Chủ đề về doanh nghiệp nhỏ thành công là một trong những đề tài phổ biến và thực tế nhất trong IELTS Speaking. Đây không chỉ là câu hỏi về kinh doanh mà còn là cơ hội để bạn thể hiện khả năng phân tích, đánh giá và diễn đạt ý kiến về thành công, chiến lược kinh doanh và tác động xã hội.
Theo thống kê từ các trung tâm luyện thi IELTS và IELTS-blog.com, chủ đề này xuất hiện với tần suất cao trong các kỳ thi từ 2020 đến 2024, đặc biệt trong giai đoạn sau đại dịch khi xu hướng kinh doanh nhỏ và khởi nghiệp phát triển mạnh mẽ. Khả năng xuất hiện trong tương lai được đánh giá ở mức Cao, đặc biệt khi nền kinh tế toàn cầu đang chuyển dịch mạnh sang mô hình doanh nghiệp vừa và nhỏ.
Trong bài viết này, bạn sẽ học được:
- 12 câu hỏi thường gặp nhất về chủ đề business trong cả 3 Part
- Bài mẫu chi tiết theo 3 mức band điểm khác nhau: Band 6-7 (adequate), Band 7.5-8 (good) và Band 8.5-9 (excellent)
- Hơn 50 từ vựng và cụm từ ăn điểm liên quan đến kinh doanh, thành công và doanh nghiệp
- Chiến lược trả lời hiệu quả từ góc nhìn của examiner với hơn 20 năm kinh nghiệm
- Phân tích sâu về sự khác biệt giữa các band điểm để bạn biết cách cải thiện
Tương tự như describe a person who is successful, chủ đề này yêu cầu bạn không chỉ mô tả mà còn phải giải thích và phân tích các yếu tố dẫn đến thành công.
IELTS Speaking Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Tổng Quan Về Part 1
Part 1 kéo dài 4-5 phút với các câu hỏi ngắn về cuộc sống hàng ngày và sở thích cá nhân. Đây là phần khởi động để examiner đánh giá khả năng giao tiếp tự nhiên của bạn. Mục tiêu là trả lời mở rộng 2-3 câu, không chỉ Yes/No đơn thuần.
Chiến lược:
- Trả lời trực tiếp câu hỏi ngay câu đầu tiên
- Bổ sung lý do hoặc giải thích
- Thêm ví dụ cụ thể từ kinh nghiệm bản thân
Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam:
- Trả lời quá ngắn, chỉ 1 câu Yes/No
- Dùng từ vựng quá basic: good, bad, like, don’t like
- Thiếu ví dụ cụ thể, chỉ nói chung chung
- Không tự nhiên, nghe như đang đọc thuộc lòng
Các Câu Hỏi Thường Gặp
Question 1: Do you know any small businesses in your area?
Question 2: What kinds of small businesses are popular in your country?
Question 3: Do you prefer shopping at small businesses or large supermarkets?
Question 4: Would you like to run your own business in the future?
Question 5: What do you think makes a business successful?
Question 6: Have you ever worked in a small business?
Question 7: Do you think small businesses are important for the economy?
Question 8: What challenges do small businesses face nowadays?
Phân Tích và Gợi Ý Trả Lời Chi Tiết
Question: Do you know any small businesses in your area?
