Friday, September 3, 2010

Success- money - personal related


1. It has been said, “Not everything that is learned is contained in books.” Compare and contrast knowledge gained from experience with knowledge gained from books.
       In your opinion, which source is more important? Why?

* What can we learn from books?

- The information we need to function in our society.
- Learn how to speak and write and understand mathematical equations.
- All information that we need to live in our communities and earn a living.

* What knowledge can be gained from experience?
- Know how to get along with others.
- How to have self – respect.
- How to deal with pressure.
- How to fall in love and get married.
* Any where else we can learn?
- Guidelines from teachers and parents.

*  What’s more important? Why?
- Most important lessons are gained through our own experience -> “experience is the best teacher”.

2. The expression “Never, never give up” means to keep trying and never stop working for your goals. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
“ If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again”. These are wise words. One should never give up. There is always another opportunity, another goal, another option.

3. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
   Only people who earn a lot of money are successful.

* “ Success is more than how much money you make”.
=> For me, success would be considered as how effective you use your time, which is, in more detail, assessed in three aspects:
- What you can gain yourself: money, social status, knowledge.
- What you can contribute to your surrounding people: your family and your friends.
- What you can contribute to the society you live in: your country.

3. “When people succeed, it is because of hard work. Luck has nothing to do with success.” Do you agree or disagree with the quotation above? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your position.

4. Is it better to enjoy your money when you earn it or is it better to save your money for some time in the future?
Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion.

* “ Save it for rainy day”.
* What saved money is used for?

- Education: tuition, room, board, book and incidental expenses to pay for.
- Travel: visit home from studying place.
- Unexpected emergencies: unexpected illness, one family member needs help.

5. People attend college or university for many different reasons
  (for example, new experiences, career preparation, increased knowledge). Why do you think people attend college or university? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

- Career preparation.
- Job market is competitive => competence required.
- University offer new skill for career -> a lot of opportunities.
- New experiences.
- Meet different people.
- Making their own decisions -> increases their knowledge of themselves.
- Expand knowledge in subjects they find interesting.

6. Some people believe that success in life comes from taking risks or chances. Others believe that success results from careful planning.
In your opinion, what does success come from? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

*
“Nothing ventured. Nothing gained”.
*
What is the rule to be successful in life?
- Take risks in our lives, but these must be calculated risks.
- Like the great thinkers of our time, we must plan carefully: seize all opportunities and reevaluate our plan.

7. In your opinion, what is the most important characteristic (for example, honesty, intelligence, a sense of humor) that a person can have to be successful in life? Use specific reasons and examples from your experience to explain your answer. When you write your answer, you are not limited to the examples listed in the question.
A person who always desire of progress: always set goals and plan carefully to reach their goal, always create themselves chances by challenging themselves to new contexts, always seize any opportunities to come and reevaluate opportunities.

SECTION 2: INTEREST AND HOBBY

1. What is your interest?

2. What do you enjoy doing on the weekend?

SECTION 3: SPECIAL EVENTS

1. Your birthday:
Talk about a birthday celebration that you particularly enjoyed.
• When was it?
• What did you do?
• Why did you particularly like it?What did you do when you were preparing to leave (candidate''s home country) to come to (country of study)?

2. What is the most embarrassing thing that''s ever happened to you?

3. Describe your favourite building.

- Among those buildings in HN I’ve ever come, with no doubt, Melia hotel is the most striking one.
- Located in Thanh Nien street. From there you can look out both Truc Bach and West lake.
- What strikes me when coming there is very the glass lift. When going up to higher floor, the higher you are raised, the broader view of Hanoi’s panorama you can see. It is really amazing to have a constantly changing vision of our dear capital.  
[,pænə'rɑ:mə]  (toàn cảnh; bức tranh toàn cảnh)
- The building consists of 21 floors. Most rooms are used for renting. There are many companies located in that building.
- The building is really splendid with modern design and luxurious decoration.
- The atmosphere is completely fresh with two nearby lakes.
- The surrounding sceneries is also charming.
- The entertainment facilities inside the building is rather satisfying with a swimming pool, a specific area for sport where you can play bowling, table tennis, etc. What special in entertainment service is the top floor. There people can have some drink or some fruits, listen to live music and look out for an overview of the beloved capital. For the moment I was in such position, I found Hanoi more beautiful than ever before.

SECTION 4: SPECIAL PEOPLE

1. A person who has the most influence in your life. my mother
Who is the person?

2. Describe a teacher who has greatly influenced you in your education.
You should say:
- where you met them.
- What subject they taught.
- What was special about them.
- And explain why this person influenced you so much.

 *
His name is Mr Nguyen The Vinh - my high school informatics teacher – a beloved teacher for any student that has ever been taught by him. He is indeed my most ideal teacher.

