IELTS Speaking: Cách Trả Lời Chủ Đề “Describe A Traditional Event Or Festival You Attended” – Bài Mẫu Band 6-9

Chủ đề về sự kiện truyền thống hay lễ hội là một trong những đề tài phổ biến nhất trong IELTS Speaking, đặc biệt là ở Part 2. Với tư cách là một giám khảo IELTS với hơn 20 năm kinh nghiệm, tôi nhận thấy chủ đề “Describe A Traditional Event Or Festival You Attended” xuất hiện thường xuyên trong các kỳ thi từ 2020 đến 2024, với tần suất khoảng 2-3 lần mỗi quý. Dự đoán khả năng xuất hiện trong tương lai vẫn ở mức cao do tính ứng dụng rộng rãi và khả năng đánh giá toàn diện kỹ năng của thí sinh.

Chủ đề này quan trọng vì nó cho phép examiner đánh giá khả năng kể chuyện, mô tả chi tiết, và sử dụng thì quá khứ – một trong những điểm yếu phổ biến của học viên Việt Nam. Hơn nữa, đây là chủ đề mở, cho phép thí sinh thể hiện sự sáng tạo và khả năng sử dụng từ vựng đa dạng liên quan đến văn hóa, cảm xúc và hoạt động xã hội.

Trong bài viết này, bạn sẽ học được:

• 12 câu hỏi thực tế thường gặp trong cả 3 Part
• Bài mẫu chi tiết theo 3 mức band điểm khác nhau (6-7, 7.5-8, 8.5-9)
• Hơn 50 từ vựng và cụm từ ăn điểm cho chủ đề
• Chiến lược trả lời hiệu quả từ góc nhìn của examiner
• Phân tích sâu về tiêu chí chấm điểm và cách cải thiện
• Những lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam và cách khắc phục

IELTS Speaking Part 1: Introduction and Interview

Tổng Quan Về Part 1

Part 1 là phần khởi động của bài thi, kéo dài 4-5 phút với các câu hỏi đời sống hàng ngày. Examiner muốn tạo không khí thoải mái và đánh giá khả năng giao tiếp tự nhiên của bạn. Chiến lược quan trọng nhất là trả lời trực tiếp, sau đó mở rộng ý với 2-3 câu bổ sung, bao gồm lý do hoặc ví dụ cụ thể.

Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam trong Part 1:

• Trả lời quá ngắn gọn (chỉ Yes/No hoặc 1 câu đơn)
• Sử dụng từ vựng quá đơn giản, lặp đi lặp lại
• Thiếu ví dụ cụ thể từ kinh nghiệm bản thân
• Lo lắng quá mức dẫn đến nói thiếu tự nhiên
• Không sử dụng linking words để kết nối ý

Các Câu Hỏi Thường Gặp

Dưới đây là 10 câu hỏi thực tế liên quan đến chủ đề festivals và traditional events mà tôi thường sử dụng khi chấm thi:

Question 1: Do you enjoy attending festivals?

Question 2: What is the most popular festival in your country?

Question 3: Did you go to any festivals when you were a child?

Question 4: How do people in your country celebrate traditional festivals?

Question 5: Do you prefer traditional festivals or modern events?

Question 6: Are festivals important in your culture?

Question 7: What do you usually do during festivals?

Question 8: Have you ever attended a festival from another country?

Question 9: Do young people in your country still celebrate traditional festivals?

Question 10: Would you like to attend more festivals in the future?

Phân Tích và Gợi Ý Trả Lời Chi Tiết

Question: Do you enjoy attending festivals?

Cách tiếp cận:

• Trả lời trực tiếp (Yes/No + mức độ)
• Đưa ra 1-2 lý do cụ thể
• Thêm ví dụ ngắn từ kinh nghiệm bản thân

Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“Yes, I do enjoy festivals. They’re fun and I can spend time with my family. For example, during Tet holiday, we all gather together and have special meals.”

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Trả lời trực tiếp, có lý do và ví dụ cụ thể
• Hạn chế: Từ vựng đơn giản (fun, spend time), cấu trúc câu cơ bản, thiếu detail
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Đáp ứng yêu cầu cơ bản nhưng chưa thể hiện được vốn từ vựng phong phú hay cấu trúc ngữ pháp đa dạng. Ý tưởng còn chung chung.

Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

“Absolutely! I’m quite fond of attending festivals because they give me a chance to immerse myself in the vibrant atmosphere and reconnect with my cultural roots. For instance, during the Mid-Autumn Festival, I always make it a point to join the lantern processions in the Old Quarter, which is an incredibly festive experience that brings back wonderful childhood memories.”

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Sử dụng từ vựng sophisticated (immerse myself in, reconnect with, cultural roots), cấu trúc câu phức (relative clause), ý tưởng cụ thể và cá nhân hóa
• Tại sao Band 8-9: Thể hiện Fluency tốt với discourse marker “Absolutely”, Vocabulary đa dạng với collocations tự nhiên, Grammar chính xác với cấu trúc phức tạp, và Ideas sâu sắc khi đề cập đến khía cạnh văn hóa và cảm xúc cá nhân

Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

• be fond of: yêu thích, có cảm tình với
• immerse myself in: đắm chìm vào, hòa mình vào
• reconnect with one’s roots: kết nối lại với nguồn gốc văn hóa
• lantern procession: đoàn rước đèn lồng
• festive experience: trải nghiệm lễ hội sôi động

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Question: What is the most popular festival in your country?

Cách tiếp cận:

• Nêu tên lễ hội và giải thích ngắn gọn
• Đưa ra lý do tại sao nó phổ biến
• Mô tả vắn tắt các hoạt động chính

Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“I think Tet is the most popular festival in Vietnam. It’s our New Year holiday. Everyone goes home to meet their family and we eat special food like banh chung. It lasts about one week.”

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Trả lời đúng trọng tâm, có thông tin cụ thể về thời gian và hoạt động
• Hạn chế: Từ vựng còn basic (eat special food, meet family), thiếu linking words, chưa giải thích tại sao nó phổ biến
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Đủ information nhưng chưa developed, vocabulary và grammar structure còn simple

Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

“Without a doubt, Tet Nguyen Dan, or Lunar New Year, is the most cherished festival in Vietnam. It’s deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture and typically spans about a week. What makes it so popular is that it’s a time for family reunions, where people flock back to their hometowns, regardless of how far they’ve traveled for work. The festival is marked by various traditions like preparing square sticky rice cakes, giving lucky money to children, and visiting pagodas to pray for prosperity in the coming year.”

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Vocabulary tinh vi và precise (cherished, deeply rooted in, spans, flock back), sử dụng discourse marker “Without a doubt”, cấu trúc grammar đa dạng (relative clauses, participle phrases), ý tưởng được develop đầy đủ với nhiều details
• Tại sao Band 8-9: Thể hiện đầy đủ 4 tiêu chí: Fluency với câu trả lời trôi chảy và well-organized, Lexical Resource với topic-specific vocabulary, Grammatical Range với complex structures, và coherent ideas

Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

• cherished: được trân trọng, quý giá
• be deeply rooted in: có rễ sâu trong, gắn liền với
• span: kéo dài (về thời gian)
• flock back: đổ xô về, trở về hàng loạt
• be marked by: được đánh dấu bởi, đặc trưng bởi
• pray for prosperity: cầu mong sự thịnh vượng

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Question: Did you go to any festivals when you were a child?

