Top 60 chủ đề phổ biến trong phần thi IELTS Speaking Part 1

Mytour đã tổng hợp và chia sẻ 60 chủ đề phổ biến nhất trong phần thi IELTS Speaking part 1 với bạn. Hãy cùng khám phá nhé!

A. Thông tin cần biết về phần thi IELTS Speaking Part 1

Thường thì, phần thi IELTS Speaking Part 1 có thời lượng khoảng 4-5 phút. Giám khảo sẽ đặt ra từ 8-10 câu hỏi xoay quanh các chủ đề thông thường. Để đạt điểm cao trong phần thi này, thí sinh cần biểu diễn khả năng nói lưu loát, trôi chảy.

Phần thi này được coi như một cuộc phỏng vấn nhỏ giúp thí sinh giảm bớt áp lực, đồng thời giúp giám khảo hiểu rõ hơn về thông tin cơ bản của thí sinh qua các câu hỏi.

B. 60 chủ đề IELTS Speaking Part 1 thường xuất hiện

Phần thi IELTS Speaking Part 1 thường bao gồm các câu hỏi xoay quanh những chủ đề quen thuộc trong cuộc sống hàng ngày. Dưới đây là một số chủ đề tổng hợp về IELTS Speaking Part 1 để tham khảo và ôn luyện!

1. Chủ đề Chỗ ở 

Bạn sống trong nhà hay căn hộ?

I live in a house that is located in a small alley in district 3 with my family. Because district 3 is considered as the heart of Ho Chi Minh city, all amenities are available within walking distance, like markets, churches, hospitals and all kinds of fashion shops and restaurants. That means I can easily grab anything I need in just a few minutes. So I really enjoy my life there.

• Alley (n): con hẻm 
• Amenities (n): đồ dùng thiết yếu

Bạn có muốn chuyển đến một nơi ở khác trong tương lai không?

Although my current accommodation is perfectly fine, I would love to experience living in a cottage once. Since it was my childhood dream to live near a forest, a small thatched-roof and rustic house located quietly at the edge of a jungle would be my dream house.

It would be made of timber and have 2 rooms, one’s for me and the other is for the guests. It sounds small but it would be cozy and fully-furnitured by only environmentally friendly interior ornaments and other necessary mod cons.Đặt

• Cottage (n): nhà chòi 
• Thatched-roof (adj): có mái lợp bằng lá 
• Interior ornaments (n): phụ kiện, nội thất

3. How is your apartment decorated?

My home is styled in a minimal way. Almost everything is painted in plain white, and a few landscape paintings and all small blue modern ornaments act as delicate touches. The interior design is simple, yet convenient and very pleasant to look at.

• Plain white (adj): trắng tinh
• Delicate (adj): tinh tế 

2. Tặng quà

1. Do you like giving or receiving gifts?

I guess even the smallest gift can bring a smile to my face, because who doesn’t love to receive free stuff anyway? On the other hand, I’m pretty inarticulate and not good at putting things into words so I often give people a gift to show how much I care about them.

• Bring a smile to one’s face: khiến ai đó cười 
• Inarticulate (adj): không giỏi diễn đạt bằng lời nói 

1. What kind of gifts do you like to receive?

Tôi nghĩ rằng tôi sẽ thích nhận những vật dụng có thể sử dụng hàng ngày, chứ không phải là những thứ phải để trong tủ, ví dụ như quần áo, cốc uống cà phê, hoặc thậm chí là một tấm thảm cho phòng tắm của tôi. Đối với tôi, không quan trọng món quà có đắt tiền hay không, mà quan trọng là tính khả dụng của nó. 

1. When do people give gifts or presents in your country?

Người ta thường tặng quà trong những dịp đặc biệt như sinh nhật, đám cưới, ngày tốt nghiệp hoặc tiệc chào nhà mới. Tuy nhiên, tôi tin rằng nếu bạn thực sự yêu ai đó, bạn luôn có thể tặng họ một món quà mà không cần lý do cụ thể nào. 

4. When did you last receive a gift?

I just turned 18 last month, so on my birthday my friends bought me a bunch of presents, but I particularly love the beautiful white dress my best friend Susan got me. We see eye to eye in fashion and clothing so she picked the exact dress that I’ve always wanted and I’ve been wearing it very often.

• See eye to eye: có cùng quan điểm 

3. Màu sắc 

1. Were colours important to you when you were a child?

Well yes, I’ve always loved colours but my favourite has always been blue. I had my mom buy me toys and clothes that were all blue. Up until now, blue is still my favourite colour and it’s become a part of my identity.

• Have s.o do something: thuyết phục ai đó làm điều gì
• Up until now: cho đến bây giờ
• Identity (n): cá tính, đặc tính  

1. Are there any colours that have a special meaning in your country?

Yes, of course, red is the colour that represents good luck. That’s why at Tet, our holiday during the Lunar New Year, you often see the elderly and parents hand red envelopes containing “lucky” money to their children and grandchildren.

• Represent (v): đại diện
• Hand (v): đưa cho (hiểu là cho/ tặng)
• Red envelopes: bao đỏ/bao lì xì

1. What colours would you choose to paint the walls of your room?

I’ve mentioned earlier that I absolutely love blue, so without a doubt, that’s my go-to color. I would also consider combining it with white since that’s my second favorite color.

• Go-to (adj): yêu thích
• Consider + v-ing: cân nhắc việc gì đó

4. Hàng xóm

1. Do you like your neighbors?

Yes, we have a very close bond, we share many similarities and we love and support each other. I cherish my neighbors as if they were my own family.

