My Training

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

The unlimited use of cars may cause many problems. What are those problems?

In order to reduce the problems, should we discourage people to use cars?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own ₍knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Having a car has become an essential part of many people’s lives. It offers flexibility to their life and work, and also provides ready access to a variety of services and leisure options. However, a range of problems have been identified and need to be addressed.

The problems associated with frequent car use are becoming increasingly familiar to the general public. The widespread use of cars has real environmental costs. Vehicles are major sources of urban air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. It is reported that road traffic is the source of one third of all harmful air pollution in the world. Car exhaust contributes to acid rain, carbon dioxide and lead, which cause global warming and damage human health. Traffic jam is another problem. As more and more people drive to work rather than walk, cycle or take public transport, there are heavy traffic jams almost every day at rush hours. The most serious problem, however, is safety. Car accidents cause huge numbers of casualties every year.

To solve these problems, some people suggest that the government should impose a strict restriction on the use of cars, but I do not think this is the best option, because this would lead to reduced mobility for people and a decline in the car industry. I think a better solution would be for car manufacturers to design more environmentally friendly cars, which run on solar power or hydrogen. Also, traffic problems can be alleviated by building more underground tunnels and parking garages, and safety problems can be avoided by educating drivers as well as pedestrians to use greater caution on the road.

So, in conclusion, I think that while discouraging the car use might seem a quick solution to many problems currently facing the society, it is most unlikely to be a permanent cure.

– 303 words –

General Training Test 2-March 2006

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

People generally know that the environment is important. However, most individuals still don’t take responsibility to protect the environment. Why is this? What should be done to encourage people to protect the environment?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Humans have been damaging the environment ever since we realised our powers to harness nature. Global warming and air pollution are now frequent headlines on TV and in the newspapers all over the world, which keep reminding us of our obligation to protect the environment. However, few actions are actually being taken at the individual level, and 1 think there are two major reasons why people are being so indifferent.

The first reason is that many people consider the environmental problems as a future concern. Environmental reports often warn us of the dire consequences of climate change or energy crisis 100 or 200 years later. As a result, many people feel that money and time are better spent on solving more immediate problems such as housing shortage and traffic congestion than on preventing a disaster that is only predicted to happen in the future. Also, people feel that the environmental problems are too complex for individual people to cope with. Indeed, a combination of factors causes environmental problems, many of which are impossible to be controlled through individual actions.

The above attitudes are understandable but are obviously mistaken, so the government needs to take proactive measures to make people more environmentally responsible. They can make more public service advertisements to encourage people to consume more green products instead of disposable goods that are harmful to the environment.

They can also offer more incentives to people who have been active in cleaning up the neighbourhood or severely punish those who have been unfriendly to the environment.

There is always a dilemma between environment and development, but as an individual, we can do something to reduce the negative impact of human activities on the environment. Certainly, we do not want to see the Earth turn into an uninhabitable planet.

– 297 words –

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Fossil fuels, such as coal, oil and natural gas, are used in many countries. The use of alternative sources of energy, including wind and solar power, is encouraged. Is this trend a positive or negative development?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

I think that the use of alternative sources of energy (also known in some cases as ‘green’ energy) is a positive trend of development, and indeed their use should be encouraged further. As the demand for energy worldwide is increasing, especially in developing countries, the strains on the existing and already limited resources also increase. To solve this problem, we must consider two issues: how to better use the existing, limited fossil fuel resources and how we can encourage the use of alternative energy sources.

It is universally acknowledged that there is a limitation on the use of fossil fuels, especially coal and oil. Some countries are rich in oil deposits like OPEC, whereas China is rich in coal deposits and Russia in natural gas. Others, such as Japan and Germany, are completely dependent on the import of resources. For all countries – resource rich versus resource poor, alternative energy should be encouraged and utilised to reduce the dependence on fossil fuels as well as to keep the global environment in balance and ‘healthy’.

The only way is to turn to other sources to get energy supply. Wind power and solar power are at present feasible alternatives. France is one country which has the advanced technology needed to produce extremely efficient solar panels to store energy from the sun. Both kinds of power can reduce a country’s dependence on fossil fuels. Furthermore, they do not pollute the: environment and in turn help keep the ecosystem stable.

While fossil fuel resources are diminishing, the demand for energy continues to increase year on year. It is a positive trend to develop other alternatives to replace these traditional energy resources. Experiences should be shared and promoted, technology shared and exchanged to limit or even reduce the greenhouse effect. If this switch to alternative energy is encouraged early enough, then we may yet avoid the pending energy crisis.

314 words

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about. the following topic:

The environment problems facing today’s world are so great that there is little ordinary people can do to improve the situation. Governments and large ^ companies should be responsible for reducing the amount of damage being \ done to the environment. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own ^ knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

In modern society, more often than not, environment-related issues have confronted ecological scientists, government agencies, and the general public. While they are making co-ordinated efforts to curb the global environmental deterioration, the downward spiral can hardly be reversed. In my opinion, environmental protection can only be achieved by promoting people’s environmental awareness.

To begin with, individual awareness of the natural law of cause and effect must be nurtured. All levels of education, especially primary and secondary schools, can be a good starting point to develop the realisation that whatever we do to the environment, it will return to ourselves. Moreover, the mass media are also responsible for raising the public’s ecological consciousness. Instead of persuading people to buy those new products that only serve to fuel the existing environmental problems, one of their unavoidable obligations is to instil the urgent need of taking care of our natural environment into the psyche of each and every member of our planet.

It is undeniable that serious actions are being taken. In fact, restrictions are being placed on emissions of pollutants, and new environmentally friendly sources of energy for motor vehicles are being developed. Moreover, vast tracts of land are allocated for wildlife conservation, and many endangered species have been spared the fate of
extinction. Nevertheless, it is also a well-known fact that the pace of damage to the environment far outstrips our conservation efforts. Unless all citizens of the world are fully aware of the gravity of the situation, ecological degradation, which is happening in their countries, can never be halted. All too often, we tend to expect our scientists, engineers and governments to solve the environmental problems while, in the meantime, factories and households are dumping millions of litres of toxic wastes into rivers, lakes and oceans. Similarly, fancy private vehicles are being crazily purchased, emitting billions of tons of car exhaust into the atmosphere and aggravating the greenhouse effect.

Given this argument, it is reasonable to conclude that if every member of the society is aware of the relationship between humans and the nature and stops their destructive behaviour, the ecological strain on earth can be relieved and the benefits to all nations are enormous.

– 365 words –

WRITING TASK 2

You should, spend about 40 minutes on this task, Write about the following topic: Computers are increasingly used in education. In which areas do you think are computers more important and in which areas are teachers more important?Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Computers are now essential in many areas of life – modern banking, retail, and information exchange among others. However, this is not true for education. At a simple level, some subjects may be better taught using computers, but to explain important concepts, a human teacher is still indispensable.

There are some subjects in which a computer can be used successfully to teach. Elementary mathematics, elementary language learning and any area which requires a student to memorise basic facts through repetition are well suited to computer learning, The computer can be programmed to provide an endless number of simple questions, and as the student answers these questions, the facts are learned and reinforced.

However, in the learning and practice of more complex ideas, the computer is not adequate. A computer can evaluate an answer as right or wrong, but it cannot determine why. It cannot find out why a student is making mistakes and then represent important concepts in a different way so the student will understand. It cannot determine at what stage in a mathematics problem the student has made an error; it can only indicate that the final answer is wrong. Tasks involving reasoning cannot be taught by computers, as there are too many variables for a computer to deal with successfully. In all these cases, a human teacher seems indispensable in class.

Thus, while computers may be useful as a tool for practising simple skills, they are not an essential feature of modern education, because they cannot monitor a student’s

Write about the topic

The main purpose of public libraries is to provide books, and they shouldn’t waste their limited resources and space on providing expensive hi-tech media such as computer software, videos and DVDs.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

In a traditional sense, libraries are places with a large collection of books. However, the digital age has given today’s iibraries new means of storing and retrieving information on media other than the printed pages. CD-ROMs, videos and DVDs are widely used in public libraries, and they serve both the libraries and the readers.

Opponents of a high-tech library would argue that multimedia facilities are expensive. This may be true to some extent because a DVD player is often more expensive than a bookshelf. However, with immense storage capacity, these new high-tech media can actually save the most valuable resource – space. A computer disc 12cm in diameter can store a whole Encyclopaedia Britannica which, in printed volumes, would occupy a complete shelf section.

Furthermore, magnetic and digital media can store information much longer than traditional means. It takes great care to protect books from moisture, fire or human damage, and a book in a library serves readers for only a few hundred years. But digital files, easily duplicated and restored, can perhaps last forever.

Finally, visiting a library with multiple media access is much more interesting. Multimedia resources offer readers a dynamic combination of images, sounds and videos. A reader can actually hear Martin Luther King crying out “I have a dream”, or roam about the world with an interactive atlas.

In conclusion, modern technology has turned a public library from a place of lending and borrowing books into an interactive centre for the spread of human knowledge and experience. The investment in multimedia facilities by a public library is justified and should be encouraged.

General Training Task 2 Question

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Many parents complain that computer games have no value to their children’s studies. On the contrary, those online games have produced a lot of negative effects on their mental and physical development. What is your opinion?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant, examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Playing computer games as a hobby is enjoying an upsurge of popularity among young teenagers worldwide. It appears to be a favourite pastime of kids that transcends both cultural barriers and national boundaries. However, in my opinion, these games have little value to them and produce a lot of harmful effects on their physical and mental development.

To begin with, one of the most obvious disadvantages is that these games are highly addictive, compelling children to sit in front of the computer for many straight hours. As a result, they have little time for sports activities and many of them start developing health problems. According to a recent survey, the obesity rate among adolescents aged between 13 and 19 is soaring in industrialised nations as well as in less developed countries, and one of the contributing factors is the lack of physical exercises. Also, intense radiation produced by an operating computer not only causes failing eyesight but also poses untold hidden health hazards in those young children.

In a similar way, the indulgence in computer games is detrimental to their mentality in various aspects. For one thing, an increasing amount of time spent in playing games means less and less time is devoted to their studies. No wonder that teenagers having this undesirable habit are finding it difficult to meet the deadlines of their school assignments. For another, being accustomed to the fast changing images that are inherent in every computer game, they can hardly concentrate on any serious
subjects and their attention span is found to be increasingly short. Moreover, teenagers are exposed to sexual and violent scenes featured in many computer games.

In summary, from both physiological and psychological points of view, computer games are indeed valueless and may exert negative impacts on the development of young children. Therefore, it is high time that parents and schools should be alert to the problem, and restrict children’s access to those computer games.

– 323 words –

Z WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Some people think computers and the Internet are important in children’s study, but others think students can learn more effectively in schools and with teachers.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

6 _r ,

* Give reasons tor your answer and include any relevant examples from your own

Model Essay

The ways in which children today study, both at home and at school, are radically different from any previous generation, and the increased availability and relatively low price of modern technology have been instrumental in this change. However, I feel that while modem technologies, such as computers and the Internet, are important in assisting a child’s learning, this learning should be guided and directed by the experience of teachers.

There is no denying the fact that computers and the Internet are popularly used in the field of education; they can present knowledge in a vivid and novel way. The computer and the Internet can also enable students in enhancing their general understanding of how to solve difficulties in study as well as giving them vital skills in readiness for later life. However, the problems are: the information that the computer can show has to be pre-programmed and needs constant updating, for example Encyclopaedia’s on DVD-ROM; and contrary to popular belief, the Internet may not be a reliable source for knowledge, since there is often conflicting information available when taken from different sources.

A traditional and long-established practice is for children to study and gain knowledge at school, learning skills in various ways taught by traditional methods. A school is a place where students gather to be educated and learn from each other as well as
formal educators. At school, students’ development is orchestrated stage by stage, step by step by experienced teachers, and their acquisition of knowledge is guided and backed up in a systematic way.

I do not believe that it will help students to learn effectively and in a long-term manner to overemphasising the use of computers and the Internet. Rather, I feel that modem technologies can complement more traditional teaching and learning methods, without being used as a replacement for these traditions.

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Some people think that we should invent a new language for international communication. Do the benefits of this outweigh the problems?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

That the globalisation is gaining increasing momentum starts to exert a subtle impact on the world languages. Evidently, the growing transnational business communication and cultural exchange demands a new language to be created. Though efforts to promote an international language had been severely thwarted previously – in the case of Esperanto, the emergence of a new language for global communication is still staunchly supported by the majority.

Linguistic scientists and experts have already publicly conceded the seemingly insurmountable obstacles in either human or machine translation. This could largely be attributed to the intrinsic cultural aspects rooted in each language, which are, more often than not, “conveniently” overlooked or neglected in the translation process, frequently amounting to eventual communication breakdown. Besides, the tones and stresses with which sentences are expressed are crucial verbal elements in delivery of meanings intended by the speaker as well. Sometimes, a particular sentence could be interpreted in different ways if the elements constituting the speech are varied even slightly. Therefore, we could tentatively conclude that translation from one language to another might not appear to be the best solution to resolve the problems arising from international communication. A new language designed to fulfil similar purposes is required.

Some professionals are looking for alternative solutions and set their sight on English. Unsurprisingly, English has risen to predominance and been widely accepted by the general population as the main language medium for occasions like business conference,
chatting, owing much to the unsuccessful endeavour to popularise Esperanto. However, one of the direct ethical issues that need to be addressed would have been the elimination of a plethora of minority languages, as people from around the globe rushed to pick up a foreign language. In addition, the job of translators and interpreters would also be much simplified as the availability of a new international language could save the troubles of learning many different languages.

Despite of the challenges involved in learning an entirely novel language, it is absolutely a viable and effective approach in modern communication in the long run. What is in store for us in the near future, if universal acceptance of a standard language could be achieved, would be a world of seamless communication transcending barriers of all sorts.

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Modern buildings change the character and appearance of towns and cities. The government should insist that new buildings be built In traditional styles to protect cultural identity.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Every country, every group of people has a unique culture whicli people often feel a strong need to protect, to prevent it from changing or being damaged. However, that seems to be a very boring idea of culture; culture is not like an endangered animal we need to keep in zoos, but rather like a wild animal that we cannot control.

Culture is not dead but something alive and changing, and as we move forward and as our culture changes, it is also good to look back to see where we have come from, and it would be good if all society, not just the government, took an interest in preserving parts of our history and culture. But does preserving mean we should stop doing new things? No, it does not; new culture, new ways of doing things are important to have in a society. New buildings should not be built in the old styles, but built using new designs to match the new technology, new functions and new locations of buildings. What type of Vietnamese traditional style should be used to build a stadium that can seat 40,000 people? Good architecture is a product of thinking about the function, the location and the technology available.

We also need to question whether the things that were done in the past are the best that we can do. Why were the buildings in the past seen as the best examples of Vietnamese ideas, design and architecture? Why do we have to stop our own creativity while the

creativity of past builders is to be boringly followed? It sounds like a way to kill culture, to kill ideas, to kill the talent of new people working in a new time.

Of course it is good to keep some things from the past, to protect some buildings, to remember our history, but not at the expense of our future.

– 316 words –

Academie Task 2 Question August 2006

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Multicultural societies, in which there is a mixture of different ethnic peoples, bring more benefits than drawbacks to a country.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Countries like the USA and Australia are modem multicultural societies; they have been created by successive waves of immigration of peoples from other continents and countries, as well as by the original inhabitants: Europe, Africa, Asia, and Central and South America over several hundreds of years. The result is an exciting and rich blend of people, cultures and lifestyles. However, these countries are not without their problems as can be seen if you look at their history.

Countries and communities have probably always been multicultural; no two people are the same; even friends have different preferences in clothes, sports teams, food and even in beliefs, yet they manage to live and work together, to support each other, and to be tolerant of their respective differences. Their friendship is probably richer, more interesting and more rewarding as a result. Yet it is not always so; Genghis Khan fought bitterly with his “blood brother” even though they had so much in common.

Life in a multicultural society is richer, the range of experiences available is more diverse, yet it is only if each individual is able to accept difference that they can enjoy it. It is easy to eat the grilled lamb kebabs of the people from Turkey on the streets, but it is harder to accept their values, their culture or their religion.

We all live in multicultural societies; sometimes the going is easy, but sometimes we need to listen to, to understand and to really empathise with the other people from the other culture. Unfortunately, we are not always able to do it.

– 263 words –

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some peopie think the increasing business and cultural contact between countries brings many positive effects. Others say it causes the loss of national identities.

Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

The world today is characterised by the free flow of information and commodity. The frequent interaction and growing interdependence among countries have ended the days of regional isolation and absolute national sovereignty, but they have also sparked off heated controversies over the positive and negative impacts that a global culture can bring into our life.

Some people say that the widening international exchanges, both in the field of business and culture, have exerted positive influences to a nation as well as its people. To begin with, they promote business co-operation among nations. For example, large multinational companies spread the latest technologies and experience around the world, and international trade has helped so many less developed economies grow. Also, they enrich people’s lives because people of one nation are given opportunities through international tourism, exhibitions and fairs, TV programmes and films, etc. to enjoy the achievements of other cultures across the globe.

However, other people argue that these conditions also create the possible danger of undermining a country’s national identity. In the first place, traditional cultures might fall victim to a global media and entertainment force. This is most evident in some parts of the world where “Americanisation” is threatening the preservation of their indigenous

culture. In Vietnam, for instance, few youngsters like or understand “Hue Court Music”, the quintessence of Vietnamese culture; they go for Hollywood movies and rock music instead. Moreover, in the process of globalisation, the world is getting less linguistically diverse, as a growing number of people give up their native language for the dominant language in the world – English.

From my point of view, both arguments are the true reflections of the possible consequence of an increasing economic and cultural interaction among nations. It boosts economic integration and speeds up modernisation but also creates tensions between a global culture and a country’s national identity. Therefore, we should take the initiative in fighting to protect our distinct culture and identity from being submerged by other cultural or economic influences.

332 words

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Nowadays, the traditions and customs relating to the food we eat and the way we eat are changing. Why is it happening? Do you think this kind of change is ; positive or negative?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

The way we eat is indeed changing, and some of the traditions and customs that are associated with food from the past are being lost. This change, as a consequence of the society we are in, has both positive and negative impacts.

Our lives, unlike before, are becoming increasingly fast-paced, and we try to value the little free time we have, rather than squandering it on time-consuming tasks such as the preparing and the cooking of the family meal. In addition, people are increasingly aware of the need to have a nutritious and healthy diet in order to stave off disease and illness as well as to promote a longer and fuller life. Modern agribusiness has brought about a fundamental change in the raising of dairy animals, poultry and crops, as well as the customs, traditions and beliefs associated with agriculture. We no longer practise rituals for bumper harvest, nor do we observe customs for the food we consume in such a serious manner as before, except on some special occasions.

The positive side of this change is that we now eat much better than our ancestors; we all have more access to more food and more kinds of food than at any time in history, which has led to increased lifespan, health and general well-being, Furthermore, health food has increased in popularity as increasing numbers of people think more seriously about their physical well-being. The traditional ‘big breakfast’ has generally lost its appeal and is usually replaced by something light, tasty and fresh. Dietary importance outstrips that of customs which might be practised at the dining table.