Cách tiếp cận:

• Sử dụng thì quá khứ đơn (key point!)
• Nêu tên lễ hội cụ thể
• Mô tả ngắn gọn trải nghiệm hoặc cảm xúc

Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“Yes, I did. When I was young, my parents took me to the Mid-Autumn Festival every year. I remember playing with lanterns and eating mooncakes. It was very exciting for me.”

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Sử dụng đúng thì quá khứ, có ví dụ cụ thể và cảm xúc
• Hạn chế: Từ vựng đơn giản (very exciting, took me to), thiếu vivid details
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Grammatically correct nhưng lacks sophistication trong vocabulary và sentence structure

Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

“Definitely! My childhood was filled with fond memories of the Mid-Autumn Festival. My parents would always take me to the local park where there would be elaborate lantern displays and lion dance performances. I was absolutely mesmerized by the colorful lanterns in various shapes – some looked like fish, others like stars. The highlight was when my father bought me my own lantern, and I proudly carried it around all evening. Those experiences sparked my lifelong appreciation for traditional celebrations.”

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Vivid descriptions (elaborate lantern displays, mesmerized by, proudly carried), sử dụng varied grammar (would always + infinitive, passive voice), vocabulary range cao (highlight, sparked, appreciation), kết nối past với present
• Tại sao Band 8-9: Demonstrates excellent command của language với detailed personal narrative, sophisticated vocabulary, complex sentences, và reflective thinking về impact của experience

Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

• be filled with: tràn ngập, đầy ắp
• elaborate displays: màn trình diễn/trưng bày công phu
• be mesmerized by: bị mê hoặc bởi, say mê
• the highlight: điểm nhấn, phần hay nhất
• spark: khơi dậy, châm ngòi cho

Trẻ em Việt Nam vui vẻ thả đèn lồng trong lễ hội Trung Thu truyền thống với gia đình

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Question: How do people in your country celebrate traditional festivals?

Cách tiếp cận:

• Sử dụng general present tense (people + plural verb)
• Liệt kê 2-3 hoạt động chính
• Có thể so sánh khác biệt giữa các vùng miền hoặc thế hệ

Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“People in Vietnam celebrate festivals with their families. They usually prepare special food, visit temples, and give gifts to each other. Young people also like to go out with friends during festivals.”

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Trả lời đúng dạng general, có nhiều activities
• Hạn chế: Vocabulary basic (prepare food, go out), thiếu specific examples, không có depth
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Adequate response nhưng lacks detail và sophisticated language

Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

“Well, traditional festival celebrations in Vietnam are quite elaborate and family-centered. Typically, families get together weeks in advance to prepare ceremonial offerings for their ancestors, which might include traditional delicacies specific to each festival. During the actual celebration, you’ll see people flocking to temples and pagodas to pray for blessings, while streets come alive with vibrant decorations and cultural performances. What’s interesting is that there’s a generational divide – older people tend to focus more on religious rituals, whereas younger generations often blend traditional activities with modern celebrations like hosting parties or traveling during the holiday period.”

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Comprehensive coverage của topic với multiple perspectives (preparation, activities, generational differences), sophisticated vocabulary (ceremonial offerings, delicacies, generational divide), complex sentence structures, và critical observation về social changes
• Tại sao Band 8-9: Shows deep cultural understanding, uses precise topic-specific vocabulary, demonstrates grammatical range (relative clauses, whereas comparison, present continuous for description), và provides nuanced analysis

Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

• elaborate: công phu, chi tiết
• family-centered: lấy gia đình làm trung tâm
• ceremonial offerings: đồ cúng lễ
• traditional delicacies: món ăn truyền thống đặc sắc
• generational divide: khoảng cách thế hệ
• blend: kết hợp, pha trộn

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IELTS Speaking Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Tổng Quan Về Part 2

Part 2 là phần thử thách nhất với nhiều thí sinh vì yêu cầu nói liên tục 2-3 phút về một chủ đề cụ thể. Bạn có 1 phút chuẩn bị và nên sử dụng đầy đủ thời gian này để ghi chú keywords, không phải viết câu hoàn chỉnh. Chiến lược quan trọng là:

• Ghi chú theo bullet points trên cue card (một số keywords cho mỗi điểm)
• Nói đủ 2 phút (examiner sẽ ngắt lời nếu bạn vượt quá thời gian)
• Trả lời đầy đủ tất cả bullet points, đặc biệt là câu “explain” cuối cùng
• Sử dụng thì quá khứ cho các sự kiện đã xảy ra
• Tạo structure rõ ràng: Introduction – Development – Conclusion

Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam:

• Không sử dụng hết 1 phút chuẩn bị, vội vàng bắt đầu nói
• Nói không đủ thời gian (dưới 1.5 phút) hoặc hết ý
• Bỏ sót bullet points, đặc biệt là phần “explain”
• Chuyển đổi thì không nhất quán (từ quá khứ sang hiện tại)
• Thiếu linking words để connect các phần
• Nói lan man, không structured

Cue Card

Describe a traditional event or festival you attended

You should say:

• What the event/festival was
• When and where it took place
• Who you went with and what you did there
• And explain why this event/festival was memorable to you

Phân Tích Đề Bài

• Dạng câu hỏi: Describe an event/experience (past experience)
• Thì động từ: Chủ yếu là quá khứ đơn (simple past) và quá khứ tiếp diễn (past continuous) để mô tả
• Bullet points phải cover:
  • What: Tên lễ hội/sự kiện, giải thích ngắn gọn về nó
  • When/Where: Thời gian cụ thể (năm, tháng, mùa), địa điểm cụ thể
  • Who/What you did: Người đi cùng và các hoạt động chi tiết
  • Explain why memorable: Đây là phần QUAN TRỌNG nhất, cần focus vào cảm xúc, ý nghĩa cá nhân, hoặc impact
• Câu “explain” quan trọng: Đây là phần ghi điểm cao nhất vì cho thấy khả năng express feelings, analyze significance, và demonstrate personal reflection. Nhiều thí sinh chỉ describe mà quên explain tại sao memorable.

Sample Answer – Band 6-7

Thời lượng: Khoảng 1.5-2 phút

“I’d like to talk about the Tet Festival I attended last year. Tet is the Vietnamese New Year and it’s the biggest festival in my country.

It took place in January 2023, during the Spring season. I celebrated it in my hometown with my extended family – my parents, grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins. We all gathered at my grandparents’ house.

During the festival, we did many traditional activities. First, we cleaned and decorated the house with peach blossoms and red banners. On New Year’s Eve, we prepared special dishes like spring rolls and sticky rice cakes. At midnight, we set off firecrackers to welcome the new year. During the following days, we visited relatives’ houses, and the adults gave us lucky money in red envelopes. I also went to the local temple with my family to pray for good luck.

This festival was memorable to me because I could spend quality time with my whole family. In normal days, everyone is busy with work and study, so we don’t meet often. The atmosphere was very warm and joyful. I also enjoyed the traditional food that my grandmother cooked. It reminded me of my childhood and made me feel connected to my culture. These moments are really precious to me.”