1. Are your neighbors usually close to each other in your country?

Absolutely, yes. In Vietnam, we have various folk verses and proverbs that emphasize the importance of having a good relationship with neighbors. You know, conflicts and disputes with neighbors can often cause more harm than good, so we strive to maintain good relationships with each other.

1. What is your neighborhood like?

I must say they are kind, generous, supportive, and friendly. Whenever my family faces any difficulties, we can rely on our neighbors for advice, assistance, and support. And when things settle down, we gather together and throw a party to reciprocate their kindness.

1. How can neighbors be helpful?

Yes, as mentioned earlier, they are incredibly lovely and supportive. Sometimes, when my family travels for an extended period, we ask them to keep an eye on our house. In the evenings, we gather, engage in meaningful conversations, share jokes, and end up bursting into laughter. This is how we unwind after a long day of work and study.

5. Nơi yêu thích của bạn

1. What place do you most like to visit? 

It is what we call an “acoustic café” in Vietnam. Acoustic cafes sell beverages and host performances by singers and acoustic guitarists.

• Beverage (n): thức uống
• Host (v): tổ chức

2. How often do you visit this place?

I usually visit there every Saturday night after finishing my assignments. There’s always a small performance at that time. 

3. Why do you like it so much?

As a student, I can’t really fork out 500.000VND to go to a concert. Going to this place is a way cheaper alternative and arguably more fun because you can interact with the artists on stage more easily.

• Fork out (phrasal verb): chi trả
• Alternative (n): lựa chọn

4. Is it popular with many other people?

Yeah, as far as I can see, many of my friends also enjoy going to such places. It’s a good way to escape from your daily life.

• As far as I can see: theo tôi thấy
• Escape (v): thoát

5. Has it changed very much since you first went there?

Apart from it being more crowded these days, nothing else has changed. And that is one of   the reasons why I keep coming back to this place.

• Apart from: ngoại trừ 

6. Âm nhạc/ Nhạc cụ

1. What kinds of music do you like to listen to?

Well, I would say that Pop is definitely to my taste. I usually listen to some massive pop hits whenever I feel blue so as to stay positive throughout the day.

• Be to someone’s taste (phrase): đúng gu ai đó
• Massive hit (n): một bài hát phổ biến
• Feel blue (idiom): cảm thấy buồn

1. At what times of day do you like to listen to music?

Music has become a basic need in my daily life as if I cannot live without it. I cannot tell you the exact time when I usually listen to music, but I found myself immensely productive at work when I immerse myself in music.

• Immensely (adv): vô cùng
• Immerse oneself in something (idiom): đắm chìm bản thân trong cái gì đó

1. Did you learn to play a musical instrument when you were a child?

To be honest, I didn’t have a knack for playing any musical instruments back in the day. For example, I usually spent hours and hours hammering on a guitar but it didn’t really work out well for me.

• Have a knack for something (idiom): có khiếu về cái gì đó
• Work out well (v): phù hợp

1. Do you think all children should learn to play a musical instrument? 

In my opinion, kids should be encouraged to take up playing musical instruments such as guitar or piano as it can possibly improve their memory as well as stimulate their creativity. On top of that, learning how to play a musical instrument can actually teach them patience which is the highest virtue of living a contented life.

• Take up doing something (v): bắt đầu làm cái gì đó
• Virtue (n): đức tính tốt
• Contented life (n): cuộc sống viên mãn

7. Cuối tuần

1. How do you usually spend your weekends?

My weekends are often relaxing. I usually have breakfast and coffee in a small café near my apartment. The rest of the time, I either read books in my room or hang out with my friends.

• Either … or … : làm việc này hoặc việc kia

2. Which is your favourite part of the weekend?

Friday’s and Saturday’s evenings because I could stay up later than usual and watch my favourite series on Netflix. Sometimes, I use this time to chat with my friends who live abroad.

• Stay up late: thức khuya
• Series (n): chương trình/ phim nhiều tập (khác với movie)

3. Do you think your weekends are long enough?

I’m quite content with the length of my weekends. Two days are enough for me to put my hair down and get ready for a new week of work.

• content (adj): hài lòng

4. How important do you think it is to have free time on the weekends?

Even though I like my job, I think having time to wind down is a must. It gives me time to cool my engine down and reflect upon my achievements as well as my flaws in the past week.

• Wind down (phrasal verb): thư giãn
• Must (n): điều bắt buộc
• Reflect upon/on (verb): chiêm nghiệm, tự đánh giá
• Flaw (n): lỗi lầm, điều chưa tốt

8. Giao thông tại nơi bạn sống

1.  How do most people travel to work where you live?

People in my area usually commute mostly by motorbikes simply because they really come in handy when it comes to traveling on narrow routes in Vietnam. In addition to using motorbikes, buses and other forms of public transport are deemed to offer cheap but convenient trips to reach the workplace.

• Commute (v): đi lại, di chuyển
• Narrow route (n): tuyến đường nhỏ hẹp
• Forms of public transport (n): các loại hình giao thông công cộng
• Come in handy (phrase): tiện lợi

2.  What traffic problems are there in your area?

With a high traffic volume these days, there are tons of problems related to traffic in my country. First and foremost, drivers usually get stuck in a long tailback during rush hours every day. Such a problem results from the dramatically increasing car use nowadays, which poses a threat to our traffic infrastructure. Reckless driving is another problem that needs taking into account. This can lead to the growing mortality rate due to accidents occurring on major roads. As a result, the government should take measures to strictly fine people who usually drink before driving to ensure overall road safety.

