Discuss a historical period you wish to explore more – Sample IELTS Speaking part 2, 3

1. Vocabulary related to the History topic

• History /ˈhɪs.tər.i/ (n): môn Lịch sử
• Historic /hɪˈstɒr.ɪk/ (adj): quan trọng trong lịch sử
• Historical /hɪˈstɒr.ɪ.kəl/ (adj): liên quan đến lịch sử
• Historical figure /hɪˈstɒr.ɪ.kəl ˈfɪɡ.ər/ (n): nhân vật lịch sử nổi tiếng
• Culture /ˈkʌl.tʃər/ (n): văn hóa
• Milestone /ˈmaɪl.stəʊn/ (n): cột mốc đáng nhớ
• Pride /praɪd/ oneself on sth (v. phr): tự hào về
• National identity /ˈnæʃ.ən.əl aɪˈden.tə.ti/ (n): ý thức quốc gia, dân tộc
• Nationality /ˌnæʃ.ənˈæl.ə.ti/ (n): quốc tịch
• Movement /ˈmuːv.mənt/ (n): phong trào
• Party /ˈpɑː.ti/ (n): đảng phái chính trị
• Operation /ˌɒp.ərˈeɪ.ʃən/ (n) = Campaign /kæmˈpeɪn/ (n): chiến dịch
• Conquer /ˈkɒŋ.kər/ (v): chinh phục
• Conquest /ˈkɒŋ.kwest/ (n): sự chinh phục
• Conqueror /ˈkɒŋ.kər.ər/ (n): kẻ chinh phục
• Invade /ɪnˈveɪd/ (v): xâm lược 
• Invasion /ɪnˈveɪ.ʒən/ (n): sự xâm lược
• Invader /ɪnˈveɪ.dər/ (n): kẻ xâm lược
• Resist /rɪˈzɪst/ (v): kháng chiến 
• Resistance /rɪˈzɪs.təns/ (n): cuộc kháng chiến
• Independence /ˌɪn.dɪˈpen.dəns/ (n): độc lập
• Sovereignty /ˈsɒv.rɪn.ti/ (n): chủ quyền
• Teritory /ˈter.ɪ.tər.i/ (n): lãnh thổ
• Teritorial waters /ˌter.ɪ.ˈtɔː.ri.əl ˈwɔː.təz/ (n): lãnh hải 
• Teritorial integrity /ˌter.ɪˈtɔː.ri.əl ɪnˈteɡ.rə.ti/ (n): toàn vẹn lãnh thổ
• Social classes /ˈsəʊ.ʃəl /klɑːsiz/ (n): Giai cấp xã hội
• Conflict /ˈkɒn.flɪkt/ (v/n): mâu thuẫn
• Royal /ˈrɔɪ.əl/ (adj): hoàng gia
• Royalty /ˈrɔɪ.əl.ti/ (n): người trong Hoàng tộc
• Monarch /ˈmɒn.ək/ (n): vị quân chủ
• Monarchy /ˈmɒn.ə.ki/ (n): thể chế quân chủ
• Hereditary /hɪˈred.ɪ.tər.i/ (adj): thừa kế huyết thống
• Aristocrat /ˈær.ɪ.stə.kræt/ (n): người thuộc tầng lớp quý tộc giàu có
• Aristocracy /ˌær.ɪˈstɒk.rə.si/ (n): giới quý tộc
• Noble /ˈnəʊ.bəl/ (adj/n): người thuộc quý tộc
• Lord /lɔːd/ (n): lãnh chúa
• Landlord /ˈlænd.lɔːd/ (n): địa chủ
• General /ˈdʒen.ər.əl/ (n): tướng lĩnh
• Knight /naɪt/ (n): hiệp sĩ
• Soldier /ˈsəʊl.dʒər/ = Warrior /ˈwɒr.i.ər/: binh lính
• Peasant /ˈpez.ənt/ (n): nông dân
• Servant /ˈsɜː.vənt/ (n): người hầu
• Slave /sleɪv/ (n): nô lệ
• Enslave /ɪnˈsleɪv/ (v): bắt làm nô lệ
• Revolt /rɪˈvəʊlt/ (v): cách mạng
• Revolution /ˌrev.əˈluː.ʃən/ (n): cuộc cách mạng
• Rebel /ˈreb.əl/ [n]: người khơi dậy cuộc nổi loạn
• Rebel /rɪˈbel/ (v): nổi loạn chống chính quyền
• Rebellion /rɪˈbel.i.ən/ (n) = Uprising /ˈʌpˌraɪ.zɪŋ/ (n): cuộc nổi loạn chính quyền
• Liberate /ˈlɪb.ər.eɪt/ = Free (v): giải phóng
• Liberty /ˈlɪb.ə.ti/ = Freedom (n): tự do
• Chivalry /ˈʃɪv.əl.ri/ (n): tinh thần hiệp sĩ
• Chivalrous /ˈʃɪv.əl.rəs/ (adj): hào hiệp

2. IELTS Speaking part 2: Discuss a historical period you want to know more about

2.1. The topic

To begin with, candidates need to directly introduce the historical period they wish to explore further. They can start by expressing their passion for history and highlighting unique aspects of that period.