Phân Tích Band Điểm

Tiêu chí	Band	Nhận xét
Fluency & Coherence	6-7	Nói trôi chảy với một số pauses nhỏ, có structure rõ ràng (intro-body-conclusion), sử dụng basic linking words (First, During, Also), ideas connected nhưng còn predictable
Lexical Resource	6-7	Từ vựng adequate và appropriate (extended family, set off firecrackers, lucky money), một số collocations tốt (quality time, precious moments) nhưng còn nhiều từ đơn giản (big, warm, happy), less sophisticated
Grammatical Range & Accuracy	6-7	Sử dụng đúng thì quá khứ consistently, có một số complex sentences (relative clauses, because), nhưng majority là simple và compound sentences, ít advanced structures
Pronunciation	6-7	Clear và understandable với Vietnamese accent, word stress đúng, natural intonation

Điểm mạnh:

• Trả lời đầy đủ tất cả bullet points
• Structure rõ ràng và logical
• Sử dụng thì quá khứ đúng và consistent
• Có personal details và emotions
• Thời lượng đủ (khoảng 1.5-2 phút)

Hạn chế:

• Vocabulary còn basic và repetitive (special, traditional)
• Thiếu vivid descriptions và sensory details
• Grammar structures chưa đa dạng
• Ideas chưa deeply developed
• Thiếu sophisticated expressions và idioms

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Sample Answer – Band 7.5-8

Thời lượng: Khoảng 2-2.5 phút

“I’d like to describe the Tet Festival I attended last year, which was hands down one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had in recent years. Tet, or Lunar New Year, is Vietnam’s most significant traditional celebration, marking the beginning of spring and a fresh start.

The festival took place in late January 2023, and I made my way back to my hometown in the Mekong Delta region to celebrate with my extended family. The preparations had actually begun weeks in advance, but the main celebration spanned about a week.

What made this Tet particularly special was the range of activities we participated in. In the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, we pitched in to thoroughly clean the house and decorate it with traditional ornaments – vibrant peach blossoms, golden kumquat trees, and red couplets with auspicious messages. My grandmother supervised the cooking of traditional delicacies like square sticky rice cakes and Vietnamese spring rolls. On New Year’s Eve, the whole family gathered around the ancestral altar to pay respects to our forefathers. At the stroke of midnight, the neighborhood erupted with the sound of firecrackers, creating an incredibly festive atmosphere. During the following days, we made rounds visiting relatives and neighbors, and I, along with my younger cousins, eagerly received lucky money in crimson envelopes.

This festival stands out in my memory for several reasons. First and foremost, it provided a rare opportunity to reconnect with family members I hadn’t seen in months due to work commitments. The sense of togetherness was truly heartwarming. Moreover, participating in these time-honored traditions helped me appreciate my cultural heritage more deeply. I was also struck by how these rituals, despite modernization, continue to bind Vietnamese families together. The experience reinforced my sense of identity and made me realize how important it is to preserve these cultural practices for future generations.”

Phân Tích Band Điểm

Tiêu chí	Band	Nhận xét
Fluency & Coherence	7.5-8	Speaks fluently với minimal hesitation, well-organized với clear progression (preparation – activities – significance), sử dụng sophisticated cohesive devices (leading up to, first and foremost, moreover), develops ideas logically
Lexical Resource	7.5-8	Wide range của vocabulary với precision (hands down, stands out, erupted, struck by), effective collocations (memorable experience, time-honored traditions, sense of togetherness), topic-specific terms (ancestral altar, auspicious messages), some less common vocabulary (crimson, forefathers)
Grammatical Range & Accuracy	7.5-8	Wide range của structures (past perfect, passive voice, relative clauses, participle phrases), good control với occasional minor errors, flexible và appropriate use of tenses
Pronunciation	7.5-8	Clear articulation, appropriate word stress và sentence stress, natural intonation patterns, minimal L1 interference

So Sánh Với Band 6-7

Khía cạnh	Band 6-7	Band 7.5-8
Vocabulary	“biggest festival”, “traditional activities”, “warm and joyful”	“most significant celebration”, “time-honored traditions”, “truly heartwarming”, “sense of togetherness”
Grammar	“During the festival, we did many traditional activities”	“In the days leading up to New Year’s Eve, we pitched in to thoroughly clean the house”
Ideas	Lists activities, mentions “quality time”	Explains preparation process, analyzes cultural significance, reflects on personal identity
Details	General descriptions (special dishes, traditional food)	Specific details (square sticky rice cakes, golden kumquat trees, crimson envelopes)

Gia đình Việt Nam cùng nhau trang trí nhà cửa với hoa đào mai và câu đối đỏ đón Tết Nguyên Đán

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Sample Answer – Band 8.5-9

Thời lượng: 2.5-3 phút đầy đủ

“I’d like to share with you an experience that left a lasting impression on me – attending the Hung Kings’ Temple Festival, also known as Gio To Hung Vuong, which is one of Vietnam’s most revered traditional celebrations commemorating the legendary founders of our nation.

The festival took place this past April during the third lunar month, which is when Vietnamese people traditionally pay homage to the Hung Kings at the temple complex nestled in Phu Tho province, about 80 kilometers northwest of Hanoi. I embarked on this journey with a group of close friends who, like me, were keen to immerse ourselves in this profound cultural experience that we’d only vaguely heard about but never witnessed firsthand.

The experience was nothing short of extraordinary. We set off at dawn to avoid the crowds, but even so, by the time we made our way up the mountain path to the temple, thousands of pilgrims had already congregated, creating a sea of people dressed predominantly in traditional ao dai and carrying incense offerings. What struck me most was the sheer devotion displayed by people from all walks of life – from elderly villagers to young urbanites – all united in their reverence for these mythical ancestors. The procession itself was absolutely mesmerizing, featuring elaborate palanquins, traditional “chau van” ritual music, and lion dance troupes performing along the route. We participated in the ceremonial incense offering at the main temple, where the atmosphere was thick with incense smoke and resounded with chanting and drumbeats. The festival also featured folk games dating back centuries, such as bamboo swings and rice cooking competitions, which provided a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s agrarian heritage.

What makes this experience so memorable to me goes far beyond the visual spectacle. On a personal level, it was a profound awakening to the depth of Vietnamese cultural identity. Growing up in an increasingly modernized urban environment, I’d become somewhat disconnected from these traditional roots, and this festival served as a powerful reminder of the enduring values that underpin our society – respect for ancestors, community solidarity, and preservation of cultural legacy. I was particularly moved by witnessing multi-generational families making the pilgrimage together, with grandparents recounting historical narratives to their grandchildren, thereby ensuring the continuity of these traditions. Furthermore, the experience sparked in me a deeper appreciation for the intricate rituals and symbolism embedded in Vietnamese culture. It made me reflect on how, in our rush toward modernity, we risk losing these invaluable cultural touchstones. The festival essentially reinforced my belief that preserving and actively participating in such traditions is crucial not only for maintaining our collective identity but also for enriching our personal sense of belonging and rootedness. Since attending, I’ve made it a point to delve deeper into Vietnamese history and culture, and I’m planning to make this an annual pilgrimage moving forward.”

Phân Tích Band Điểm

Tiêu chí	Band	Nhận xét
Fluency & Coherence	8.5-9	Speaks fluently và coherently với natural, effortless delivery, sophisticated use của cohesive devices (on a personal level, furthermore, essentially), ideas developed fully và logically connected, minimal hesitation
Lexical Resource	8.5-9	Wide range của sophisticated vocabulary used naturally (revered, commemorating, congregated, mesmerizing, underpin, invaluable), precise collocations (lasting impression, sheer devotion, visual spectacle, profound awakening), idiomatic expressions (nothing short of, all walks of life, in our rush toward), effective use của less common vocabulary appropriate to context
Grammatical Range & Accuracy	8.5-9	Full range và flexible use của structures (past perfect continuous, complex relative clauses, participle clauses, inversion, cleft sentences), high degree of accuracy, rare errors, sophisticated use of tenses
Pronunciation	8.5-9	Sustained control, flexible use của features of connected speech, clear articulation, effective use of stress và intonation to convey meaning

Tại Sao Bài Này Xuất Sắc

Fluency Hoàn Hảo:
Bài nói có độ trôi chảy tự nhiên với minimal hesitation. Candidate sử dụng discourse markers tinh tế (On a personal level, Furthermore, Essentially) để guide listener through ideas. Transition giữa các phần smooth và logical, tạo ra narrative flow mạnh mẽ.