• High traffic volume (n): mật độ lưu thông lớn
• Tailback (n): hàng xe cộ nối đuôi nhau
• Rush hour (n): giờ cao điểm
• Pose a threat (v): gây tổn hại
• Reckless driving (n): hành vi lái xe ẩu
• Morality rate (n): tỉ lệ tử vong
• Road safety (n): an toàn giao thông đường bộ
• Traffic infrastructure (n): cơ sở hạ tầng giao thông

3.  How do traffic problems affect you?

Well, I would say that I often get in trouble with traffic in my nation, which affects me both mentally and physically. I sometimes have to wake up very early in the morning to create my own travel itineraries to reach my workplace despite staying up really late the previous night to complete my reports. As a result, I am totally worn out for the whole day and unable to concentrate on my work.

• Travel itinerary (n): lịch trình di chuyển
• Be worn out (adj): mệt nhoài

4.  How would you reduce the traffic problems in your area?

Well, It may be quite peculiar to some people but I suggest carpooling. I believe such a practice can help minimize traffic congestion and increase its capacity. Moreover, I think switching to using public means of transport can be seen as an alternative solution to mitigate traffic problems.

• Peculiar (adj): khác lạ
• Carpooling (n): việc đi chung xe
• Traffic congestion (n): nạn kẹt xe
• Mitigate (v): giải quyết

9. Quần áo

Part 1: Clothes

1. What type of clothes do you enjoy wearing?

Well, casual clothes are at the top of my list  as they give me a sense of comfort when spending time outdoors. However, If I go to work, a long-sleeved shirt and a pair of cotton dress pants would be a perfect match as they really make me look sharp.

• casual clothes (n): thường phục
• at the top of my list (phrase): điều đầu tiên tôi nghĩ đến
• look sharp (v): trông bảnh bao

2. Do you enjoy buying clothes?

Actually, I am not a slave to fashion and splurging in clothes is not my cup of tea. That said, I like being formally dressed on some formal occasions, so I tend to purchase a new suit if I am loaded.

• a slave to fashion (n): người cuồng thời trang
• splurge (v): vung tiền
• to be not my cup of tea (idiom): không phải điều yêu thích của tôi
• loaded (adj): rủng rỉnh tiền

3. Has your style of clothing changed compared to 10 years ago?

I think my fashion style bears no significant differences compared to a decade ago as I have been interested in simple clothes. The only subtle change is that I tend to choose clothing in colours that suit my complexion.

• subtle change (n): thay đổi nhỏ
• suit my complexion(v): hợp với da của tôi

4. What types of clothes do people in your local area enjoy wearing?

From my perspective, it really depends on people’s purposes. As the weather in Ho Chi Minh city is unseasonably changed, some people tend to prioritize functions. As a result, they would make purchases on clothes that meet their demands. Additionally, some people, especially the youth, take a very keen interest in aesthetics, so they would put on clothes with different patterns and silhouettes as they believe that appearance can reflect their personalities.

• unseasonably changed (phrase): thay đổi thất thường
• aesthetics (n): tính thẩm mỹ
• silhouettes (n): hoạ tiết

10. Đồ nội thất

1. Do you have a lot of furniture at home?

Well, honestly, I just furnish my house with some basic pieces of furniture such as chairs and tables as I am currently residing in a tiny house with my parents. Additionally, too much furniture in a house may hinder us to move comfortably.

• furnish (v): trang bị
• reside (v): sinh sống
• hinder (v): cản trở

2. Have you ever received furniture as a gift?

Frankly, the one and only piece of furniture that I have ever been gifted is a wooden wardrobe which my mom purchased for me on my last birthday. I was taken aback by the elegantly carved patterns that were aesthetically put on this wardrobe when receiving such a present.

• gift (v): tặng
• be taken aback (v): ngạc nhiên
• aesthetically (adv): một cách thẩm mỹ

3. What’s your favorite piece of furniture in your house?

I really don’t have any preference for furniture, but if I were to choose one, that would be the present given by my mom – the wooden wardrobe. Not only is it a birthday present for me, but also a message of love that my mom wants to give me.

• It I were to choose one,… (phr): Nếu tôi phải chọn 1 …
• Not only be S + Noun 1, but also Noun 2 (phr): không những …, mà còn ….

11. Quê hương

Q. Quê hương của bạn ở đâu?

A: Quê hương của tôi nằm ở tỉnh Đồng Nai, nằm về phía Bắc của Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh. Mỗi khi tôi muốn về quê từ TP. Hồ Chí Minh, thường mất khoảng 2 tiếng đi xe máy. Tôi rất tự hào về quê hương của mình vì nơi đây nổi tiếng với nhiều loại trái cây như bưởi, táo, lê, v.v.

Q. Sống lớn lên ở đó như thế nào?

Q. Has it changed significantly since you were a child?

Q. What do you enjoy most about residing there?

Q. What attractions can tourists visit in your hometown?

Q. Do you anticipate living there when you are older?

12. Companions

Q. Do you have many friends? [Why/Why not?]

A: Absolutely. I consider myself outgoing and sociable. Whenever I visit a place, I always introduce myself and make friends. In fact, I enjoy having many friends because it broadens my perspectives through conversations with them.

Q. How frequently do you socialize with friends? [Why/Why not?]

Q. Tell me about your closest friend from school.

Q. How well do you get along with your neighbors? [Why/Why not?]

Q. Which holds more significance for you, friends or family? [Why?]

13. Titles

Q. Were your names chosen by your parents?

A: Yes, indeed, my mother was the one who gave me my name. She's a literature teacher, so she named me after the season of my birth, which was Spring. I must admit that I find my name quite distinctive yet easy to remember, which makes me very proud.

