Top 6 Best Study Guides for "Preparing for the New Century" by Vu Khoan for 9th Grade

Exercise 1: When was this article written in history? What issue does the article address? What is its current significance and long-term importance? What are the great and urgent tasks facing our country's youth today?

Answer:

Historical Context: The author wrote this article in early 2001, a period of significant historical transition, marking the turn of the millennium globally. Our country was entering a new phase of reform and modernization.

Topic: The article focuses on preparing the youth, especially the younger generation, for the new century.

Significance: Preparing for the new century is not only an urgent matter but also has lasting importance for the country's development and integration into the global community.

The tasks and responsibilities facing our nation and youth today are to recognize our strengths and weaknesses, strive for self-improvement, and build a solid foundation for a prosperous future, advancing both personally and for the country.

Exercise 2: Read the article again and outline the author's argument structure.

Answer:

The structure of the author's argument in "Preparing for the New Century" is as follows:

The role of youth awareness of the strengths and weaknesses of the Vietnamese people.
Identify and analyze both the positive aspects and limitations of the Vietnamese character.
The necessity for Vietnamese people to change and improve themselves to integrate globally.

Exercise 3: The author argues that "of all the preparations, personal self-preparation is perhaps the most important." Do you agree? Why?

Answer:

This statement is valid because:

Humans are the driving force behind the nation. All economic, political, and social activities are built and developed by people. Therefore, the stability and development of society depend on people.

Modern technology and equipment are created by humans to serve their needs. They cannot replace the essential role of people in driving social progress.

Exercise 4: What strengths and weaknesses of the Vietnamese character does the author highlight? How do these relate to the task of advancing our country in today's era of industrialization and modernization?

Answer:

Vietnamese people are intelligent and adaptable to new ideas, but often lack practical skills due to superficial learning methods, which hinders their ability to adjust to a new economy.

We are hardworking, creative, and resourceful, but sometimes lack caution and respect for rules, which can hinder productivity and integration.

Despite a long-standing tradition of solidarity and support during times of war, there is also a competitive spirit in business that weakens collaboration in production.

Our quick adaptability aids in global integration, but extreme attitudes and a lack of emphasis on trust can damage relationships and hurt business prospects.

Exercise 5: How do the author's observations compare to what you have read in history and literature books? What is the author's attitude when making these observations?

Answer:

Similarities: The strengths of the Vietnamese people, such as intelligence, diligence, creativity, adaptability, and solidarity, are widely recognized in both history and literature.

Differences: Unlike historical and literary works that focus solely on our strengths, this article also addresses weaknesses such as lack of practical skills, competitiveness, and extreme attitudes.

Author's attitude: The author maintains an objective and scientific approach in evaluating these issues.

Exercise 6: The author uses several idioms and proverbs in the text. Find these idioms and explain their meaning and impact.

Answer:

Idioms used by the author: "Water only reaches the feet when the shoes are off," "Do as the rice suits the pot," "The ox that’s tied knows its pasture," "Bite off more than you can chew," etc.

Impact: The use of idioms makes the writing more vivid and relatable, turning complex issues into understandable, everyday language. It also prevents the essay from being dry or overly academic, adding emotional resonance to the argument.

Practice Exercise:

Exercise 1: Provide real-life examples from society and schools to illustrate the strengths and weaknesses of the Vietnamese people.

Answer:

Strengths:

Intelligence, diligence, and creativity: High achievements in international intellectual competitions, innovation in agricultural machinery (peanut hulling machines, organic pesticides, etc.).
Love and support for each other: Helping the disadvantaged, charity programs, warm clothing for children, and building meaningful homes.

Weaknesses:

Lack of discipline and responsibility at work: Procrastination, blame-shifting.
Short-sightedness: Overcharging tourists, tardiness, etc.

Question 1, page 30, Literature Textbook 9, Volume 2:

The author wrote this article in 2001, as humanity was stepping into a new century.

The article addresses the issue of preparing for the 21st century:

• Contemporary significance: Our country is in a period of reform, achieving notable milestones to enter the 21st century.
• Long-term significance: With the trend of global economic integration, this preparation is crucial for us to progress alongside the world.

The challenges and tasks posed for the country and the younger generation:

• Free the nation from poverty and backwardness in the agricultural economy.
• Accelerate industrialization and modernization.
• Engage immediately with the knowledge-based economy.

Question 2, page 30, Literature Textbook 9, Volume 2:

Outline for the article "Preparing for the 21st Century":

• Preparation for the 21st century begins with preparing individuals, as this is the most important factor.
• The current global context and the nation's goals.
• The strengths and weaknesses of the Vietnamese people in the era of integration.

Question 3, page 30, Literature Textbook 9, Volume 2:

In preparing for the 21st century, the preparation of individuals is the most vital aspect because:

• People are the decisive factor for the existence and development of a nation.
• If individuals are equipped with beneficial knowledge and skills, they can contribute to advancing the nation.
• In the era of integration, the role of individuals becomes even more crucial.