Vocabulary Tinh Vi:

• “left a lasting impression” thay vì “memorable” – shows more sophisticated way to express impact
• “nestled in” để mô tả location – creates vivid imagery
• “nothing short of extraordinary” – idiomatic expression showing native-like fluency
• “thick with incense smoke” – sensory description that makes story come alive
• “underpin our society” – abstract noun showing ability to discuss concepts at high level

Grammar Đa Dạng:

• Past perfect: “we’d only vaguely heard about but never witnessed firsthand” – shows timeline relationship
• Participle clauses: “featuring elaborate palanquins” – native-like sentence compression
• Complex relative clauses: “traditional roots, and this festival served as…” – seamless integration
• Cleft sentence: “What struck me most was…” – emphasis technique
• Abstract noun phrases: “the preservation of cultural legacy” – academic style appropriate for explain part

Ideas Sâu Sắc:
Candidate không chỉ describe activities mà còn analyze cultural significance, reflect on personal transformation, và discuss broader social implications. Phần explain đặc biệt impressive với multiple layers of meaning: personal disconnection → reconnection → future commitment. Shows critical thinking và ability to connect personal experience với wider cultural context.

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Follow-up Questions (Rounding Off Questions)

Examiner thường hỏi 1-2 câu ngắn sau Part 2 để transition sang Part 3. Đây là câu hỏi easier, chỉ cần trả lời ngắn gọn:

Question 1: Do you think you will attend this festival again in the future?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I definitely will. It was such a good experience and I want to go there again with my family next year.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“Absolutely! I’ve actually already made plans to turn it into an annual tradition. The experience was so enriching that I feel it’s something worth making time for every year, and I’d love to bring my family along next time to share this meaningful experience with them.”

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Question 2: Was it easy to get to the festival location?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“Not really. We had to travel quite far and there was a lot of traffic. But it was worth it.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“Well, I have to admit it was quite a trek. The location is rather remote, and we encountered significant traffic congestion along the way, particularly as we got closer to the festival grounds. However, the journey itself became part of the experience, and the spectacular festival more than made up for the travel inconvenience.”

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IELTS Speaking Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Tổng Quan Về Part 3

Part 3 là phần challenging nhất của IELTS Speaking vì yêu cầu bạn thảo luận abstract ideas và analyze issues sâu hơn. Thời gian là 4-5 phút với câu hỏi liên quan đến chủ đề Part 2 nhưng ở level rộng hơn, focus vào society, culture, trends, changes.

Yêu cầu:

• Phân tích, compare, evaluate, speculate về future
• Đưa ra opinions có support bằng reasons và examples
• Xem xét multiple perspectives của issue
• Sử dụng abstract vocabulary và complex grammar

Chiến lược:

• Mở rộng answers (3-5 câu minimum)
• Sử dụng discourse markers để structure response (Well, I think, On the one hand)
• Provide examples từ society/country, không chỉ personal experience
• Acknowledge complexity: “It depends…”, “There are several factors…”
• Show balanced view: “While… we also need to consider…”

Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam:

• Trả lời quá ngắn (1-2 câu), thiếu development
• Không analyze hoặc provide reasons
• Chỉ nói về personal experience thay vì general society
• Thiếu từ vựng abstract và academic
• One-sided view, không show balanced thinking
• Panic khi không biết câu trả lời và trả lời quá honest (“I don’t know”)

Các Câu Hỏi Thảo Luận Sâu

Dưới đây là 8 câu hỏi thực tế được phân loại theo themes, với sample answers từ Band 6-7 và Band 8-9:

Theme 1: Cultural Preservation

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Question 1: Why is it important for a country to preserve its traditional festivals?

Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Importance/Reasons question – cần explain significance
• Key words: important, preserve, traditional festivals
• Cách tiếp cận: State importance → Give 2-3 reasons with explanations → Provide examples → Brief conclusion

Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“I think it’s important to preserve traditional festivals because they are part of our culture and history. These festivals help people remember their roots and understand where they come from. Also, they bring communities together and create unity. For example, during Tet in Vietnam, everyone celebrates together regardless of their social status. If we lose these traditions, we might lose our cultural identity.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Direct answer → Reasons (identity, unity) → Example → Conclusion
• Vocabulary: Adequate nhưng basic (part of our culture, bring together, lose)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Ideas are clear và relevant, nhưng lacks depth và sophistication. Vocabulary functional nhưng không impressive. Grammar mostly simple structures.

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Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

“Well, I’d argue that preserving traditional festivals is crucial for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, these celebrations serve as a tangible link to our collective heritage and historical identity. They embody the values, beliefs, and wisdom that have been passed down through generations, essentially acting as a cultural repository. Moreover, traditional festivals play a vital role in fostering social cohesion. In an increasingly fragmented society where people are often absorbed in their individual pursuits, these occasions provide rare opportunities for communities to come together and strengthen their bonds. Take Vietnamese Tet, for instance – it transcends socioeconomic divides and creates a sense of shared belonging. Beyond that, there’s an economic dimension too; traditional festivals often attract tourism and can be leveraged for cultural diplomacy. Perhaps most importantly, these traditions give younger generations a sense of rootedness and continuity in a rapidly globalizing world. Without such cultural anchors, we risk becoming a society with no distinctive identity, merely replicating homogenized global trends.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Well-organized với clear progression: Introduction → Multiple reasons (cultural, social, economic, generational) → Consequence of not preserving
• Vocabulary: Sophisticated và precise (tangible link, collective heritage, embody, cultural repository, foster social cohesion, socioeconomic divides, cultural anchors)
• Grammar: Complex structures (relative clauses, conditional “Without such anchors, we risk becoming”, participle phrases “acting as”)
• Critical Thinking: Shows multidimensional analysis (cultural + social + economic aspects), balanced view, considers consequences

Key Language Features:

• Discourse markers: First and foremost, Moreover, Beyond that, Perhaps most importantly
• Tentative language: I’d argue, essentially
• Abstract nouns: preservation, cohesion, continuity, identity, heritage
• Sophisticated verbs: embody, transcend, leverage, replicate

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Question 2: How have traditional festivals changed in modern times?

Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Change/Compare question – past vs present
• Key words: changed, traditional festivals, modern times
• Cách tiếp cận: Acknowledge changes exist → Describe specific changes (2-3 aspects) → Reasons for changes → Impact assessment

Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“Traditional festivals have changed a lot nowadays. In the past, people celebrated them in more traditional ways, but now things are more modern. For example, people use smartphones to send New Year greetings instead of visiting in person. Also, young people are less interested in traditional activities and prefer more modern entertainment. Some festivals have become more commercial with many shops selling festival products to make money.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: General statement → Examples of changes (technology, youth preferences, commercialization)
• Vocabulary: Basic descriptors (changed a lot, more modern, less interested)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Identifies relevant changes but lacks analysis của underlying causes and implications. Language functional but not sophisticated.