Next, candidates should delve deeper into what makes that historical period fascinating. They should share some historical knowledge they have about that period and what sets it apart from others.

Finally, candidates explain why they personally want to learn more about that historical period. They can discuss lessons they have learned from that period and which lessons they hope to understand better.

2.2. Sample 1 – Discuss a historical period you want to know more about

To be honest, I’m extremely interested in learning more about the Renaissance, which spanned the 14th and 17th centuries and saw significant intellectual and cultural advancement in Europe. The literature, philosophy, and art of this time period really intrigue me.

In fact, I've already conducted research on several key figures of the Renaissance, such as Galileo, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. I am familiar with Shakespeare's plays, the Sistine Chapel, and other significant artworks and literary works from that era.

But I’d like to learn more about the Renaissance, particularly its political, social, and religious components, as well as how it affected the rise of contemporary Europe. I’m interested in knowing more about the period’s scientific advancements, like the development of the telescope and Copernicus’ heliocentric theory of the universe.

I would also be interested in exploring further the cultural exchanges of the Renaissance between Europe and other regions of the world. This is because I have a keen interest in understanding how this period influenced advancements in arts and sciences in other parts of the world such as the Middle East and Asia.

2.2.1. Key Vocabulary

• Renaissance (n): Phục hưng
• Span (v): kéo dài
• Intellectual (n): trí tuệ
• Philosophy (n): triết lý
• Religious components (n): thành phần tôn giáo
• Telescope (n): kính thiên văn
• Heliocentric theory (n): thuyết nhật tâm

2.2.2. Translation

To be honest, I am extremely fascinated by delving deeper into the Renaissance period, spanning from the 14th to the 17th century, and witnessing significant progress in intellect and culture in Europe. The literature, philosophy, and arts of this era truly captivate me.

In fact, I have conducted my own research on some prominent figures of the Renaissance, such as Galileo, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. The plays of Shakespeare, the Sistine Chapel, and other important artworks and literature of this era are familiar to me.

Tuy nhiên, tôi muốn khám phá thêm về thời kỳ Phục hưng, đặc biệt là các yếu tố chính về chính trị, xã hội và tôn giáo của nó, cũng như ảnh hưởng của nó đến sự phát triển hiện đại của châu Âu. Tôi muốn tìm hiểu thêm về sự tiến bộ khoa học trong thời kỳ này, như sự phát triển của kính thiên văn và thuyết nhật tâm vũ trụ của Copernicus.

Tôi cũng không từ chối việc khám phá thêm về sự trao đổi đa văn hóa thời Phục hưng giữa Châu Âu và các vùng khác trên thế giới. Điều này bởi vì tôi rất quan tâm đến việc hiểu thời kỳ này đã ảnh hưởng như thế nào đến cuộc cách mạng về nghệ thuật và khoa học xảy ra ở các khu vực khác trên thế giới như Trung Đông và Châu Á.

2.3. Sample 2 – Describe a historical period you would like to know more

The medieval era, or middle ages as it’s commonly known, is a period of history that interests me. I believe that, roughly speaking, this time in history took place from the fifth to the fifteenth centuries. Since there were no automobiles, electricity, modern gadgets, or even many stores in those days, I am mostly interested in how people lived.

It was a time of kings and queens, knights in shining armor, and horseback riding. If you were a common peasant, which was probably the majority of people, you probably walked instead. I believe that back then, most people relied on farming to make a living because conditions were so difficult.

Additionally, famine was a genuine concern if their crops failed. There was, in my opinion, a 50% probability that a child would live to be one year old. Apart from what I’ve seen in movies, which is probably not a very true representation of life at the time, I don’t actually know too much about this historical era.

But even though it was a hard existence and people only lived for approximately 30 to 35 years on average, I can’t help but be captivated by what life was like back then. Even though I am aware that life was difficult for the peasants, there is still something appealing to me about the way things were before modern technology, such as cell phones, automobiles, and electricity.

Maybe life wasn’t so horrible if you were a member of the upper classes, but I assume it wouldn’t have been so nice when your village or nation was unexpectedly invaded and everyone was slain.