- In fact, he considered me not only as he special student but also as his daughter. He lived in the teacher’s hostel in my high school. And he always offered me most (= very) friendly and informal hospitality whenever I dropped in asking about some informatics problems or maybe just having a rest or drink.
- With his help in my studying process, I was chosen to take part in the national contest for best informatics students grade 12 though I was only in grade 11 at that time. I did gain the third prize for that contest.
- Informatics since then has in fact had a great influence on my studying process. It helped me a lot in studying other subjects, like English, Geography, etc. In fact my preparation for this exam is also assisted by my computer skill. It is really amazingly helpful. I believe that effect would be much more taken advantage of when I arrive in Singapore in this July because this is an extensively high – tech environment where requires lots of computer skill. It is Mr Vinh that has offered me comparative advantage in this magic field.


3. Tell me about a famous person that you admire
- Who is that person?
- What is he famous for?
- Why you admire that person?
- What can you learn from that person’s life?

4. Describe a competition ( or contest) that you have entered:
You should say:
- When the competition took place?
- What you had to do?
- How well you did it?
- Do you enjoy entering competitions?
- Have you entered any other competition?
- Speak about:
- Competition at a young age?
- Competition at school.
- Value of international competitions.
- The psychology of competing.
- Competitive spirit.

5. Tell me about a favorite event of your childhood.

6. If someone gave you a million dollars, what would you do with it?

• What''s your favorite place to shop?
- Price:
- Quality:
- Diversity
- Services:
- Fashion trend:

Oversea studying – foreign language


1.The idea of going overseas for university study is an exciting prospect for many people. But while it may offer some advantages, it is probably better to stay home because of the difficulties a student inevitably encounters living and studying in a different culture. To what extent do you agree or disagree this statement? Give reasons for your answer.
Advantages of going abroad:
- Studying other languages abroad expands and improves our abilities and job prospects.
- In addition, by studying or simply travelling abroad, we can discover many differences in terms of culture, way of thinking, history, customs and lifestyle; the awareness of these differences makes us more tolerant and open-minded.
- What is more, we gain a broader experience of life in general.
- The students must have much more responsibility than ever.
- New friends that offer some advantages.
- Making a new friend is a good exercise to cooperate work with others.
What are disadvantages?
- alter the traveller''s way of thinking so greatly, that they lose their cultural identity.
- If he or she integrates into the new society, they will almost certainly meet difficulties when they try to readjust later to their own culture.
- Another potential problem is that the traveller or student may become a victim of discrimination, and lose their confidence as a result.
- Since their behaviour and customs may be very different from those of the inhabitants of the host culture, they may encounter negative reactions – unfriendliness, or even hostility, for example.

2. Mtivation to learning plays a very important role in the success of foreign language learning.
- what is motivation?
- Internal motivation: desire to learn a foreign language in order to identify with that language speaking community.
- External motivation: need to learn it so as to pass an exam or to meet certain requirements of one’s job.
- How internal motivation can help us studying foreign language?
- Want to belong to that community, and communicate with it
- Exp: a babe, a person married with foreigner.
- How internal motivation can help us studying foreign language?
- Want to communicate with counterparts.
- Promotion.
3. Studying the English language in an English-speaking country is the best but not the only way to learn the language Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Why study in English speaking country:
- Language school.
- Pronunciation better.
- Teacher: native speaker.
- Culture
- Improved Listening reading writing speaking.
- In the non English –speaking Highschool/university:Students must work hard -> no adequate investment.
Why not study in English speaking country:
- Problems with homesickness
- Live with the Australians.
- Homestay. Advantage: money, parent’s help Dedication.
- Spoken English not good
- Study and living costs
- At home: Grammar skill good for later.
4. Difficulties for studying a new language:
At your age and level of language learning, there are some things you can''t change. For example, you can''t change ...
• the innate language learning ability that you were or were not born with;
• your ability to distinguish between different sounds and your ability to make them;
• your power of memorization and recall.
5. Millions of people every year move to English – speaking countries such as Australia, Britain or American, in order to study at school, college or university. Why do so many people want to study in English? Why is English such an important international language?
6. Why study English?

- It will enlarge your intellectual, cultural and emotional horizons.
- You experience the unparalleled richness of the narrative, drama, poetry and other texts produced in English over nearly 1500 years.
- You can explore the variety, subtlety and complexity of the English language in a wide range of uses.
- It deepens your cognitive skills of critical enquiry and aesthetic sensitivity – and your personal skills of clear presentation of ideas and self-confidence.
- The best way to learn about the world
- Provide access to a larger range of knowledge such as in the fields of literature, science and business.
- Most of databases and information are in English.
- International language.
- Promotion in career
7. How to study English well?
Reading and writing

- read newspaper and articles in English: take information of concerned issues in English from net and read it.
- Try to read the English part of signs or menus rather than the Vietnamese so you''ll know how things should be said in English.
- Use an English dictionary rather than a Vietnamese/English- English/Vietnamese one.
- Keep a diary in English- 2 or 3 times a week if you don''t have time to do it everyday.
- Writing email and letter in English
- Write autobiography in English.
Speaking and listening
- Speak English into a tape recorder rather than writing it.
- Thinking of my most beloved person, who I want to talk with and talk alone with him/her.
- Not to be embarrassed about making mistakes;
- To ask questions when you do not understand something;
- To get into the habit of asking other Vietnamese-English bilinguals the question, "How do you say __________ in English?" or ''What does ___________ mean?";
- Get approach to foreign speaker.
- Listen to radio daily.
8. Talk about your English teacher (either your present teacher or a teacher you have had in the past)
Describe your teacher
• what is his or her teaching method?
• why do you like/dislike him or her?
• and how has he/she helped you with your language-learning
9. All secondary school students should learn a second language
Why should study second language in secondary school?