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Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

“Traditional festivals have undergone significant transformations in recent decades, largely due to modernization and shifting societal values. One notable change is the commercialization of these events. What were once purely spiritual or community-oriented celebrations have increasingly become consumption-driven occasions, with businesses capitalizing on festival seasons to boost sales. For instance, Tet in Vietnam has become as much about shopping sprees and promotional campaigns as it is about ancestral worship.

Another substantial shift involves the integration of technology. While this has facilitated connections – people can send elaborate digital greetings across continents – it has also somewhat diluted the intimate, face-to-face interactions that once characterized these celebrations. Furthermore, there’s been a generational divergence in how festivals are observed. Younger people often participate selectively, cherry-picking elements they find meaningful while discarding others they view as outdated. They might attend family gatherings but skip the more ritualistic aspects.

That said, I wouldn’t characterize these changes as entirely negative. In some ways, adaptation has enabled traditions to survive in a modern context. The key challenge is striking a balance between evolution and preservation – allowing festivals to remain relevant without losing their core essence.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Sophisticated organization: Overview → Change 1 (commercialization) + example → Change 2 (technology) + impact → Change 3 (generational) → Balanced conclusion
• Vocabulary: Precise và topic-specific (undergone transformations, commercialization, consumption-driven, capitalize on, diluted, generational divergence, cherry-picking)
• Grammar: Complex structures throughout (passive voice, participle phrases, relative clauses, conditional implications)
• Critical Thinking: Multi-faceted analysis with specific examples, acknowledges positive and negative aspects, provides nuanced conclusion about balance

Key Language Features:

• Discourse markers: One notable change, Another substantial shift, Furthermore, That said
• Cause-effect language: largely due to, has facilitated, has enabled
• Evaluation language: I wouldn’t characterize as, The key challenge is

Lễ hội truyền thống Việt Nam kết hợp yếu tố hiện đại với người trẻ dùng smartphone chụp ảnh

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Theme 2: Generational Perspectives

Question 3: Do young people and older people celebrate festivals in the same way?

Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Compare/Contrast question
• Key words: young people, older people, celebrate, same way
• Cách tiếp cận: Direct answer (No, different) → Explain how each group celebrates → Reasons for differences → Brief observation

Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“No, I don’t think they celebrate in the same way. Older people usually follow traditional customs more strictly. They like to do all the traditional rituals and activities. Young people are more flexible and they often mix traditional and modern ways. For example, young people might go to the temple but then they go to parties or travel. Older people prefer to stay home with family and do traditional things.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Clear comparison with examples
• Vocabulary: Basic comparative language (more strictly, more flexible, prefer to)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Makes valid comparisons but analysis is surface-level, lacks exploration of underlying reasons

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Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

“There’s definitely a marked difference in how different generations approach festival celebrations, and this reflects broader cultural shifts in society. Older generations tend to adhere more rigidly to traditional practices. For them, festivals are deeply spiritual occasions steeped in ritual significance – they meticulously observe customs like ancestral worship, preparing traditional offerings, and maintaining specific ceremonial protocols. These practices hold profound meaning for them, often rooted in religious beliefs or filial piety.

In contrast, younger generations tend to take a more pragmatic and selective approach. While they respect these traditions, they don’t always feel bound by them. They’re more likely to prioritize the social aspects – seeing festivals as opportunities to reconnect with family and friends rather than primarily as spiritual observances. Technology plays a significant role in their celebrations too; they’ll document everything on social media, send digital greetings, or even participate remotely via video calls.

Interestingly, this divergence sometimes creates tension within families, with older members lamenting what they perceive as declining respect for traditions. However, I think it’s more accurate to view this as evolution rather than abandonment. Young people are essentially reinterpreting traditions to fit their contemporary lifestyles while still maintaining a connection to their cultural roots. The challenge for our society is ensuring that this reinterpretation doesn’t strip away the core values that give these festivals their significance.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Sophisticated: Direct comparison → Older generation approach + explanation → Younger generation approach + contrast → Observation about tension → Balanced conclusion
• Vocabulary: Rich comparative vocabulary (marked difference, adhere rigidly to, in contrast, pragmatic, selective approach, divergence)
• Grammar: Complex comparatives, while-clauses, participle phrases, passive constructions
• Critical Thinking: Deep analysis of underlying reasons (spiritual vs social), acknowledges tension, offers nuanced interpretation (evolution vs abandonment)

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Question 4: Why do you think some young people are not interested in traditional festivals?

Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Reasons/Causes question
• Key words: young people, not interested, traditional festivals
• Cách tiếp cận: Acknowledge the issue → Provide multiple reasons with elaboration → Examples or evidence → Implications

Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“I think there are some reasons for this. First, young people today are very busy with their studies and work, so they don’t have much time for festivals. Second, they are more influenced by Western culture and modern lifestyles, so traditional things seem boring to them. Also, some festivals have too many rules and complicated rituals that young people find difficult to follow. They prefer simpler and more fun activities.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Clear with multiple reasons listed
• Vocabulary: Functional (busy with, influenced by, complicated, boring)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Identifies relevant reasons but lacks depth, examples are generic, no exploration of broader implications

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Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

“This is actually a complex issue with multiple underlying factors. To begin with, there’s a disconnect between the traditional forms these festivals take and the contemporary lifestyles of young people. Many festivals involve elaborate rituals and time-consuming preparations that don’t align well with the fast-paced, efficiency-oriented lives that characterize modern youth. They might view some practices as overly formalized or even archaic.

Additionally, globalization has exposed young people to diverse cultural influences, making them less exclusively attached to their own traditions. They’re often more drawn to international celebrations like Halloween or Christmas, which are marketed as more exciting and cosmopolitan. There’s also a perception issue – some young people associate traditional festivals with their grandparents’ generation and thus see them as old-fashioned or uncool, especially when they compare them to the trendy events they see on social media.

Moreover, I think there’s sometimes an educational gap. If young people aren’t properly educated about the historical significance and deeper meanings behind these traditions, they remain surface-level participants who don’t fully appreciate what they’re celebrating. Without that understanding, the festivals can indeed seem like mere obligations rather than meaningful experiences.

However, it’s worth noting that this disinterest isn’t universal. We’re seeing a counter-trend where some young people are actively reclaiming and reimagining traditional celebrations, often blending them with contemporary elements. The key to engaging younger generations might be finding ways to make these traditions feel relevant to their lives while preserving their essential values.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Comprehensive: Multiple well-developed reasons (lifestyle mismatch, globalization, perception, education gap) → Counter-example → Solution suggestion
• Vocabulary: Sophisticated (complex issue, disconnect, align well with, archaic, exclusively attached to, perception issue, counter-trend, reimagining)
• Grammar: Full range of complex structures, conditional implications, passive voice for general statements
• Critical Thinking: Multi-dimensional analysis, acknowledges exceptions to general trend, offers constructive perspective on engagement

Key Language Features:

• Hedging: actually, might view, sometimes
• Abstract nouns: disconnect, globalization, perception, obligation
• Discourse markers: To begin with, Additionally, Moreover, However

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Theme 3: Economic and Social Impact

Question 5: How do festivals affect the economy of a country?

Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Impact/Effects question
• Key words: festivals, affect, economy
• Cách tiếp cận: State general impact → Specific economic effects (positive/negative) → Examples → Broader implications

Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“Festivals have positive effects on the economy. They create business opportunities for many people. For example, during festivals, people buy a lot of things like food, decorations, and gifts, so shops and markets make good profits. Also, festivals attract tourists who spend money on hotels, restaurants, and souvenirs. This creates jobs for local people. The government also gets more tax money during festival seasons.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Clear identification of positive impacts with examples
• Vocabulary: Basic economic terms (business opportunities, profits, tax money)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Covers main points but lacks sophistication, no consideration of negative impacts or nuanced analysis

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Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

“Festivals can have a substantial economic impact, functioning almost as catalysts for various sectors of the economy. Most notably, they stimulate consumption across multiple industries. In the lead-up to major festivals like Tet, there’s typically a surge in retail spending as people purchase everything from traditional foods to new clothes and gifts. This creates a ripple effect through supply chains, benefiting farmers, manufacturers, and retailers alike.

Tourism is another significant beneficiary. Well-established festivals can draw both domestic and international visitors, generating revenue for the hospitality sector – hotels, restaurants, and transportation services. For instance, major festivals in Vietnam like the Perfume Pagoda Festival attract hundreds of thousands of pilgrims, injecting considerable funds into local economies. This influx of visitors also creates seasonal employment opportunities, particularly in service industries.

However, it’s important to acknowledge some potential downsides. The economic benefits aren’t always evenly distributed – large corporations often capture the lion’s share of festival-related profits, while small traditional vendors struggle to compete. Furthermore, there can be inflationary pressures during festival periods, with prices for goods and services artificially inflated, which burdens consumers, especially those with limited means.

On balance, though, I’d argue that festivals make a net positive contribution to economies, provided there’s proper regulation to ensure fair competition and prevent exploitation. They essentially serve as economic engines that can revitalize communities, particularly in rural areas where traditional festivals are often deeply rooted.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Sophisticated: Overview → Positive impact 1 (consumption) with ripple effect → Positive impact 2 (tourism) with example → Negative considerations → Balanced conclusion with qualification
• Vocabulary: Advanced economic terminology (catalysts, stimulate consumption, ripple effect, supply chains, influx, inflationary pressures, net positive contribution, economic engines)
• Grammar: Complex sentences with embedded clauses, passive voice, participle phrases, conditional implications
• Critical Thinking: Balanced analysis considering both positive and negative impacts, acknowledges distribution inequalities, provides nuanced conclusion with conditions

Key Language Features:

• Academic style: Most notably, Furthermore, On balance, provided there’s
• Economic collocations: substantial impact, stimulate consumption, generate revenue, capture the lion’s share
• Tentative language: can have, potential downsides, I’d argue

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Question 6: Do you think the government should provide financial support for traditional festivals?

Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Opinion question về government policy
• Key words: government, financial support, traditional festivals
• Cách tiếp cận: State position → Reasons supporting position → Counter-argument → Conclusion with qualification

Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“Yes, I think the government should support traditional festivals financially. These festivals are important for our culture and if we don’t support them, they might disappear. The government has money and responsibility to protect culture. However, the support should not be too much because people and communities should also contribute. The government could help with organization, security, and promoting the festivals to tourists.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Clear position with basic reasoning
• Vocabulary: Simple argument vocabulary (should support, important for, responsibility)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Makes a clear argument but lacks sophistication in reasoning, doesn’t fully explore different perspectives or implications

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Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

“This is a nuanced question that requires careful consideration of competing priorities. On balance, I believe selective government support is justified, though with certain caveats.

The primary argument in favor is that traditional festivals represent intangible cultural heritage that deserves preservation. Unlike tangible assets such as buildings or monuments, cultural practices can disappear within a generation if not actively maintained. Government funding can ensure these traditions remain viable, particularly when commercial viability is limited. Take, for example, certain ethnic minority festivals in Vietnam that lack the commercial appeal of mainstream celebrations but hold immense cultural value. Without state support, these could easily fade into obscurity.

Moreover, there’s a legitimate public interest argument. Festivals contribute to social cohesion, cultural identity, and even mental wellbeing by providing communities with shared experiences and collective meaning. In this sense, supporting them is akin to funding public education or healthcare – it’s an investment in societal welfare.

That said, I would advocate for a balanced approach rather than blanket funding. Government support should be targeted toward festivals that are genuinely at risk of disappearing or those with significant cultural value but limited commercial potential. For commercially successful festivals that generate substantial tourism revenue, perhaps a self-sustaining model would be more appropriate, with government involvement limited to facilitating infrastructure and ensuring quality standards.

Furthermore, any financial support should come with accountability measures to prevent misappropriation of funds and ensure the money genuinely serves to preserve authentic traditions rather than creating artificial or commercialized versions. There should also be community involvement in decision-making to ensure bottom-up rather than top-down approaches.

In conclusion, strategic, well-regulated government support for traditional festivals is worthwhile, but it should be part of a broader strategy that also empowers communities to take ownership of their cultural heritage.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Highly sophisticated: Acknowledgment of complexity → Clear position with qualifications → Argument 1 (cultural heritage) + example → Argument 2 (public interest) → Counter-consideration with balanced approach → Implementation concerns → Comprehensive conclusion
• Vocabulary: Advanced policy language (nuanced question, competing priorities, intangible cultural heritage, legitimate public interest, accountability measures, misappropriation, bottom-up approaches)
• Grammar: Full range of complex structures including conditionals, relative clauses, passive constructions, comparative structures
• Critical Thinking: Multi-layered argument considering cultural, economic, and governance dimensions, acknowledges trade-offs, provides specific policy recommendations with conditions

Key Language Features:

• Hedging and qualification: On balance, certain caveats, I would advocate for, perhaps
• Academic discourse markers: The primary argument in favor, Moreover, That said, Furthermore, In conclusion
• Policy vocabulary: selective support, targeted funding, accountability measures, strategic approach

Chính phủ Việt Nam hỗ trợ tổ chức lễ hội truyền thống dân tộc thiểu số với cơ sở hạ tầng

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Theme 4: Future of Traditional Celebrations

Question 7: How do you think festivals will change in the future?

Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Prediction/Future speculation question
• Key words: festivals, change, future
• Cách tiếp cận: Predict likely changes → Reasons/driving forces → Possible scenarios → Implications

Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“I think festivals will become more modern in the future. Technology will play a bigger role, maybe we will celebrate festivals online or use virtual reality. Also, festivals might become shorter because people are busier. Some traditional activities might disappear and be replaced by modern ones. But I hope the main meaning and spirit of festivals will stay the same.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Predictions with brief explanations
• Vocabulary: Basic future language (will become, will play, might disappear)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Makes reasonable predictions but lacks depth in analysis of driving forces and implications

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Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

“Looking ahead, I envision festivals undergoing a fascinating – though perhaps somewhat concerning – transformation. Several trends are likely to shape their evolution.

First, technology will almost certainly play an increasingly central role. We’re already seeing this with virtual celebrations during the pandemic, and I suspect some of these digital elements will persist. Imagine augmented reality experiences where people can immerse themselves in recreated historical festival scenes, or live-streamed ceremonies that allow diaspora communities to participate remotely. While this democratizes access, there’s a risk of diminishing the embodied, communal experience that makes festivals meaningful.

Secondly, I predict we’ll see greater hybridization. Festivals will likely blend traditional elements with contemporary concerns – for instance, incorporating sustainability themes or addressing social issues. This could manifest in eco-friendly decorations, plant-based versions of traditional foods, or festivals that double as platforms for social activism. Whether this enhances or dilutes traditional meaning is debatable.