However, on the negative side, ignorance on the awareness of some special foods has also occurred. Some people, especially younger people, have little knowledge of some of the traditions and customs that centre on the food offered on a special occasion or for a special day. For example, in Vietnam, Banh Chung, which is a kind of glutinous rice wrapped in banana leaves, is now consumed as an ordinary breakfast item rather than as their cultural significance, commemorating the filial affection of a prince to his royal father in an ancient Vietnamese legend.

The positive has emerged alongside with the negative from the changing ways we eat. Humans will continue to change the food they eat and the ways in which that food is prepared and eaten. However, the long-cherished and observed traditions should also be passed down to the next generation as this ‘culinary culture’ is deeply rooted in a nation’s heritage, culture and conventions.

– 424 words –

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic

Some people believe.that all the children in school are required to learn at least one foreign language. However, others say that those who are not talented do not have to learn. What is your opinion?Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own , knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

For children in school, to learn a foreign language or not should be determined by the school curriculum. Provided that it is offered as a subject, all students – talented or otherwise – must study it as partial fulfilment of their academic achievement.

The study of a foreign language – especially English for children at Grade 3 – is now a compulsory requirement at all primary schools in my country although it was not the case just few years ago. With increased globalisation, comes increased crosscultural contact and because of this, it is important for children to master at least one foreign language at an early age so as to prepare them for this global society. To understand a foreign language is also an opportunity for children to learn about and understand a little about another culture or cultures. Also, it is an opportunity to cultivate students’ talent, develop their ability in learning and boost their potential for further education.

It is irresponsible, and indeed, even harmful, to separate and label students as talented or not in education at such a tender and vulnerable age. Why should the study of a foreign language alone be used as the only yardstick to label students as talented or not in education? It is advisable to help all students to understand that the study of a foreign language will bring benefit to their studies and, in the future, their careers.

Thus, I feel that it is not healthy to advocate the labelling of students as talented or not in the study of languages.

– 256 words

Academie Task 2 Question April 2007

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

The society would benefit from a ban on all forms of advertising because it serves no useful purpose, and can even be damaging.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Advertising is a sign of our times; it is everywhere, from my public to my private life, from SMS messages on my phone to the back of toilet doors, to TV screens in the supermarkets, on the streets and in elevators. But does it ever serve a purpose other than to tell me how pitiful my life is without a certain product?

Advertising might be like medicine; not nice but necessary from time to time. When we want to buy a new computer or go on a holiday, some of us will do two things: do some online research and then check out the best deals online or in the papers. This works for us; we get the right information at the right time. And we are grateful.

On another day, we may be strolling in the street with our friends enjoying the sunshine, but then a large TV screen jumps into life telling us the merits of a certain shampoo, or a certain car model. This is intrusive, distracting and perhaps even dangerous as it makes vision in the street more difficult.

But advertising pays for things that I enjoy; it pays for the TV programmes I watch, the TV screens that help me pass the time on the public transport system, and subsidises the newspapers I read online.

It, however, does seem that sometimes there is too much, that it is too pervasive and too intrusive. But to completely eliminate it from our everyday life would be an unwise decision. We have to live with it, but maybe some respect for the consumers might be nice.

– 268 words –

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? It is said that the amount of violence on the TV programmes has negative effect on our social development and therefore should be reduced.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Television is a powerful tool of communication. It may bring us laughter and joy, but may also incite hatred or violence, leading us towards deviant behaviours and crimes. A responsible government should protect the general public by strictly regulating any inappropriate programmes on TV.

Over recent years, there has been an increasing amount of media violence. TV series portray serial killers, gun battles and brutal fighting. News and documentaries illustrate every detail of a startling crime in the name of crime investigation. TV viewers today are so used to violence that they never think it disturbing but find it fun to watch.

Young people and children are the greatest victims of this surge in media violence. Not yet able to distinguish between right and wrong, they often imitate the violence they observe on TV and accept it as the normal way to behave towards others. It is reported that many juvenile crimes are the direct result of viewing aggressive behaviours on TV.

Opponents of strict media control often point out that some of the violence shown on TV is the true portrayal of what is happening around us and people have the right to know it. Although this is undoubtedly true, it also means that people who see them a lot may gradually develop a sense of insecurity and mistrust as they are forced to

believe they are living in a dangerous world.

Psychological and sociological studies have concluded that violence on the screen is contributing to increased crime rate in our world. The government should combat the threat of media violence to the general public.

– 266 words –

Academie Task 2 Question April 2004

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic::

The high sales of popular consumer goods reflect the power of advertising and not the real needs of the society in which the goods are sold.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

In advanced industrial countries as well as in many less developed ones, new consumer products are emerging at an alarming rate to meet the increasingly diverse needs of people from all walks of life. And it seems that this trend of consumerism is fuelled by the widespread advertising in modem societies. In my opinion, both factors are critical to the soaring sales of consumer goods.

On the one hand, with the fast pace of modernisation, people’s physical and spiritual needs are greatly diversified and carefully categorised, which can be witnessed by mushrooming supermarkets, department stores and shopping malls. From kitchenware to gardening implements, from office consumables to household confections, those places exist to provide a splendid array of modern commodities, catering to every particular taste of humans. No wonder that many housewives are so thrilled at the thought of another shopping spree! Moreover, many new businesses have sprouted up in recent decades. For example, the pedicure industry is thriving in Southeast Asia as an effective channel to relieve the stresses and strains of modern life.

On the other hand, the mighty power of advertising is also a contributing factor. Inundated by a succession of seductive images and attractive prices, most consumers find it hard to resist the allure of possessing the advertised products. Following the principle of “3B” (baby, beauty and beast), many advertisers use newborn infants, gorgeous
females and domestic animals to stimulate purchasing impulses in the audience – their potential customers – though those icons are irrelevant to their products. For instance, although car manufacturers and real estate developers have been criticised for using shapely models in their advertisements, the climbing sales of cars and properties give evidence of their great success, at least in commercial terms.

In conclusion, in the analysis of excessive consumption, it is obvious that people’s real needs and the magnetism of advertising are the two most powerful forces at work. In fact, it is often difficult to distinguish between them because a really fascinating advertisement can actually create new needs in the viewers, who feel compelled to go on a shopping tour!

– 347 words –

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Nowadays, a lot of media, including newspaper, magazine, television, radio, and even the Internet, are publishing stories of people’s private lives. Should this practice be banned?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at ¡east 250 words.

Model Essay

With the increasing competition among a medley of different media, newspapers, magazines, and even the Internet are putting out stories of people’s private lives to gain the attention of the public. Yet, this way of boosting sales is hard for me to accept. Therefore, it is my strong recommendation for the government to ban such practice, which is against moral principles.

Seemingly, this problem is not serious enough to be prohibited by the government. However, to expose one’s privacy is an insult to his or her dignity. Indeed, in the society, everyone, whether a celebrity or an ordinary person, is allowed to enjoy the right of privacy without any infringement. Meanwhile, no one expects that his or her private story gets published and becomes the laughing stock shared by all.

It is true that man is born to be on tiptoe for privacy with curiosity. Nevertheless, it is by no means a sufficient reason to allow the practice of making public people’s privacy. As a consequence, it would encourage an immoral conduct of nosing into others’ privacy. Indeed, some teenagers who have read the information describing the affairs of a movie star could be under the wrong impression about love.

As far as the public is concerned, some private stories give a misleading example of love and marriage. In fact, some newspapers and magazines are teeming with the photos
and articles detailing the new girlfriends or boyfriends of celebrities, which contributes to the disturbing mindset that marriage is no longer as important and sacred as before.

In view of the above undesirable impacts, it is reasonable to assume that the practice of printing privacy is detrimental to our social ethics. It is my earnest request to our government that such practice should be forbidden in the form of law. Furthermore, it is the obligation of all citizens to respect and value other people’s privacy.

– 314 words –

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

It is believed that people who read for pleasure can develop better imagination and language skills than people who prefer to watch TV. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this argument?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

I agree that reading is thought-provoking and can expand one’s imagination. Furthermore, reading has the great potential to develop one’s language skills in a more subliminal and in-depth way than watching TV.

By reading, we form a mental picture of what the author narrates and depicts. Through the use of words, the author is creating pictures and images of the scenes within the book in our mind. Though we may have finished reading a novel like God Father, we can often ‘see’ certain scenes again with a ‘rerun’ in our mind. Another example is our reading mind may also go along with the multiple reports and stories in a daily newspaper, which helps lift our horizon, develop our cultural enlightenment and enrich our language abilities,

The ability to use language is actually a cumulative build-up from reading. An author should have a large pool of language skills before a volume or an article could be written. By the same token, we read to interpret, understand or even enjoy either for pleasure or for knowledge. In the course of reading, we are wittingly or unwittingly influenced and will turn to use what we have read.

In comparison, TV focuses mainly on visual impact and offers audiences instant gratification. The imagery created is external from our mind and is created by the director
and depends on the footage taken, though it could be said that this footage is, in itself, a realisation of the imagination of the director!

From the contrast between reading and watching TV, I think that reading can make a person perfect. The end resulting from reading is long-term whereas that from TV may be temporary and not as significant in potential as reading.

– 285 words –

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task, Write about the following topic:

International tourism has become a huge industry in the world. Are the problems that international travellers cause greater than the advantages they bring?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

With the general decrease in travelling costs, international travel is becoming more prevalent. For a variety of reasons and with greater frequency, people are travelling to other countries. International visitors bring their own range of behaviours and customs to the countries they visit. I believe the advantages international travellers bring to the countries they choose to visit outweigh the negatives.

Unfortunately, all countries have within them people who exhibit undesirable behaviour. The vociferous minority seem to leave an impression in the minds of people in host countries. Whether it be leaving the hotel room in a complete mess, or loudly arguing about a matter with a local person, international visitors are sometimes a poor advertisement for their countries. This is certainly the negative side of international visitors.

However, the far greater impression international visitors leave is a good one. Typically, international visitors bring with them money which they inject into the local economy they are visiting, which is excellent for business. They can also educate the local people about what life is like in another part of the world. These international travellers are like ‘ambassadors’ for their countries and can cause others to want to visit their countries – this brings with it obvious economic benefits as well. In addition, international visitors can help others to see things from a different perspective and, often, improve on the way things are done.

Problems can arise from international visitors; however, the benefits they bring to the countries they visit are greater. International visitors around the world will continue to impact the countries to which they travel, and it is up to the individual to make sure the example they set is a good one.

– 281 words ■

WRITING TASK 2

Abu should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

International tourism is now the biggest industry in the world. Unfortunately, it brings tension rather than understanding between the people from different cultures.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Each year, hundreds of millions of people travel around the globe for leisure, business, and other purposes. The continuous and steady growth of international tourism brings together people from different cultural systems and inevitably leads to misunderstandings and conflicts that are difficult to resolve.

Among the forces contributing to the tension behind these cross-cultural encounters, those of language barriers are perhaps the most prominent. Communication with foreigners has always been difficult and may lead to misunderstandings even with the help of a tour guide or an interpreter. Then, differences in customs and traditions may also produce quite a lot of unpleasantness during a journey. In many Muslim countries, for example, pork and wine are never served because of a taboo against them. This may be particularly difficult to adapt to for a traveller who is planning a long-term stay. Similarly, a Western woman travelling to the Middle East may find it annoying to have to wear a headscarf. What is more, different usage of measurements may cause difficulty in communication. When referring to distance, for instance, Americans tend to use “miles”, which may cause some difficulty in understanding to people who use “kilometres”.

Apart from these tensions caused by cultural differences, international tourism may also lead to conflicts between tourists and a local community. International tourism brings huge numbers of travellers from all over the world to a local community who may prefer to live peacefully without disruption from the outside world. However, noise, congestion, and pollution always accompany international tourists to the environment and cultures of the regions they visit.

Undeniably, international tourism is among the foremost vehicles for cultural exchange and proves to be an effective way to boost a region’s economic growth. However, before the cultural gap that exists between the home and a foreign destination can be bridged and “hospitable tourism” becomes a global practice, it always creates tension rather than understanding along the trip.

– 319 words –

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Some people think that cultural traditions may be destroyed when they are used as money-making attractions aimed at tourists. Others believe it is the only way to save these traditions.

Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write aL least 250 words.

No one can deny that a trip to a remote destination away from one’s everyday life and culture is an exciting experience for the traveller, but its negative impact on the local culture and traditions cannot be ignored.

In many places, cultural traditions are destroyed because they are being commercialised for profits. For example, the moment a tourist sets foot on a place of attraction, he is always first welcomed by a crowd of peddlers or a line of shops selling souvenirs and handicrafts that are often fake and overpriced. What is more, in the peak tourist seasons, there are just so many visitors that even the remotest island turns into a noisy market. Those who are expecting a quiet cultural journey may finally end up seeing the same hustle and bustle in a modern city.

There are, however, arguments for setting up money-making attractions in a tourist area. We cannot afford to renovate historical buildings if they were not visited at a price. If traditional skills and lifestyles were not presented to visitors in an impressive way, they might soon be forgotten. For many parts of the world, tourism becomes a major source of income and helps to save the local culture from dying out.

We should find the right balance between tourism development and cultural protection, and I believe the government has a very important role to play here. In my
own country, for example, many tourist cities have made effective development plans to successfully attract large numbers of visitors while still preserving their distinct cultural traditions.

– 259 words –

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic;

Some people point out that there will be less international travel in the future Do you think it is a positive or negative trend?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

It is said that there would be less cross-country travel in the near future possibly due to the reason that the turmoil happens on sectors of the planet, and thus the visa policy is about to become much stricter. Plus, constant rising fuel price gives rise to an unaffordable travel budget. Though the trend can be a little true, 1 still hope it would not happen.

Cutting down non-essential travelling flights can definitely save the planet immeasurable barrels of crude oil, which shows human’s care and love for the nature. Environmentally friendly mindsets are no doubt very welcome in today’s world which is characterised by all kinds of crisis – including the energy one. Additionally, safety problems caused by travel-related crime are never concerned if international travel is no longer the choice for a holiday plan.

The above scenario seems quite pleasant. However, for that, a lot of fun is sacrificed. Watching Travel Log’ on travel channel can hardly offer people something special about where the history happened, or the real thrilling taste on tongue from the local dishes. How can viewing planimetric scenes on the mass media compete with standing on Catherine tire Great’s doorstep at St. Petersburg’s Winter Palace or walking all along the Great Wall in China? People learn the beauty of the world by experiencing them, don’t they? What is more, reducing international travel would adversely influence regions and countries where tourism is the backbone industry. This revenue decrease
could have led to another inning of economic crisis in countries like Malaysia or Thailand, and inevitably, economy would be hindered on a global basis in today’s globalised world.

All in all, cross-boundary travel is a fairly important part of human life as well as a crucial contributor to the world’s economy. We had better not spoil the ship for a half-penny-worth of tar.

– 305 words –

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people say that money can make life easier and more comfortable.But others say that having a great amount of wealth can bring some problems. What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages of having a lot of money? ,Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own * knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Ever since the invention of currency, humans have been both enjoying economic benefits and encountering financial problems. From my point of view, money does enable an individual to lead a more decent life; however, in many situations, it is also the origin of envy, stress, conflict and crime.

On one hand, it is undeniable that earning more money ensures higher standards of living. This is especially evident in the shift of the role that women play in the modern society. No longer satisfied with the traditional responsibilities of housewives, many females have entered the workforce by taking up a full-time job. With high and steady double income, couples known as DINKs can readily afford an expensive house and all the luxuries they desire, such as a splendid racing car and a magnificent home theatre. That is the very reason why the accumulation of wealth becomes the single most important goal in many people’s lives.

On the other hand, money is always straining interpersonal relationships and even causing human tragedies. Take an extended family as an example. If one of the siblings is a high-earning careerist and enjoys all the pleasures of life while the others still lead a rather modest existence, that sibling will undoubtedly become the source of envy and the focus of jealousy. Also, when it comes to a massive inheritance upon the death of a parent, domestic conflicts may be intensified by each child trying to get a larger share than the others, sometimes to the point that legal actions are involved to settle the dispute. What is worse, unable to resist the temptations of a high life, some youngsters are lured to commit various crimes in hope of achieving instant wealth.

In conclusion, personal wealth, with all its merits and demerits, can have a double- edged impact on our lives. Therefore, it is suggested that while pursuing wealth to increase their living standards, people should be folly aware of all the pitfalls and unhappiness that are associated with money.

– 332 words ■

Key Vocabulary

General Training Task 2 Question September 2005

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

In many places, shopping is becoming a free-time activity, replacing the traditional hobbies of the past. Discuss the reasons for this development, is this development positive or negative?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

In this world with greater material wealth, shopping is viewed not only as a means of obtaining daily necessities, but also as a popular leisure activity. Many people feel an impulse to go to supermarkets, shopping malls and online stores when they are in a good or bad mood, and they often spend more than they earn on things they do not really need.

There are several reasons for this growing interest in shopping. In the first place, fast economic development has allowed a greater variety of commodities to be produced, displayed and sold. A shopper planning to buy some food in the supermarket may bring home clothes and many other things that he or she likes rather than needs. Also, many shopping venues have provided entertainment and service facilities that make people’s shopping experience more comfortable and enjoyable. For example, some large shopping centres provide babysitting services to young mothers who can then take time to enjoy a day-long, relaxing shopping trip.

It seems that people’s being free and able to shop whatever and wherever they like is an indication of wealth and prosperity, and by encouraging consumption and production, the whole world’s economy will improve. However, the negative impacts of modern consumerism should not be overlooked. Excessive packaging is disposed of carelessly and poses a threat to the environment. It is also a pity to see unrestrained
shopping replacing the more healthy activities of visiting the park, going to the church and regular community gatherings.

There is nothing wrong with shopping as long as we know what we can afford, but it might be a good idea to reduce our shopping expenditure and invest more in education and medical care, or simply save more money, work less, and lead a more satisfying and environmentally friendly life.

– 298 words –

Key Vocabulary

daily necessity nku cầu. đố dùng thiết yếu hãng ngày The report stresses the daily necessity of eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.

impulse sự thỏi thúc

I had this sudden impulse to shout out “Rubbish!” in the middle of her speech, a greater variety of rất nhiều, vo SỐ

The equipment could be used for a greater variety of educational purposes, venue địa điềm

The stadium has been specifically designed as a venue for European Cup matches, entertainment buổi biểu diễn; sự giải tri’

This season’s entertainments include five new plays and several concerts of Chinese and Indian music.

babysit tròng tre —■ babysitter người trông t re Our babysitter is from the local college.

prosperity sự thinh vượng, sụ phát đạt, sự giàu có For this city, the past ten years were a time of increasing prosperity.

excessive . ‘ qua mức

Crops were destroyed by the excessive rainfall last August, dispose of thải ra, vứt bỏ

They are accused of illegally disposing of hazardous materials.

The negative impacts of… should not be overlooked.

However, the negative impacts of modern consumerism should not be overlooked.