- the advantages offered by English.
- It is easier to learn a second language when a child rather than when an adult, even if the second language is not used later in life, the process of learning it is good academic training.
Why shouldnot study second language in secondary school?
- Few people ever need a second language,
- Time could be better spent studying more relevant subjects.
- Training teachers could be a significant drain on a country’s resource
10. The increasing role of English in the world means that the learning of other languages is being neglected. What’s your opinion of this statement?

Rich and poor world -Different generation Modern life –city –country living


1. Would you prefer to live in the city or the countryside? Why?
2. In Vietnam, in what ways are city and country people different?
3. If you could choose, where would you prefer to bring up your children, in the countryside or a city? Why?
4. Where is Vietnamese culture stronger, in the country or the city? Can you give some examples?
5. Modern life:
- Describe some elements of your life which you consider to be modern.
- Compare the life of young adults today with previous generations.
- justify or otherwise a major change that has occurred in the last ten years.
6. Country and city life:
- what are some of the advantages of living in the country?

- What are some of the advantages of living in the city?
- Would you prefer to live in the countryside or the city? Why?
- Is one safer? Healthier?
- Are country and city people different? In what ways?
- In your country where is the culture stronger, in the city or the country? Give examples.
- How does housing in your country compare between the country and the city?
- Would you prefer to live in the city or in the countryside and why?

7. Describe a city you have visited which has impressed you.
You should say:
- where is it situated.
- Why you vistied it.
- What you liked about it.
-
8. City and country life.
- Would you prefer to live in the city or the countryside? Why/Why not?
- In Vietnam, in what ways are city and country people different?
- If you could choose, where would you prefer to bring up your children? In the countryside or the city? Why/why not?
- Where is Vietnamese culture stronger, in the country or the city? Can you give me some examples?
9. What, in your opinion, are the main problems facing modern industrial society?

- increase in crime and violence.
- Environmental problems.
- Broad gap between rich and poor world.
- Contagious disease infected throughout the world.
- Overpopulation
- Unemployment
10. What, in your opinion, can be done to improve modern cities?
11. Would you prefer to live in a traditional house or in a modern apartment building? Use specific reasons and details to support your choice.

- Why traditional house?

- Traditional design: spaceful, warm and inviting.
- Have the kind of beautiful woods that were used years ago. It’s something that can’t be copied.
- More space for different rooms.
- Why not traditional house?
- Not all the plumbing works.
- The roof is going to leaf.
- The windows are not properly sealed.
- Kitchen appliances are in working order.
- Things will break down or need replacement, simply because of age.
- Why modern apartment?
- Modern apartment is going to be in much better shape:
- All the plumbing works.
- The roof isn’t going to leaf.
- The windows are properly sealed.
- Kitchen appliances are in working order.
- Everything new and perfect.
- Why not modern apartment?
- Modern design: empty and sterile and not very inviting.
- All the rooms and windows of the same size or a box design. A modern apartment usually comes in one size and shape.
12. Some people prefer to live in a small town. Others prefer to live in a big city. Which place would you prefer to live in? Use specific reasons and details to support your
- Why small town?

- Friendly community
- Superior security.
- Why not small town?
- Poor public transportation. Need to possess a private car to ensure a comfortable living.
- Slow space
- Poor entertainment facility: life is boring.
- Little different of people.
- Why big city?
- A choice of taking public transportation: cheaper.
- Adapt with a variety of situation: finding a new route to work or trying a new restaurant.
- Variety of cultural activities available: a wide assortment of theatre, music and dance performances.
- Diversity of people: different races, religions, abilities, and interests.
- Why not big city?
- Transportation: heavy traffic, expensive parking.
- Unfriendly community.
- Unsafe security.

13. Generally, the gap between the urban rich and the rural poor is increasing. What in your opinion can be done to improve this situation in your society?
- raising income tax: use for rural development.
- Raise salary for people working in rural area.
- Urbanization.
- Diversify the working sectors in rural.
14. What are the major problems associated with living in large cities?
- Crime and violence.
- Transportation
- Overcrowded density.
- Complex situations.
- Polluted air and water.
- Unfriendly community.
15. People have different ways of escaping the stress and difficulties of modern life. Some read; some exercise; others work in their gardens. What do you think are the best ways of reducing stress? Use specific details and examples in your answer. –69.
What causes stress?