Question 4, page 30, Literature Textbook 9, Volume 2:

The strengths and weaknesses of the Vietnamese people:

Strengths:

• Quick adaptability to new ideas.
• Hardworking and creative.
• Unity in times of struggle.
• Rapid adjustment to change
  => This meets the creative demands required for a disciplined, opportunity-driven economy.

Weaknesses:

• Lack of basic knowledge and practical skills.
• Lack of attention to detail, underestimating the importance of technological processes.
• Envy in business.
• Resistance to entrepreneurship
  => These weaknesses hinder adaptation to the knowledge economy, impede large-scale production, and present challenges in business processes and integration.

Question 5, page 30, Literature Textbook 9, Volume 2:

The author neither praises nor criticizes unilaterally but looks at the issue from multiple perspectives, providing a comprehensive evaluation. He respects traditional values but is also forthright in pointing out the existing flaws. These comments are objective and stem from the current societal reality, with the hope that the younger generation will recognize these challenges and help advance the nation.

Question 6, page 30, Literature Textbook 9, Volume 2:

The author uses several idioms and proverbs in the text: “Only when the water reaches the neck do we jump,” “The ox tied up despises the one who feeds it,” “Measure the rice before preparing the food,” “Live within one’s means.”

=> These expressions add vibrancy, appeal, specificity, and profound meaning to the article.

Practice Preparing for the 21st Century

Question 1, page 31, Literature Textbook 9, Volume 2:

Examples from real life to illustrate the strengths and weaknesses of the Vietnamese people:

Some exemplary individuals to learn from:

• Farmers who invented pesticide sprayers and automatic irrigation systems.
• Heroes of courage and sacrifice in the war: Mrs. Nguyễn Thị Suốt, who rowed a boat to transport soldiers across rivers, Ms. Võ Thị Sáu, and Mr. La Văn Cầu…

Some ongoing limitations:

• Vietnamese workers still lack high-level skills, leading to low productivity.
• Some merchants sell counterfeit goods, substandard products, and low-quality items.
• Some manufacturers use prohibited chemicals to preserve food.

I. ABOUT THE AUTHOR AND THE WORK

- Vu Khoan is a political figure who has served as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Trade, and Deputy Prime Minister.

- The article titled "Preparing for the New Era" was published in Tia Sang magazine in 2001 and later included in the book "A Knowledgeable Perspective" by Nha Xuat Ban Tre, Ho Chi Minh City in 2002. The author highlights both strengths and weaknesses in the character and habits of the Vietnamese people, emphasizing the urgent need to overcome weaknesses and develop good virtues and habits as the country embarks on industrialization and modernization in the new century.

II. READING AND COMPREHENSION SUGGESTIONS

Question 1. The author wrote this piece during the Lunar New Year of the year of the Snake, 2001, marking the beginning of the 21st century and the third millennium of the common era. This was a significant moment, a turning point between two centuries and two millennia. It was also a time when people often reflect on the long journey behind and prepare for the road ahead. For our country, this was the period when the reforms that began at the end of the previous century had achieved certain results and were entering the new century with very important goals. This was a time to address the key task of becoming an industrial nation by 2020. Therefore, the article "Preparing for the New Era" was very timely and appropriate.

The article presented the issue of preparing for the new century, urging the youth of Vietnam to recognize both the strengths and weaknesses of the Vietnamese people and to cultivate good virtues and habits. From the very first sentence, the author introduces the central point of the article. It's important to understand that the issue raised by the author is not only relevant to the transition period between centuries but also has long-term significance for the nation's progress. By clearly identifying both strengths and weaknesses, overcoming the weaknesses, and enhancing the strengths, we can ensure that each individual can contribute to the nation's development and avoid stagnation. This becomes even more urgent as we continue to build and develop the country in the context of global integration and a globalized economy.

Question 2. Outline the author's argument structure.

a) In preparing for the new century, personal self-preparation is of utmost importance.

This argument serves as the opening point for the entire essay and is the foundational argument for the author's broader discussion.

This point is validated by several supporting reasons:

- Throughout history, human beings have always been the driving force behind historical progress;

- In the era of rapid knowledge-based economy development, the role of individuals becomes even more prominent.

b) The current global context and the heavy tasks facing the country. The author elaborates on this argument with two points:

- The current context is one where science and technology are advancing rapidly, with increasing global integration among economies;

- Our country must simultaneously tackle three main tasks: escaping the stagnation of a centuries-old agricultural economy, promoting industrialization and modernization, and immediately embracing a knowledge-based economy.

c) The strengths and weaknesses of the Vietnamese people become clear as we enter the new economy of the new century.

The author provides a detailed and thorough analysis of this argument, as it is a key focus of the essay.

d) Conclusion: As we enter the new century, every Vietnamese person, especially the younger generation, must develop their strengths, overcome their weaknesses, and form good habits starting with the smallest actions to help the country progress toward industrialization and modernization.