Khi viết văn nghị luận, hạn cổ thể dùng mẫu câu The negative impacts of… should not be overlooked làm câu chuyển tiếp để mở đầu cho việc thảo luận về ‘điểm

drawbacks, dangers, problems, risks… Vi du:

Whilst it can be argued that the competitive games could be beneficial to uniting the people of different groups, the emergence of a variety of related problems should not be overlooked.

fb.com/hocieltsmoingay

General Training Task 2 QUBStlOn September 2004

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people say material possessions are very useful in bringing us happiness, but others argue that they are useless in terms of providing happiness.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion and reasons.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

The pursuit of happiness is an everlasting human endeavour in all societies. However, happiness is probably the most elusive thing in the world and when defining it, people often hold widely different views. In my opinion, although the definitions of happiness may vary, they can fall into two broad categories, which will be discussed below.

Some people think they can obtain happiness through acquisition. Their lives are an incessant course of possessing something, whether it is money, fame, authority or social status. A typical example is reflected in the activities of a shrewd businessman, who is in the habit of rushing through life, being on the go from morning till night, motivated by anything that sounds profitable or lucrative. But the sad thing is that only a few of them can become millionaires after years of striving. A more brutal truth is that many rich people are so obsessed with possessing and retaining their money that it is hard for them to relax and enjoy themselves. Little wonder that some big shots committed suicide because they longed for happiness in another world.

On the other hand, there are some people in the world who achieve happiness through helping others and contributing to the whole society. They are more often ordinary citizens who understand that true happiness comes from giving rather than taking. By devoting themselves to the cause of helping the poor and the disabled, they feel an inner bliss that accompanies them at every moment of their lives. Laborious and painstaking as it is, they are determined to overcome every stumbling block in the way because they are

convinced that giving a helping hand to others is a spiritually rewarding act. For instance, we all have the experience of feeling fulfilled and gratified when we have successfully solved a knotty problem for others. It is this kind of charity and generosity that makes our lives rich, meaningful and happy.

To conclude, only through contribution, rather than acquisition, can people actually find themselves immersed in a feeling of happiness. In other words, happiness lies not in anything we possess, but in the act and attitude of helping others.

– 358 words –

ïsÇ’îî’ïtî’ t’T5’Ÿ’W’ *^:

endeavour sự nỗ lực

The public bombarded the company with complaints in an endeavour to have the price increases revoked.

elusive hay làng tránh; khó nấm bắt

Erie, as elusive as ever, was nowhere to be found.

acquisition sự giành đuơc/thu được; sự tiếp thu

This book is about theories of child language acquisition.

incessant ‘ hên tục, không dùng

There is always an incessant stream of visitors all day in this resort.

shrewd . ■ ‘ sắc sáo, khôn ngoan She is a shrewd judge of character.

lucrative CO lọi

Had the plan worked, it would have proved highly lucrative, strive nỗ lực, phân đàu

We encourage all members to strive for the highest standards, brutal tàn nhẫn

With brutal honesty, she told him she did not love him. obsess ám ánh

She is completely obsessed by computers.

bliss niềm vui lớn; hạnh phúc tron vẹn My idea of bliss is a month in the Bahamas.

A

i

She was gratified to find that they had followed her advice, knotty . gay go, nan giat

General Training Task 2 Question June 2009

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Some people prefer to stay in the same type of work all their life, and others prefer to change their jobs from time to time.

Discuss both sides, and: state your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 25.0 words.

Model Essay

To hold on the work or to change it to another one is a choice of decision we might encounter once or twice in our lives, and for some people this could be a positive thing, while for others it could be a disaster. However, the final aim for every job hopper is to find an ideal job on which they can depend for their livelihood and from which they can draw satisfaction.

Working in the same type of work for one’s career lifespan has its positive underpinnings; a stable job with a steady income offers one a sense of security, especially in today’s highly competitive society, as well as the feeling of ‘togetherness’ that comes from working with the same colleagues for many years. However, on the negative side, doing the same work in the same company with the same people in the same environment may well breed a kind of lethargy, a lack of motivation or job satisfaction; it may be difficult to generate fresh zeal or energy towards work after so much time.

If one were to move frequently from one job or job area to another, it is possible to learn and gather diverse experiences from different companies and different jobs. The new working environments could turn out to be a great opportunity to show one’s talent and abilities and to gain confidence in oneself. However, new colleagues may take time to bond, and to get to know them well may prove difficult. It could also take longer to establish a rapport with the manager.

To find a job one loves is a pursuit in career life. We may change jobs. Once a work that satisfies is at hand, I think that is also the time we start to stay in the same position. Any company needs its employees to devote their effort and heart for the job, as this is for the good of achieving a win-win benefit for the company and employee.

– 328 words –

Key Vocabulary

encounter gặp phải, đòi mật vói I am in as you encounter this problem.

livelihood kế sính nhai

Appropriate arrangements will be made for their work and livelihood.

satisfaction sự hải lòng She positively beamed with satisfaction.

lifespan tuổi thọ: khoảng thời gian tổn tại của sự vật /sự việc nào đó

The lifespan of the Vietnamese people has lengthened and their health improved considerably.

underpinning nền tảng

The underpinning knowledge and skills may be assessed on or off the job.

competitive ‘ rnang tính I cạnh tranh

Time has become a competitive weapon.

breed nuôi dường; dẫn đến. gây ra Failure can also breed success.

lethargy tình trạng thiếu sức song; trạng thái hôn mê; sự thờ ơ He fell thai he had to drag himself out of his lethargy and begin to write.

motivation động CO (điều thòi thúc ai làm việc gi đó!

The motivation for the decision is the desire to improve our service to our

generate phát ra, siíih ra ■

This book will continue to generate excitement for a long time.

zeal lòng hăng hái, nhiệt huyết They worked with great zeal to finish the project.

diverse khác nhau Many diverse views have been advanced.

ĩdence sự tin tường; sự tự tín
Without confidence there is no friendship.

– devote hiến dâng, cống hiến /

You must devote vour attention to your work.

Academie Task 2 Question July 2007

: WRITING TASK 2 ;

^ feu should spend about 40 minutes on this task. ¹

Write about the following topic: *

^ In some countries, secondary schools aim to provide a general education ₍

₍ across a wide range of subjects. In others, children focus on a narrow range

■I of subjects related to a particular career. For today’s world, which system is ;

appropriate? ‘

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. ^

I Write at least 250 words. ;l

Model Essay

It has always been a controversial issue over whether general education or specific education is deemed more suitable for children. Even though some people argue that the latter alternative could prepare students better for future employment, I firmly believe that both educational systems are required in children’s development.

It is an undeniable fact that children would be much better off if they have access to abundant knowledge in a diverse range of fields. This is necessary for them to deal with a multitude of problems they might encounter in their daily life. For instance, simple mathematical calculations would come to the rescue in case of totalling up the bill; fundamental knowledge of chemical terms would be of huge assistance if you are picking up prescriptions or drugs in a pharmaceutical store; malfunctioning electrical appliances due to ignorance of basic knowledge of electricity could be quite unsettling; current affairs including momentous events happening in spheres of economy or politics around the globe are often considered good conversation openers in occasions of social mingling or business dinner. Hence, it is somehow necessary for children to receive general education in their early stage of schooling.

As children grow up, specific education on teaching one or two particular subjects is thought more useful for them. This is simply due to the fact that a significant proportion of general knowledge imparted to students in secondary or tertiary education

would have most likely been forgotten once they start their career. The jobs available nowadays increasingly demand job seekers with one particular skill. Therefore, it is more sensible to place students on a more focused education once they reach the phase of secondary education. In this way, students could be more prepared for their work ahead.

In conclusion, both general and specific education play equally important roles in children’s various stages of their life. It is reasonable to take advantage of both educational systems so as to develop their potential to the fullest.

– 326 words ■

Key Vocabulary

controversial gáy tranh cãi

Winston Churchill and Richard Nixon were both controversial figures, multitude vỏ số

These elements can be combined in a multitude of different ways,

irescription don/toa thuốc

These drugs are not available without a prescription.

malfunction .1 gặp trục trặc/sự cố He was killed when his parachute malfunctioned.

unsettling đáng ngại

The country’s economic crisis had an unsettling effect on world markets.

momentous rất quan trọng The 2003 SEA Games was a momentous event in Vietnam.

impart truyền đạt

Children should always be imparted advice from their parents.

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Some people think history has nothing or little to tell us, but others think that studying the past can help us better understand the present. Discuss the two views and.give: your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Everything around us has a history, long or short. A technology’, an invention, or a family all has its own past whether we tike it or not. To some people, however, learning history is a boring task of memorising long lists of names and dates which they will never use, while others consider learning history useful and fun.

People who do not like history say’ that studying the past is a waste of time. They think that ways of thinking, science and technology and social systems in the past were outdated and therefore bear little relevance to the present-day problems and their possible solutions. They ask questions like “What does the history of African slaves have to do with me?” or “How does knowing when humans learned to make fire benefit my job as a computer engineer?” Also, they argue that we should not spend too much time studying the past as it simply distracts us from focusing on the present.

However, thousands of years of human experience and wisdom do have something to teach us. For example, Charles Darwin taught us that only the fittest can survive, which is more than ever true in today’s competitive society. Thomas Edison gave us an inspirational example that success only comes after persistence and hard work. Furthermore, learning history can help us develop a thoughtful and critical mind. As we try to understand why things happened in the past, we can make more informed decisions in our present-day life and work.

I think history has a lot to offer us, and we have to study it in order to better understand the present as well as preparing for the future. But learning history is not the same as learning from it. It is sad to see that people have been learning history but are still repeating the same mistakes again and again like war, violence and injustice.

– 315 words –

Key Vocabulary

bear mang đáu vết), có, cho thấy

The baby bears a strong resemblance/an uncanny likeness to his grandfather, relevance .sự lien quail

What relevance does that point have to the discussion?

distract làm xao lãng

The noise distracts her from her studies.

inspirational mang lại cảm hứng; truyền cẩm He gave an inspirational reading of his own poems.

persistence sự dai dẳng; sự kiên tri

Most financial analysts have been surprised by the persistence of the recession.

thoughtful ■ thảm trầm, sáu sác That is a thoughtful and scholarly book.

critical ÍCÓ tinh ‘ phê binh/ehi trích

She has written a major critical appraisal/study of Saul Bellow’s novels.

Practical Sentence Patterns

Cách dùng liên từ while khi trình bày hai quan điểm đối lập:

Khi viết văn nghị luận, nếu đề bài yêu cầu thảo íuận hai quan điểm đối lập thì thông thường, bạn phải giới thiệu sơ lược về hai quan điểm này trong phần mở bài, sau đó trình bày cụ thể từng quan điểm trong phần thân bài. Để giới thiệu sơ lược về hai quan điểm đối lập, bạn có thể dùng liên từ while (while được dùng tương tự but nhưng diễn tả mức độ đối lập mạnh hơn). Xem câu sau trong phần mở đầu của bài vãn mẫu:

Tọ some people, however, learning history is a boring task of memorising long lists of names and dates which they will never use, while others consider learning history useful and fun.

money, others believe that they are of importance to the young people and the society.

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Some teachers say students should be organised into groups to study, while others argue that students should be made to study alone.

Tell the benefits of each study method. Which one do you think is more effective?

I Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own j? knowledge or experience.

^ Wri te at least 250 words.

aa ivo. jiaafc, ja

Model Essay

Group study has been shown to be an effective method for students to become successful learners, but while most students have been accustomed to this traditional way of learning, others prefer to study alone at their own pace. The two approaches each have distinct advantages, and the choice is more a matter of personal preference.

Group study is strongly advocated by some because it requires the sharing of ideas amongst group members. During group study, students listen to what their fellow students say and debate with them if there is a disagreement. Naturally, their communication skills and critical thinking abilities are greatly enhanced. Moreover, peer pressure can be a positive force which can motivate and challenge the students to do their best. The competitive learning environment also prepares the students for the future reality.

However, studying alone also offers some unique benefits to the students. First of all, the individual learner is kept away from the distracting conversation or unnecessary interruptions in a classroom with many students. Then they can concentrate well and make more efficient use of their time. Also, the individual learner can pace his own learning and decide for himself when to start or when to stop. This is especially helpful to those intellectually gifted students who may be bored with regular but simple classroom teaching.

In conclusion, there are strong arguments for each study method, but as far as I am concerned, group study is more effective because I feel that if the learner shares what he knows with someone else, then his own understanding of the subject matter could be further improved.

– 267 words ■

Key Vocabulary

be accustomed to quen với I am not accustomed to being treated like this.

approach cách tiếp cặn; phương pháp A systematic approach is required to solve this problem.

distinct khác biệt

The two concepts are quite distinct from each other.

advocate ¹ ủng hộ, tán thành

He advocates the return of capital punishment.

peer pressure ap lực từ bạn đồng trang lứa

There is tremendous peer pressure to wear fashionable clothes.

motivate thúc đay

He is genuinely motivated by a desire to help people.

disưacting gây mất tập trung, gày xao lãng I can turn the television off if you find it distracting.

interruption sự ngát quãng, sự gian đoạn

There was a brief interruption in access to the Internet starting at 12:40 p.m., Friday, June 3 and ending at about 1:00 p.m.

concentrate tập trung

The company is concentrating its resources on developing new products, intellectually về mặt trí tuệ

This is a demanding task, both physically and intellectually.

N independent. As far as I am concerned, both are important and we should find the right balance.

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WRITING T,

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Some people think museums should be enjoyable places to attract and entertain young people. Others think the purpose of museums is to educate, not to entertain.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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Model Essay

Museums are the places in which objects of artistic, cultural, historical or scientific interest are kept and shown to the public. These objects are mainly for the purpose of visitors’ acquisition of knowledge, or study, or education. However, there is now a debate within museums as to whether they should educate or entertain young people.

Some people think that museums should be entertaining in order to attract young people. The purpose of a visit by the young to the museum is to learn and satisfy their curiosity. Hence, the best way for the young people is to interact with the exhibits. To illustrate an object in a meaningfully entertaining way or with an interesting and attractive background can make them enjoy more and appreciate better the value an object represents.

However, others maintain that museums are there to educate, not to entertain. The exhibits are no ordinary ones. The cultural relics are priceless in that they are the witness of history. A small piece collected from a Second World War battlefield may foster young people’s patriotism. A futuristic science scenario calls for the young to devote great efforts to its realisation.

1 feel that museums can play a big role in keeping themselves relevant to today’s young people. Different methods to showcase the value and interest of the exhibits

could be used in order for the young to understand culture, art, history and science. This blend of education and entertainment is the key for how the museum can appeal to and attract more young visitors.

\ – 255 words ■

Key Vocabulary

acquisition sựt ¡op thu

The children progressed in the acquisition of basic skills.

entertain ■.’! lain vui thích, giải tri A circus show entertains children.

curiosity sự tò mò

He gave in to curiosity and opened my letter.

appreciate 1 thường thúc: hiéu rõ giá trị

You cannot appreciate English poetry unless you understand its rhythm, foster : tạo lập, thúc đẩy

The captain did his best to foster a sense of unity among the new recruits.

patriotism ‘I lóng yêu nước

They showed patriotism to their country.

scenario kịch bàn

The more likely scenario is that the president will resign and an election will be held, realisation sự nhận ra; sụ thực hiện

It seemed that the realisation of his life’s dream oppressed him with overjoy.

General Training Task 2 Quẽstion June 2009

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

In modern society, many people think primary schools should teach science and technology rather than history and geography, which are useless and boring.

Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

The matter of the fact is thát modem society expects its students and prospective professionals with an all-round pool of knowledge and skills. The topic statement clearly plays favourite with sciences while belittling liberal arts, which, in my view, is biased and misleading, and may also cause negative influences among students.

Those people who advocate that only science and technology subjects should be taught at school are ignorant of what knowledge is composed of. They fail to understand the relationships between different subjects and their mutual overlap; they only see the individual trees in the forest, rather than the forest as a whole. A student cannot learn science well without a basic knowledge of human evolution and scientific history. In order to learn technology well, a student must start from the very basics of geography that deals with the interaction of the diverse physical, biological and cultural features of the earth’s surface.

Furthermore, 1 feel that those people may indeed be somewhat short-sighted as they see nothing but the possible commercial benefits that science and technology products could generate. It is true that state-of-the-art devices are an important part of our lives, but this should not mean that the achievements of other subjects are brushed aside. A society needs well-educated people in all fields, including history, geography, and
many others like arts and music. They are equally important as sciences, and all play a significant and expansive role in the society.

In the final analysis, the primary school is a seat of learning to develop intelligence and talents. There should not be any prejudice at all towards a series of subjects offered.

– 272 words –

Key Vocabulary

belittle ■ I xem thường A poor but honest man is not to be belittled.

bias có thành kiến; thiên vị

Many parents are biased against popular music.

mislead lầm cho mê muội/lầm đường lạc lối/suy nghĩ sai lệch The boy was misled by bad companions.

ignorant thiếu hiểu biết

Wise men become wiser as they grow older, ignorant men more ignorant, mutual lẫn nhau, qua lại

He aims to encourage mutual understanding between his friends.

overlap sự chỏng chéo; sự trúng lặp There was no overlap between their proposals.

evolution sự phát triển, sự tiến hóa A cultural and social evolution now becomes rapid.

expansive rụng, bao quát

Philosophy is an expansive and ambiguous concept.

prejudice định kiến, thành kiến

and Inventions

’ Academic Task 2 Question, July 2006

* Academic Task 2 Question, January 2006

* Academic Task 2 Question, February 2005

Academic Task 2 Question, February 2009

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WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Earlier technological developments brought more benefits and changed the lives of ordinary people more than recent technological developments.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from vour own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Fire, writing, the wheel: all great and important inventions, and such an important part of the fabric of our society but very much overshadowed by other recent developments in technology: computers, digital technology and the Internet.

Who are the ordinary people in our society? The middle class with their new apartments, nice white-collar jobs, and cars double-parked on the street, or the struggling working class, farmers and homeless who have to constantly strive to put food in their mouths and a roof over their heads? For this second group, it is hard to find where the benefits of modern technology are available to them. Do they have access to modern health care, modern communication technology, or modern comforts? Often not – many of the new developments are not even reaching huge sectors of our communities, either in this country or other developing, undeveloped or even developed countries.

But these late, modern changes would not have been possible without the earlier developments. Fire creates heat necessary for working with iron; writing is at the base of our communication systems; and wheels are under our cars and in our watches.

It follows therefore that the earlier developments which have continued to exist (obviously some earlier inventions were found to be irrelevant and consequently lost – the record player, for example) are still bringing benefits to us long after they were

invented even though they have disappeared from our thinking. In the future, sitting at a computer may seem very old-fashioned, but whatever we use, it will probably be the product of fire, and somehow made possible with the use of wheels and writing.

– 269 words –

Key Vocabulary

fabric vái; cấu trúc

Unhappiness is woven into the natural fabric of people’s lives.

overshadow lam lu mrr

The excitement of shifting in a larger city was overshadowed by the uncertain future.

double-park đồ xe bén cạnh một xe khác

It. Is illegal to double-park your ear along the road.

access lối vào; cách tiếp cận (ví! truy cập

The only access to the village is by boat.

irrelevant khống thick họp, không lièn quan

These documents are largely irrelevant to the present investigation.

old-fashioned lỗi thòi, lỗi mốt Throw away those old-fashioned clothes on a regular basis.

