negative:

 environmental pressure on natural attractions. ( beaches, forests, heritage sites - crowded with tourists ->
littering, gradual damage to fragile ecosystems -> result: long-term environmental degradation and loss of
biodiversity )

 the overwhelming pressure on urban transportation networks. (countries often invest in numerous modes of
vehicles to serve the accelerating growth of tourists -> lead to traffic congestion, esp during peak seasons -
> result: diminishes tourists’ overall experience and hampers the mobility of local residents. )

Environment] Fossil fuel is the main source of energy. In some countries, the use of alternative sources of
energy is encouraged. Is this a positive or negative development?

positive:
  alternative sources of energy can mitigate environmental degradation.

 In addition, renewable energy can reduce the risk of energy crises. ( Many developing countries heavily
depend on imported fossil fuels-> vulnerable to global price fluctuations and political instability. ->
result: By investing in abundant domestic energy sources like wind or solar-> increase their energy
independence, ensure a more stable supply, and reduce economic risks caused by international
disruptions.)

negative:

 place financial burden on governments ( the installation of modern technologies like wind turbines or solar
panels: requires exorbitant cost, esp for developing countries -> better allocated to more pressing issues:
healthcare, education to improve living standards of citizens)

 such energies can disrupt essential industrial operations.( due to its dependence on weather conditions,
wind power can not provide adequate electricity during windless periods-> result: unable to create
electricity immediately-> difficult for factories to maintain a consistent energy flow to operate machinery
in essential industries, such as food production.

The differences between countries are becoming less and less evident. People all over the world wear the same
fashions, watch the same t.v. channels, use the same brands and have similar eating habits.

Do you think that the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

advantages:

 the process of bridging the gap in living standards and lifestyles between developed and developing
nations.( thanks to clothing’s similar prices, people can access to global brands with a high quality of
products, such as Hermes or Dior regardless of their income levels-> result: reduce feelings of social
disparity and contribute a sense of belonging to a more equal and interconnected global community)

 The diminishing cultural differences between nations can be advantageous for developing more efficient
global supply chains ( vd: McDonald’s and KFC - operate in over 100 countries. nếu similar consumer
tastes -> maintain largely standard menus without extensive local adaptation. result: lower operational
costs, foster more large-scale production)

disadvantages:

 it can make international travel less exciting and meaningful ( global cities: same fashion retailers,
entertainment options -> tourists have an identical feeling as their home country -> reduce the novelty and
cultural discovery -> result: tourism declines -> hinder the potential to gain profits )

 loss of cultural identity (Cities adopt similar designs & lifestyles → traditional crafts, languages, customs
overshadowed by globalised culture → cultural richness diminishes + local communities lose economic
opportunities from authentic traditions) homogenisation of consumer preferences

It is a good idea for people to continue working in their old age, if it is possible for them to do so. Do you
agree or disagree?

agree:

 it fosters fairness and equal opportunity in the labour market.( rather than making assumptions based on
age alone, companies are encouraged to assess candidates on their actual expertise and experience-> result:
not only reduce ageism: định kiến tuổi tác but also have more talents -> develop companies)

 it can help lower unemployment rates among older workers ( many employees in their 50s or 60s - capable
of contributing significantly to the workforce. result: remove this age barrier -> giúp old people remain
financial independence/ companies: utilise experienced workforce)

Negative:

 it can negatively affect work performance, particularly in rapidly evolving sectors such as technology
( Phạm vi: senior accountants who often use paper- based systems-> difficult to manage complex financial
software without additional support-> result: reduce productivity and slow down workflow.)
  pose health and safety risks in physically demanding jobs ( ví dụ: firefighting/construction - old pepple:
likelihood of injuries, health problems (back issue) -> result: raise costs related to accidents or health
insurance )

Scientists agree that many people eat too much junk food, and it is damaging their health. Some people think
that this problem can be solved by educating people, while others believe that education will not work.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

educate:

 Education can spark a ripple effect, inspiring others to eat healthier. ( When people gain nutritional
knowledge and improve their own diets -> they often share tips, recipes, or healthier food choices with
family and friends. result: influence the wider community’s eating habits )

 raise public awareness about the importance of healthy eating habits.( school launch campaigns to educate
students about the long-term consequence of poor diet, incorporate nutrition lessons into their curricula->
result: empower young people to make informed dietary choices, cultivate long-term habits that contribute
to their overall well-being)

reasons:

 Chief among these is the increasingly hectic pace of modern life.( employees in many sectors: such as
financial and information technology often work long hours, which make them lack time and energy to
prepare nutritious meals-> fast food: KFC is the ideal opt for them to give them energy needed to stay
productivity through the day.)->convenience outweighs knowledge about healthy eating; education alone
cannot change habits.

