Question 12: Environmental

Environmental problems have affected everybody around the world in the past
decade. Yet, not many people are concerned about it or do anything to help. Do
you know any successful stories about people successfully helping
improve their environment? If you could do something in the future, what
do you think you could do to help?

A: Environmental problems have affected everybody around the world in the past
decade. You’ve seen that, right?

B: Yes, I’ve seen it everywhere. Issues like air pollution and plastic waste are
affecting not only cities but also rural areas. However, not many people seem
concerned or willing to take action to help.

A: Yeah, they see it’s too big of a problem, so they just give up. But honestly,
even small actions can make a difference. Do you know anyone who’s done
something helpful?

B: I do! For example, the group “Sài Gòn Xanh”. They’ve been cleaning
polluted canals in Ho Chi Minh City. Their efforts not only improve water quality
but also inspire others to be more environmentally conscious.

A: That’s amazing! It’s a great example of how community efforts can make an
impact. What kind of problems do you think they face?

B: I think lack of resources is a big issue. They might struggle with finding
enough funding or volunteers to keep their activities going.

A: Yes, but their work is so impactful. If you could do something in the future to
help the environment, what would it be?

B: I’d start by making small changes in my own life, like using less plastic and
recycling more. I’d also like to join community activities like clean-up events.
What about you?

A: I’ll create an online platform for people to connect and share ideas. It could
help share ideas and organize large projects.

B: That sounds great! It would be easier for people to find ways to help if they
had access to such a platform.
A: Exactly. It connects people to work together. We could make a big difference.

B: I agree. The key is to start small but be consistent. Over time, small actions
can lead to significant change.

A: That’s right. Let’s take action ourselves and show others it’s possible!

B: Absolutely! Together, we can help create a healthier and more sustainable

environment for the future.
Question 11: Self-improvement

Nowadays, young people are expected to develop many different skills (e.g., time
management, problem-solving...) so that they can live and work well. What skills
do you think are the most important for all students to master before they
graduate from university and why?

A: Hey, have you ever thought about what skills are the most important for
students to learn before graduation?

B: Hmm, yeah, I think about it sometimes. I think time management is at the top
of the list. If you can’t manage your time, how will you handle everything?

A: That’s true. But for me, it’s problem-solving. Life’s full of problems, big or
small, and if you can’t control them, you’re under pressure, right?

B: Oh, I agree with you. But if you’re good at managing your time, you’ll have
more control over everything.

A: Ok, and communication skills! knowing how to express your ideas clearly
is super important.

B: I agree with you, Good communication can save time and prevent
misunderstandings. But I still think time management is the most important. It
helps with everything else.

A: True, So maybe it’s a mix of time management, problem-solving, and

communication. And probably teamwork too. Most jobs require working with
others.

B: Yeah, teamwork’s huge. And let’s not forget adaptability—things change so

fast now. If you’re not flexible, you’re gonna have a tough time.

A: You’re right. So… So I guess the perfect combo would be: time
management, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and
adaptability. Sounds easy, right?

B: Easy to say, harder to do! Doing all that? A whole different story.
Question 10. Communication

Some people think that listening is the most important skill in communication.
However, in our modern life, most people seem to under-estimate the importance
of this skill. Why do you think this is the case and how can people improve
it?

A: Hey, have you ever thought about in our modern life, most people seem to
underestimate the importance of this skill?

B: Yeah. It feels like everyone’s just waiting for their turn to talk. Why? What
made you think about this?

A: I believe that listening is super important for communication, but people

don’t pay attention to it.

B: I get that. Everyone’s so busy with phones and social media now. They don’t
really listen.

A: Exactly. Maybe they think they’re already good at it, so they don’t try to
improve.

B: True, but listening is hard. You need to focus, and most people don’t want to.

A: Yeah, Right, but if we listen better, conversations would feel excellent.

B: For sure. So, how do you think people can get better at listening?

A: Hmm… maybe start by putting their phones down when someone’s talking.

B: Good point. And maybe asking questions, And maybe asking them
questions to show you’re listening.

A: Easy to say, harder to do! Doing all that? A whole different story.

B: Couldn’t agree more. If everyone tried a little, things would be so much better.
Question 9. Media

Many people believe that young generations nowadays have more variety in
terms of entertainment options thanks to technology and media. Others argue
that living in today’s world, they’ve lost opportunities to experience all the exciting
enjoyments in real life. What’s your view on this?

A: Hey, have you ever thought about technology and media's many benefits?
Do you agree with me?

B: Hmm, I’m not so sure. But I also feel like we’ve lost a lot of real-life
experiences.

A: But it’s cool how we can watch anything on Netflix or YouTube anytime
and anywhere.

B: That’s true, but spending so much time online can make people isolated.
Young people today often prefer staying at home with their screens instead of
enjoying outdoor activities.

A: Technology can also connect people. For example, multiplayer games and
social media help us stay in touch, even if we’re so far away.

B: Sure, but it’s not the same as meeting people face-to-face. Real-life
connections are stronger than just chatting online.

A: You’re right. But remember the pandemic? Without technology, we have

nothing to do or no way to talk to each other.