Furthermore, commercialization will probably intensify. As businesses become more sophisticated in leveraging festivals for marketing purposes, there’s a danger of traditions becoming excessively commodified. We might see corporate-sponsored festivals that prioritize spectacle over substance.

However, I’m cautiously optimistic that we’ll also witness a counter-movement – a renewed appreciation for authentic, small-scale celebrations as a backlash against over-commercialization. Some communities might deliberately preserve intimate, traditional formats as a form of cultural resistance.

Ultimately, the future of festivals will likely be characterized by diversity – coexisting in various forms from high-tech spectacles to carefully preserved traditional ceremonies. The key question is whether we can navigate these changes while retaining what makes festivals culturally and spiritually significant, rather than reducing them to mere entertainment or commercial opportunities.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Exceptional organization: Future outlook → Trend 1 (technology) with benefits and risks → Trend 2 (hybridization) with examples → Trend 3 (commercialization) with concerns → Counter-trend (authenticity movement) → Balanced conclusion with key question
• Vocabulary: Sophisticated future speculation language (envision, undergoing transformation, democratizes access, manifest in, characterized by diversity, navigate changes)
• Grammar: Complex future forms (will play, are likely to shape, will probably intensify), conditional structures, extensive use of participle clauses
• Critical Thinking: Multi-dimensional prediction considering technology, cultural, commercial aspects; acknowledges both opportunities and risks; identifies tensions and counter-movements; poses thoughtful concluding question

Key Language Features:

• Speculation language: Looking ahead, I envision, almost certainly, I predict, probably, likely
• Balanced evaluation: While this…there’s a risk, Whether this enhances or dilutes is debatable, However, I’m cautiously optimistic
• Academic style: Several trends, Furthermore, Ultimately, The key question is

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Question 8: Should countries try to prevent their traditional festivals from being influenced by globalization?

Phán tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Opinion question về cultural policy
• Key words: prevent, traditional festivals, influenced by globalization
• Cách tiếp cận: State nuanced position → Arguments for protection → Arguments for adaptation → Synthesis/middle ground → Conclusion

Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“I think countries should protect their traditional festivals, but they can’t stop all influence from globalization. It’s good to keep traditional elements, but we also need to adapt to modern times. If festivals are too old-fashioned, young people won’t be interested. So we should try to keep the important traditional parts but also allow some modern changes. It’s about finding a balance between tradition and modernity.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Balanced view with attempt at synthesis
• Vocabulary: Basic debate vocabulary (should protect, need to adapt, finding a balance)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Shows balanced thinking but lacks sophisticated argumentation, examples are generic, doesn’t fully explore the complexity of cultural preservation vs. adaptation

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Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

“This question touches on a fundamental tension in cultural policy, and I don’t think there’s a simple yes-or-no answer. My view is that attempting to completely insulate traditions from global influences is both impractical and potentially counterproductive.

On one hand, there are compelling reasons for safeguarding cultural authenticity. Globalization can homogenize cultures, creating what some sociologists call “global monoculture” where distinctive traditions are eroded by dominant global trends. If we don’t actively protect festivals, they risk losing their unique character and becoming generic celebrations indistinguishable from those anywhere else in the world. This would represent a genuine cultural loss – a diminishment of human diversity.

On the other hand, cultures have always evolved through cross-pollination, and artificially freezing traditions in time can render them irrelevant and ultimately hasten their demise. Festivals that don’t resonate with contemporary populations become museum pieces rather than living traditions. Moreover, some global influences might actually enhance festivals – new technologies could make them more accessible, international interest could increase their visibility and secure funding for preservation.

What I’d advocate for is a nuanced approach that distinguishes between the essential core of a tradition and its peripheral elements. Countries should fiercely protect the fundamental meanings, rituals, and values that define their festivals while remaining open to adaptive changes in how these are expressed. For instance, the spirit of ancestor veneration during Tet should be preserved, but the exact forms it takes can evolve.

Additionally, education is crucial. Rather than imposing restrictions, countries should invest in helping people, especially younger generations, understand and appreciate the significance of their traditions. When people genuinely value something, they’ll protect it organically rather than out of obligation.

In essence, the goal shouldn’t be to prevent influence but to ensure that any evolution is driven by the communities themselves rather than imposed by external commercial or cultural forces. It’s about maintaining cultural sovereignty while acknowledging that living cultures must breathe, adapt, and grow.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Highly sophisticated: Acknowledge complexity → Arguments for protection with concept introduction → Arguments for adaptation with counterpoints → Proposed nuanced solution (distinguish core vs peripheral) → Implementation suggestion (education) → Synthesized conclusion
• Vocabulary: Advanced policy and cultural studies vocabulary (insulate, safeguard, homogenize, global monoculture, cross-pollination, resonate with, cultural sovereignty)
• Grammar: Full range including conditional structures, relative clauses, passive voice for emphasis, complex noun phrases, gerunds and infinitives
• Critical Thinking: Exceptional – explores philosophical tensions, references academic concepts, distinguishes between different levels of cultural elements, proposes actionable middle ground, considers agency and process over outcome

Key Language Features:

• Nuanced positioning: touches on, fundamental tension, I don’t think there’s a simple answer, My view is
• Academic discourse: On one hand, On the other hand, What I’d advocate for, Additionally, In essence
• Sophisticated argumentation: compelling reasons, Moreover, Rather than…countries should, the goal shouldn’t be to prevent but to ensure

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Từ Vựng và Cụm Từ Quan Trọng