 Another significant factor is the pervasive influence of advertising ( ví dụ: major brands: coca cola run
appealing ads, emphasizing its affordability and taste while neglecting potential health risks -> children and
young people associate products with positive feeling-> consume more. result: normalise poor dietary
choices + khó để adopt healthier lifestyles )

Some people believe that it is important for parents to tell or read stories for their children. Others think that
parents don’t have to do this because there are many sources for children to read like books, TV, and movies.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

tell or read stories:

 Reading stories to children strengthens emotional bonds ( reading stories: physical presence, tone of voice
and shared laughter -> the sense of trust and closeness. result: children feel more valued and connected to
parents. )

 Parents can tailor stories to suit their children ( parents are able to censor information based on their
children’s ages: avoid violent scenes and consist of more traditional moral values -> result: nurture healthy
emotional development and reinforce positive values.

don’t have to read

 Using diverse media sources can broaden children’s global knowledge.( parents cannot possess
comprehensive knowledge of various aspects around the world, such as wildlife. -> result: animal
programmes: offer vivid, accurate depictions of creatures’ movements, colours, and behaviours in their
natural habitats across the globe-> enable children to develop a richer and more accurate awareness of the
natural world.)

 Media-based storytelling allows busy parents to maintain their child’s exposure to stories. ( Due to hectic
work schedule and various household responsibilities-> limit time to read stories-> in this case: television
programmes can allow children to access engaging narratives and educational contents-> develop language
skills and imagination.)

Group or team activities can teach more important skills for life than those activities which are done alone.
Do you agree or disagree?

agree:
  They enhance individuals’ ability to collaborate effectively.(Team sports (e.g., football, basketball) →not
only talent but also players’ willingness to coordinate closely, sharing the ball, anticipating teammates’
movements, and supporting each other under pressure.→ this teamwork builds trust and mutual respect
→

 become the foundation for strong, long-lasting relationships.)

 Another important point is that participating in group projects can nurture leadership skills. ( Work in
groups → may take on the role of guiding a team, assigning tasks, or checking progress → build
confidence and planning skills → able to lead bigger teams in the future → beneficial for long-term
career advancement.)

disagree:

 working independently can significantly strengthen personal autonomy. ( Unlike group settings where
decisions are often shared, Work alone → rely fully on own judgement and resourcefulness → handle
unfamiliar challenges independently → e.g. learn to edit a video or design a website without prior
experience → develop strong problem-solving skills.)

 Independent endeavours can nurture creativity in ways that collaborative work sometimes cannot. (Creative
fields (painting, writing) → working alone → explore ideas freely without external constraints or fear of
criticism → sense of creative ownership → unlock full potential)

Many people today are spending more and more time travelling to work or school. Some people believe this is
a negative development while others think there are benefits to spending a long time travelling to work or
school. Discuss both these views and give your opinions.

benefits:

 Chief among these is that long journeys can be used effectively ( for example: while commuting -> listen to
english podcasts + self-practice in spoken English -> opportunities for better language skills, esp for people
with hectic schedules. result: secure broad knowledge -> enhance career prospects)

 Spending more time travelling can create opportunities for social interaction and observation of daily life.
( eg: during a long bus ride, commuters: chat with regular passengers or notice different aspects of city life,
such as cultural diversity or public events-> broaden perspectives and communication skills-> enrich
personal growth & a stronger awareness of environment.)

disadvantages:

 prolonged commuting can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health ( long commute →
spend hours in traffic or crowded trains → cause chronic stress, fatigue, neck and back pain → weaken
immune system and reduce concentration → harm long-term productivity )

 In addition, excessive time spent travelling inevitably encroaches on personal and family life.( eg: parents:
are too drained( kiệt sức) after long commutes-> limit time and energy to help children with homework and
share quality time together-> disrupts work-life balance-> contribute lower overall life satisfaction and
weaker family bonds.)