- Study hard.
- Work hard.
- Involved in trouble.
What stress causes?
- headache.
- Inefficient performance in work.
- Heart disease.
- Affect personality: angry, impatient.
- Affect relationship with others.
What can we do to reduce stress?
- Identify the cause. Tackle it: change the way, ask for help, find way to struggle.
- Keep body healthy: eat nutritious food, avoid junk food; do exercise.
- Keep spirit happy: good relationship with friends, family, colleagues.

Section 2: Rich and poor world

1. The economic globalisation will bring about greater benefits for developed countries than for developing ones as the former countries enjoy comparative advantages in technology and managerial skills over the latter ones. Discuss.
2.To what extent will migration from the developing world to the developed world become a social and political issue in the 21st century?
3. Developed countries have no responsibility to help the developing nations.
4.Should wealthy nations be required to share their wealth among poorer nations by providing such things as food and education? Or is it a responsibility of the governments of poorer nations to look after their citizens themselves?
How to share?
- Lending money.
- Providing equipment, facility.
- Transfer technology.
- Financial aid for education.
Why should?
- Helping poor countries can bring economic benefits for both sides
- Poor: technology, facility, qualified human resource.
- Rich: larger market, cheap labour force.
- social benefits:
- reduce migration from developing to developed countries: better living standard.
- Reduce international crime: bridge the gap between rich and poor world.
- A humanitarian action:
- Provide food for hungry people.
- Clear illiteracy.
Why shouldn’t?
- poorer nations are less reliant, more dependent.
5. As most foreign aid often benefits the donor more than the receiver, developing countries should refuse to repay their debts. --Preparation and practice –150 -169.
In what way does foreign aid benefit the donor?
- get the interest.
- Banks making the loans maje two or three times the money lent after the interest payments are taken into account.
In what way does foreign aid benefit the receiver?
- build the infrastructure neccesary for development.
- Develop projects that help them more self –reliant.
Is there any disadvantages?
- Many countries have spent most of their income repaying the interest on foreign debts .
- Even, some have borrowed more money to pay back the interest
- Fact: borrowed money often to be used to make quick profits for developers or to line the pockets of corrupt official.
- Countries that get caught in this debt spiral, had no chance of paying back the initial money borrowed.
-> as most donor countries were already repaid both in terms of money and in terms of economic interest, it is morally right for developing countries to refuse to pay back foreign loans.
6. "The best way to help developing countries is to give them financial aid." Write an essay either agreeing or disagreeing with this statement. Suggest alternatives to this policy. (Develop one side of an issue well)
7. Discuss the advantage and disadvantage of giving international Aid to poor countries.

Section 3: Different generation

8. Youth culture began in America in the 1950s.

- The second WW was over.
- Rock and roll had just begun.
- TV was becoming popular.
- Young people had more money than ever before and they want to have fun.
- Since the days of James Dean and Elvis Presley, youth culture has come a long wa. Also, thanks to the electronic medi, it’s become completely international. The youth industry isn’t all about pop and fashion, though. It’s about issues and problems, too. These days, teenagers all over the world are interested in the environment, peace and famine. Then there’s the drug crisis – a serious problem that involves millions of young people directly -> teenager culture: pop and politics, fashion and famine.
8. Every generation of people is different in important ways. How is your generation different from your parents’ generation? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your answer.
9. Young people are said to have lost many of the traditional values of the older generations. Do you agree?
10. Every generation of people is different in important ways. How is your generation different from your parents’ generation? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your answer.
11. Learning about the past has no value for those of us living in the present. Do you agree or disagree? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
12. What discovery in the last 100 years has been most beneficial for people in your country? Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.
13.To what extent has the traditional male role changed in the last 20 years?

Transportation


1. Problems created by modern transport:
- cars and lorries are a major cause of air pollution.
- Thousands of people die in road, rail and air disasters each year.
- Levels of traffic in many large cities are reaching crisis point.
- Tourism is damaging some of the most beautiful parts of the world.
2. The high road toll is robbing our society of many people who could otherwise be leading useful and productive lives. How can society protect itself from these losses? -below
3. Present a written argument or case to an educated non-specialist audience on the following topic:

The best way to reduce the number of traffic accidents is to make all young drivers complete a safe driving education course before being licensed to drive. You should use your own ideas, knowledge and experience and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.
Providing a safe driving education course can help to reduce the number of traffic accidents. Particularly, it would be effective for young primary drivers. There are some following reasons why they should take the course before being licensed to drive.
Firstly, all primary drivers can gain their knowledge for road rules and conditions. Ignoring speed limits, traffic signs and lights are main causes for common traffic accidents. Sticking with road rules is the most effective way to reduce the accidents. Secondly, practising with specialists can be helpful for safe driving. They can have enough “on-the-road” driving skills before they are faced on actual situations such as changing lanes, approaching intersections, driving highways and crossing railways. Thirdly, all primary drivers also can learn advanced driving skills by both theoretically and practically, such as for hazardous situations, driving at night, towing, and other unexpected situations. Finally, all primary drivers can pay more attention to driving carefully whereas non-educational drivers cause a common reason for traffic accidents.
However, all traffic accidents are occurred not only by young drivers but also aged people. Actually, all drivers are losing their driving skills with age for no particular reason. The education course should be provided for all drivers whenever it is necessary. Checking other skills regarding with driving is also essential such as eye test, basic health conditions, or reaction time against approaching hazard.
As conclusion, a safe driving educational course is effective and necessary for many reasons. No matter in what age or category, drivers should take the course and keep brushing up their driving skills to contribute to reduce the number of traffic accidents.
(270 words)
4. Some people think that the automobile has improved modern life. Others think that the automobile has caused serious problems. What is your opinion? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
5. How far is it the responsibility of governments to reduce the number of road accidents which occur per year.
6. The private motor vehicle has greatly improved individual freedom of movement. Moreover, the automobile has become a status symbol. Yet the use of private motor vehicles has contributed to some of today’s most serious problems. How can the use of private motor vehicles be reduced?