B: You’re right about that. Technology was essential during that time. But now
that things are back to normal, don’t you think we should focus more on enjoying
real-life experiences?

A: I agree. We need a balance—use technology when it helps, but don’t forget

to use too much.

B: Exactly! We need balance. Use technology when it helps, but don’t forget to
use too much.

A: That sounds like the perfect solution. The problem isn’t for technologic, it’s
how we use it.

Question 8. Technology

The development of modern technology such as AI and ChatGPT recently is

predicted to drastically change the world of work in the future. How do you see
this from your perspective? Does this affect your plan for your future job
and how will you adapt to be well prepared for it?

A: Hey, have you ever thought about AI and ChatGPT changing the world of
work in the future? What do you think?

B: I agree. AI is making things faster and easier. It takes care of the boring,
repetitive stuff so we can focus on the important tasks.

A: Yeah, AI is super helpful for things like answering customer questions or

analyzing data. But doesn’t it make you a little nervous? Like, what if it replaces
a lot of jobs?

B: That’s true, it’s something to worry about. AI might take over some jobs. And
honestly, people who don’t learn new skills could struggle.

A: Exactly, but on the other side, technology creates new opportunities too. If
people learn how to use AI, they could have better jobs.

B: Good point, but it’s not that easy for everyone. Think about someone who’s
been doing the same job for 20 years. It’s hard for them to suddenly learn
something completely new.

A: So, how do you plan for the future?

B: Absolutely. I’m planning to take some courses on AI and keep up with the
latest tech. It’s better to be prepared, right?

A: Good idea! I’m focusing on building soft skills, like communication and
problem-solving. Those are things AI can’t replace!

B: Agree. Mixing tech knowledge with strong people skills sounds like the best
approach. What else do you think we should be doing to stay ahead?

A: I think the most important thing is to keep learning. Jobs will keep changing,
so we need to keep up.

B: Absolutely. It’s not always easy, but it’s exciting too. Technology brings so
many new opportunities we didn’t have before.

Question 7.Stress

Stress has become an integral part of our modern life, and many people struggle
to deal with it. In your opinion, what are some key factors for people’s stress
nowadays, and how should we deal with it?
A: I feel so tired these days. It’s like stress is everywhere in my life.

B: I know what you mean. I feel the same. What makes you feel stressed the
most?

A: It’s school, for sure. There are so many assignments, tests, and deadlines.
It’s hard to keep up.

B: Yeah, school is tough. I also find group projects stressful. Sometimes I end up
doing everything myself.

A: Totally! And on top of that, my family keeps asking me to get a high core. It’s
a lot of pressure.

B: For me, it’s also daily life. Cleaning my room, cooking, paying for stuff—it’s all
too much sometimes.

A: Same here. I always feel like there’s not enough time to finish everything.

B: And when I finally take a break, I feel guilty, like I should be working or
studying instead.

A: Exactly! But we need to remember it’s okay to rest. We’re not machines.

B: So, how do you deal with all this stress?

A: I try to plan my day. I write down what I need to do and focus on small tasks
first.

B: That’s smart. I like writing too. I keep a little journal where I write my thoughts
—it helps clear my mind.

A: That sounds good. I also try to go for a walk or do some exercise. It makes
me feel better.

B: For me, listening to music helps. It’s like my escape from everything.

A: That’s a good idea. I guess we all need to find what works for us and not push
ourselves too hard.

B: Exactly. And just talking about it helps too. I already feel a bit better now.

A: Same here. Thanks for listening. Let’s keep supporting each other.
Question 6. Health

People seem to do different things to maintain a healthy body. What aspects of

health do you think we need to pay attention to if we want to lead a healthy
life? What do you think we should do to improve and maintain our health?

A: These days, people often talk about being healthy. What do you think we
should do to stay healthy?

B: I think we should care about three things: our body, our mind, and our
feelings. They all connect, don’t you think?

A: Yeah, true. Most people talk about eating well and exercising. Do you think
that’s enough?

B: Not really. Eating healthy food and staying active are definitely important, but
there’s more to it. For example, getting enough sleep is essential. Without sleep,
your body and brain don’t function as they should.

A: That’s true. I’ve been drunk. What about mental health? People seem to
don’t mention it.

B: Exactly. Taking care of our minds is just as important. We need to make time
to relax, spend quality time with friends or family, and do things that make us
happy. Whether it’s reading, listening to music, or just enjoying nature, it really
helps to recharge mentally.

A: Yeah, I feel better when I’m not too stressed. Do you think it’s better to stop
problems before they start or fix them later?

B: I think, stopping them before they happen It’s much easier to stop problems
before they start. Building good habits, like eating nutritious food, staying
physically active, and getting enough rest, can make a big difference. Even small
steps every day—like drinking more water or taking a short walk

A: I guess staying healthy takes effort, but it’s worth it. Should we get another
coffee, or is coffee bad for us?

B: [Laughs] A little coffee is fine. It’s all about balance, right?

A: That’s true. Cheers to health and balance!

B: Cheers!
Question 5. Education

Every kid/student who goes to school would love to enjoy school life. Yet in
Vietnam, this seems not to be the case. What do you think should be changed
so that school life can be more enjoyable for young children?