Practical Sentence Patterns

It follows therefore that…

Khi viết vãn nghị luận, việc trình bày rõ luận cứ để chứng minh quan điểm là rất quan trọng. Sau khi trình bày luận cứ, bạn có thể dùng cấu trúc It follows therefore that.., để đưa ra suy luận, cấu trúc này biểu thị rằng dựa vào luận cứ được trình bày trong đoạn văn trước, ta có thể suy luận về một việc xảy ra như một hệ quả tất yếu, ví dụ câu sau trong bài văn mầu:

It follows therefore that the earlier developments… are still bringing benefits to us long after they were invented even though they have disappeared from our thinking.

Bạn có thể thay therefore bằng các từ như immediately, naturally, easily, Ví dụ:

If all these points are valid, then it follows quite naturally that their claim is absurd.

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

There are social, medical and technical problems associated with the use of mobile phones. What forms do they take? Do you agree that the problems outweigh the benefits of mobile phones?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own know! edge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Mobile phones are frequently used in almost all aspects of our daily lives. However, a variety of potential problems including social, medical and technical ones arise, which far outweigh the benefits they bring to people.

It is undeniable that mobile phones have facilitated our lives in many different ways. For example, when an emergency occurs, such as a traffic accident or a violent crime, mobile phones can help the victims to call the police or an ambulance immediately for help. They also make people work faster and more efficiently, as people can send or read emails via a mobile phone, and communicate quickly and easily with their clients and co-workers.

However, there is an opinion that the wide application of mobile phones also exerts a negative influence on the society, an individual’s health and technological development. Indeed, it is the case that talking on cell phone in public with high voice disturbs people around. Moreover, as far as radiation of cell phone is concerned, scientific evidence has shown that radiation that a working mobile phone produces has the potential to cause brain cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Apart from the health problems, a range of technical defects would give rise to a series of dangers. For instance, using mobile phones on board a plane may affect the navigation system of the aircraft, which will endanger the lives of the passengers.

Given the above arguments, it is reasonable to conclude that although mobile phones have some benefits, the negative influences they have produced should not be overlooked because the downsides far exceed the merits.

– 262 words

Key Vocabulary

potential I tiêm năng, tiềm tang, tiẻm ẩn

A number of potential buyers have expressed interest in the companv.

facilitate tạo điều kiện thuận lợi The current structure does not facilitate efficient work flow.

violent ; bạo lực, thô lỗ

He shouts a lot but I do not think he has ever been physically violent towards her. victim . nạn nhàn

The children are the innocent helpless victims of the fighting.

disturb gây náo động, lầm lo âu Some scenes are violent and may disturb younger viewers.

radiation sự phóng xạ, bức xạ

Many servicemen suffered radiation sickness after the early atomic tests.

cardiovascular ( thuộc) tỉm mạch

Nowadays, cardiovascular diseases are on the rise due to the lack of physical exercises.

on board trên tàu/xe/máy bay

As soon as I was on board, I began to have second thoughts about leaving.

exert a positive/negative influence on…

Khi viết văn nghị luận, đôi lúc bạn cằn dùng một số từ vựng và cấu trúc để trình bày ưu khuyết điểm của sự vật/sự việc nào đó. Một cách diễn đạt thường được đùng trong trường hợp này là exert a positive/negative influence on… {có ảnh hưởng tích cực/tiêu cực đến…). Xem câu sau trong bài văn mẫu:

However, there is an opinion that the wide application of mobile phones also exerts a negative influence on the society. –

These gases, scientists suspect, wilt have a negative effect on the climate.

The recent trade measures have had a positive impact on the national economy.

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Leisure is a growing industry, but people no longer entertain themselves as much as they used to because the use of modern technology has made them less creative.

Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience;

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Entertainment helps people relieve their pressure from work and study. However, whilst recreational activities are getting increasingly diversified, many people unfortunately find that they cannot get entertained as much as they did in the past.

In some areas, modern technology allows the expression of human creativity to go unhindered. Indeed, with up-to-date computer graphics technology, some astonishing special effects are frequently shown in Hollywood movies, particularly in some sciencefiction works. Moreover, with the invention of the Internet, game lovers across the globe can explore the fun of online entertainment in a virtual world full of mystery and adventure.

Nevertheless, in most cases, the overuse of modern technology has made life less entertaining than it could have been. Take the music industry as an example. Unlike their predecessors who were constantly exploring life for inspiration and originality, today’s artists are confined to studios, relying on computerised processing and techniques for their work. As a result, despite the mass production of popular songs and music, we rarely find a truly remarkable piece. Imagine again those childhood games we all have played such as “Hide and Seek” or “Drop the Handkerchief”. Simple as they may be, these activities offered us the real excitement of going outside and having fun with our friends. By contrast, nowadays, an increasing number of people are following a

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sedentary and isolated lifestyle due to the popularity of modern entertainment forms such as watching TV and playing video games.

Given the above arguments, it is reasonable to assume that although modern technology has made our life easier and more comfortable, it takes away the real pleasure of creative entertainment.

– 270 words –

Key Vocabulary

relieve giám bớt Drugs can relieve much of the pain.

recreational .id:) có tính tiêu khiển /giải trí

Recreational activities can include basketball, racquetball, dancing, tennis, hiking, karate, and mountain biking.

diversified đa dạng hóa

A diversified investment strategy is the safest way of investing large amounts of money for the long term.

unhindered id không bị cản trơ b

t

in a globalised world, investments, ideas, technology and people move unhindered

between countries. ■

. originality ■ tính độc đáo; tính sáng tạo

He has translated with originality several works in Albanian language.

sedentary ^:!’ ớ một chỗ, it đi lại

■J A sedentary and housebound lifestyle can lead to a variety of problems, such as overweight and obesity.

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Practical Sentence Patterns

Đảo ngữ trong mệnh đề trạng ngữ chỉ sự nhượng bộ: Simple as they may be Xem câu sau trong bài vân mẫu:

Simple as they may be, these activities offered US the real excitement of going outside and having fun with our friends.

Simple as they may be là cấu trúc đảo ngữ của mệnh đề trạng ngữ chỉ sự nhượng bộ, có nghĩa tương đương với Although they may be simple. Tham khảo các ví dụ sau:

Smart as he is, he still cannot figure out my magic tricks.

= Although he is smart, he still cannot figure out my magic tricks.

Much as he likes her. he does get irritated with her sometimes.

= Although he likes her much, he does get irritated with her sometimes.

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Nowadays, technological developments are causing environmental problems. Many people think that we should live a simpler life while others believe that technology can solve environmental problems.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Since the Industrial Revolution was initiated in the late 18th century, science and technology has advanced in leaps and bounds. Our world and our life have both changed tremendously. However, environmental problems have also occurred in their wake.

Our global environment has been severely affected and even damaged as a result of the increasing industrialisation of the world and the pursuit of and use of modern technology. Life has also become increasingly mechanised. There are some people who claim that a simpler life is more preferable as it is less dependent upon fashionable devices and less in the grip of those so-called modern technologies. The more machines are used, the more damage is caused to the environment.

The damage to the environment by scientific and technological developments can only be addressed, if not improved, by the continuous advancement of science and technology. For example, the latest environment-friendly farming methods use less land but produce a higher crop yield. People are now living a much more comfortable and healthier life than at any time in history, Yet there are still many problems for science as well as technology to find a solution to. One of the biggest challenges is what alternative energy sources can be found and utilised to replace the limited and dwindling supply of fossil fuels.

In the process of developing science and technology for human civilisation from industrialisation to computerisation to today’s digitalisation, problems that are not friendly to the environment have appeared. However, the main purpose of technological innovation and creation is to make human life better and safer, and to return to a life without this technology on which we have generally become so dependent is, I feel, impractical and, furthermore, impossible.

I believe that the wheel of science and technology will, and should, continue to roll on, and thanks to our ingenuity, new inventions will be created to overcome the current problems that have proved so detrimental to our environment.

initiate : ! ‘bắt đáu, khải xướng This term, we will initiate a new studying plan.

in/by leaps and bounds rất nhanh, nhav vọt
He made progress in maths by leaps and bounds.

mechanise CO giói hóa

If we can mechanise farming, we can produce more crops with fewer people alternative ị’ khác; túy chọn

The soldiers have two alternative courses, surrender or death.

ị

dwindling thu nhó lại, CO lại

They discussed the effect of dwindling wetlands on ducks and geese.

civilisation net! van minh The ancient Egyptians had advanced civilisation.

industrialisation sự cóng nghiẽp hoa

Industrialisation inevitably led to the expansion of the urban working class.

innovation sáng kiến: sự đổi mói An enterprise should encourage innovation.

impractical không thực tế. viền vông

The business proposition was: rejected as impractical.

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; WRITING TASK 2

■ You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people say that it is the responsibility of individuals to save money for their own care after they retire.

: To what extent do you agree or disagree?

^; Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own : knowledge or experience.

: Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

As the baby boomers born in the post-WWII period exceed their retirement age, they are placing an incredibly tremendous burden on the society. The ensuing rapid depletion of social security fund and strained financial sources available have prompted many to save up sufficient money for their own good after they retire. This alternative possibility is obviously not rested on solid ground.

The retired elderly people are often labelled as being overly financially dependent. They have no access to any source of income, and their expenses would culminate into quite a formidable figure. Be this as it may, it is still regarded the primary responsibilities of the government to take care of the retired in consideration of their immense contributions to our society before they reach the retirement age. Once they leave their jobs to relish the terminal stage of their life due to their physical inferiority, the government should, beyond any doubt, assume the obligation to look after them in return for their contributions. Besides, children of the retired are also expected to share the burden of taking care of their parents as a means of paying their due filial piety.

Some people might argue that the elderly people are gradually exhausting a large amount of social fund, posing a serious threat to the economic development and significantly undermining any potential endeavour to be mounted in other areas.

Apparently, this could hardly be justified. The well-being of the retired people is as important as any other issues confronting any government. They are as much entitled to social welfare as any other groups of people. In fact, they constitute the majority of people who are deserving of financial support offered by the government. Pension fund is clearly not an option when it comes to downsizing the government budget.

Pension scheme plays an essential role in guaranteeing the self-sufficient life of the retired people. As long as both the government and younger generation shoulder their share of responsibilities, the lives of the retired as well as the society would be much better off.

– 342 words –

Key Vocabulary

exceed ■ rapt quá

His achievements have exceeded expectations.

depletion hết nhằn, Cận kiệt I always replenish my food supply before its depletion.

strain làm cẳng thăng

The sudden influx of visitors is straining hotels in the town to the limit, culminate kết thúc

Their summer tour will culminate at a spectacular concert in London.

formidable ■. ghé gớm, dử dội

They had to overcome formidable obstacles.

immense ■I khổng lồ, đồ sộ

There is still an immense amount of work to be done.

entitle cho ai quyền được có /làm / hường điẽu gi You will be entitled to your pension when you reach 65.

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WRITING TASK 2

Model Essay

I definitely agree that the government is wasting public money on art when there are much more important things to spend money on, such as improving medical and educational services. Art is an indulgence for a few developed countries. Most other countries have other priorities.

I read on a reputable website that the nutrition in some areas is so poor that many babies do not survive past the first year and that life expectancy is less than 50 years. I feel terrible when I read these reports, and my heart goes out to these people. I spent a month doing volunteer work in a remote village last summer holiday and I saw these conditions with my own eyes.

I ask, “What should our priorities be?” Surely, living people are higher priority than inanimate statues. It.seems to me that the government cares more about appearances, having cities look impressive, than the lives of people. The money that is spent on public art projects should be stopped and diverted to humanitarian projects, education, agriculture, etc.

Some people will assert that art is important in society, and I agree it is. There will always be artists. My argument is that in a developing country, we have to pay attention to the basics first. The issue here is whether public money should be spent on art, and I do not think it should, not when people are living (and dying) in poor conditions.

For the reasons I have outlined, I believe that the government has a responsibility to provide the basic needs of people before it finances decorative art projects.

– 267 words –

Key Vocabulary

indulgence thú đam me

Sports ears are an expensive indulgence.

priority sự ưu tiên

Financial security was high on his list of priorities.

inanimate vó tri vò giác A rock is an inanimate object.

divert làm đỏi hướng

General Training Tcisk 2 QlIGStlOn August 2006

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

More and more people use private cars instead of taking public transport. What are the reasons for this trend? How can the government encourage people to take public transport?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Most people know that driving private cars places a severe strain on cities’ traffic and air-quality levels. However, very few are willing to give up driving and use public transport instead.

One reason for this is that to many people, a private car offers a sense of freedom and mobility. For example, they can drive their car to any supermarket in the city and return home with a boot full of groceries. Also, they can drive home from work late at night while others are anxiously waiting for public transport.

To other people, having a car increases their social position. Owning a car – especially an expensive one — is a sign of their wealth or high social status. Consequently, they refuse to use public transport because they feel that squeezing into an overcrowded train or bus in rush hours is only for people with limited means.

There are, however, measures the government could take to encourage the use of public transport. The first action could be to improve the service, like ensuring buses are punctual, installing more comfortable seats in waiting areas, and providing additional bus routes. Furthermore, lowering fares would also be a very effective way of encouraging people to use the system. Finally, the government could educate people about the devastating impact of vehicle emissions on the environment so they would be less likely to drive.

If the above actions were taken, it would not be long before people realised that taking public transport is a much cheaper, more comfortable and more environmentally friendly option than driving their own car.

– 261 words ■

Key Vocabulary

severe ạat gao. khốc liệt, nghiêm trọng

Severe cutbacks in public spending have been announced.

mobility tính cơ động/đí động

A strong economy offers greater opportunities for social mobility, boot ngân để hành lý của xe. cốp xe

Arriving home, they took out of the presents for the family from their car boot, status địa vị; tình trạng

The association works to promote the status of retired people as active and useful members of the community.

punctual ; dứng giở

Please try to be punctual so we can start the meeting on time, route : đường di, tuyến đương

A college education is often the best route to a good job. devastating (có tính! tan phá /pha hủy

If the bomb had exploded in the main shopping area, it would have been devastating, emission : sự thải ra / xả ra; khi thái

The Green Party have called for a substantial reduction in the emission of greenhouse gases by the UK.

environmentally friendly thân thiên với mòi trường

Our mission is to provide safe and affordable public transit services using clean and environmentally friendly equipment that enables easy access to work and education.

option sir lựa chọn

They did not leave him much option – either he paid or they would beat him up.

Practical Sentence Patterns

WRITING TASK 2

P You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Housing shortage in big cities can cause severe social consequences. Some people think only government actions can solve this problem.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience,

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

The world population is growing alarmingly and this is putting enormous pressure on urban housing. In many big cities, poor people are living in overcrowded areas because of severe housing shortages, while increasing demand for larger and more comfortable homes is pushing up the prices of living for even the wealthier members of the society. I believe that to address this social problem, both the government and the individual citizens have their respective roles to play.

A number of possible solutions have been put forward by the government and have proved quite effective. In many countries, for example, the government is building satellite towns around the city to absorb the urban population and their housing demand. Apart from this, some governments have established preferential policies to promote the construction of high-rise apartment buildings because they meet the demand for more economical use of land.

On the other hand, people’s choices of housing and attitude to living are also major factors in the housing equation. Modern people tend to regard homes more as a sign of status and wealth than as a shelter against the nature. A luxury house with a big garden is often associated with success and prosperity and is worth striving for all one’s life. Also, many people are reluctant to live away from the city as they prefer the more diverse, convenient, and stylish urban life, no matter how crowded it is.

Therefore, policies and government actions alone cannot solve the housing problems in big cities. The other important key is a change in people’s concept of living, from living in large and expensive houses to smaller but functional ones, and from crowded urban areas to places further away from the city.

– 285 words –

Key Vocabulary

alarming dang ]i! ngại — alarmingly ■

There, has been an alarming rise in the rate of inflation.

preferential ITU đãi

Inmates claimed that some prisoners had received preferential treatment.

shelter nhà tạm; chỗ trú ần

(V che chở, bảo vệ

They opened a shelter to provide temporary housing for the city’s homeless, strive for đấu tranh cho; phán đấu, nỏ lực

In her writing, she strove for a balance between innovation and familiar prose forms, reluctant l.j miễn cưỡng

Many parents feel reluctant to talk openly with their children.

diverse ‘ khác nhau, đa dạng

New York is a very culturally/ethnically diverse city.

functional đang hoạt động; thiết thực, thực dụng:

Is the central heating functional yet?

«r–

Practical Sentence Patterns

… alone cannot…

Chú ý câu sau trong phần kết luận của bài văn mẫu:

Therefore, policies and government actions alone cannot solve the housing problems in big cities.

… alone cannot… có nghĩa là chỉ hằng!chỉ dựa vào… thì không thể… Bạn hãy ghi nhớ cách diễn đạt này để có thể sử dụng khi cần, bởi rất nhiều thí sinh chỉ dùng only hoặc just khi muốn diễn đạt ý trên. Tham khảo các ví dụ sau:

Job titles alone cannot convey the true nature of the underlying job duties.

The private sector alone cannot deliver efficient public services.

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

It is more important for the government to spend money on promoting the healthy lifestyle to prevent Illness rather than on the treatment of people who are really ill.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

To maintain a good lifestyle is to avoid any ailment from occurring. However, when a person falls ill, treatment should be immediate and effective. A healthy lifestyle as well as timely medical attention and cure for any illness are, therefore, equally important.

For every individual, personal well-being should be their main concern, as no one wants to suffer from any kind of illness. Therefore, I feel that it is the responsibility of the government to promote its citizens to lead a healthy and sound life. A case in point is the pandemic H1N1, The government has set up an early warning system to advise the citizens how to avoid contracting and therefore limiting the spread of the virus. To create a healthy lifestyle for citizens, the government needs to utilise all its resources aiming at promoting healthy life habits and minimising the possibilities for people to get sick: national and local health campaigns should be introduced and maintained to educate the public about healthy lifestyles as well as the dangers of smoking or drinking – among many other examples.

What is equally important is that the government should offer universal medical care for those who do become ill. Humans can suffer from various kinds of diseases and entitlement to social welfare is every citizen’s right. The government should take all reasonable measures available and possible to help those who are sick.

To encourage people to have a healthy lifestyle and to offer responsible medical care should go hand in hand as they are complementary to each other and therefore both should be a part of government policy.

• 266 words –

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I

i

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Model Essay

There is no doubt that music is an important element in society as it is the combination of art and culture. Music can be pleasant, exciting, relaxing, stimulating, or many other things. Some people just listen to music, while others actively play music and others still can experiment with the effects of music.

Each human society or culture produces its own musical pieces, many of which are deeply cultural and are sometimes played on uniquely cultural instruments, especially traditional forms of music. It is no exaggeration to say that good music can become an instant hit in society and may even be successful cross-culturally. Music is regarded as an international language for cross-cultural communication and exchanges. The beautiful rhythm and melody of Secret Garden are moving and touching as its main refrain appeals to everyone and all to live in harmony in society. Beethoven’s Choral encourages people to care for each other to overcome obstacles in life and pursue happiness.