Q. How did your parents decide on your names?

Q. Does your name possess any particular significance?

Q. Is your name conventional or rare in your nation?

Q. Would you consider changing your name? [Reasons/Why not?]

14. Cuisine and culinary arts

Q. What kinds of foods do you most enjoy eating? [Reasons?]

A: I would describe myself as a huge fan of traditional Vietnamese cuisine such as braised pork and eggs or ‘canh chua’, which translates to ‘sour soup’ in Vietnamese. I find them incredibly delicious when paired with rice because of their rich flavor and distinctive aroma, unique to our national dishes. Although I've tasted numerous dishes, traditional Vietnamese food remains my favorite.

Q. Who typically prepares meals in your household?

Q. Do you follow cooking shows on TV? [Why/Why not?]

Q. Generally speaking, do you prefer dining out or eating at home? [Why?]

15. Photography

Q. What kinds of pictures do you enjoy taking? [Why or why not?]

A: I absolutely love capturing images of food. Being a food enthusiast, I feel compelled to photograph the beautifully presented dishes I've tried throughout my life. I even have a food photo collection, as I believe food looks stunning in pictures with its vibrant colors. I enjoy viewing these images almost as much as I enjoy tasting the dishes!

Q. How do you utilize the photos you take?

Q. When traveling to different places, do you prefer taking photos or purchasing postcards? [Why or why not?]

Q. Do you appreciate others taking photos of you? [Why or why not?]

Bikes

Q. How common are bikes in your hometown? [Why?]

A: Honestly, I don’t think bikes are very prevalent in my hometown. Actually, whenever I’m out, I notice bikes account for only about 5% of all vehicles. In my hometown, this mode of transportation is primarily used by high school students.

Q. How frequently do you ride a bike? [Why/Why not?]

Q. Do you believe bikes are appropriate for people of all ages? [Why/Why not?]

Q. What are the benefits of a bicycle over a car? [Why?]

16. Bikes

Q. How common are bikes in your hometown? [Why?]

A: Honestly, I don’t think bikes are very prevalent in my hometown. Actually, whenever I’m out, I notice bikes account for only about 5% of all vehicles. In my hometown, this mode of transportation is primarily used by high school students.

Q. How frequently do you ride a bike? [Why/Why not?]

Q. Do you believe bicycles are appropriate for all ages? [Why or why not?]

Q. What are the benefits of a bicycle over a car? [Why?]

17. Gaming

Q. Do you engage in any gaming? [Why or why not?]

A: Yes, I am actually quite passionate about games. In particular, mobile games have been my favorite pastime since I was about 12. While I’m not addicted, I find these games extremely exciting and helpful for learning a second language. In fact, much of my English vocabulary comes from the games I’ve played.

Q. How do people in your country learn to play games?

Q. How do people in your country learn to play games?

18. Telephone Calls

Q. How frequently do you make phone calls? [Why or why not?]

A: I would say I don’t make phone calls very often. Honestly, ever since I got a smartphone, it’s been more convenient to use instant messaging apps instead of calling. In fact, I only make calls when I’m on the go or when I need quick information.

Q. Who do you talk to the most on the phone? [Why?]

Q. When do you think you'll make your next phone call? [Why?]

Q. Do you sometimes prefer texting over calling? [Why or why not?]

19. Your Friends

Q. Do you prefer having one close friend or a group of friends? [Why?]

A: If I had to choose, I would definitely opt for a group of friends. It goes without saying that friends are essential pillars of support that everyone needs in their lives. Therefore, having a group of friends means you can receive assistance from different types of people, which can be beneficial in various life situations.

Q. What activities do you enjoy most with your friends?

Q. Do you think it’s important to stay in touch with friends you knew as a child? [Why or why not?]

Q. What qualities make a friend a good friend?

20. Place of Residence

Q. What is your place of residence?

Q. How would you describe the area you live in?

Q. What do you find most intriguing about your town/village?

Q. What occupations do the residents of your town/village engage in?

Q. In your opinion, is it a desirable place to reside? (why or why not?)

A: Absolutely. Without a doubt, Ho Chi Minh City is the economic hub of Vietnam, offering abundant job and educational opportunities. Moreover, it boasts a vibrant nightlife. Despite its compact size, exploring all corners of Ho Chi Minh City within just a month or two seems impossible.

21. Flowers

Q. Do you enjoy having flowers in your home? [Why/Why not?]

A: Definitely. I must admit I have a soft spot for flowers. Whenever I have free time and go to the market, I always buy some flowers to arrange in vases around my house. Somehow, looking at my home adorned with flowers instantly rejuvenates me after a long day at work.

Q. Where do you typically purchase flowers? [Why?]

Q. On what occasions do you typically give someone flowers?

Q. Are flowers significant in your culture? [Why/Why not?]

22. Leisure

Q. What are your hobbies or interests? [What do you enjoy doing?]

A: Yes, certainly. I enjoy swimming in the morning. Before adopting this hobby, I used to feel drowsy and fatigued throughout the day. However, after starting to wake up early for a 30-minute swim every morning, I've found myself more energized and focused at work.