Some people say that supermarkets and manufacturers have a responsibility to reduce the amount of
packaging on the products they sell. Others say that it is the responsibility of consumers to avoid buying
products which have a lot of packaging. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

consumers

 One argument is that people’s buying choices can shape the market over time. (customer choose products
with less/recyclable packaging → reduce sales for traditional brands + send message: environment is
important → drop in profits + risk of bad reputation → companies invest in eco-friendly materials / change
production process to compete )
  Consumers also have a significant role to play in reducing waste. (Avoid single-use plastics & use reusable
bags & choose loose produce → reduce household packaging waste → lower environmental impact →
promote sustainability and responsible consumption)

supermarkets and manufactures

 manufacturers can actively reformulate packaging. (eg: Nestle: reduce single-use plastics and introduce
refillable containers->large-scale change is feasible-> have a tangible environmental impact by
reducing plastic waste and lowering the overall ecological footprint.)

 manufacturers play a key role in promoting sustainable consumption (place low-waste items in visible
spots & offer rewards like discounts or loyalty points→ encourage better consumer choices → reduce
environmental damage & normalise sustainable shopping)

When new towns are planned, it is more important to include public parks and sports facilities than shopping
centres for people to spend their free time in. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

In many cities, green spaces and parks have been replaced with houses. Is this a positive or a negative
development?

public parks and sports facilities:

 such spaces play a vital role in promoting healthier lifestyles (Public parks → provide safe, accessible
spaces for activities (jogging, cycling, team sports) → integrated into daily routines → increase physical
activity → improve fitness & reduce stress → lead to better long-term health outcomes)

 Public green spaces help strengthen community ties.(Parks → neutral gathering places accessible to all
ages and backgrounds → host activities like picnics, outdoor festivals, and casual conversations →build
trust and understanding among neighbours-> foster a stronger sense of belonging within the community.)

shopping centres:

 They provide an exceptional level of convenience ( Bring together essential services, retail, leisure →
families & professionals eat out, access healthcare in one place → save multiple trips across city (mitigate
heavy traffic) → result: wider access to good services and improve living standards)

 Shopping centres have increasingly evolved into dynamic social and recreational spaces. ( Modern malls →
include cinemas, exhibition areas, and indoor playgrounds → create safe, climate-controlled environments
regardless of season or weather → allow people to relax, shop, and socialize in one location → offer
diverse entertainment options → shape urban lifestyles → contribute to economic vitality of surrounding
areas.)

Some people say that what people do to protect the environment cannot make a difference. Others say that
individuals can help to protect the environment. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

individuals can protect:

 One rationale is that individual behaviour frequently triggers a ripple effect that extends well beyond
personal choices. (Share eco-friendly habits (e.g., composting, reusing packaging) on social media
(Facebook, Instagram) → others observe and adopt these behaviours → green practices become normalized
→ peer influence encourages even more participation → especially impacts younger users who follow
social trends.)

 One important point is that, when adopted collectively, personal habits can yield significant results
over time. (Simple practices (reduce single-use plastics, save energy, use public transport) → adopted by
millions → substantially lower pollution → reduce demand for unsustainable products)

cannot make a difference:

 The primary point is that most environmental degradation stems from large-scale industrial operations.
(Coal power plants & chemical factories → continuously emit large amounts of greenhouse gases & toxic
pollutants → cause air pollution & accelerate climate change → individual recycling/waste reduction
cannot offset: bù lại industrial emissions)
  certain crises require coordinated policies and large-scale investment rather than isolated individual
behaviour. (Illegal deforestation → leads to soil erosion and flooding → tackling it requires strict
government regulations and enforcement measures, such as using technology for monitoring → systemic
interventions by authorities and corporations are necessary → personal efforts alone have limited impact)

On the other hand, there are a host of compelling reasons as to why I am convinced that politicians hold more
responsibilities on the protection of the planet. The foremost reason is that politicians have the legislative power
to implement environmental regulations that individuals cannot. To be specific, politicians can implement strict
regulations, including the power to suspend the operating license of any factories exceeding the carbon emissions
limit. This legal pressure incentivizes businesses to adopt greener technologies, thereby reducing long-term
environmental harm. In addition, politicians would raise awareness issues. For example, the government can hold
communal meetings to disseminate practical knowledge about eco-friendly habits or climate-related risks. As a
result, it might help educate the public and encourage them to reconsider their habits.