Because music is so diverse, it can satisfy the different needs of different people at different times. Music is a deeply personal form of entertainment; some individuals may like classics such as Italian operas or Baroque music whereas others turn to pop music. The Beatles had millions of audiences worldwide glued to their televisions.

I feel that it is not important to argue whether music is important for a society or simply as entertainment for an individual. Rather, what is significant is that music works

are the consummation of a society’s art and culture. From music we can get enjoyment, and through music we draw spiritual satisfaction.

– 267 words –

Key Vocabulary

He has an attractive combination of good health and happiness. L

stimulating thú vị, hào hứng

Thí» tỉm» I spent in Osaka was the most fascinating and stimulating. ‘

(adij một cách dộc đáo; duy nhất J;

exaggeration sụ cưòng diệu/nói qua It is no exaggeration to say that having a baby changes your life.

spiritual (thuộc) tâm hỏn / tinh thân His spiritual nature is good.

-r A«-v T T r .«:» 1 Jiiox^T ..’«5c. r s&í f Tf T sJXTt- TT 1C

F WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

People think that a hundred years ago, the human race was steadily improving in every area of life. Nowadays, there is no certainty of this case, in which areas do you think we have made important progress nowadays? In which areas do you think we still need to make progress?

Give reasons tor your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

We frequently learn from the historical documents that enormous advance happened almost each era: the Renaissance from the fourteenth to the sixteenth century and the Industrial Revolution in the eighteenth century, the two typical movements in human history, affected the whole world in an unbelievable way. This essay will talk about the crucial progress the human race has made and the fields supposed to be improved more.

First of all, medical advance has changed the world to a totally new face. Before, when the average life expectancy was only 30 years or so, people often died from common diseases like flu and diarrhoea. Nowadays, however, three or four generations can live happily together, with the eldest one more than 100, which is never few and tar between. The wholesome medical care can easily cure even some rare diseases.

Also, the current society has witnessed huge progress in industry. The wholesale food, clothes, cars, and houses are all typical examples of this improvement. Also, it is not strange to see only one person working in a big factory for the machines have replaced people in many positions.

The advance, however, seems to slow down and almost cease in some areas. For example, environmental problems arc a huge headache to be dealt with. We need more advanced methods to handle the environmental pollution, like the ozone hole, the greenhouse effect, etc.

In conclusion, although the human race is improving much more slowly than previous centuries and many fields should be improved, the real consolation is that humans have benefited much from the progress.

– 261 words –

Key Vocabulary

the Renaissance thm kv Phuc hung

Her book captures the quintessence of Renaissance humanism.

unbelievable không thế tin được; lạ lung The story he manufactured was unbelievable.

crucial imang tilth) quyết định, rất quan trọng

The success of this experiment is crucial to the project as a whole life expectancy tuoi tho

Nowadays, longevity and life expectancy have increased worldwide.

witness chtfng kien; lam ehung cho No one witnessed this traffic accident

wholesale ban SI

They own a wholesale business in clothes.

cease dừng, ngung

The factory is stuck for fund, and has had to cease production, consolation niẻmanúi

When her mother died, she found consolation in her religious beliefs,

Many people are optimistic about the 21st century and see it as an opportunity to make positive changes to the world.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with their optimism? What changes would you like to see in .the. new century?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Many people are optimistic about the 21st century. They hold the belief that people’s life and the relationship between nations will be improved greatly in the new century. They see it as an opportunity to make positive changes to the world. Personally, I am in favour of the opinion.

Firstly, the new century has seen a radical improvement in high technology, which provides effective methods to some intractable problems that have long haunted man, like starvation, incurable diseases, water shortage, and so on. Properly used, the new technology will benefit man greatly. Although some people are technology pessimists and hold that high tech will harm or even destroy the human beings, it cannot be denied that technology improves our life dramatically, making a decent life possible.

In addition to the progress in technology, the communication between countries has been promoted at an unprecedented level. Unlike before when individual countries struggled for development of economy or society, the globalisation links the whole world together. Despite the existing divergence between some nations, the world is more and more likely to be a complete unit, where countries have common interests and prospects.

To sum up, I am optimistic that the world will undertake positive changes in the new century. Thanks to the appliance of new techniques, man will be able to tackle some spiny problems. Gene engineering, for example, will be applied widely and help us resolve the

problem of food shortage in poverty-stricken countries. Some deadly diseases like cancers will be curable. And with the development of globalisation, I hope developed countries will attend more to small developing countries, making a peaceful and flourishing world. Just like one song by Cdlion Dion, it is A Whole New World.

; WRITING TASK 2 ‘

t ‘

► You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. .

, Write about the following topic:

; ;

_t In the past, people used to travel to see the difference from their home

country. However, the sceneries in places around the world seem similar nowadays. What are the causes of these similarities? Do you think that the . advantages of these similarities outweigh the disadvantages? ‘

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own , * knowledge or experience. !

. Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Global tourism is enjoying an upsurge of popularity nowadays. However, this trend is accompanied with many complaints that similarities of the sceneries considerably reduce the delights of the travel. Globalisation, in my mind, is the greatest culprit.

As is called, globalisation unifies the world in many different aspects. Girls in Shanghai can be witnessed to have the same street look as those in Paris and Milan; KFC and Pizza Hut are popular in Bangkok as they are back in California; the amazing film “2012” was premiered internationally at the same moment. Tourist attractions cannot escape from this sweeping trend. Therefore, it is quite normal to hear the comment from a tourist in Hong Kong, claiming that what he or she has seen is just the same as in Tokyo.

This phenomenon, to me, is a depressing one. People may have sacrificed too many of their culture identities for this. Culture is our ancestors’ most treasurable heritage that is supposed to be passed on from generation to generation. It would be disastrous if people could only recall those busy shopping streets instead of the traditional lanes and houses after their trip in Vietnam. And I remember how frustrated I was when I found a lot of popular souvenirs in some foreign countries could be bought back in Ho Chi Minh City – those delicate wooden sculptures really seemed far less appealing to me.

Since the trend of globalisation is inevitable, I suggest that both the local government and the public make joint efforts in protecting and preserving their unique cultural features. Otherwise, global tourism would eventually turn to be boring and pointless.

– 269 words ■

Key Vocabulary

similarity nét tương đỏng

The similarity between them has often been remarked on. outweigh \ not

On balance, his accomplishments outweigh his faults.

upsurge con bột phat; sự táng lèn đột ngột These new ideas gave rise to a new upsurge of national feeling.

írusưated nản lòng; bực bội

He felt extremely frustrated when things went against him. delicate tinh sảo

The scientist needs some delicate instruments.

inevitable killing thể tránh khòi

Pain is inevitable when one breaks a bone.

preserve bão tốn, giủ gin They were fighting in order to preserve their it

I

Academic Tcisk 1 Question October 2009

(This question is identical to the question of October 2006.)

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The chart below shows the changes in car ownership in Great Britain between 1961 and 2001.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words,

Car Ownership in Great Britain

2001 2 or more cars

Model Essay

The line graph shows the variation in the percentage of households that owned no car, one car, and two or more cars in Britain during a 40-year period from 1961 to 2001.

As can be seen from the chart, the car was a much less popular household item in the 1960s than it is today. Nearly 65% of British families did not have a car of their own in 1961, about one third had only one car, and no families owned two or more cars.

The next 20 years, however, saw a significant increase in car ownership. In 1981,15% of British families owned two or more cars, while the percentage of families with one car reached a peak of 50%. During the same period, the percentage of households with no car decreased sharply to approximately 35%.

From 1981 to 2001, an increasing number of families purchased an additional car, pushing the percentage of households with two or more cars to a record high of nearly 30%. Families with only one car were still the majority, but their percentage had dropped slightly to about 43% by 2001. The percentage of families without a car, not surprisingly, kept decreasing to less than 30% at the end of the 40-year period.

Key Vocabulary

variation 3U khác nhau; sự thay đổi

There was a fairly wide variation in the wage and salary income by employees of different occupational categories.

peak đỉnh điểm, đình cao

We saw a victory by an athlete at the very peak of her fitness and career.

sharplv (một cách) dột-ngột Inflation has risen/fallen sharply.

additional I cộng thêm, phụ them

Passengers have to pay additional charges for their extra luggage, record high (mức) C30 kỳ lục

Yesterday, the city saw a record high of marriage registration up to 6,386 couples.

Practical Sentence Patterns

As can be seen from the chart /graph

Chú ý câu sau trong bài văn mẫu: ■

As can be seen from the chart, the car was a much less popular household item in the 1960s than it is today.

Bạn có thể dùng cấu trúc As can be seen from the chart/graph {Từ biểu đỗ Ị đồ thị

ị

này ta có thề thấy) để trình bày thông tin được thể hiện qua biểu đồ/đồ thị. ví dụ:

As can be seen from the graph, there have been sharp changes in the age distribution of drug addicts.

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend aboui 20 minutes on this task.

The line graph shows the size of the global population from 1400 to 2000, and the pie charts show the global population by region in 1900 and 2000 Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words.

World population

World population in 1900
Others

Latin America Airica / ” i* – 4.5%/’

North America 5% l

Latin America

89f

North America

5%

These graphs give information about the growth of the global population from 1400 to 2000 and its distribution over different continents at the beginning of the 20th and 21st centuries.

Overall, the world population rose sharply from less than 500 million in the 1400s to 6 billion in 2000, a growth of 12 times over 600 years. The increase was more dramatic after 1800, and only in the 1700s was there an obvious decline (1.2 billion to 0.9 billion).

The pie charts show that in both 1900 and 2000, Asia accounted for the largest share (more than half) of the world population, followed by Europe. But both continents saw a decline in their percentage of the world population, the former from 60% to 54% and the latter from 24% to 14%. On the other hand, the percentage of the world population in Africa and Latin America grew considerably from 4.5% to 13% and from 3% to 8% respectively. However, North America showed no change, remaining constant at 5% of the world population. The percentage in other areas rose from 3.5% to 6%.

In conclusion, most of the population growth occurred in developing countries in Africa and Latin America.

-199 words ■

www.nhantriviet.corn

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The charts below show the percentage of men and women in different weight groups in England between 1993 and 2002.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words.

healthy weight

overweight

obese

dangerously obese

Women

healthy weight

overweight

obese

dangerously obese

The two charts divide the population in England into four different weight categories and show the proportion of men and women in each category over a 9-year period.

In 1993, a little less than half the male population in England (47%) was within the healthy weight range, but the percentage dropped to 40% in 1998 and continued to decline slightly to about 38% in 2002. By comparison, the percentage of men who were overweight had an opposite trend, rising in two stages from 42% in 1993 to 45% in 1998 and finally 46% in 2002. During the same time, there was a modest increase in the obesity rate in the male population from 10% to 15%, while the proportion of dangerously obese men remained low at about 2%.

Compared with the weight development in the male population, that of female had a quite similar trend over the same period. Women who had healthy weight and who were overweight constituted the vast majority of the female population, while the remaining 15% to 20% were considered obese or dangerously obese.

It seems that the whole population in England was becoming increasingly overweight, and the obesity rate was constantly higher in the female population than in the male population.

– 206 words –

Key Vocabulary

range • tầm; phạm vi; nhóm The coat was in /out of my price range.

modest ■ khiêm ton: giản dị; vừa phai

They live in a fairly modest house, considering their wealth

obesity sự béo phi A diet that is high in fat can lead to obesity.

Practical Sentence Patterns

compared with…

Chú ý câu sau trong bài văn mẫu:

Compared with the weight development in the male population, that of female had a quite similar trend over the same period.

Bạn có thể dùng cách diễn đạt compared with… để mô tả biểu đồ dựa trên việc so

„¿„ù -Ấ- 14A.. c„..______________ 1 :.u lì I-_s_ _ i.’. I_ Li;

CÓ thể viết compared with A, B…, (sớ với Ạ thi B…). Xem các ví dụ sau: Compared with men, women are physically weaker.

The tuition of most Canadian universities is lower compared with that in other countries.

The graphs below show the size of the ozone hole over Antarctica and the production of three ozone-damaging gases from 1980 to 2000. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The two line graphs illustrate the change in the ozone hole size over the Antarctica region and the amount of three gases produced which caused damage to the ozone layer during the same period.

The ozone hole was at its smallest size of about 400 thousand square kms in 1980, but 20 years later, it was enlarged by 9 times to 3.6 million square kms. The only period when there was a reduction in size was in the early 1990s {from 2 to 1.2 million square kms).

In 1980, about 70 million tonnes of CFC-ll was produced, which remained stable for 2 years before undergoing a steady decline to below 10 million tonnes in the late 1990s. The production of CFC-12, on the other hand, showed an upward trend throughout the 20-year period from 28 to 50 million tonnes, surpassing the production of CFC-ll in 1989. N₂0, however, was not produced until 1990, but its production grew rapidly to about 40 million tonnes in 2000.

Overall, the two graphs indicate that it was mainly CFC-12 and N_aO which gave rise to the expansion of the ozone hole over Antarctica in the last two decades of the 20th century.

-199 words –

Key Vocabulary

region vùng

He said he had sharp pains in the stomach region, layer lớp, tang

We stripped several layers of paint off the door, stable . on định

After several part-time jobs, he has now got a stable job in a bank, surpass .¹ vượt

His time for the 100 metres surpassed the previous world record by one hundredth of a second.

indicate cho thấy; chi định (thuốc)

Antihistamine is indicated for this patient as a treatment for her allergies, give rise to gày ra

International support has given rise to new optimism in the company.

Practical Sentence Patterns

in 1989.

………………………. m

Bạn có thể dùng cụm từ show an upward trend khi muốn diễn tả số liệu thay đổi ‘I theo hướng tăng lên, ví dụ: ■’

The number of divorces showed a slightly upward trend since the late 1990s.

Nếu muốn diễn tả số liệu giảm xuống, bạn có thể dCmg cụm từ show a downward

Bar Chart

Academic Task 1 Question, August 2009 Academic Task 1 Question, December 2007 Academic Task 1 Question, December 2006 Academic Task 1 Question, March 2006

Academic T&Sk 1 QUBStlOIl August 2009

(This question is identical to the question of July 2005.)

■ii— – ■.’Uv * ‘Um.” ”ji.V ■ ‘Jb.’

.¡W. . ‘ «Iff# “> .^T. » ‘¡TT. ■ HiWJf ■ “Wif ■ • ‘vi i> ‘ • 1*1 i-¹

WRITING TASK 3

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The bar chart below shows the three main causes of land damage in four different areas in the world.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least ISO words.

Main Causes of Land Damage in Four Regions

■ tree-cutting

Model Essay

The bar chart shows information about the areas of land damaged by human activities in four major continents of the world.

The areas of land damaged in Africa and Asia are similar, totalling approximately 1,200 million hectares for each, while in Australia and Europe the numbers are considerably lower, averaging between 300 and 400 million.

Looking at the causes behind land damage, we can see that in Africa, Europe and especially Australia, breeding is the leading cause of land loss, damaging approximately 500,120 and 220 million hectares of land respectively. Next comes tree-cutting, which takes away slightly larger areas of land than farming in all the three regions.

Asia shows a slightly different picture, where tree-cutting activities have led to the largest amount of land loss (450 million hectares). Breeding and farming account for the remaining damage (380 and 420 million hectares respectively).

Overall, breeding causes the most pervasive damage to land around the world.

* 156 words –

Key Vocabulary continent lục địa

Scotland is on the edge of the European continent and is surrounded by seas, total đạt tong số (là)

The current global consumption of fertilisers totals 137 million tons a year, representing a dramatic increase in consumption during the last 50 years.

average . tính trung binh, trung bình la

The price of a CD album averages between thirteen and seventeen dollars, breeding sự chăn nuôi; sụ giáo dục

A man’s own good breeding is the best security against other people’s ill manners, pervasive lan tràn

Identity theft is a pervasive problem in America and has dramatically increased over the past decade.

Practical Sentence Patterns

… show a… different picture…

Khi mô tả biểu đồ, nếu thấy số liệu dược trình bày ở phần sau có sự khác biệt so với số liệu đà trình bày trước đó, bạn có thể dùng cách diễn đạt trên để chuyển ý. Có thể dùng các trạng từ như slightly, completely, somewhat để diễn tả mức độ khác nhau. Ví dụ:

There are more men than women working in the engineering industry. But the nursing sector shows a completely different picture: women account for 85% of the total nursing workforce.

Academie Task 1 Question December 2007

WRITING TASK I

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task,

The chart gives information about the amount of oil discovered worldwide from 1950 to 2020.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words,

World Oil Discovery

Model Essay

This bar chart shows the changes in the amount of oil discovered worldwide every

In 1950, world oil discovery stood at 20 billion barrels a year, which grew dramatically over the next 15 years to reach a peak at approximately 56 billion barrels in 1965. However, from this year onwards, the growth of oil discovery was suddenly replaced by a sharply downward trend, with some ups and downs, to approximately

it is predicted that 7 billion barrels of oil will be discovered worldwide in the year 2010, and this figure is forecast to decline steadily to an all-time low of only 3 billion barrels in 2020.

In conclusion, this chart shows that world oil discovery peaked in the 1960s but has been declining for over 40 years, and this trend is expected to continue into the near future.

Key Vocabulary

predict dự đoán

It was predicted that inflation would continue to fall, peak đinh điểm

Traffic reaches its peak between 8 and 9 in the morning,

I

approximately khoảng, xáp xi

The two buildings were approximately equal in size.

onwards trớ đi

The pool is open from 7 a.m. onwards.

steadily . I một cách) ổn định / bén vững iđẻu đặn The company’s exports have been increasing steadily.

Academie TclSk 1 QlIGStiOIl December 2006

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The graphs below show information about citizenship in the UK. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words.

Number of People Who Became UK Citizens

Origin of Immigrants to the UK
(number in thousands)

B America, Australasia and others

□ Africa

Model Essay

The line graph shows the number of immigrants who obtained UK citizenship between 1962 and 2002, and the bar chart gives a breakdown of the number in 1996 and 2002 according to the continents they came from.

In 1962, the number of people who became UK citizens stood at 20 thousand, which almost doubled to slightly less than 40 thousand in 1972. Although the next ten years saw a modest decline, the number increased again to 50 thousand in 1992 and then shot up dramatically to a little below the 120 thousand mark in 2002.

Among the 72 thousand new citizens in the UK in 1996, the vast majority came from Asia (49 thousand). An equal number (9 thousand) came from Europe and from Africa, and the remaining 5 thousand was from other regions including America and Australasia. Six years later, the number of citizens from Asia, Africa and Europe rose, to 58, 25 and 27 thousand respectively, while immigrants from America, Australasia and other regions showed a slight drop to 4 thousand.

In conclusion, a surge in immigration from Europe and Africa to the UK contributed to the rising number of new UK citizens between 1996 and 2002.