Q. How did your interest in (whatever hobby/interest you mention) develop?

Q. What recreational activities are available in your spare time in (candidate’s hometown/village)?

Q. How do you typically spend your vacations?

Q. Is there a specific place you would like to visit? [Why?]

23. Television

Q. How frequently do you watch television? [Why/Why not?]

A: I don’t watch TV often because there is no TV in my rented room. Therefore, I only watch TV for important football matches. Moreover, with YouTube available nowadays, I find it more convenient to watch any show on my phone without waiting for broadcast schedules.

Q. Which TV channel do you usually tune into? [Why?]

Q. Do you find television advertisements enjoyable? [Why/Why not?]

Q. Do you believe most TV programs are of high quality? [Why/Why not?]

24. Leisure

Q. Do you prefer staying at home or going out in the evening? [Why?]

A: Most of the time, I opt to stay at home rather than go out. I consider myself a homebody, and being at home after a day of work allows me to relax and unwind. Occasionally, I do go out at night, especially for birthday parties or to seek advice from friends when faced with life's challenges.

Q. What activities do you enjoy when you go out in the evening?

Q. How popular are these activities in your country?

Q. Are there any types of entertainment you dislike? [Why/Why not?]

25. Print Media

Q. What magazines and newspapers do you usually read? [Why?]

A: Typically, I enjoy reading women's magazines. They feature inspiring stories of successful women across Vietnam. Additionally, they provide useful tips on beauty, cooking, shopping, and more, which I find beneficial.

Q. What types of articles interest you the most? [Why?]

Q. Have you ever read a newspaper or magazine in another language? [When/Why?]

Q. Do you believe reading newspapers or magazines in a foreign language is an effective way to learn that language? [Why/Why not?]

26. Humor

Q. What kinds of things make you laugh?

A: I find it quite easy to laugh, especially when I watch funny animal videos on the internet. I have a soft spot for animals, and they never fail to bring a smile to my face. Whenever I feel stressed, watching these clips is a quick and easy way for me to relax and unwind.

Q. Do you enjoy making others laugh? [Why/Why not?]

Q. Do you believe laughter is important for people? [Why/Why not?]

Q. Do you think laughing is synonymous with feeling happy? [Why/Why not?]

27. Cosmetics

Q. How often do you apply makeup?

A: Not frequently, I only apply makeup when I go out with friends or attend events like weddings or parties. I find it quite exhausting to put on makeup every morning, as it consumes a lot of time. Moreover, after a tiring workday, I still need to spend time removing it when I return home.

Q. What does putting on makeup signify for you?

Q. Would you consider giving makeup as a gift?

Q. What are your thoughts when you see a man wearing makeup?

28. Daily Schedule

Q. What changes would you like to make in your daily schedule?

A: When it comes to altering my routine, one thing I've been aiming for is going to bed early. I've noticed issues with concentration and a short attention span, which I read online are symptoms of insufficient sleep. So, if I could change anything, I'd ensure to sleep before 11 PM every day.

Q. Are all your days similar?

Q. Describe your typical weekday and weekend.

Q. How do you balance work/study and leisure time in your daily life?

29. Staying in touch with others

Q. How do you usually communicate with your friends? [Why?]

A: Typically, I chat with them throughout the day using messaging apps like Facebook Messenger, Zalo, etc. I find these apps convenient and enjoyable, especially with the variety of emojis available. Moreover, in today's fast-paced world, messaging allows me to stay connected without disrupting their tasks.

Q. Do you prefer different methods of communication for different people? [Why?]

Q. Do you find it simple to maintain contact with friends and family? [Why/Why not?]

Q. Did people in your country communicate in the same ways in the past as they do today? [Why/Why not?]

30. Travelers

Q. What places and activities would you recommend to a visitor in your country?

A: Firstly, tasting the diverse Vietnamese cuisine is a must. Vietnamese food is known for its balance and healthiness, featuring a wide range of ingredients. Each region offers unique dishes with distinct flavors. Additionally, food is easily accessible with street food stalls and restaurants scattered all over the streets.

Q. Are there any traditional arts or music that you would suggest?

Q. Describe the types of foreign visitors or tourists who come to your country.

Q. How has tourism impacted your country?

31. Travel

Q. How did you get to the examination center?

Q. Do you enjoy traveling?

A: I adore traveling as it offers an escape from the daily hustle and bustle. It broadens my horizons and exposes me to diverse cultures, both within Vietnam and around the globe.

Q. What is your usual mode of travel?

Q. What are the most common forms of transportation used on the streets in your country?

Q. Which types of transportation do people commonly use to get around in your country?

32. Festivals

Q. Describe the most significant festival in your country.

Q. What unique foods and activities are associated with this festival?

Q. What do you find most enjoyable about this festival?

Q. Do you believe festivals are important for a country? [Why?]

A: Absolutely, festivals are crucial to me. They play a vital role in preserving Vietnam's cultural heritage. I firmly believe that without festivals, certain traditional customs and rituals would fade into obscurity. Moreover, these celebrations significantly boost the country's tourism industry.

33. Family

Q. Does your family consist of many members or just a few?

Q. Could you share something about your family?

Q. How much time do you usually spend with your family members?

Q. What activities do you enjoy doing together?

Q. How well do you get along with your family? [Why/why not]

A: I must admit that we often see things differently. For instance, my family prefers girls with traditional long hair, dressed elegantly in feminine attire and always wearing a charming smile. In contrast, I prefer short hair and casual clothes. Despite these differences, they are still my family, and I cherish them dearly.

34. School

Q. Did you attend a secondary/high school close to where you lived? [Why/Why not?]

Q. What aspects of your secondary/high school did you appreciate? [Why?]

A: During my upbringing, I attended Vung Tau High School in my hometown. It's considered one of the best schools in the city. The commute from home to school took about 15 minutes. Looking back on my time there, I'm immensely grateful to the dedicated teachers and staff who tirelessly supported students' academic pursuits.