They were simply individuals battling the forces of nature and life, dealing with a great deal of hardship and suffering, and I just feel like they were living such a raw life at the time. Not like now, when everyone is preoccupied with how many Instagram likes or Facebook friends they have.

2.3.1. Key Vocabulary

• Medieval era (n): thời trung cổ
• Automobiles (n): ô tô
• Modern gadgets (n): tiện ích hiện đại
• Knights (n): hiệp sĩ
• Shining armor (n): bộ áo giáp sáng ngời
• Famine (n): nạn đói
• Captivated (adj): quyến rũ
• Peasants (n): nông dân
• Invade (v): xâm lược
• Slain (adj): bị giết
• Preoccupied (adj): bận tâm

2.3.2. Translation

In the Middle Ages, or medieval times as it is often called, is a historical period that interests me. I believe, roughly speaking, this period in history spanned from the 5th century to the 15th century. Because there were no cars, electricity, modern appliances, or even many stores back then, I am mainly interested in how people lived.

It was a time of kings and queens, knights in shining armor riding horses. If you were an ordinary farmer, likely the majority of the population, you probably traveled on foot. I believe back then, most people relied on farming for a living because conditions were very difficult. Additionally, famine was a real concern if their harvests failed.

In my opinion, there was a 50% chance a child would survive to adulthood. Besides what I've seen in movies, it probably doesn't truly reflect life back then. I honestly don't know much about this historical period.

However, despite it being a difficult life and people only living an average of 30 to 35 years, I can't help but be drawn to life back then. Although I know that life for farmers was very hard, there's still something attractive to me about everything before the modern technological era, such as mobile phones, cars, and electricity.

Perhaps life wouldn't be too terrible if you were a member of the upper class, but I believe it wouldn't be so rosy if your village or country suddenly got invaded and everyone was killed.

They were simply individuals battling against the forces of nature and life, facing many difficulties and hardships, and I feel like they were living a rugged life back then. Unlike now, when everyone is concerned about how many likes they get on Instagram or how many friends they have on Facebook.

3. IELTS Speaking part 3: Describe a historical period you would like to know more

3.1. Should everyone know history?

Every person should be educated in history because it is an essential component of life and knowing it can aid in making wise decisions for the present and the future. Since history reflects the patterns and trends in our society, learning about it can help us to better understand our own culture and foster understanding and compassion for others. Briefly put, history is an effective tool for comprehending the world we live in and making wise decisions.

• Aid in (v): hỗ trợ
• Compassion (n): lòng trắc ẩn
• Comprehend (v): hiểu

Translation: Everyone should be educated about history because it is an essential part of life and knowing it can help make informed decisions for the present and future. History reflects patterns and trends in our society so studying history can help us understand our own culture and cultivate empathy and understanding towards others.

In short, history is an effective tool to understand the world we live in and make informed decisions.

3.2. In what ways can children learn history?

There are several ways for kids to learn about history. Experiential learning, which involves taking part in experiences that aid kids in understanding the past, is one method. For instance, a teacher might arrange for pupils to attend a recreation of a historical event or go on a field trip to a museum or historical location. Children can also learn about history by studying primary sources like letters, images, and artifacts.

Children can learn more about the past and the people who lived during that time by studying these sources. Videos, podcasts, and interactive websites are additional engaging resources that let students examine many viewpoints and develop a more comprehensive understanding of history.

• Artifacts (n): hiện vật
• Interactive websites (n): trang web tương tác
• Examine (v): kiểm tra

Translation: There are many ways for children to learn history. Experiential learning, such as participating in reenactments of historical events or visiting museums or historical sites, is one method. Teachers can arrange for students to engage in such activities. Children can also learn about history through studying primary sources like letters, images, and artifacts.

Children can further explore the past and the people living at that time by studying these sources. Videos, podcasts, and interactive websites are additional engaging resources that allow students to consider multiple perspectives and develop a more comprehensive understanding of history.

3.3. Is it difficult to preserve historical buildings?

Yes, maintaining old structures may be very challenging. The reason behind this is because it takes a lot of time and energy to protect big buildings. For instance, it’s important to maintain the building’s structural integrity, which might be difficult given the building’s age and the materials used in its construction.

Making sure that the building is not exposed to environmental elements like high humidity, air pollution, and extreme temperatures is also crucial. Furthermore, continual surveillance and security measures, which are undoubtedly expensive, are required to preserve the old building from vandalism and other types of devastation.