– 199 words –

immigrant Hi ngưòi nháp cư

illegal immigrants are sent back across the border if they are caught.

citizenship i tu cách còng dân He was granted Canadian citizenship.

breakdown thong Lin chi tiết

We asked for a breakdown of the accident figures into daytime and night-time.

modest khiêm tốn; vủa phải; giản dị

The party made modest gains in the elections, but nothing like the huge gains that were predicted.

Australasia I vùng lãnh thổ gồm ức, New Zealand vá các đảo lán cận ở phía nam Thái Binh Dương ’

Australasia means Australia, New Zealand and neighbouring islands of the South Pacific Ocean.

Practical Sentence Patterns

give a breakdown of..,

Nếu biểu đồ cung cấp số liệu một cách chi tiết thì trong phần mở bài, ta có thể dùng cấu trúc give a breakdown of… để giới thiệu khái quát về biểu đồ, ví dụ câu sau trong bài vãn mẫu: .

The bar chart gives a breakdown of the number in 1996 and 2002 according to the continents they came from.

Sau cấu trúc này, người ta thường dùng cụm từ bắt đầu bang according to hoặc in terms of nhầm nêu rõ tiêu chí được dùng để thống kê. Ví dụ:

The table gives a breakdown of the number of women involved in each activity according to their level of education.

Academie Task 1 Question March 2006

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The bar chart below shows the passenger kilometres travelled by different means of transport in the UK in 1990 and 2000.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words.

Passenger kilometres by
different means of transport

motorbike

Model Essay

The bar chart compares five different means of passenger transport in the UK for the years 1990 and 2000 in terms of total passenger kilometres travelled.

In 1990, a total of 100 billion passenger kilometres were travelled by UK residents using the surveyed transport methods, which went up slightly by about 10 billion to

reach 110 billion ten years later. This rise in passenger kilometre number was recorded in air, bus and rail travel, but a slight decline was actually found in bicycle and motorbike travel.

In this survey, buses and trains were the principal modes of public transport during the last decade in the UK, each with between 40 and 50 billion kilometres travelled. By contrast, the annual distance covered by bicycle, motorbike and air travel only represented an insignificant share, with less than 8 billion passenger kilometres for each.

Overall, there was a growth in “mass transit service” in the UK such as air, bus and rail travel during the past decade.

– 164 words –

Key Vocabulary

in terms of vé mật; duới dạng

The savings, both in terms of time and money, could be considerable, decline sự suy giảm, sự giảm sút

There has been a steady decline in public services over recent years.

principal chinh, chủ yếu Iraq’s principal export is oil.

m

decade thập niên

Prices have risen sharply in the last decade.

a

– contrast sự ngược lại, sự tưong phan

Their economy has expanded enormously, while ours, by/in contrast, has declined.

‘ fl… I

represent ¹ mó tả, trình bay

This new report represents the current situation in our schools.

Practical Sentence Patterns

Cách diễn đạt mức độ tảng / giảm của số liệu

Chú ý câu sau trong bài văn mẫu:

… which went up slightly by about 10 billion to reach 110 billion ten years later.

Để diễn đạt mức độ tăng/giảm của số liệu, ta có thể dùng giới từ by. Sau by có thể ỉà một con số cụ thể, cùng có thể là giá trị phần trăm, ví dụ:

The number of international tourists went up by 50% from 100,000 to 150,000.

in the UK… By contrast, the annual distance covered by bicycle, motorbike and air travel…

By contrast có nghĩa là trái lại. Nếu hai nhóm số liệu có sự chênh lệch khá lớn, ta có thể dùng by contrast hoặc in contrast để nối câu hoặc nối hai vế của câu. ví dụ: Chinese economy has expanded enormously, while, the economy in Japan, by contrast, has declined.

The amount spent on defence increased sharply. In contrast, spending on housing and health declined dramatically.

Pie Chart

R • Academie Task 1 Question, June 2009

[j • Academie Task 1 Question, September 2007

fl • Academie Task 1 Question, April 2006

P * Academie Task 1 Question, December 2005

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V • Academic Task 1 Question, April 2006

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Academie TâSk 1 QuCStlOIl June 2009

(This question is identical to the question of December 2004.)

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The graphs below show the age structure of a European country from 1901 to 1981 and a prediction for 2021.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at leasi 150 words,

\

1901

total population: 38.225,000

1941

total population: 52,335,000

IV

5 2021

total population (estimated): 87,658,000

The graphs compare the population make-up of one European country every forty years from 1901 to 1981, and the estimated number in 2021.

There was a huge increase in the number of people in this country from 38,225,000 in 1901 to 67,180,000 eighty years later, and this upward trend is expected to last through to the year 2021, when the population is estimated at 87,658,000, more than double the 1901 figure.

In 1901 and 1941, the age structure in this country was completely the same, with an overwhelming majority of its population (95%) below 65, 4% between 65 and 85, and only 1% over 85 years old.

However, the year 1981 saw a sharp increase in the percentage of the elderly. Altogether, they made up 17% of the total population, whereas the projection for the year 2021 shows that they will continue to grow but less dramatically to 21% of the total population (15% for 65-85-year-olds and 6% for over-85-year-olds).

In summary, changes are taking place not only in the number of people but also in the ages of the people who make up the population in this European country, indicating it is advancing into an aging society.

-199 words –

WRITING TASK I

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The graphs below show information about electronic games in South Korea in 2003.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

These three pie charts show respectively the age structure of electronic game players in Korea, their gender distribution as well as the percentage of different types of games sold in the country. All information was based on the year 2003.

It can be seen from the first chart that electronic game players in Korea were mostly young people between 18 and 35 (42%). Children and teenagers under 18 years old were the second largest group (35%), and the remaining 23% were over 35 years old.

The second chart shows that male electronic game players clearly outnumbered their female counterparts (72% and 28% respectively).

The third chart shows that action games were by far the best-selling genre, constituting 42% of the electronic game sales in Korea. Next come sports and racing games, which accounted for 21% and 17% respectively. Role-play and education games had less successful sales, with 7% each. The remaining 6% of the sales went to other types of games.

In conclusion, young men aged 18 and 35 were the most likely players of electronic games in Korea, and action games were the most popular genre among Korean players.

-190 words –

Key Vocabulary

outnumber đóng (người) hơn

In this profession, women outnumber men by two to one (= there are twice as manv women as men).

counterpart ngươi CO cúng vị trí, chức vụ hoặc có đặc điểm tương ứng với ngươi khác The Foreign Minister held talks with his Vietnamese counterpart.

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WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The graphs below show the annual expenditure of university students in three countries in 2003.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The three pie charts show how university students in three countries spent their money in the year 2003.

In general, students in Country A spent slightly more than those in Country B (US$5,000 and US$4,500 respectively). In comparison, student expenditure in Country C was considerably lower, at only US$1,500 per year.

Accommodation and food were the two biggest items of expenditure. Altogether they constituted around 60% of the total student expenditure in all the three countries. The difference is that in Countries A and B accommodation spending exceeded food spending, while the reverse was true for Country C.

The rest of the students’ spending was divided among leisure, books and “others”. Leisure spending constituted a larger percentage (around 20%) of student expenditure in both Countries A and B, while in Country C more money was spent on books (21%) than on leisure (12%).

Overall, as wealth decreased, the percentage of students’ spending on non-essential items went down.

– 157 words –

g| Key Vocabulary

in general nói chung, nói tóm lại

I do not think people in general give much thought to the enviri respectively lần lượt.

In the 200 metres, Lizzy and Sarah came first and third respectively, expenditure chi phi

The budget will certainly include increased expenditure on education, considerably đáng kể

He is considerably fatter than he was when I knew him. exceed : ■ vượt qua

She was found guilty on three charges of exceeding the speed limit.

reverse đìẻu ngược lại

.id: ngược lại. trái lại

The teachers, say my son is slow, but I believe the reverse.

leisure hie nhàn rỗi; thời gian rành

The town lacks leisure facilities such as a swimming pool or squash courts, non-essential ; không cần thiết

Such lights are non-essential for that couple since they are blind.

Practical Sentence Patterns

the reverse is true for…

Chú ý câu sau trong bài vàn mẫu:

… in Countries A and B accommodation spe _ reverse was true for Country c.

Nếu nhận thấy hai nhóm số liệu tương phản thì sau khi nêu một nhóm số liệu, ta có thể dùng cấu trúc the reverse is ưue for… để trình bày ngắn gọn nhóm số liệu còn lại. Ví dụ:

Married women have higher rates of depression than unmarried women, but the reverse is true for men.

In general /Overall…

Chú ý câu sau trong bài vãn mẫu:

In general, students in Country A spent slightly more than those in Country B (US$5,000 and US$4,500 respectively).

Overall, as wealth decreased, the percentage of students’ spending on non-essential items went down.

In general và Overall đều có nghĩa íà nói tóm lại, nói chung, dùng để nêu nhận xét khái quát hoặc đưa ra kết luận về vấn đề nào đó.

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You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The graphs below show information about the weekly work hours in Australia in 2001.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words.

The pie charts illustrate the working patterns of Australian employees and owners/ managers by indicating the percentage of them who worked full-time, part-time, or overtime.

Australia had an 8.8-million-strong workforce in 2001, among which the vast majority were hired as employees (6.9 million) and the remaining 1.9 million either owners or managers. Only 29% of Australian employees had a full-time working week of 35-40 hours. 38% of them were working on a part-time basis for less than 35 hours per week, while a third had long working hours of 41 a week or more.

When it comes to owners or managers, interestingly, two thirds of them had long- hour working weeks while only about one fifth could have a regular working day. Parttime working, as can be expected, was relatively rare among owners/managers (only 14%).

Observing the overall workforce does not lead to any surprises as it simply combines the above two, with about two thirds of all workers working full-time or long hours, and the remaining one third working part-time.

To sum up, working overtime was over two times more common among owners/ managers than among employees.

188 words

Key Vocabulary

remaining con lại

Bernstein’s two remaining lectures will take place on January 22 and 23.

on a … basis trên CO sir /một each.,.

Young people who live far away from their parents should visit them on a regular basis, interestingly điều thú vi là..

Interestingly enough, he never actually said that he was innocent, combine kết hợp

She manages to successfully combine family life and/with a career.

bạn có thể dùng cụm từ as can be expected, as expected hoặc as is expected (đều có nghĩa là như suy nghỉ của nhiều ngiíời). Ví dụ:

Leisure time, as expected, is longer for part-time employees than for full-time emptoyees.

Life expectancy, as can be expected, is shorter in developing countries.

Có thể đật cụm từ này ở đầu câu hoặc chen vào giữa câu.

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The graphs below show the annual spending of a particular UK university from 1981 to 2001.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at. least 150 words.

The three pie charts show a UK university’s annual expenditure by category in 1981, 1991 and 2001.

The most significant feature is that salary, including salary to teachers and to other non-teaching staff, was the major expenditure for this university throughout the 20-year period. The percentage of total spending on teachers’ salary was between 40% and 55%, while that on other staff’s salary decreased steadily from a third to less than one fifth.

The remaining expenditures were divided between smaller items such as furniture and equipment, insurance, and resources. Insurance spending continued to grow, from only 2% of the total spending in 1981 to 3% in 1991 and 8% in 2001. The percentage of total spending on resources such as books also increased slightly from 10% to 12% during the first ten years, but it dropped sharply to 5% in 2001. Spending on furniture and equipment, however, showed the most dramatic change: After being reduced by over 50% in 1991, it more than tripled to make up about a quarter of the total amount a decade later.

-177 words –

Key Vocabulary

throughout xuven sued, khap People throughout the country are out of work.

triple tâng gấp ba lần The workforce has tripled in size since the new factory opened.

Practical Sentence Patterns

The most significant feature is that…

Khi mô tả biểu đồ, người ta thường dùng cấu trúc The most significant feature is that… để trình bày đặc điểm nổi bật nhất, ví dụ câu sau trong bài văn mẫu:

The most significant feature is that salary, including salary to teachers and to other non-teaching staff, was the major expenditure for this university throughout the 20-year period.

Bạn cũng có thể dùng các từ remarkable, important, notable, striking.., thay cho significant.

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Academic Task 1 Question, August 2006

• Academic 1 ask 1 Question, November 2005 Academic Task 1 Question, November 2005

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Academie Task 1 Question October 2009

(This question is identical to the question of May 2006.)

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The tables show the average number of students taught by each lecturer in Australian universities from 1991 to 2007.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words.

The average number of students taught by each lecturer (1991 – 2007)

The average number of students taught by each lecturer in 2001

The tables describe the average number of students under the instruction of each lecturer in Australian universities from 1991 to 2007 and compare it between two different categories of subjects in 2001.

In general, it is apparent that the average number of students had increased steadily every four years by 2003 and is expected to continue its growth in 2007. Whereas there were only 12.3 students taught by one lecturer in 1991, he was responsible for teaching 17.1 students in 1999. Also, there were a relatively small number of students (14.4) inside a classroom in 1995; however, that figure is projected to increase 1.5 times to 21.6 students in 2007.

In addition, the average number of students in lecture-based subjects was contrastingly larger than that in laboratory-based ones in 2001. Within the former category, Law undoubtedly had the greatest number of students of 28.5, while Education boasted the least – only 22.5 students taught by each instructor. Turning to the latter group, Science majors were happily enjoying the most individual attention (14.0 of them under one lecturer). In comparison, 17.5 Chemistry students seemed to be a heavier burden for each professor.

To summarise, the average number of students has been progressively higher throughout the years, and the classrooms of Australian universities will become increasingly crowded in the future.

– 217 words –

category hạng, loại

There are three categories of accommodation – standard, executive, and deluxe, apparent rô ràng

I was on the metro this morning when for no apparent reason the man opposite suddenly screamed.

be expected to được dư đoán là

The economy of the after-war country is expected to go worse.

be responsible for chịu trách nhiệm vé Who is responsible for this terrible mess?

project ! dư kiến

Can you project our sales in the coming year? former i;dj’ cựu, trước

The painting was then restored to its former glory. ,

undoubtedly . chắc: chắn, không nghi ngờ gì She was undoubtedly the best candidate.

boast khoác lác, khoe khoang; cỏ, nấm giữ

He did not talk about his exam results in case people thought he was boasting.

progressively táng lẽn không ngưng, tâng dần lẽn My eyesight has got progressively worse over the years.

Practical Sentence Patterns

Cách diễn tả thông tin dự đoán

chứ ý hại câu sau trong bài vãn mẫu:

In general, it is apparent that the average number of students had increased steadily every four years by 2003 and is expected to continue its growth in 2007.

… however, that figure is projected to increase 1.5 times to 21.6 students in 2007.

Khi mô tả biểu đồ, đôi iúc ta cần đưa ra dự đoán. Ví dụ, nếu bên cạnh số liệu của biểu đồ có các từ forecast, estimate, predict, project thì điều này cho biết số liệu được đưa ra là số liệu ước tính và ta cần sử dụng các cấu trúc diễn tả thông tin dự đoán (được hình thành dựa trên các từ vừa nêu) để mô tả biểu đồ. Ngoài ra, nếu trục thời gian của biểu đồ kéo dài đến thời điểm tương lai thì ta cũng nên dùng các cấu trúc diễn tả thông tin dự đoán.

Dưới đây là một số cấu trúc diễn tả thông tin dự đoán thường dùng, be predicted/projected to…

The population is predicted/projected to grow to 10 million bv the end of 2008.

The forecast is for… to…

Overall; the forecast is for GDP growth to be 4.1 per cent this year.

It is estimated that…

It is estimated that in 2002 over 2.3 million people, including 450,000 international travellers, were transported through the airport.

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The table gives information about the female workforce and female managers in five countries.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words,

Model Essay

The table lists the percentage of the total workforce and the percentage of managers who are women in five countries.

The United States has a roughly gender-balanced workforce: women make up about half the country’s working population (46%). Women in Australia and Japan have a similar share of the country’s labour force (42% and 41% respectively). Next comes Sri Lanka with 37% of all workers being women. Finally, Egypt is where the most striking gender difference is found: there is only one woman for every four men in the workplace.

Turning to employment at management levels, the United States and Australia have a similar percentage of managers who are women (43% and 41% respectively), which is only slightly lower than the corresponding percentage of women in the overall workforce. However, managerial positions in the other three countries are predominantly occupied by men, as women constitute only 12% of all managers in both Egypt and Japan, and only 9% in Sri Lanka.

To sum up, Australia and the US have the most balanced gender ratio throughout the workplace while gender difference is the greatest at management levels in Sri Lanka.

Key Vocabulary

striking nổi bật, đáng chú ý

Ỉ

There is a striking resemblance between the man in the paintings and the artist himself.

gender difference sự chênh lệch giới tinh

Part of the gender difference in this class is due to females being less likely to take final-year math and physics courses.

workplace nữi làm việc

Employers have a legal right to restrict smoking in the workplace or to implement a totally smoke-free workplace policy.

managerial trữ,¹¹ (thuộc) quản lý

important managerial decisions may take weeks, months or even years to be made and implemented.

predominantly ‘ chù yếu, phần lón

British city centre residents are predominantly young, single people, balanced -Itcàn đối, ổn định

Cách sắp xếp số liệu theo thử tự

Thông thường, khi mô tả biểu đồ, bạn phải so sánh các số tiệu. sắp xếp theo thứ tự là ;

một cách khá hiệu quả giúp bạn diễn tả ngắn gọn mối tương quan giừa các số liệu.

Khi sắp xếp số liệu theo thứ tự, cụm từ nối thường được dùng nhất là followed by. I

Europeans are the leading ethnicity, followed by Asians, mixed races and others.

Ngoài ra, bạn cũng có thể dùng một số từ vựng hoặc cụm từ để sắp xếp số liệu theo thứ tự. Ví dụ:

England is where by far the most books are bought with 81% of the market, Wales comes next with 10% closely followed by Scotland with 8%. Northern Ireland lies last with only 1% of the market. !i

By 1990 Italy was still the leading country, though its savings rate had dropped to 17.6%. Germany was next with 13.8% (same as 1970) and the rates in France and Japan were dose behind. In Canada, the savings rate had almost doubled to 11.5%.

The UK and the USA had the lowest rates of 8.2% and 5.5% respectively.

Có thể dùng giới từ with hoặc of khi nêu số liệu.

WRITING TASK 1

The chart below shows the amount of energy consumed in three countries in the year 2000 and the rate of increase in energy consumption as compared with the year 1999.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words.

Energy Consumption (in millions of tons of oil equivalent) and Rate of Increase

Model Essay

The table shows the energy consumption in Australia, Japan and the USA in 2000 and the rate of increase compared with 1999.

In general, the USA consumed the largest amount of energy, with 1.42 billion tons of oil equivalent in total, followed by Japan (403 million tons) and Australia (92 million tons). However, Japan enjoyed the fastest rate of increase (42.5%), with Australia (21.5%) and the USA (13%) ranking second and third respectively.

With respect to industry, although the USA consumed 420 million tons, more than the sum of that in Australia (36 million) and Japan (159 million), its rate of increase from 1999 to 2000 was only 0.9%, far less than that of Australia (28%) and Japan (39%).

The pattern was similar for transport and “others”, with the USA being the leading energy consumer which had the slowest increase. Japan still had the highest rate of increase, and Australia ranked second in both energy consumption and rate of increase.