Q. Can you tell me about anything you disliked about your school?

Q. In what ways do you think your school could be improved? [Why/Why not?]

35. Weekends

Q. How do you typically spend your weekends? [Why?]

Q. What is your favorite part of the weekend? [Why?]

Q. Do you feel like your weekends are long enough? [Why/Why not?]

Q. How important do you think it is to have leisure time on weekends? [Why?]

A: I believe having free time on weekends is crucial. Especially for full-time workers who spend around 40 hours sitting at their office desks, weekends offer a necessary opportunity to socialize with friends and recharge.

36. Music

Q. What genres of music do you enjoy listening to? [Why?]

Q. When do you prefer to listen to music during the day? [Why?]

A: In the morning, I prefer upbeat music, especially while exercising. It helps elevate my mood and focus for the day ahead. At night, I opt for relaxing and slow-paced tunes to unwind and ensure a better sleep.

Q. Did you learn to play a musical instrument when you were younger? [Why/Why not?]

Q. Do you believe it's beneficial for all children to learn a musical instrument? [Why/Why not?]

37. Dancing

Q. Do you find pleasure in dancing? [Why/Why not?]

A: Absolutely. While I am not a professional, I thoroughly enjoy moving to the rhythm of music. Dancing helps loosen up my body and enhances physical flexibility. Moreover, it's a great way to relieve stress and promote cardiovascular health.

Q. Have you ever received dance instruction? [Why/Why not?]

Q. Can you describe any traditional dances in your country?

Q. Describe some popular dances in your country.

Q. Do you believe traditional dancing will remain popular in the future? [Why/Why not?]

38. Job

Q. Are you currently employed or studying?

Q. How long have you been with your current employer?

Q. What are your responsibilities at your job?

A: Currently, I am employed full-time at a financial services firm. My role primarily involves assisting clients with their home loan applications, which includes extensive administrative tasks, organizing documents, and applying mathematical concepts.

Q. What aspects of your work do you enjoy?

Q. What would you like to change or improve in your current role?

39. Birthday Celebration

Q. What is your birthdate?

Q. When did you last celebrate your birthday?

A: I celebrated my 23rd birthday just two months ago with my partner. Although we were on a tight budget, he surprised me with a cake and a beautiful bracelet adorned with stones. The bracelet was made from braided parachute cord with three stones that symbolize positivity and confidence. It was the most meaningful gift I've ever received.

Q. Describe a birthday celebration you have attended.

Q. Do you celebrate the birthdays of your family members?

40. Comedy

Q. What kinds of TV shows do you find amusing?

Q. What types of TV shows are most popular in your country? Why do you think this is so?

Q. What makes you laugh? Why?

Q. Do you enjoy making others laugh?

A: Absolutely, I do. I believe that humor is a great way to connect with others and leave a positive impression. Whenever I aim to make a good impression on someone, I try to bring joy and laughter. I think laughter plays a crucial role in our lives, and seeing others smile brings me immense joy.

Q. Do you think having a sense of humor is important?

41. Rural Areas

Q. Describe the rural areas near your town/city.

Q. In the future, would you prefer to live in rural areas or a big city? [Why?]

A: I anticipate returning to my hometown and settling in the countryside in about 7 to 8 years. Frankly, I'm not fond of the hustle and bustle of city life. Additionally, I have a passion for gardening, which is more feasible in rural settings. Finding space for gardening in a metropolitan area would be quite challenging.

Q. Why do people often move from rural areas to cities? Do you know anyone who has done so?

Q. Do you prefer visiting large cities or small villages? [Why?]

42. Punctuality

Q. Is punctuality valued in your culture?

A: Absolutely not. I firmly believe that punctuality is a fundamental social courtesy in Vietnam. Being late implies a lack of respect for the person you are meeting. However, I've noticed that many young people nowadays do not adhere to this tradition anymore.

Q. What is your opinion on punctuality in your country?

Q. What reasons for lateness do you consider acceptable?

Q. How do you react when someone arrives late for an appointment with you?

43. Aspirations

Q. Do you frequently experience dreams during sleep?

A: I have dreams about once or twice a week, so I consider my dreaming frequency to be quite high. Particularly when I'm anxious about exams or upcoming events, I often have nightmares. Conversely, when I'm in a good mood, my dreams tend to involve fantastical scenarios like a world made of cotton candy or animals that talk, among other things.

Q. How often do you recall your dreams?

Q. Do you believe dreams can impart any lessons?

Q. Is it common for people in your country to discuss their dreams?

Q. Do you believe dreams can become reality?

44. Sounds

Q. Do you enjoy recording and listening to your own voice?

A: Absolutely. I actually record myself speaking English every weekend as a kind of diary. I summarize my entire week and reflect on what I've learned as a way to enhance my English skills. I find it quite beneficial because I can hear my voice and make improvements for the next time.

Q. Do any of your family members have a similar voice?

Q. Has your voice ever undergone any changes? (When?)

45. Strolling

Q. Do you engage in a lot of walking?

A: Absolutely. I'm grateful that I get to walk a lot throughout the day. At my workplace, there's no elevator, so I frequently use the stairs. Additionally, the parking lot is quite far from my office, so I walk there too.

Q. Do you walk more frequently now compared to the past?

Q. Do you believe individuals will walk more in the future?

Q. What do you perceive as the advantages of walking?

EXERCISE: Attempt to respond to the remaining queries independently, using each provided new word at least once in your reply.