• the private motor vehicle has given us a freedom our ancestors could only dream about. We can travel swiftly, and usually safety, over the roads which have been built to accommodate our cars. People can display their wealth by driving a car which may cost as much as another person’s home.
• Sadly the car has become a disadvantage as well as a boon. The car pollutes the atmostphere, may be involved in serious accidents, and by its very numbers block roads and chokes cities. How can we reduce its use?
• The car is only desirable if we can use it easily, so we might begin by reducing access to parking spaces in the cities and simultaneously increasing the quality and availability of public transport. Cars could be banned from certain parts of the city, thus forcing people to walk or to use public transport.
• The expense of buying and running a car can be raised. If the motorist is faced with a high purchase price, high road tax, high insurance premiums and substancial fines he or she may reconsider the purchase. A corresponding reduction in the price of public transport would help this financial argument against car ownership.
• Neither of these arguments will sway the super rich who can afford the status cars, but it would perhaps encourage them to look another ways of demonstrating their wealth. Howecer we do it, reducing the number of cars on the road will reduce the problems of pollution and the congestion which can bring cities to a standstill.
7. Transport issues are becoming increasingly important. What arguments are there for restricting the use of the motor car?
8. If countries are serious about solving traffic problems, they should tax private cars very heavily and use the money to provide free or very cheap rail travel.

9. The rising levels of congestion and air pollution found in most of the world cities can be attributed directly to the rapidly increasing number of private cars in use. In order to reverse this decline in the quality of life in cities, attempts must be made to encourage people to use their cars less and public transport more. Discuss possible ways to encourage the use of public transport.
10. The first car appeared on British roads in 1888. By the year 2000 there may be as many as 29 million vehicles on British roads. Alternative forms of transport
should be encouraged and international laws introduced to control car ownership and use. What do you think?
11. The best way to reduce the number of traffic accidents is to make all young drivers complete a safe driving education course before being licensed to drive.
12. The rising levels of congestion and air pollution found in most of the world cities can be attributed directly to the rapidly increasing number of private cars in use. In order to reverse this decline in the quality of life in the cities attempts must be made to encourage people to use their cars less and public transport more. Discuss possible ways to encourage the use of public transport.
13. Discuss the arguments for and against banning cars from inner city.
14. All public transport in our cities should be free. Discuss. Pd12
15. Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? The best way to travel is in a group led by a tour guide. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. TOEFL

16. Should governments spend more money on improving roads and highways, or should governments spend more money on improving public transportation (buses, trains, subways)? Why? Use specific reasons and details to develop your essay. TOEFL
17. Choose one of the following transportation vehicles and explain why you think it has changed people’s lives.• automobiles• bicycles • airplanes Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. TOEFL
18. You need to travel from your home to a place 40 miles (64 kilometers) away. Compare the different kinds of transportation you could use. Tell which method of travel you would choose. Give specific reasons for your choice. TOEFL
19. Compare and contrast the means of transport used by people in your society with those used by the people in a more developed society.

20. Analyse some of the problems caused by the over use of private transport means.
21. Speculate on the future development of transport means in your society.
22. Compare and contrast different means of transport available in your city.