Overall, it is apparent that in the three countries, the USA consumed energy most, while Japan had the fastest rate of increase in energy consumption during the period of 1999 to 2000.

– 192 words ■

Key Vocabulary

energy consumption sự lieu thụ nâng lượng

The government is determined to reduce the US’s daily energy consumption.

compared with so với

My own problems seem insignificant compared with other people’s.

equivalent một 1 uọng tương dượng

He had drunk the equivalent of 15 whiskies.

rank xếp hạng, xếp loại

We rank among the safest countries in the world.

with respect to vế, đối với

The two groups are very similar with respect to age.

pattern mb hinh. mau, kieu

The pattern of family life has been changing over recent years,

energy consumer which had the slowest increase.

Khi mô tả biểu đồ, để diễn tả xu thế hay đặc điểm giống với nội dung đã được đề cập trước đó, bạn có thể dùng cấu trúc The pattern is similar for… ví dụ;

d a slight decline in the late afternoon. The pattern is similar

The table below shows the monthly expenditure of an average Australian family in 1991 and 2001.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words.

Housing

Transport

Other goods and services*

* Other goods and services: non-essential goods and services

Model Essay

The table shows changes in the spending patterns of an average Australian household between 1991 and 2001. In general, Australian household spending was higher in 2001 than in 1991, but the difference was not significant (AU$715 per month and AU$675 per month respectively).

The amount of monthly spending on electricity and water saw a dramatic increase over the 10-year period from AU$75 to AU$120. Yet in terms of the expenditure on non-essential goods and services, the rising trend was less obvious with a minor increase of AU$20. At the same time, the amount of money spent on food and housing rose only slightly from AU$155 to AU$160 and AU$95 to AU$100 respectively.

However, there was a decrease in expenditure on the other two items. Australians spent one third less on clothing, which fell from AU$30 to AU$20. Similarly, expenditure on transport dropped from AU$70 in 1991 to AU$45 in 2001.

It seems that food and “other goods and services” were the two biggest items of expenditure. Altogether, they accounted for more than half of the total household spending. By comparison, Australians spent little on dressing up.

Key Vocabulary

significant clang ke

There has been a significant increase in the number of women students in recent years.

expenditure chi phi

The government’s annual expenditure on arms has been reduced, minor nho; phu

A minor change was made to the draft to make it easier to understand, similarly turmgfcu

Cars must stop at red traffic lights; similarly, bicycles should stop too.

Academie Tcisk 1 QUCStlOïl November 2005

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The table below shows some data regarding Australia’s nursing employment and total workforce in 1987 and 2001.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words.

Model Essay

This table shows changes in Australia’s nursing employment between 1987 and 2001. The nursing workforce represented in this table consists of nurses working at four different levels. As expected, the higher the level, the lower the employment number.

During these 14 years, Australia’s entire labour force grew from 2,728,000 to 3,738,000, an increase of 37%. Despite this impressive growth in the total workforce, however, there was a 10% decrease from 180,000 to 161,200 in the number of employees in the nursing sector.

The vast majority of the nurses were working at the lowest level, i.e, assistant nurses, whose number remained largely unchanged between 1987 and 2001 (117,000 and 112,000 respectively). However, the number of senior nurses and that of junior nurses decreased dramatically, the former by 20% from 20,000 to 16,000 and the latter by 28% from 39,000 to 28,000.

The significant drop in employment numbers at lower levels was somewhat compensated by a 30% increase in the number working at the highest level (directors of nursing) from 4,000 to 5,200.

Overall, the table suggests that the development of the nursing employment in Australia was incompatible with the growth of its total workforce.

-193 words –

Key Vocabulary’

consist of bao gồm

The members of this panel consist of policy makers, energy practitioners, government representatives, and researchers.

entire toán bộ

The entire campus has more than 400 faculty members who work full-time, labour force / workforce lực lượng lao động

impressive ■ đang ngưỡng mộ; gảy an tượng There was an impressive amount of support for reforms.

sector khu vực; Ĩĩnh vực; ngành

The telecommunications sector has been undergoing an enormous change in the last 100 years.

the vast majority of đại đa số

The vast majority of institutionalised disabled Americans are elderly, incompatible \ không tương thích, không tuông ứng

The world’s present energy consumption is incompatible with the planet’s limited and non-renewable resources.

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Practical Sentence Patterns

be compensated by…

Compensate cổ nghĩa là đền bù, bù đắp. Khỉ quan sát biểu đồ, nếu thấy có một số liệu tăng và một số liệu giảm thì bạn có thể dùng cách diễn đạt be compensated by… để diễn tả mối quan hệ giữa hai số liệu này. ví dụ:

A slowdown in the natural growth rate has been compensated by an increase in net immigration.

Unit 5

Diagram

Academie Task 1 Question September 2009

(This question is identical to the question of January 2006.)

J WRITING TASK i

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The flow chart below shows the three stages of glass bottle recycling. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

■■ ■■ . ‘ . ^; ‘ . ‘; _ i • J, . ‘ . . ■£ ■■ • ‘ t • . ‘

—i You should write at least 150 words.

ss Bottle Recycling

-a-w-ws

used bottles collecting point truck

P

Stage 3

supermarket

t

This diagram illustrates the recycling process of glass bottles. The whole process is a cycle which can be divided into three main stages.

In the first stage, used bottles are collected at a collecting point, ready to be transported by a truck. The second stage first takes place in a cleaning plant, where these used bottles are sorted by colour into green, brown, and clear ones, and washed by highpressurised water. When this cleaning process finishes, the bottles are transported to a glass factory where they are cut into pieces which are then poured into a furnace. After being heated in the furnace, the molten glass, mixed with added glass liquid from other sources, flows into a glass mould. After the remoulding process, a new bottle emerges.

In the final stage, new, empty bottles are filled with liquid, packed and despatched to the supermarket, ready to be picked by consumers. At this point, a cycle has been completed and a new cycle will begin.

-164 words –

Key Vocabulary

illustrate ntinh họa

The lecturer illustrated his point with a diagram on the blackboard, stage ) giai đoạn

Our marriage is going through a difficult stage at the moment, sort j phân loại

Sort out any clothes you want to throw away and give them to me.

pressurise . gây áp lực; diều áp I trẽn máy bay. tàu ngầm… )

He was pressurised into signing the agreement.

furnace ; lò nung, lò luyện kim

People who work with furnaces in a steel factory need to wear protective clothing, molten ¹ nóng chay

Molten lava destroyed all the neighbouring villages, despatch . . J chuyển đi

Two loads of woollen cloth were despatched to the factory on December 12. consume tiêu thụ -* consumer nguôi tiêu dùng

Our high living standards cause our present population to consume 25 per cent of the world’s, oil.

Chú ý câu sau trong bài vãn mẫu:

When this cleaning process finishes, the bottles are transported to a glass factory where they are cut into pieces which are then poured into a furnace.

Khi mô tả một quy trình gồm nhiều giai đoạn diễn ra theo trình tự nhất định, bạn có thể dùng các cụm từ In the first place, To begin with, In the first stage… để trình bày giai đoạn đầu tiên; dùng Then, Next, After this/that… để trình bày giai đoạn tiếp theo; dùng Finally hoặc Lastly để trình bày giai đoạn cuối cùng. Có thế trình bày các giai đoạn song song bằng cách dùng At the same time, Meanwhile… Trong ví dụ trên, người viết đâ sử dụng mệnh đề phụ bắt đầu bang when, where, which để mô tả trình tự các giai đoạn của quy trình một cách tự nhiên.

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this tusk.

The diagram below shows how to recycle organic waste to produce garden fertiliser (compost).

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words.

plastic

container

(2m’)

newspapers

grass

waste food

water

(hot weather only)

,6 months

heat

vapour

fertiliser

This series of five diagrams shows how three kinds of organic wastes (newspapers, grass, and waste food) are turned into a chemical mixture or fertiliser to be used for garden plants.

A plastic container – two cubic metres in volume – stores these wastes. On its four walls are three tiers of vents for air coming in and going out.

Waste food lies at the bottom of the container and piles up to 15cm in height. On its top is grass, which is also 15cm in thickness. Then shredded newspapers are spread over.

Nitrogen is poured in. Water is needed only when it is hot in weather. With the cover tightly closed on the container, the decomposition process of these organic wastes is starting under the effect of heat and vapour begins emitting out, too. The biogas rises continuously from the pile of the wastes and releases out.

After six months of fermentation, all the wastes are finally converted into fertiliser. This illustrates a chain of chemical reactions that can transform what are the wastes to something useful, even valuable.

-178 words –

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The diagrams below show the problem of flooding in a UK town and two possible solutions.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at leasi 1 >0 words,

Industrial park

Residential area

Flooding

area

Commercial buildings

River A

Industrial park

Residential area

Solution 1 —

Relocation

Advantage:

Environmental

protection

Disadvantage:

High cost

Flooding

area

River B

Commercial buildings

Reservoir

River A

Solution 2 – Darn Advantage: Low cost Disadvantage:

Affect land

Industrial park

Residential area

Commercial buildings

Reservoir

The three diagrams highlight a flooding problem in a UK town and outline two possible solutions to this problem; one solution is less costly but affects the environment more, while the other proposal has a higher cost but is less damaging to the environment. The flooding problem occurs in an area where two rivers join to form one and the area affected contains residential housing, commercial buildings, and an industrial park.

One solution to the problem is to relocate the affected developments to nearby areas which are slightly further away from the river. The downside of this is that it would be very costly, but the upside is that it would result in less environmental damage.

The other solution is to dam the two rivers causing the flooding. This is a much cheaper option but would result in more area being taken up by the resulting reservoirs behind the dams, thus leading to more environmental damage.

-156 words –

highlight lam nối bật

The spelling mistakes in the text had been highlighted in green.

solution giải pháp

E

UN leaders are working hard to find a peaceful solution to the conflict.

proposal kiến nghị, đề xuất

Congress has rejected the latest economic proposal put forward by the president, residential (thuộc.) cư trú

You must satisfy the residential qualifications to get a work permit, downside mặt trái (tiêu cực)

Unemployment, inflation, and greater inequality are often the downside of a market economy.

result in dẩn đên, gây ra The fire resulted in damage to their property.

Practical Sentence Patterns

Trong cáu trên, dam là động từ có nghĩa là xây đập,

P

Ề

While trong câu trên được dùng để so sánh hai giải pháp. Nêu câu chỉ đề cập đến hai sự vật/sự việc thì khi nhắc đến sự vật/sự việc thứ hai, bạn có thể dùng the

3, This is a much cheaper option but would result in more area being taken up by the resulting reservoirs behind the dams, thus leading to more environmental damage.

Câu này có cấu trúc khá phức tạp. cần lưu ý rằng sau result in, bạn phải dùng cụm từ (more area being taken up…) thay vì mệnh đề và sau thus, bạn phải dùng V-ing để diễn đạt kết quả.

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The diagrams below show the development of the village of Kelsbey between 1780 and 2000.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

I ■ ■ road

_v bridge

Y Y Y woods

jSj sports field □ school O shop

éSSïSïl wetiand for birds

The three diagrams illustrate what the village of Kelsbey looked like in 1780, 1860 and 2000.

In 1780, Kelsbey had only 100 homes, but it had a large expanse of woods in the eastern part of the village and four plots of farmland in the middle. In the west, there was a river running from north to south.

The year 1860 saw a doubling of the number of homes, but the size of farmland and woods was reduced by half. In the same year, a bridge could be seen over the river and a road was constructed linking the river to the residences.

140 years later, the number of homes more than doubled to 500, but farms and woods completely disappeared. Several school buildings and sports facilities were constructed at the south-eastern corner of the village, which were connected with the residential area in the north by a newly built road. Some shops opened up along the river bank, and a large stretch of wetland for birds was established at the southern end of the river.

-175 words – ^I

Practical Sentence Patterns

Chú ý câu sau trong bài văn mẫu:

The year I860 saw a doubling of the number of homes, but the size of farmland and woods was reduced by half.

Khi đề cập đến việc số liệu có sự thay đổi, người ta thường sử dụng there be (There was a dramatic increase in…) hoặc cụm động từ + trạng từ (… increased

uuiig uyiig uu dcv. vi uu,

The year 2005 saw a dramatic increase in the number of flights between the two countries.

The school has seen a slight enrolment increase over the past decade.

Tourism was severely affected by news of violence in the region, and hotel occupancy saw a sharp decline.

Part III

Letters

Unit i Letter of Complaint/Suggestion Unit 2 Letter of Friendship

Unit 3 Letter of Application/Invitation/Thanks/Enquiry

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You are living in a rented apartment but you have found some problems with the furniture. Write a letter to your landlord. In your letter, you should:

« say who you are

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Model Essay

Dear Mr. Smith,

I am your tenant from Flat 3 on Riverside Street. We met each other when I signed the rental agreement in your office.

I have lived here for 6 months now and I am writing to complain about some of the furniture. As you may remember, the dining table is in very poor condition and has uneven legs. It also does not match the dining chairs as these are too low to be comfortable for a table of that height. When I first pointed this out to you, you agreed to provide a brand new dining set. However, you have not done so and I would really like to resolve this matter as soon as possible.

If it is more convenient for you, perhaps you could simply replace the table by finding one of a suitable height for the chairs. This would solve the problems without too much cost, so 1 hope you agree to this proposed solution.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

-172 words –

Key Vocabulary

The decorating was done by a previous tenant.

rental việc cho thuê

He worked in the world’s largest car rental company.

resolve ■ ! giải quyết

Attempts are being made to resolve the problem of security in schools, propose đề xuất, đưa ra

. It was proposed that the president be elected for a period of two years.

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Your neighbour keeps his pet in the garden, which has caused some troubles to your life. Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter, you should:

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin vour letter as follows:

Dear……………

Model Essay

Dear Sam,

This is your neighbour David and I drop this line to talk about your dog Lisa, who has caused some troubles to me and my family.

Considerate as you are, you have already asked your niece Lily to take care of the dog when you are away. However, I do not think that Lily is doing a good job. Lisa is left alone most of the time with no adequate food and water, resulting in her excessive barking, which annoys me and almost everyone around the neighbourhood. Worse still, Lily only comes every other day, which means the little cutie often has to be confined to the house for a whole day. This, again, causes her to bark even more.

I was wondering if you could ask Lily to come and look after Lisa on a dailv basis next time. Or, if she’s too busy with her study, my little son Johnson can take over the duty.

You can call me when you come back so we can discuss this problem further. Best wishes,

– 177 words ■

Key Vocabulary

drop a line viết vai dong, dể lại lời nhắn Drop me a line if you miss me.

considerate V tu; ehu đáo

Ii was not very considerate of you to drink all the milk.

niece cháu gái Your niece is very lovely.

adequate flu

Have we got adequate food for twenty guests?

excessive quá mữc

Excessive exercise can sometimes cause health problems, confine giant cam

The hostages had been confined for so long that they could not cope with the outside world.

take over thâu tnm; tiếp quán, đảm nhận

The company he works for has recently been taken over.

Cách diễn đạt lời đề nghị một cách lịch sự: I was wondering if…

Chú ý câu sau trong bài văn mẫu:

I was wondering if you could ask Lily to come and look after Lisa on a daily basis next time.

I was wondering if… là cấu trúc được dùng để diễn tả lời đề nghị hoặc nguyện vọng nào đó một cách lịch sự. Ví dụ:

I was wondering if you could do me a favour.

I was wondering if there was any possibility that you could donate US anything for our auction.

Lưu ý rằng đây là cách diền đạt lịch Sự, vi vậy bạn nên chia động từ trong mệnh đề theo sau if ở thì quá khứ.

WRITING TASK I

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You feel that the streets around your neighbourhood are too dirty and have too much rubbish. Write a letter to the local council. In your letter, you should:

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Model Essay

Dear Sir/Madam,

My name is Johnson Smith and I am a local resident in this neighbourhood. Recently, I found that the streets near my house are so dirty, so I write this letter to you and hope that you could solve the problem as soon as possible.

Recently, several homeless people have come to this community and they throw rubbish wherever they go. Therefore, the streets are in a mess, which makes the inhabitants around very uncomfortable. In fact, the waste in the streets stinks all day round and it makes air quality increasingly worse. Additionally, dustmen are supposed to clean the streets but they never show up. What is worse, someone even slipped and got injured due to the rubbish in the street.

Thus, 1 suggest that your council take effective measures to solve the problem. Could you please enact strict regulations on the management of homeless people? Or could you send dustmen regularly to sweep the streets in the neighbourhood? Or maybe you have better ways to make the streets clean.

I look forward to your prompt reply.

Yours faithfully,

■ 185 words ■

Key Vocabulary

inhabitant ư dân

The city has inhabitants of s million.

stink bốc mùi

He had not washed for over a week and stank to h igh heaven (= greatly).

additionally thêm vào đo. ngoai ra Additionally (= Also), we request a deposit of S200 in advance.

be supposed to phái, có nhiệm vụ

We are supposed to hand in the homework by the end of this week.

’/ I bi thuong

A package of economic sanctions is to be enacted against the country.

Ê

regulation quy drnh

The correct procedure is laid down in the rules and regulations, homeless khong nhâ. vo gia eu

Accommodation needs to be found for thousands of homeless families.

dustman nguôi quét rdc Dustmen keep the streets clean.

Chú ý hai câu sau trong bài văn mẫu:

Could you please enact strict regulations on the management of homeless people? Or could you send dustmen regularly to sweep the streets in the neighbourhood?

Trong thư kiến nghị, người ta thường dùng Could you… để đưa ra một kiến nghị

hav vêu cầu. Could vou… diễn tả lrỉi VP11 rần nhp nhànơ và lirh hrtn Tan vrai

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes oil this task.

You heard that a sports centre would be closed. Write a letter to the manager. In your letter, you should:

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Model Essay

Dear Sir,

I was shocked beyond description when I learned from ICS news that Pepsi Arena would be closed next month. Therefore, I am writing to express my thoughts.

Personally, I strongly oppose this plan which is absolutely inconceivable and disappointing. I have also talked with other neighbours who share the same opinion as me.

Having been located in our community for almost ten years, Pepsi Arena is the most significant symbol and glory of our region, and also acts as the place for doing physical training as well as other recreational events for the local residents. Besides, it is the home field of our football team and always holds games on weekends, which has brought numerous splendid moments to the locals. As a result, the unthinkable consequences of closing it are huge. The residents would no longer have place for exercise: young people would no longer have place for entertainment; our community would no longer have any games.

I hope that you will reconsider your plan seriously and make a win-win decision. Your prompt and favourable attention to my opinion would be highly appreciated. Yours faithfully,

-189 words –

Key Vocabulary

shock gáy sac. gãy chấn dộng

The violence and bad language in the programme shocked many of the viewers.

express thể hiện, bày tố He expressed himself clearly and forcibly.

oppose i phản đỏi

Whatever argument he maintains, they are certain to oppose.

He is absolutely beyond suspicion.