In general, the author's argument system is tightly structured and provides clear direction.

Question 3. In this article, the author asserts that: Among all the preparations for the new era, personal self-preparation is the most important. This is valid because:

- Throughout history, human beings have always been the driving force behind historical progress.

- Particularly in the current era of knowledge-based economy, humans play an even more significant role.

Question 4. The author has highlighted and analyzed the strengths and weaknesses in the character and habits of the Vietnamese people as:

- Intelligent and quick to adapt to new ideas, but lacking basic knowledge and practical skills;

- Hardworking and creative, but lacking meticulousness, not adhering strictly to technological processes, and not accustomed to urgent work pace;

- Strong sense of solidarity, especially in the struggle against foreign invaders, but often harboring envy in business and daily life;

- Quick to adapt, but often restricted by outdated thinking, prejudice in business, over-reliance on state subsidies, excessive admiration for foreign culture, opportunistic attitudes, and a lack of integrity.

The author does not simply list these traits; whenever mentioning a strength, a corresponding weakness is also pointed out. Importantly, these strengths and weaknesses are always discussed in the context of the country's current development needs.

Question 5. I have learned and read many works of literature and history that talk about the good traditional qualities of the Vietnamese people. In general, they focus on highlighting the positive traits, strengths, and commendable aspects worth emulating. This article, on the other hand, brings an element of surprise to the reader. The author does not only praise, nor is there extreme criticism, but presents a balanced and respectful view, acknowledging both the positive qualities and the negative aspects, without falling into excessive self-praise or self-denigration.

Question 6. In this essay, the author makes use of many idioms and proverbs such as "water reaches the knee before jumping," "the ox hates the ox that eats," "measure rice, pick fish," "shorten the cloth, lengthen the bite," etc. This enriches the essay, making it more concrete, vivid, and meaningful.

Reminder:

- To prepare for the new century, the youth of Vietnam need to clearly understand the strengths and weaknesses of the Vietnamese people and cultivate good virtues and habits.

- The strengths of the Vietnamese people include intelligence, adaptability, creativity, and strong unity, especially during the period of resistance against foreign invaders. However, there are also many weaknesses to overcome: lack of basic knowledge, poor practical skills, lack of meticulousness, failure to follow technological processes strictly, and insufficient community spirit in business.

- As we step into the new century, to help the country advance, we must enhance our strengths, address our weaknesses, and form good habits from the smallest actions.

Structure

Part 1 (from the beginning… becoming more prominent): Preparing for the New Century

Part 2 (continuing… its weaknesses): Demands and challenges of the era

Part 3 (continuing … integration): Strengths and weaknesses of the Vietnamese people

Part 4 (remaining):

Question 1 (Page 30, Literature Textbook 9, Volume 2)

The author wrote this piece in early 2001 during the transition between centuries globally, with Vietnam continuing its reform journey that started at the end of the previous century.

- Issue: Preparing for the new century → it is timely, significant for the country's long-term development and integration.

- Task: Identifying limitations to overcome and catch up with the times, helping the country escape poverty, backwardness, and promote industrialization and modernization.

Question 2 (Page 30, Literature Textbook 9, Volume 2)

The author's reasoning:

- Emphasizing the importance of young people's awareness of the strengths and weaknesses of the Vietnamese people.

- Analyzing the characteristics of Vietnamese people (strengths, weaknesses, contradictions).

- Vietnamese people must change and improve themselves to integrate globally.

Question 3 (Page 30, Literature Textbook 9, Volume 2)

The author believes that "preparing oneself is the most important".

- Machines and other elements may advance, but they are products created by humans and cannot replace people.

- In a knowledge-based economy, human sensitivity still determines societal development.

Question 4 (Page 30, Literature Textbook 9, Volume 2)

The strengths and weaknesses of Vietnamese people influence the nation's tasks:

- Intelligent and quick to adapt, but lacking basic knowledge and practical skills → Struggling to adapt to the new economy.

- Hardworking and creative, but lacking attention to detail and process → negatively affects small-scale rural production methods.

- United in battle but envious in business and life → Weakens ethical values and reduces social unity.

- Quick to adapt, but discriminatory in business, petty, and crafty → Hinders business and integration.

Question 5 (Page 30, Literature Textbook 9, Volume 2)

The author's comments on history and literature books:

+ Similarities: Analyzes and praises the strengths of the Vietnamese people: intelligence, diligence, creativity, unity in battle…

+ Differences: Criticizes flaws such as practical skill limitations, envy, and cleverness.

- The writer's attitude: objective, scientific, sincere, and correct.

Question 6 (Page 30, Literature Textbook 9, Volume 2)

Proverbs used: "Only acts when the situation is critical", "Adaptation to circumstances", "Shorten the distance to reach the goal", "The ox binds and the ox eats"

- Proverbs are truthful as they are derived from the wisdom of previous generations.

→ Makes the writing more vivid, relatable, and easier to visualize.