🎯 Cách tiếp cận:
- Trả lời Yes/No rõ ràng
- Đưa ra ví dụ cụ thể về doanh nghiệp đó
- Giải thích tại sao bạn biết về nó
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“Yes, I know several small businesses in my neighborhood. There’s a coffee shop near my house that I often visit. It’s run by a young couple and they make really good coffee. Many local people go there.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh: Trả lời trực tiếp, có ví dụ cụ thể (coffee shop), đề cập được người điều hành
- Hạn chế: Từ vựng đơn giản (good, many, local people), thiếu chi tiết về lý do popularity, cấu trúc câu basic
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Đủ thông tin nhưng chưa impressive, vocabulary adequate nhưng chưa sophisticated, ideas còn surface-level
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“Yes, absolutely. There’s a charming little bakery just around the corner from my apartment that I’m particularly fond of. It’s a family-run establishment that specializes in artisanal breads and handcrafted pastries. What makes it stand out is their commitment to using locally-sourced ingredients, which has helped them build a loyal customer base in the community.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh:
- Vocabulary tinh vi: charming, artisanal, handcrafted, locally-sourced, loyal customer base
- Cấu trúc đa dạng: relative clause (that I’m particularly fond of), what-clause (What makes it stand out)
- Ý tưởng chi tiết: không chỉ nói về business mà còn giải thích điểm đặc biệt
- Natural flow với “absolutely” và “just around the corner”
- Tại sao Band 8-9:
- Fluency: smooth, không hesitation, natural discourse markers
- Vocabulary: less common phrases (stand out, build a loyal customer base)
- Grammar: complex structures được sử dụng tự nhiên
- Ideas: không chỉ trả lời mà còn explain why it’s memorable
💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:
- charming little [noun]: quán/cửa hàng nhỏ xinh, quyến rũ
- family-run establishment: doanh nghiệp do gia đình điều hành
- artisanal [noun]: sản phẩm thủ công cao cấp
- locally-sourced ingredients: nguyên liệu có nguồn gốc địa phương
- build a loyal customer base: xây dựng lượng khách hàng trung thành
Question: Would you like to run your own business in the future?
🎯 Cách tiếp cận:
- Đưa ra câu trả lời rõ ràng (Yes/No/Maybe)
- Giải thích lý do cho quyết định
- Đề cập đến aspirations hoặc concerns
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“I’m not sure about this. Running a business seems difficult because you need money and experience. I think I prefer working for a company first to learn more skills. Maybe when I’m older, I will think about starting my own business.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh: Honest answer, có lý do (need money and experience), có timeline (when I’m older)
- Hạn chế: Vocabulary repetitive (business xuất hiện 3 lần), phrases đơn giản (seems difficult, I think), lacks depth in explanation
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Safe answer nhưng không impressive, ideas hơi generic, grammar đúng nhưng simple
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“To be honest, I’m quite torn about this. On one hand, the idea of being my own boss and having creative autonomy is really appealing. However, I’m also well aware of the challenges involved, particularly the financial risks and the demanding workload. I’d say I’m keeping my options open for now. If I do take the plunge, I’d want to gain substantial experience in my field first and perhaps find a business partner who complements my skill set.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh:
- Shows critical thinking: balanced view (on one hand… however)
- Sophisticated vocabulary: torn about, creative autonomy, take the plunge, substantial experience
- Natural hesitation language: To be honest, I’d say, quite
- Demonstrates maturity: mentions specific considerations (financial risks, business partner)
- Complex ideas: không chỉ yes/no mà explain conditions
- Tại sao Band 8-9:
- Fluency: natural discourse markers, smooth transitions
- Lexical Resource: idiomatic expressions (take the plunge, keeping my options open)
- Grammar: complex structures (If I do + present simple, relative clause)
- Pronunciation: stress on key phrases would be natural
💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:
- be torn about something: phân vân, do dự về điều gì
- creative autonomy: quyền tự chủ sáng tạo
- be well aware of: nhận thức rõ về
- take the plunge: quyết định làm điều gì đó mạo hiểm
- gain substantial experience: tích lũy kinh nghiệm đáng kể
- complement my skill set: bổ sung cho kỹ năng của tôi
Học viên đang luyện tập trả lời câu hỏi IELTS Speaking Part 1 về chủ đề doanh nghiệp nhỏ thành công
Question: What do you think makes a business successful?