A: School should be fun for students, right? But here, all students have a lot of
study and stress.

B: True. It’s like education has become a race, all about grades and tests. The
general school nowadays doesn’t let the kids enjoy learning or exploring what
they love about.)

A: Exactly. We need less focus on exams and more on creativity and

practical skills.

B: Yeah, and that means adding more activities such as as art, music, and sports
to the curriculum. These subjects let kids express themselves and discover their
strengths and creativity

A: And smaller class sizes would help too. Teachers could pay more attention
to each student.

B: Absolutely. Also, the teaching methods need to change. Many lessons are just
about memorizing facts to pass exams. Lessons should be more interactive—
thinking, and discussions.

A: And schools should care about mental health too. Students need emotional
support, not under pressure.

B:Exactly. If schools focused on personal growth and creativity instead of just

grades, kids would feel more excited about learning. They’d come to school
because they want to, not because they have to

A: Totally. Happy students, a better future. It’s time for a change.

Question 4. Education

Some people believe that the aim of university education is to prepare students
for their future jobs. Others believe there are much wider benefits of university
education for both individuals and society. What’s your view on this?

A: Hey, have you ever thought about university education as just for preparing
students for jobs or something more?

B: Hmm, yeah, I think about it sometimes. I think it’s mainly about equipping
students with skills like time management. How will you handle work and life if
you can’t manage your time?

A: That’s true. But for me, it’s problem-solving. Life and work are full of
problems, big or small, and if you can’t handle them, you’ll be stressed, right?

B: Oh, I agree with you. But if you’re good at managing your time, you’ll have the
capacity to solve problems more effectively.

A: Ok, and communication skills! Knowing how to express your ideas clearly
and understand others is super important.

B: I agree with you. Good communication can save time, avoid

misunderstandings, and build better relationships. But time management is still
the foundation. It ties everything else together.

A: True. So maybe it’s not just one skill. It’s a mix of time management, problem-
solving, and communication. And probably teamwork too. Most careers require
collaboration.

B: Yeah, teamwork’s huge. And let’s not forget adaptability—things are changing
so fast these days. If you’re not flexible, you’ll struggle.

A: You’re right. So I guess the ideal combo is: time management, problem-
solving, communication, teamwork, and adaptability. These are the real
goals of university education.

B: Easy to say, harder to do! master, Doing all that? A whole different challenge.

Question 3. Perspective

In the past, IQ was seen as the main factor that determined students’ success at
school. Yet, nowadays, people suggest that there are different forms of
intelligence, and students’ success relies on plenty of factors. What factors do
you think determine university students’ chance of success?

A: Hey, have you ever thought about the main factor that determines
students’ success at school?

B: Hmm, I think soft skills are the key. Being able to communicate and work
well with others makes it easier to solve almost any problem. What do you think?

A: I’m not so sure… I feel like personal effort is what matters. Even if your soft
skills are great, without hard work, success is impossible.

B: That’s true, but think about this: someone with soft skills can work in a
group, get help, and save time. Isn’t that more efficient than just working
alone?

A: Maybe, but effort is what matters most. Even if someone helps you, you
must study and practice yourself.

B: Sure, but soft skills help you handle pressure and make better connections.
For example, asking your professor the right questions can help you understand
faster than studying alone for hours.

A: That’s a good point, but not everyone can get help from professors or
study groups. Effort is something you can always control, no matter what.

B: True, but effort can only take you so far. If you can’t work with others or
manage your time well, you might end up stuck or overwhelmed.

A: Hmm… maybe it’s not about one being more important than the other. You
need effort to work hard, and soft skills to work smart.

B: Exactly! It’s like a team—you need both to succeed.

A: Alright, I’ll give you that. Teamwork it is!

Question 2.Success

Success is what most of us pursue in life. Yet it’s not easy to be successful.
What factors determine the chance of success?

A: Have you ever thought about what success means? I’ve been wondering
about it.
B: Good question. I think success is about reaching your personal goals, whether
it’s about your career, relationships, or just being happy with your life. What’s
your take?

A: That’s true, but for me, success also means feeling proud of making a
positive impact.

B: That’s a great point. But don’t you think success looks different for everyone?

A: Totally. It’s so personal. But what do you think are the key factors that lead to
success?

B: Hmm, I’d say hard work is a big one. You can’t achieve much if you’re
unwilling to put in the effort.

A: Totally, but for me, consistency is equally important. People often give up
before they see results.

B: That’s so true! And I’d add having a clear goal. If you don’t know what you’re
working towards, it’s easy to lose direction.

A: Absolutely. But I think mindset is key, too. Like staying positive and
learning from failures instead of giving up.

B: Good point. And don’t forget the importance of connections. Sometimes, who
you know can open doors that hard work alone can’t.

A: Agreed. And adaptability. Life never goes as planned, so being flexible helps.

B: Yeah, life does have a way of surprising you. So, in short: hard work,
consistency, clear goals, mindset, connections, and adaptability?

A: Sounds like a good recipe for success to me!

B: Now we just have to apply it to our lives.

A: Easier said than done, right?

B: True, but hey, one step at a time!