Some people think that it is a waste of time for an individual to plan for the future and that it is more
important to focus on the present. Do you agree or disagree?

agree:

 One compelling argument is that this mindset can significantly improve mental well-being.

Too much emphasis is given for education for the young. More government money should be spent on free
time activities for young people. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

disagree:

 Educating skilled workers can drive economic growth. ( teach STEM subjects-> provide a strong
foundation of technical knowledge, such as scientific thinking, data analysis skills, and familiarity with
modern tools-> apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios, such as operating advanced machinery or
developing innovative solutions-> enhance productivity and efficiency-> economic progress.)

 Promoting moral values and civic awareness at school helps to build a civilised society. ( teaching giá trị:
ethics, empathy, and responsibility -> shape their attitudes: respect, sense of community from the early
age -> lay a groundwork for harmonious society ( vì strong moral character -> ít engage in criminal
behaviors)

agree:

 investing in leisure activities plays a vital role in promoting healthier lifestyles (ví dụ: allocating money to
construct public parks → provide safe, accessible spaces for sports activities (jogging, cycling, team sports)
→ integrated into daily routines → increase physical activity → improve fitness & reduce stress → lead to
better long-term health outcomes)

 Government investment in art workshops can help teenagers develop creativity and emotional expression.
( Provide painting, music, drama sessions (free/low-cost) → students from different backgrounds
collaborate → communicate ideas → gain confidence → workshops nurture individual talents → promote
culturally vibrant and inclusive community)

People nowadays are living longer after they retire from work. What problems does this cause both for
individuals and for society? What can be done to reduce these problems?

problems:

 Chief among these is the financial burden that long post-retirement life would place on individuals ( rising
living costs and unforeseen medical expenses -> risk of depleting money savings -> result: low quality of
life and increased dependence on family or social support)
  Increasing retirements lead to a shortage of working-age people.( Longer life after retirement → more
people stay retired for many years → fewer working-age individuals → critical sectors: manufacturing ->
struggle to find skilled employees → overall productivity decreases → result: remaining workers face
higher burden → economic growth slows → social systems strained over time)

solution:

 Perhaps the most effective solution is for individuals to engage in thorough long-term financial planning
well before they retire. ( Consult with financial advisors, invest in private pensions schemes & save for
healthcare → maintain independence in retirement → avoid burdening families )

 Governments can gradually raise the retirement age.( Offer part-time/flexible positions for retirees →
experienced workers stay in labor force longer → continue contributing skills → maintain stable workforce
→ support economic productivity)

In the past, people used to travel abroad to look for many differences from their home country. Nowadays,
cities throughout the world are becoming more and more similar. What are the reasons? Do the advantages
outweigh the disadvantages?

reasons:

 The growth of international business and popular global brands has changed the way cities look.
( multinational stores (Starbucks, McDonald’s, IKEA) -establish at almost universal presence in all cities ->
replace the local ones → create standardised malls, office buildings, housing → local architecture &
unique city features overshadowed by global trends)

 Many developing nations have embraced modern urban planning to project economic progress and attract
investment. ( cities like Dubai, Singapore, Shanghai construct uniform skyscrapers, wide roads, malls →
create image of prosperity and efficiency → attract foreign investors→ signal economic growth → urban
landscapes worldwide look increasingly alike)

disadvantages:

 it can make international travel less exciting and meaningful ( global cities: same fashion retailers,
entertainment options -> tourists have an identical feeling as their home country -> reduce the novelty and
cultural discovery -> result: tourism declines -> hinder the potential to gain profits )

 loss of cultural identity (Cities adopt similar designs & lifestyles → traditional crafts, languages, customs
overshadowed by globalised culture → cultural richness diminishes + local communities lose economic
opportunities from authentic traditions)