Some vocabulary words found in the article:

• a plethora of: nhỏ
• social butterfly: người thích xã giao
• widen my horizons: mở rộng kiến thức
• name after: đặt tên theo
• be a real sucker for: rất thích
• social courtesy: phép lịch sự
• recharge my batteries: sạc lại năng lượng
• spark a conversation: bắt đầu cuộc hội thoại
• pick up a hobby: bắt đầu một sở thích
• coach potato: người thích nằm ở nhà xem TV
• chill out: thư giãn
• blow off some steam: nghỉ xã hơi
• confide in: tâm sự
• bring the smile to somebody’s face: đem nụ cười đến cho ai
• disheveled: xốc xếch
• the hustle and bustle: sự hối hả bận rộn
• see eye to eye: cùng quan điểm
• leave a good impression on somebody: để lại ấn tượng tốt với ai đó

46. Outings

Q: Are you fond of picnics?

Q: How frequently do you engage in picnics?

Q: When did you last partake in a picnic?

47. Penmanship

Q: What kind of impression does someone's handwriting create on others?

Q: Can one discern someone’s personality from their handwriting?

Q: Do you usually write by hand or use a computer for writing?

Q: In today's world, how do most people prefer to write?

Q: Do you frequently use a pen for writing?

48. Physical Activity

Q: Do you enjoy sports?

Q: Is sports popular among people in your country?

Q: Which sports do you prefer?

Q: What sports are popular among people in your country?

Q: What was your favorite sport when you were young?

49. Recycling

What are some commonly recycled products or materials?

How have people's attitudes towards recycling changed over the past few years?

Do you consider recycling important?

50. Changes

Q: What are your plans for changing next year?

Q: Do you enjoy changes?

Q: Have there been any changes in your hometown?

Q: How much have you changed since your childhood?

51. Farm

Q: Do you believe farming holds significance?

Q: Have you ever paid a visit to a farm?

52. Museum

Q: Are you fond of exploring museums and art galleries?

Q: How frequently do you visit museums?

Q: When did you last go to a museum?

Q: What insights did you gain from visiting museums and art galleries?

Q: Do you think museums benefit visitors in your hometown?

Q: Are museums important in your opinion?

53. Rest

Q: How frequently do you rest?

Q: Do you take a nap during your rest period?

Q: How do you feel after napping?

54. Tree

Q: Are you fond of trees?

Q: Would you prefer to reside in an area abundant with trees?

Q: Do you believe locations with trees attract more visitors than those with few trees?

Q: Do you enjoy visiting forests?

Q: Is there a forest near your place of origin?

55. Maths

Q: Do you believe mathematics holds significant importance?

Q: Do you find it challenging to grasp mathematics effectively?

Q: Are girls generally adept at mathematics?

Q: Do you frequently utilize a calculator?

Q: At what age did you commence learning mathematics?

56. Occupation or Studies

Q: What is your profession or area of study?

Q: What are your job responsibilities or study objectives?

Q: What kind of technology do you utilize in your profession or studies?

Q: What motivated you to choose this profession or field of study?

Q: How do you feel about your current job?

Q: What aspects of your job do you find challenging?

Q: Do you find your job very engaging?

Q: Do you miss being a student?

Q: Is there another type of work you would prefer to do?

Q: Can you describe the company or organization where you currently work?

Q: Describe your educational background.

Q: What is your area of expertise?

Q: What technologies do you use for your studies?

Q: What subjects are you currently studying?

Q: What motivated you to choose that subject for your studies?

Q: How do you feel about your chosen subject?

Q: Do you find it highly engaging?

Q: Are you excited about entering the workforce?

Q: Do you prefer studying in the morning or in the afternoon?

Q: What type of school did you attend during your childhood?

Q: In your opinion, does your country have an effective educational system?

57. Application

Q: Which applications have you recently utilized?

Q: What types of applications typically interest you?

Q: What was the first application you used?

Q: What types of applications would you like to utilize in the future?

58. Getting Lost

Q: Have you ever experienced being lost?

Q: How do you navigate when you are lost?

Q: Are you able to navigate using a map when you are lost?

Q: Have you ever assisted someone who was lost?

59. Footwear

Q: Do you enjoy purchasing shoes? How frequently do you do so?

Q: Have you ever made an online purchase of shoes?

Q: How much do you typically spend on headphones?

60. Headphones

Q: Do you use headphones?

Q: What kinds of headphones do you use?

Q: In what situations do you use headphones?

Q: Under what circumstances would you choose not to use headphones?

61. Relax

Q: How do you typically unwind?

Q: Do you believe engaging in sports is an effective method for relaxation?

Q: Do you consider vacations a good opportunity to relax?

Q: Do you believe students require more leisure time?

C. Various question types in IELTS Speaking Part 1

Common question types encountered in IELTS Speaking Part 1 include:

• “Types of” Questions
• “Wh-/How” Questions
• “Yes/No” Questions
• “Would” Questions
• Basic Description Questions
• Liking/Disliking Questions

1. “Categories of” Questions

This type of “Categories of” Questions often uses words like: “types of” or “kinds of”. With this question type, in addition to listing, candidates need to try to explain in more detail about each item listed previously or answer questions like When? Where? Who?.

Example:

• Examiner: What kind of drink do you like?
• Candidate: When it comes to drink, my go-to is coffee. I have the habit of drinking a cup of coffee every morning so that I can stay awake for the whole day. Apart from that, I don’t like any other kind of drink.