23. Which means of transport do you choose? Just your choice.
24. What do you think should be done to improve the travel of people in your city?
25. How do you often travel to and from work/university?
26. Why do you choose this means of transport?
27. Compare the available means of transport used by the people in your city? Which do you think is the safest?
28. What do you think should be done to improve the traffic in your city?
29. What type of transport do you use most?Why?
• Are there speed limits in your country? If so, what is the average speed limit?
• At what age does the average person obtain a driver''''''''s license?
• Can you ride a motorcycle?
• Do you drive a car often?
• Do you have a bicycle?
• If so, when did you get it?
• How much did it cost?
• How often do you ride it?
• What color is it?
• Do you have a car? If not, does your family have a car?
• Do you have a driver''''''''s license? If so, when did you get it?
• Do you often ride public transportation during rush hour?
• Do you often use public transportation?
• Do you ride a bicycle more than once a week?
• Does your mother have a driver''''''''s license?
• Have you ever been in a traffic accident?
• Have you ever been stopped for speeding?
• (Have you ever gotten a speeding ticket?)
• Have you ever gotten a parking ticket?
• Have you ever missed your last train or bus home? If so, how did you get home that night?
• Have you ever ridden a horse? How about a motorcycle?
• Have you every carpooled?
• How do you get to school?
• How long does it take?
• How much is the bus fare or the train fare?
• How do you think countries can reduce congestion on the roads?
• How many times have you traveled by airplane?
• How much does gasoline cost is your country?
• Is parking a problem in your country? (shopping malls, etc)
• Is there any environmentally-friendly transportation in your area?
• What are the most annoying bad driving habits of other drivers in your country (/or this country /or compared to this country)?
• What do you have to do to get a driver''''''''s license in your country? Do you think it''''''''s a good test?
• What do you need to do in your country to get a driver''''''''s license?
• What do you think is the most dangerous form of transportation? Why?
• What do you think is the safest form of transportation? Why?
• What do you usually do when riding a train or bus?
• Do you read?
• Do you sleep?
• What is the penalty for speeding in your country?
• What is your favorite kind of car? Why?
• What is your favourite make of car? Why?
• What kind of car do you have?
• What kind of things annoy you about other people''''''''s driving?
• What kind of transportation do you use most often?
• What''''''''s the most readily available form of public transportation where you live?
• What''''''''s your favorite color for a car?
• What''''''''s your favorite form of transportation?
• When was the last time you rode a bus?
• Where is a good place to go for a drive? 

Tourism –travel -holiday


1. Why travel more than the past:
- The twentieth century travel revolution.
- Longer holidays.
- Higher salaries -> millions of people travel at least one foreign trip per year.
2. Why should travel?
- chance to relax.
- Have fun.
- Explore new places.
- Create new jobs.
- Create vital incomes for all countries.
3. Bad effects of modern tourism:
- pollution.

- Tourism is now a major cause of pollution in some of the world’s most beautiful countries. And it’s not just a question of litter dirty beaches and polluted sea water. There’s also the problem of air pollution from cars and coaches. In many places this is now so bad that it causes acid rain.
- Damage to famous historic buildings:
- These days, famous historic buildings receive millions of visitors each year. The results of its popularity are long queues and in many cases serious damage to the buildings themselves. Here are some examples of famous sites which are slowly being destroyed by their own popularity: the Parthenon (Greece); The Pyramids (Egypt).
- Crowded beaches.
- Pressure on local resources:
- Many tourist areas, especially in the third world have limited water, food and electricity. Since visitors use large amounts of these resources, this often means that local population has to suffer.
- The destruction of local communities.
- Over development:
- Hundreds of popular resorts around the world have become over – developed in the last 30 years. The result in many cases is an ugly “ concrete jungle” of hotels, restaurants, apartments and shops, which
- Damage the resource’s natural identity.
- Weaken its traditional culture.
- Make the local population too dependent on jobs connected with tourism.
- Less space for birds and animals –Danger to wildlife.
- The tourist industry also affects birds and animals. This happens in two main ways.
- Many are killed ( often illegally) so that their furs, skins, shells or feather can be sold as sourvenir.
- Their natural habitats are destroyed to make way for new hotels and apartments.
- Fewer jobs in traditional industries.
4. What tourists should do?
- go in spring/ autumn -> cheaper, stop overcrowding in popular resorts during the high seasons.
- Walk, hire a bicycle or use public transport instead of hiring a car.
- Be aware that supplys of water and electricity might be limited -> not waste them.
- Avoid sourvenirs which are made of – fur – skin – feathers –shells.
5. Useful tips for a foreigner coming to Vietnam. How to become successful in everyday communication in Vietnam. Give recommendations for a tourist.
• Greeting customs
Some taboos: a baby, no question, go dutch, no touch in one’s shoulder or head.
• Giving gifts.
• Recommendation:
• Halong bay.
6. Tourism is becoming increasingly important as a source of revenue to many countries but its disadvantages should not be overlooked ?
• faster planes and cheaper flights are making it easier than ever before for people travel. In most developed’ societies, visiting exotic places is a sought – after status symbol. The tourism industries of both developed and developing countries have recognised this fact and are learning to take advantage of it.
• There are however some problems asscociated with this new industry. Firstly, there is the increasing crime rate. Some locals see tourists as easy prey because, not only are they in unfamiliar territory and therefore less able to take care of themselves, but also they carry items of wealth, such as cameras and jewellery which can be disposed of quickly for a profit.
• Another major problem is health. With greater mobility comes greater danger of spreading contagious diseases around the world. One carrier returning home could easily start an epidemic before their illness was diagnosed. Moreover the emergence of many diseases which resist antibiotic is causing scientists to be increasingly concerned about this issue.
• Also to be considered is the natural environment, which can be seriously threatened by too many visitors. Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, for example, is in danger of being destroyed by tourists and ther are plans to restrict visitors to some of the more delicate coral cays.
• These are just three of the reasons why any country should be wary of commiting itself to an extensive tourism development program.
7. Does travel help to promote understanding and communication between countries?
8. You have the opportunity to visit a foreign country for two weeks. Which country would you like to visit? Use specific reasons and details to explain your choice.
• If I had chance to visit a foreign country, I will choose Australia without any hesitation –and especially Sydney city –the largest and oldest city of Australia.
• Firstly, I like the scenery there:
• Sydney opera house: a dramatic building, look like a sailing boat: one of the world’s most famous sights.
• Sydney Habour Bridge –Coathanger: long 500 metres, 8 lanes.
• Bondi Beach: go shopping, visiting pubs, restaurant… as well as serveral kms of golden sand.
• Darling Habour
- Stunning complex of: museums, shops, exhibition halls, out door leisure areas.
• Moreover, my closest friend is now studying there. We haven’t met for nearly 2 years and I would like to take this chance to see her again. Both of us must be very happy. She has told me a lot about her living there. It’s really exciting and interesting. The community of Vietnamese students in Sydney, in particular, often hold up cheerful parties, which I am really fond of taking part in.
9. Some people like to travel with a companion. Other people prefer to travel alone. Which do you prefer? Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.
I think that I will travel with a companion. If that is my special friend, it would be more, more interesting.