• Structural integrity (n): tính toàn vẹn về cấu trúc
• Be exposed to (adj): tiếp xúc với
• Humidity (n): độ ẩm
• Extreme (adj): khắc nghiệt
• Surveillance (n): giám sát
• Vandalism (n): sự phá hoại
• Devastation (n): sự tàn phá

Translation: Yes, maintaining old structures can be very challenging. The reason behind this is because it takes a lot of time and effort to preserve large buildings. For instance, it is crucial to maintain the structural integrity of the building, which can be difficult due to the age of the building and the materials used to construct it.

Ensuring that buildings do not come into contact with environmental factors such as high humidity, air pollution, and harsh temperatures is also very important. Furthermore, continuous monitoring and security measures, which can be costly, are necessary to protect old buildings from vandalism and other forms of damage.

3.4. What are the distinctions between learning history from books and from videos?

The benefits of learning history from books and movies are clear. Books contain thorough knowledge and enable in-depth investigation, encouraging analytical and critical thinking. They frequently include numerous references and citations. Videos, on the other hand, provide a more visually and aurally captivating experience, opening up history to a wider audience.

To gain deeper insights, they can simplify complex historical events. Videos may not offer as much detail as books. Choosing between books and videos ultimately depends on personal preferences and learning styles.

• Analytical (adj): tính phân tích
• Critical thinking (n): tư duy phản biện
• Citations (n): trích dẫn

Interpretation: The benefits of learning history from books and films are quite evident. Books contain extensive knowledge and encourage in-depth study, fostering analytical thinking and critique. They often include numerous references and citations. On the other hand, videos provide a more engaging visual and auditory experience, making history accessible to a broader audience.

To understand better, they can make complex historical events simpler. However, videos may not provide as much information as books. The decision between books and videos ultimately depends on personal interests and learning preferences.

3.5. Who should be responsible for protecting historic buildings?

Multiple parties should participate in the responsibility of preserving historical structures. Government bodies and heritage organizations play a crucial role in formulating and enforcing preservation laws and regulations. Where feasible, property owners and developers also bear the responsibility of safeguarding and restoring historic buildings.

Communities and locals can contribute by promoting the preservation of historic structures and educating people about their cultural significance. Architects and preservation specialists bring specialized knowledge to the table and can offer advice on preservation methods and best practices. To conserve and preserve historic buildings, a team effort is ultimately necessary.

• Bring specialized knowledge to the table: mang đến kiến thức chuyên môn

Numerous parties should participate in the mission of conserving historical structures. Government agencies and heritage groups play a crucial role in establishing and implementing preservation laws and regulations. When feasible, property owners and developers also have an obligation to protect and restore historic buildings.

Local communities and residents can contribute by promoting the preservation of historical structures and educating people about their cultural significance. Architects and conservation experts bring specialized knowledge and can provide advice on preservation methods and best practices. Preserving and safeguarding historic buildings ultimately requires collective effort.

3.6. Who should pay for the preservation of historic buildings?

There are several ways to finance the preservation of historic structures. Given that historic structures are regarded as being a component of the nation’s cultural legacy, government financing in the form of heritage grants and subsidies is frequently essential to support restoration projects. Financial support for preservation initiatives might also come from private donations and charitable groups.

Especially when dealing with historic properties, property owners and developers should assume some responsibility for maintaining the integrity of these structures. Furthermore, revenues generated from events and guided tours at historical sites can be reinvested into preservation endeavors. Securing the preservation of historic structures necessitates a combination of public and private funding sources.

• Cultural legacy (n): di sản văn hóa
• Heritage grants (n): tài trợ di sản
• Subsidies (n): trợ cấp

There are various ways to fund the preservation of historical buildings. Because historical architectural sites are considered part of national cultural heritage, government financial support in the form of grants and heritage subsidies is often crucial to support restoration projects. Financial support for conservation initiatives can also come from private contributions and charitable groups.

Đặc biệt khi họ sở hữu những ngôi nhà cổ, chủ sở hữu tài sản và nhà phát triển phải đảm bảo bảo vệ tính toàn vẹn của các cấu trúc này. Ngoài ra, tiền kiếm được từ các hoạt động và chuyến tham quan có hướng dẫn tại các địa điểm lịch sử có thể được đầu tư lại vào nỗ lực bảo tồn. Để đảm bảo việc bảo tồn các công trình kiến trúc cổ, cần có sự hợp tác giữa các nguồn tài chính công và tư nhân.

3.7. Làm thế nào bảo tàng giúp mọi người hiểu về lịch sử?

I think visiting museums can help people learn about the past. Because they can view actual relics from hundreds or even thousands of years ago in museums, visitors may feel as though history is more genuine. It can become alive with it. Additionally, individuals may be encouraged to read books or explore the internet to find out more information about whatever they find intriguing at a museum.

• Actual relics (n): di tích thực tế
• Intriguing (adj): hấp dẫn