2. “Wh-/How” Questions

“Wh-/How” Questions typically begin with words like where, who, which, what, why, when, how (often, long, …).

During this section, a common issue that many candidates often encounter is providing answers that are too “brief”. Therefore, candidates should aim to provide 2-3 different sentences about what, how often,…

Example:

What types of public transportation are available in your city?

In my city, there is a diverse range of public transportation options. Motorbikes are perhaps the most common due to their convenience. Additionally, buses are popular, especially for longer journeys outside the city center, and they are very affordable.

3. “Yes/No” Questions

“Yes/No” Questions are considered closed-ended questions with typically only 2-3 possible responses: Yes, No, or not sure. Therefore, when encountering this type of question, you should note that it mainly consists of two parts: the Yes/No question itself, which is closed-ended because it usually has only 2-3 responses: Yes, No, or not sure, depending on the case.

Therefore, when answering this type of question, remember it has two main parts: directly answering Yes, No, or Not sure, and the remaining part is the detailed explanation.

Most candidates tend to answer directly with Yes/No and then elaborate a few points. Such answers are not incorrect but may not leave a strong impression on the examiners. Therefore, a response that includes both “Yes” and “No” will help you extend your presentation, showcase your vocabulary, and demonstrate your rich sentence structures.

Example:

For example: Do you eat healthy food?

Well, to be honest, it depends. Typically, I opt for quick and convenient options like instant noodles. However, occasionally I prefer to invest more time in cooking healthier meals such as rice with vegetables.

4. “Would” Questions

When presented with “Would” Questions, candidates should use future tenses and structures discussing future intentions such as 'be going to...' or 'be planning on ...'

Regarding these types of Speaking questions, the recommended structure is the second conditional. This not only helps to elaborate on the question posed by the examiner but also allows for the use of complex sentence structures.

If + past simple + would/could/might + infinitive verb

Additionally, candidates should remember that whether they want to or not want to address what the question refers to, they should explain why they do or do not do it so that your answer is more specific.

5. Fundamental Description Questions

Basic Description Questions are a common type in Part 1 that candidates often encounter while studying for the IELTS. This type requires candidates to describe a topic in 3-5 sentences. Despite being a basic question, it is also a way for examiners to assess your English language proficiency.

To answer this type of question, the first thing you need to do is visualize the aspects of the question topic in your mind. After visualizing, you should choose 2-3 aspects to discuss. Focus and elaborate on details of each aspect.

And don't forget to use conjunctions to link sentences together for a more cohesive, clear, and fluent speech.

Example:

Tell me about your hometown?

Well, I was born and raised in Binh Duong city, (Location) which is about 1-hour-drive from Ho Chi Minh city.(Weather) Talking about the weather, my hometown is located in southern Vietnam, so the weather is hot all year round. However, I have lived there since I was a kid so now I am familiar with the weather. (Attractions)As well as that, Dong Nai is famous for plenty of tourist attractions such Giang Dien Fall, Buu Long Tourist Park and Cat Tien National Park. (People)But what I like most about my hometown is that the people. They are very welcoming and are willing to give you a hand when you are in need.

6. Preference Questions

Preference Questions are essentially a type of Yes/No response. However, when answering, you should avoid giving short responses like “Yes, I like it a lot” or “No, I don’t like it” because it may not earn you as high a score as desired.

Therefore, you can apply the following tips to improve your score in Part 1 of the test.

• Tránh “xào từ vựng câu hỏi” mà thay vào đó là tìm cách diễn đạt thay thế cho từ “Like” (advice: các bạn nên sử dụng thêm những trạng từ chỉ mức độ như quite, really, pretty, …).
• Không nên trả lời bằng “Yes” và “No” mà nên sử dụng những cụm từ dẫn (starting phrases) để mở đầu như: Well, In general,…
• Kế đến là đưa thêm chi tiết cụ thể hơn của bản thân.
• Thêm những cụm từ dẫn dắt lí do vì sao bạn thích nó (nếu có).
• Có thể thêm vào feelings hoặc tần suất để câu trả lời trở nên sâu hơn, chi tiết và cụ thể hơn.

Example:

I like cake → “Well, to be honest, I’m quite fond of cake; specifically, I’m really into cheesecake, especially with a thin layer of passion fruit syrup. I think part of the reason is that in my line of work, dealing with high-pressure situations is essential; therefore, having something sweet, like a piece of cake, can stimulate my brain and keep me going.”

D. Chiến lược thực hiện bài thi Speaking Part 1

• Trả lời đúng chủ đề/ yêu cầu và kết hợp kéo dài câu trả lời bằng cách liệt kê, giải thích.
• Tự đặt các câu hỏi wh- question có liên quan để mở rộng thêm câu trả lời.
• Cố gắng thể hiện được khả năng sử dụng tiếng Anh của bản thân qua cách sử dụng từ vựng, cấu trúc câu hoặc ngữ pháp trong câu trả lời.
• Bình tĩnh đưa ra câu trả lời, không cần trả lời ngay mà hãy dành thời gian định hình câu hỏi, sắp xếp ý trả lời trong vài giây và dùng mẫu câu để trr lời cho phù hợp.
• Ghi nhớ một số câu/ cụm từ như: By this I mean…; To be more precise…; For example; As a result; As a consequence;….
• Khi nói, hãy bình tĩnh, tự tin trình bày câu trả lời của bản thân, kết hợp dùng các từ đệm đệm (fillers) để phần nói tự nhiên như trò chuyện hằng ngày như: well; I think so; of course; actually; honestly; you know…