Ễ

inconceivable khủng thi’ tin nổi, không thể tưởng tượng được Colour is inconceivable to people born blind.

disappointing gáy thất vọng

t

recreational o ÍĨ ! r;. tit’ll khiến

Shooting is regarded as a recreational activity now.

numerous rát nhiéu, đóng dao

Numerous attempts have been made to save the dam.

I _t

consequence hậu quả

Commerce is paralysed in consequence of a severe earthquake.

fPaemwriJh¹ rịỂTìi&ếỂ

WRITING TASK I

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

One of your friends is going to visit your city for a short period. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, you should:

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Model Essay

Dear Jackie,

I am more than excited to know that you are going to spend your holiday visiting Hoi An Ancient Town – one of the most peaceful towns in Vietnam. I am writing to tell you the most suitable season for touring Hoi An as well as give you a list of main tourist attractions in the town and some useful information about accommodation.

First of all, it would be a great idea to visit Hoi An in spring if you plan to enjoy the best season of the year. Indeed, there are a number of multicultural festivals lasting from early spring until the end of the second month of lunar calendar, so you will have many options to choose from to arrange an ideal timetable for your sightseeing.

As to some must-see attractions, various kinds of ancient houses in Hoi An are undoubtedly the first choice for those who are keen on age-old architectural styles like you. In 1999, Hoi An was designated the UNESCO World Heritage Site, so I hope you will enjoy your time in this very unique living museum of oriental houses and lifestyle. Also, your next destination should be the Museum of Trade Ceramics, which is a lively

description of the history of Hoi An. Finally, it is a big mistake of you to come to Hoi An without visiting the picturesque Japanese Bridge. In spite of its name, the bridge, which was built by Japanese traders in the seventeenth century, carries delicate traits of ancient Vietnamese architecture.

Anyway, before you leave for Hoi An, I suggest you reserve your hotel room in advance via the Internet to save up to 50% of the expense as well as guarantee you a place in festival seasons.

As soon as you have finalised your travel plan, please give me a call and allow me to pick you up at Da Nang Airport.

Cheers,

■317 words –

Key Vocabulary

tourist attraction địa điérn du lịch

There are many places of tourist attraction in and around the hotel, multicultural đa vân hốa

Having a multicultural society means that there are more interesting things to experience.

timetable thời gian biểu

A dear timetable is necessary to ensure that the programme is implemented within a reasonable period of time.

undoubtedly rò ràng, ãhác chắn

Simplifying this process will undoubtedly lead to more online sales, oriental : (thuộc) phương Đóng

The house is arranged in an oriental style combining authentic charm with great comfort.

picturesque đẹp đẽ; gảy ấn tượng mạnh

This town is in the centre of South Greenland, with 3,200 inhabitants living in a picturesque and beautifully situated town.

delicate tinh tẻ: mong manh

We need to protect the delicate ecological balance of the rainforest, finalise hoán tat

A survey needs to be conducted, and every detail needs to be finalised.

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Your friend from an English-speaking country will come to your city for a holiday. Write a letter to ypur friend. In your letter, you should:

£ Write at least 150 words.

[ You do NOT need to write any addresses. % Begin your letter as follows:

L

Model Essay

Dear Tom,

I am so glad to know that you will be coming to Da Nang for a visit. Four years after graduation, we will finally have the chance to meet again! How have you been all these years? Still single, I guess?

You mentioned that you would like me to help you find a hotel. Actually, you can stay with us because we have a spare room and you know my wife and my son are both looking forward to meeting you!

As to the places worth visiting, I think Hoi An Ancient Town is a must for all visitors to Da Nang. In Hoi An, you will have a chance of seeing one of the most prosperous trading ports of Vietnam in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. For the next days of your journey, I suggest you visit the Marble Mountains with arrays of wonderful caves and pagodas. In addition, the 400-year-old Non Nuoc Arts Village, where you can buy marble handicrafts as souvenirs, certainly deserves your time of visiting.

Finally, a kind reminder – as the weather in Da Nang is getting colder, you had better bring more clothes with you. Don’t forget your camera either.

Let me know your flight number so that I can pick you up at the airport.

Best wishes,

– 217 words –

spare (thời giani rank: du

Could I have a word with you when you have goi a spare moment? look forward to mong ngóng

They look forward to hosting the Olympic Games in 2012.

prosperous Mil) liât, thịnh vượng

In a prosperous country like this, everything is possible.

array loạt, dãy

There was a splendid array of food on the table,

deserve d a ng. X tin g dang

You deserve my special thanks.

Practical Sentence Patterns

Cách diễn đạt lời đề nghị; I suggest (that)

Chú ý câu sau trong bài văn mẫu:

For the next days of your journey, I suggest you visit the Marble Mountains with arrays of wonderful caves and pagodas.

The doctor suggested that I (should) come again the next day.

La WRITING TASK 1 ¡j You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Your friend wants to come to your city and stay with you for one week for a holiday. However, it is impossible for you to accompany him. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, you should:

• apologise to your friend

• explain why you cannot stay with him

• suggest an alternative plan for the holiday

Write at least ISO words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear……………

Model Essay

Dear Peter,

I am so happy to learn that you are coming to Sydney for the coming holiday. Four years alter graduation, we will finally have the chance to meet! However, I regret to tell you that I will not be able to stay with you while you are here.

The reason is that recently 1 have been promoted to the position of regional manager. Good news, isn’t it? But it also means that I will be relocated to our regional headquarters in Hong Kong. I am scheduled to leave for Hong Kong on Feb. 10, the second day of your visit, so I’m afraid the only day we can meet is the 9^th when you arrive.

I don’t want this to ruin your holiday, so I have made an alternative plan. I have made a reservation for you in a Youth Hostel near where I live. The price is reasonable and the service is good. Also, a friend of mine will be with you if you need any help. He is a local Australian and used to work as a tourist guide. I am sure you will have a wonderful time travelling with him.

See you soon! Best wishes, tpfiifvp

Key Vocabulary

regret hối tiếc, lầy làm tiếc

Is there anything you have done in your life that you regret? promote thăng tiến, ỗé bạt

Il’I am not promoted within the next two years, I am going to change jobs, relocate chuyên. di chuyên

Multinational companies often relocate their resources to places where labour cost is low.

be scheduled to diỉựL’ lén kế hoạch, được sắp xếp The plane is scheduled lo arrive in about 20 minutes’ time.

reservation sir đặt chỗ truck’

You should make a reservation earlier as the peak tourist season is coming.

Practical Sentence Patterns ^[2]

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You are going to have a business trip and arrange your friend to look after your children. Write a letter to the friend. In your letter, you should:

tell him/her which kind of food your children like and dislike

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear……………

Model Essay

Dear Lily,

I am writing to ask for your help to take care of my kid – Tony, when I am on a business trip from next Monday to next Friday.

As you know, Tony has a fever for all sweet food, especially ice cream. But he is allowed to have it only once every two weeks because he has already got two bad teeth. Therefore, the whole next week he would have no chance to access sweets. Please show your mercy by being tough since he is very good at begging. Besides, he hates fruits but he is really into fruit juice. I would appreciate it very much if you can make one cup of juice every day for him. By the way, I would buy those he likes and take them to your place later this weekend. Except for the above two things, Tony is a cute company and an easy-to-please boy that will bring you little trouble.

Plus, he enjoys playing basketball very much, and I have noticed the basket in your backyard. That would be his playground where he can hang around after school. He sometimes would bring some other kids and play group basketball game. So make some rules when I am away. One-hour physical practice is adequate for a 7-year-old boy, or he would make trouble in having a sound sleep at night by being too excited.

I will pick him up on Friday next week. I’ll give you a call right after my landing off. Thanks a lot for your help.

Love,

Mandy

– 2.59 words –

Key Vocabulary

mercy Ling nhãn tư

The prisoner begged the judge for mercy.

beg năn ni; ăn xin

In those years they were forced to beg for a living, appreciate cảm kích

The family deeply appreciates his good wishes and congratulations.

company bạn be; Sự báu bạn

She shall never tire of her dog’s company.

easy-to-please . dẻ chiều chuộng, dẻ lam vui lòng

Bill is so easy-to-please that a little new toy can make him happy for a whole week, hang around quanh quấn

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You are currently living in a rented flat but will be moving out soon.

Write a letter to the owner of the flat to thank him and introduce one of your friends to move in. In your letter, you should:

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Model Essay

Dear Mr. Franklin,

I am sorry to inform you that due to some personal reasons I have to move out and quit the renting contract with you.

Above all, I sincerely appreciate your help during my stay. Indeed, since I first moved to your flat, you have provided me with the comfortable furniture as well as pleasing indoor decoration, which helps me to ease the pressure in my arduous work and study. I am also grateful that you regularly visited me and took good care of me when I was sick.

The main reason I have to move out is that the job opportunity a multinational company offered me in a metropolis is so attractive that I decided to start my new career life there. Moreover, I like the fast pace of life in the big city.

Accidentally, one of my best friends, who is working as a journalist, is seeking a flat currently. If you want to continue leasing your flat, she would probably be an appropriate choice for you because of her favourable personality and simple lifestyle. Please let me know your idea if possible.

I am so sorry for the inconvenience my leaving could cause. Yours sincerely,

Worn ‘ìia^úỉiọh

– 202 words –

quit tu bo, rut lui

Would you quit your job if you inherited lots of money? appreciate cam kich

We really appreciate all the help you gave us last weekend.

I

metropolis thủ phú. thủ đó

Soon afterwards he left to begin his career in the metropolis.

accidentally VO tình, tình cò’

I accidentally knocked a glass over.

journalist nhá báo

He is a freelance political journalist.

\ lease cho thuê

It was agreed they would lease him the flat.

favourable rất tốt; dề chịu; tích cực She made a very favourable impression on US.

inconvenience sự bất tiện

” We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the late arrival of the train.

Practical Sentence Patterns

Cách dùng từ indeed để nhấn mạnh:

Chú ý câu sau trong bài vãn mẫu:

Indeed, since I first moved to your flat, you have provided me with the comfortable furniture as well as pleasing indoor decoration.

Indeed được dùng để trình bày ý cần được nhấn mạnh, ví dụ:

Genetic research has come a long way in recent years. Indeed, it is reported that scientists in Beijing have recently cloned a cow.

Bạn cũng có thể dùng in fact thay cho indeed, ví dụ:

There appears to be a growing interest in the Asian market. In fact, more and more foreign-owned companies are setting up business in countries such as Vietnam.

WRITING TASK I

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Write a letter to invite a famous person to give a speech at a meeting in your youth club. In your letter, you should:

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin vour letter as follows:

Model Essay

Dear Mr. Smith,

On behalf of Sunshine Youth Club, I am writing to invite you to make a speech at our annual charity donation meeting.

Sunshine Youth Club is an organisation established with the aim to guide and educate the youngsters so that they can lead a healthy lifestyle. Indeed, instead of offering entertainment alone, our club holds, every now and then, a variety of social activities, including raising money for the disabled and the poor.

Having an international reputation and a positive impression among the young, you are the ideal person to encourage young people to donate what they can afford to charity. In fact, we get the information from the press that you have donated millions of dollars to help the impoverished people in Africa and Southern Asia.

The meeting will be held next Monday afternoon on July 4, and we will make arrangements to have you picked up at your residence around noon. Your speech is scheduled at 1:30 p.m. for about half an hour. After your speech, we will start the donation process.

We would be more than excited and grateful if you could take your time off to deliver a speech to our youth club.

Yours sincerely,

‘Tom,

Key Vocabulary

charity long tư thiện, việc tư thiện, hội tử thiện They did a charity performance on the first night to raise monev for AIDS research.

donation sự quyên góp; tiến quyên góp I would like to make a small donation in my mother’s name.

disabled khuyết tạt

It is often very difficult for the disabled to find jobs.

reputation dank tiếng, tiếng tăm His reputation was destroyed when he was caught stealing some money.

ideal lý tuong

The television also comes in a compact 36cm screen size, ideal for bedroom or

The priest delivered a passionate sermon against war.
deliver phat bleu

Practical Sentence Patterns

Cách diễn đạt lời yêu cầu một cách lịch sự: We would be grateful if you could…

Khi viết thư yêu cầu người nào đó làm việc gì cho mình, bạn có thể dùng cấu trúc I/We would be grateful if you could… cấu trúc này diễn tả lời yêu cầu nhẹ nhàng và lịch sự hơn Can you…?, ví dụ:

I would be grateful if you could provide me with the necessary information.

I would be more than grateful if you could help me out of this difficult situation.

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

A company is organising a trip abroad for language training to a number of limited places. Write a letter to the manager of the company. In your letter, you should;

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Model Essay

Dear Sir / Madam,

I am writing in response to the advertisement your company placed in the local newspaper for a language training trip overseas. In fact, it is a unique opportunity and an efficient means for me to enhance my language ability beyond the boundary of my own country.

Although the cost of the training is relatively high for me, I suppose that there are enormous benefits of participating in this trip. As I am working for a multinational corporation, the ability to communicate effectively in a foreign language is a major concern of the job. Therefore, I would like to make full use of my paid vacation to further my language learning. Additionally, by means of this trip, I can develop my own method of studying language as well as the skills of independent learning. What is more, travelling to several places will surely broaden my horizons when I come into contact with exotic scenery and local customs.

However, whether I could be involved in this training programme is determined by the selection procedure of your organisation. By and large, I am convinced that I am
fully qualified to be a member of this language training trip, both academically and financially. Therefore, I would appreciate it very much if your organisation could take my case into careful consideration for this programme.

I look forward to receiving a favourable reply at your earliest convenience.

Yours faithfully,

– 239 words –

Key Vocabulary vacation ky nghi

He is currently on summer vacation and will be beginning the twelfth grade in less than one month.

additionally ngoài ra, thêm vào đó

With access to the Internet, we can search for desired information at any moment. Additionally, we can get huge recreations online by chatting, playing games, or delivering e-mail.

by and large ndi chung

By and large, the play was a success.

qualified dudieukien

People under 16 are not qualified for this competition.

academically . về mặt lý thuyết/họe thuật

It is not academically honest to cite these journal articles when you did not use them.

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You will go to London soon to stay there for one year. Write a letter to an agency to get information about accommodation, in your letter, you should say:

Write aL least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear………………

Model Essay

Dear Sir,

I am writing to you in the hope that I may obtain information about accommodation in London.

I am going to study at London University for my Master’s degree next month and will therefore stay in the city for one year. Since my wife will come with me, the accommodation that London University has offered me might not be suited.

We are seeking accommodation that is just a short bus ride away from London University or even within walking distance, and is situated in areas where there is a relatively good supply of living goods. Besides, our ideal apartment might include a bed, wardrobe, study desk and lamp, dining table, and telephone. In particular, we need a kitchen which is fully equipped with a refrigerator, microwave oven, cook top, kettle, toaster, and cooking and dining utensils.

I will arrive in London at the end of this month, so I would be much obliged to you if you could recommend several accommodations I am looking for.

Your prompt and favourable attention to my inquiry would be highly appreciated.

Yours faithfully,

. /iVVviy •/hfiftc

■ 183 words ■

I

expanse vùng (đất,

She gazed at the immense expanse of the sea.

plot mánh đát

There are several plots of land for sale.

■ stretch dái đất This particular stretch of coast is especially popular with walkers

[2] regret to tell you that I cannot accept your invitation as I am going on a business trip.

Bạn cùng có thể thay tell bằng inform, ví dụ:

I regret to inform you that due to limited funds, we have to put off the project until early next year.

Uncategorized

My Training

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

The unlimited use of cars may cause many problems. What are those problems?

In order to reduce the problems, should we discourage people to use cars?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own ( knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Having a car has become an essential part of many people’s lives. It offers flexibility to their life and work, and also provides ready access to a variety of services and leisure options. However, a range of problems have been identified and need to be addressed.

So, in conclusion, I think that while discouraging the car use might seem a quick solution to many problems currently facing the society, it is most unlikely to be a per­manent cure.

– 303 words –

General Training Test 2-March 2006

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

People generally know that the environment is important. However, most individuals still don’t take responsibility to protect the environment. Why is this? What should be done to encourage people to protect the environment?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

They can also offer more incentives to people who have been active in cleaning up the neighbourhood or severely punish those who have been unfriendly to the environment.

There is always a dilemma between environment and development, but as an indi­vidual, we can do something to reduce the negative impact of human activities on the environment. Certainly, we do not want to see the Earth turn into an uninhabitable planet.

– 297 words –

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Fossil fuels, such as coal, oil and natural gas, are used in many countries. The use of alternative sources of energy, including wind and solar power, is encouraged. Is this trend a positive or negative development?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

314 words

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about. the following topic:

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Given this argument, it is reasonable to conclude that if every member of the society is aware of the relationship between humans and the nature and stops their destructive behaviour, the ecological strain on earth can be relieved and the benefits to all nations are enormous.

– 365 words –

WRITING TASK 2

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Thus, while computers may be useful as a tool for practising simple skills, they are not an essential feature of modern education, because they cannot monitor a student’s

Write about the topic

The main purpose of public libraries is to provide books, and they shouldn’t waste their limited resources and space on providing expensive hi-tech media such as computer software, videos and DVDs.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

Finally, visiting a library with multiple media access is much more interesting. Multi­media resources offer readers a dynamic combination of images, sounds and videos. A reader can actually hear Martin Luther King crying out “I have a dream”, or roam about the world with an interactive atlas.

In conclusion, modern technology has turned a public library from a place of lending and borrowing books into an interactive centre for the spread of human knowledge and experience. The investment in multimedia facilities by a public library is justified and should be encouraged.

General Training Task 2 Question

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Many parents complain that computer games have no value to their children’s studies. On the contrary, those online games have produced a lot of negative effects on their mental and physical development. What is your opinion?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant, examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

– 323 words –

Z WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Some people think computers and the Internet are important in children’s study, but others think students can learn more effectively in schools and with teachers.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

6 r ,

* Give reasons tor your answer and include any relevant examples from your own

Model Essay

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Some people think that we should invent a new language for international communication. Do the benefits of this outweigh the problems?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

WRITING TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Modern buildings change the character and appearance of towns and cities. The government should insist that new buildings be built In traditional styles to protect cultural identity.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Essay

We also need to question whether the things that were done in the past are the best that we can do. Why were the buildings in the past seen as the best examples of Vietnamese ideas, design and architecture? Why do we have to stop our own creativity while the

creativity of past builders is to be boringly followed? It sounds like a way to kill culture, to kill ideas, to kill the talent of new people working in a new time.

Of course it is good to keep some things from the past, to protect some buildings, to remember our history, but not at the expense of our future.

– 316 words –

Academie Task 2 Question August 2006

WRITING TASK 2

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own ₍knowledge or experience.

So, in conclusion, I think that while discouraging the car use might seem a quick solution to many problems currently facing the society, it is most unlikely to be a permanent cure.

There is always a dilemma between environment and development, but as an individual, we can do something to reduce the negative impact of human activities on the environment. Certainly, we do not want to see the Earth turn into an uninhabitable planet.

Finally, visiting a library with multiple media access is much more interesting. Multimedia resources offer readers a dynamic combination of images, sounds and videos. A reader can actually hear Martin Luther King crying out “I have a dream”, or roam about the world with an interactive atlas.

6 _r ,