Topic-Specific Vocabulary

Từ vựng/Cụm từ	Loại từ	Phiên âm	Nghĩa tiếng Việt	Ví dụ	Collocation
cherished	adj	/ˈtʃerɪʃt/	được trân trọng, quý giá	Tet is the most cherished festival in Vietnam	cherished tradition, cherished memory, cherished custom
commemorate	v	/kəˈmeməreɪt/	tưởng nhớ, kỷ niệm	The festival commemorates the founding fathers	commemorate an event, commemorate ancestors, annual commemoration
congregate	v	/ˈkɒŋɡrɪɡeɪt/	tập trung, tụ họp	Thousands of pilgrims congregated at the temple	congregate at/in, people congregate, congregate for celebrations
immerse oneself in	phrase	/ɪˈmɜːs/	đắm mình vào, hòa mình vào	I immersed myself in the festive atmosphere	immerse in culture, fully immerse, immerse in traditions
elaborate	adj	/ɪˈlæbərət/	công phu, tỉ mỉ	The festival featured elaborate decorations	elaborate ceremony, elaborate preparations, elaborate displays
mesmerize	v	/ˈmezməraɪz/	mê hoặc, thu hút mạnh mẽ	I was mesmerized by the lantern displays	be mesmerized by, mesmerizing performance, utterly mesmerized
revered	adj	/rɪˈvɪəd/	được tôn kính, sùng bái	The Hung Kings are revered ancestors	revered figure, revered tradition, highly revered
embody	v	/ɪmˈbɒdi/	thể hiện, hiện thân cho	The festival embodies traditional values	embody the spirit, embody cultural values, embody traditions
foster	v	/ˈfɒstə(r)/	nuôi dưỡng, thúc đẩy	Festivals foster social cohesion	foster understanding, foster unity, foster community spirit
cultural heritage	phrase	/ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/	di sản văn hóa	Preserving our cultural heritage is important	intangible cultural heritage, rich cultural heritage, protect cultural heritage
time-honored	adj	/taɪm ˈɒnəd/	lâu đời, được tôn trọng qua thời gian	These are time-honored traditions	time-honored tradition, time-honored custom, time-honored practice
ancestral worship	phrase	/ænˈsestrəl ˈwɜːʃɪp/	thờ cúng tổ tiên	Ancestral worship is central to the celebration	practice ancestral worship, ritual of ancestral worship
festive atmosphere	phrase	/ˈfestɪv ˈætməsfɪə(r)/	không khí lễ hội	The streets had a festive atmosphere	create a festive atmosphere, vibrant festive atmosphere, enjoy the festive atmosphere
procession	n	/prəˈseʃn/	đám rước, đoàn diễu hành	The lantern procession was spectacular	religious procession, join the procession, lead the procession
ritual	n	/ˈrɪtʃuəl/	nghi lễ, nghi thức	We performed the traditional rituals	religious ritual, ceremonial ritual, perform rituals
pagoda	n	/pəˈɡəʊdə/	chùa	We visited the pagoda to pray	Buddhist pagoda, ancient pagoda, visit the pagoda
offerings	n	/ˈɒfərɪŋz/	đồ cúng, lễ vật	We prepared offerings for the ancestors	make offerings, ceremonial offerings, food offerings
prosperity	n	/prɒˈsperəti/	sự thịnh vượng, thành công	People pray for prosperity in the new year	bring prosperity, pray for prosperity, economic prosperity
commercialization	n	/kəˌmɜːʃəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/	thương mại hóa	The commercialization of festivals is increasing	excessive commercialization, commercialization of culture, prevent commercialization
homogenize	v	/həˈmɒdʒənaɪz/	đồng nhất hóa, làm giống nhau	Globalization can homogenize cultures	homogenized culture, become homogenized, homogenizing effect

Idiomatic Expressions & Advanced Phrases

Cụm từ	Nghĩa	Ví dụ sử dụng	Band điểm
hands down	chắc chắn, không nghi ngờ gì	This was hands down the best festival I’ve attended	8-9
stand out in one’s memory	nổi bật trong ký ức	This experience stands out in my memory	7.5-8
nothing short of	không gì khác hơn là (nhấn mạnh)	The celebration was nothing short of spectacular	8-9
at the stroke of midnight	đúng lúc nửa đêm	At the stroke of midnight, fireworks filled the sky	7.5-8
make rounds	đi thăm nhiều nơi	We made rounds visiting relatives’ houses	7.5-8
pay homage to	tỏ lòng kính trọng	People pay homage to their ancestors	7.5-8
strike a balance	tìm sự cân bằng	We need to strike a balance between tradition and modernity	8-9
the lion’s share	phần lớn nhất	Large corporations capture the lion’s share of profits	8-9
fade into obscurity	bị lãng quên, mai một	Without support, these traditions could fade into obscurity	8-9
in our rush toward	trong sự vội vàng hướng tới	In our rush toward modernity, we risk losing traditions	8.5-9
serve as a reminder	đóng vai trò nhắc nhở	The festival served as a reminder of our cultural roots	7.5-8
leave a lasting impression	để lại ấn tượng sâu sắc	The experience left a lasting impression on me	7.5-8

Discourse Markers (Từ Nối Ý Trong Speaking)

Để bắt đầu câu trả lời:

• Well,… – Sử dụng khi cần thời gian suy nghĩ ngắn
• Actually,… – Khi đưa ra góc nhìn khác hoặc correct một assumption
• To be honest,… – Khi nói thành thật, thẳng thắn
• I’d say that… – Khi đưa ra quan điểm cá nhân
• Looking ahead,… – Khi nói về tương lai

Để bổ sung ý:

• On top of that,… – Thêm vào đó (informal)
• What’s more,… – Hơn nữa
• Not to mention… – Chưa kể đến
• Moreover,… – Hơn nữa (formal)
• Furthermore,… – Hơn thế nữa (formal)
• Additionally,… – Thêm vào đó (formal)
• Beyond that,… – Ngoài ra

Để đưa ra quan điểm cân bằng:

• On the one hand,… On the other hand,… – Một mặt… mặt khác…
• While it’s true that…, we also need to consider… – Mặc dù đúng là… chúng ta cũng cần xem xét…
• That said,… – Tuy nhiên, nói như vậy thì…
• Having said that,… – Sau khi nói điều đó…

Để kết luận:

• All in all,… – Tóm lại
• At the end of the day,… – Cuối cùng thì
• In essence,… – Về bản chất
• On balance,… – Nhìn chung, cân nhắc lại
• Ultimately,… – Cuối cùng

Để express uncertainty hoặc tentative views:

• I would say… – Tôi có thể nói là
• It seems to me that… – Có vẻ như với tôi
• To some extent,… – Ở một mức độ nào đó
• I tend to think that… – Tôi có xu hướng nghĩ rằng

Grammatical Structures Ấn Tượng

1. Conditional Sentences (Câu điều kiện):

Mixed conditional:

• Formula: If + past perfect, would + infinitive
• Ví dụ: “If I hadn’t attended that festival, I wouldn’t appreciate traditional culture as much as I do now.”

Inversion for emphasis:

• Formula: Had/Were/Should + subject + verb
• Ví dụ: “Had I known how meaningful the festival would be, I would have brought my family along.”

2. Relative Clauses (Mệnh đề quan hệ):

Non-defining relative clauses:

• Formula: Noun + , which/who/where + verb
• Ví dụ: “The Hung Kings Temple Festival, which commemorates Vietnam’s legendary founders, attracts thousands of visitors annually.”

3. Passive Voice (Câu bị động):

Impersonal passive structures:

• It is thought/believed/said that…
• Ví dụ: “It is widely believed that maintaining these traditions strengthens community bonds.”

4. Cleft Sentences (Câu chẻ):

What-cleft for emphasis:

• Formula: What + subject + verb + is/was + noun phrase
• Ví dụ: “What struck me most about the festival was the genuine devotion of the participants.”

The thing that…, is:

• Ví dụ: “The thing that makes this festival special is its authentic preservation of ancient rituals.”

5. Participle Clauses:

Present participle for simultaneous actions:

• Ví dụ: “Walking through the festival grounds, I was mesmerized by the vibrant decorations.”

Past participle for passive meaning:

• Ví dụ: “Held annually in the third lunar month, the festival attracts people from all over the country.”

6. Inversion After Negative Adverbials:

• Not only… but also (with inversion): “Not only does the festival preserve traditions, but it also strengthens community ties.”
• Never before: “Never before had I experienced such a profound sense of cultural connection.”

7. Subjunctive Structures:

It is essential/important/crucial that + subject + base verb:

• Ví dụ: “It is crucial that young people be educated about the significance of these traditions.”

Bài viết này cung cấp một hướng dẫn toàn diện về cách trả lời chủ đề “describe a traditional event or festival you attended” trong IELTS Speaking. Hãy nhớ rằng, điều quan trọng nhất không phải là học thuộc các câu trả lời mẫu, mà là hiểu được cấu trúc, phương pháp phát triển ý tưởng, và cách sử dụng từ vựng một cách tự nhiên. Luyện tập thường xuyên với các chủ đề tương tự, ghi âm lại câu trả lời của bạn, và phân tích những điểm cần cải thiện. Chúc bạn thành công trong kỳ thi IELTS Speaking!