- Firstly, I don’t want to be disturbed by strangers in the place I come to. If I went alone, it would be dangerous for me because I am a young girl.
- Moreover, when I come to a new place, everything is completely new for me. Maybe I have to cope with some difficulties, misunderstanding of the local customs for instance; my friend will help me to tackle those situation. Too heads is always better than one. Even he/she can not help me, I would also feel more comfortable and confident because I have him/her by my side.
- Finally, enjoying a beautiful scenery is much more memoriable if you have someone beside you to share such feelings. You can talk, criticize, and debate on some thing noticable in your trip with your friend instead of talking on your own.
- For all those reasons, I am sure to travel with a companion instead of travelling alone.
10. Have you had any opportunities to travel?
During my secondary and high school days, I used to travel with my family to beautiful beaches of Vietname. Listing...
Since entering my university, I have more opportunities to travel with my class mates. We often visited beautiful resorts which are not too far from Hanoi. tell more...
11. what is the furthest place you have traveled to?
12. In what ways do you think that we can minimise the dangers of travelling?
- accidents: refering to Transportation.
- Crimes: clicking here
13. Tell me about your most exciting travelling experience
3 years has elapsed since that experience took place; however, it is still very apparent in my mind since it was indeed a memorable experience.
Although it appeared to be a small story it left me unforgetable impression...
14. A foreign visitor has only one day to spend in your country. Where should this visitor go on that day? Why? Use specific reasons and details to support your choice.
Because he has only one day, so I will recommend him spend that day making a tour around Hanoi.

There are many interesting places in Hanoi he can visit.
You know, Van Mieu (Temple of Literature)
The Temple of Literature was built in October 1070 for the worship of sages and saints of Confucianism. Six years later (1076), the National College was established at the Temple of Literature and built at the rear. In the beginning, it was only for princes, but later was broadened to admit bright students nationwide. The Temple of Literature is completely surrounded by brick walls while inside the complex there are walls separating it into five areas. The first area begins at the main gate on which the words "Van Mieu Mon" (Disciple of Temple of Literature) have been inscribed. Under the gate, there are two stone dragons bearing the style of the Le So Dynasty. The main path leading to Dai Trung Mon gate starts the second area where there are two small gates on both sides. The same path leads to Khue Van Cac (literary coterie to enjoy the beauty of Khue star). There are also two small gates on both sides of Khue Van Cac. The third section is formed by the area from Khue Van to Dai Thanh Mon. In the middle of this area, there is a square lake called Thien Quang Tinh (the clear Holy Pond) which is surrounded by walls. On both sides are the two gardens of steles on which the names of those who attained Ph.D. degrees were engraved. In ancient times after years of study, students were able to participate in the first-degree examinations held once every three years. Those with the highest marks in this exam were named bachelors. A year later, these bachelors would come to the capital to take part in the first stage of the examinations. Those with the highest marks in this exam were called 1st Ph..D. Being a Ph.D., the scholar could then be promoted to mandarin. At present, there are 82 steles, the oldest of which notes the 1442 palace exam and the most recent, the 1779 exams. These are the most valuable relics of the Temple of Literature. Walking through Dai Thanh gate, we come to the fourth area. There is a large playground where two pavilions were built on both sides for the Confucian scholars to worship. At the rear of the playground is Dai Bai House, a palace with majestic architecture. There are various precious objects located here: a bell cast in 1768 on the left and on the right is a musical stone upon which a story is engraved telling of the usefulness of this musical instrument. At the rear of the Dai Bai area is the Imperial College of the Le Dynasty, the then university. When the Nguyen Dynasty moved this college to Hue, this area was converted into a temple dedicated to Confucius'' parents that was damaged during the war. The Temple of Literature is a place with a lot of diversity and points of interest for the scholar and tourist alike.
15. Which resort you recommend most in Vietnam?
Tell me:

- Where is it?
Situated in the North-East region of Vietnam, Halong Bay is a bay in the Gulf of Tonkin comprised of regions of Halong City, the township of Cam Pha, and a part of the island district of Van Don
- What is it famous for?
Halong Bay is made up of 1,969 islands of various sizes, 989 of which have been given names. This densely concentrated zone of stone islands, world famous for its spectacular scenery of grottoes and caves, forms the central zone of Halong Bay, which has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Give me a short description of that place?
- see above
- Halong Bay resembles a geographic work of art. While exploring the bay, you feel lost in a legendary world of stone islands.
- There is Man''s Head Island, which resembles a man standing and looking towards the mainland.
- Dragon Island looks like a dragon hovering above the turquoise water.
- La Vong Island resembles an old man fishing.
- There are also the islands of the Sail, the Pair of Roosters, and the Incense Burner, which all astonishingly resemble their namesakes.
- The forms of the islands change depending on the angle of the light and from where the islands are viewed.
- At the core of the islands, there are wonderful caves and grottoes, such as Thien Cung (Heavenly Residence Grotto), Dau Go (Driftwood Grotto), Sung Sot (Surprise Grotto), and Tam Cung (Three Palace Grotto).
- It has been proven by scientists that Halong was one of the first cradles of human existence in the area at such archeological sites as Dong Mang, Xich Tho, Soi Nhu, and Thoi Gieng.
- It is also a region of highly-concentrated biological diversity with many ecosystems of salt water-flooded forests, coral reefs, and tropical forests featuring thousands of species of animal and plant life.
- What do you like the most in that place?
Bai Chay is a low gently sloping range of hills that runs along the sea for more than 2 km. Blended in among the pine trees are large hotels and small villas with distinguished architectural styles. Traveling down the asphalt road along the coast, visitors see long white stretches of sand and green rows of Casuarina trees, tucked under which are small family-run restaurants. After swimming at the beach, tourists can enjoy cold drinks and cool off in the breeze that sweeps in from the sea.
- Is it international recognized?
- The 18th meeting of the Committee of the World Heritages of UNESCO (in Thailand on December 17th, 1994), officially recognized Halong Bay as a natural heritage site of worldwide importance
Other questions:
• Have you ever been abroad?
• Where have you been?
• Are you planning on going anywhere for your next vacation?
• If so, where?
• Who with?
• How long will you stay?
• Could you live in another country for the rest of your life?
• Describe the most interesting person you met on one of your travels.
• Describe your best trip.
• Describe your worst trip.
• Did your class in high school go on a trip together?
• If so, where did you go?
• How long did you stay?
• How did you get there?
• Do you have a driver''s license?
• Do you like to travel with children? Why or why not?
• Do you like to travel with your mother? Why or why not?
• Do you prefer summer vacations or winter vacations?
• Do you prefer to travel alone or in a group? Why?
• Do you prefer to travel by train, bus, plane or ship?
• Do you prefer traveling by car or by plane?
• Have you ever been in a difficult situation while traveling?
• Have you ever been on an airplane?
• How many times?
• What airlines have you flown with?
• Have you ever been to a foreign country?
• Have you ever gotten lost while traveling? If so, tell about it.
• Have you ever hitchhiked? If so, how many times?
• Have you ever taken a package tour?
• How do you spend your time when you are on holiday and the weather is bad?
• How many countries have you been to? How many states?
• How many times have you traveled abroad?
• How much luggage do you usually carrry?
• If you traveled to South America, what countries would like to visit?
• If you went to ___(Insert a country name)__, what kind of souvenirs would you buy?
• If you were going on a camping trip for a week, what 10 things would you bring? Explain why.
• What are some countries that you would never visit? Why would you not visit them?
• What are some things that you always take with you on a trip?
• What countries would you like to visit? Why?
• What countries would you most like to visit?
• What countries would you not like to visit? Why?
• What country do you most want to visit?
• Why?
• Do you think you will ever go there?
• What do you need before you can travel to another country?
• What is the most interesting city to visit in your country?
• What is the most interesting souvenir that you have ever bought on one of your holidays?
• What languages can you speak?
• What place do you want to visit someday?
• What was the most interesting place you have ever visited?
• What''s the most beautiful place you''ve ever been to?
• When was the last time your traveled?
• When you are on a long car journey do you play games or sing songs to occupy your time?
• What kind of games?
• What songs?
• Where are you going to go the next time you travel?
• When are you going to go?
• Who are you going to go with?
• How long are you going to go for?
• What are you going to do there?
• What kind of things do you think you will buy?
• Where did you go on your last vacation?
• How did you go?
• Who did you go with?
• Where did you spend your last vacation? Your summer vacation? Your Christmas vacation?
• Where will you go on your next vacation?
• Would you like to take a cruise? Where to? With who?
• Would you prefer to stay at a hotel/motel or camp while on vacation?
• Would you rather visit another country or travel within your own country?
• Do you find more fulfillment from your leisure activities including vacations than from your job?
- Do you think the type of vacation one takes reflects one''s social status?