🎯 Cách tiếp cận:
- Đưa ra 2-3 yếu tố quan trọng
- Giải thích ngắn gọn tại sao chúng quan trọng
- Có thể thêm ví dụ nếu tự nhiên
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“I think good products and customer service are important. If customers are happy, they will come back again. Also, the price should be reasonable. A business needs to make profit but not too expensive for customers.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh: Đề cập được 3 factors (products, service, price), có logic (customers will come back)
- Hạn chế: Vocabulary basic (good, happy, expensive), ideas predictable, grammar simple, lacks sophistication
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Adequate ideas nhưng presentation chưa impressive, misses opportunity để showcase advanced language
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“Well, I’d say there are several crucial factors at play. First and foremost, a business needs to identify a genuine market need and deliver value that sets it apart from competitors. Beyond that, strong customer relationships are absolutely vital – businesses that prioritize customer satisfaction tend to generate positive word-of-mouth, which is invaluable. Of course, sound financial management and adaptability are also key, especially in today’s rapidly changing market landscape.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh:
- Sophisticated structure: Well + I’d say, First and foremost, Beyond that, Of course
- Business-specific vocabulary: market need, deliver value, sets it apart, word-of-mouth, sound financial management
- Shows depth: không chỉ list factors mà explain impact (tend to generate…)
- Advanced grammar: relative clause, passive voice natural
- Contemporary awareness: mentions “rapidly changing market landscape”
- Tại sao Band 8-9:
- Fluency: organized thoughts with clear discourse markers
- Vocabulary: precise business terminology used naturally
- Grammar: variety of complex structures
- Ideas: shows analytical thinking, not just listing
💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:
- crucial factors: các yếu tố quan trọng
- identify a genuine market need: xác định nhu cầu thực sự của thị trường
- deliver value: mang lại giá trị
- set apart from competitors: tạo sự khác biệt với đối thủ
- generate positive word-of-mouth: tạo ra truyền miệng tích cực
- sound financial management: quản lý tài chính vững chắc
- rapidly changing market landscape: bối cảnh thị trường thay đổi nhanh
IELTS Speaking Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
Tổng Quan Về Part 2
Part 2 là phần độc thoại kéo dài 2-3 phút, trong đó bạn có 1 phút chuẩn bị. Đây là phần quan trọng nhất để thể hiện khả năng nói liên tục, mạch lạc và sử dụng ngôn ngữ đa dạng.
Đặc điểm:
- Thời gian chuẩn bị: 1 phút (được cung cấp giấy và bút)
- Thời gian nói: 2-3 phút không bị ngắt
- Yêu cầu: Trả lời đầy đủ tất cả bullet points
Chiến lược:
- Sử dụng tối đa 1 phút để note keywords (KHÔNG viết câu hoàn chỉnh)
- Nói đủ 2 phút, tốt nhất là gần 3 phút
- Trả lời đầy đủ từng bullet point theo thứ tự
- Dành nhiều thời gian nhất cho phần “explain” (đây là phần ghi điểm cao)
- Sử dụng thì động từ phù hợp (thường là quá khứ khi kể về trải nghiệm)
Lỗi thường gặp:
- Viết câu hoàn chỉnh trong 1 phút chuẩn bị thay vì keywords
- Nói dưới 1.5 phút (tự động bị trừ điểm Fluency)
- Bỏ sót bullet points hoặc trả lời không đầy đủ
- Không phát triển phần “explain” (phần quan trọng nhất)
- Học thuộc template và áp dụng cứng nhắc
Cue Card
Describe A Successful Small Business you know about
You should say:
- What the business is and what it does
- Where it is located
- How you know about this business
- And explain why you think it is successful
Phân Tích Đề Bài
Dạng câu hỏi: Describe an object/organization – business entity
Thì động từ: Hiện tại đơn (mô tả business hiện tại) + Quá khứ đơn (khi kể về how you know about it)
Bullet points phải cover:
- Bullet 1: What + What it does (2 parts – identify và describe operations)
- Bullet 2: Location (có thể brief nhưng phải mention)
- Bullet 3: How you know (personal connection/discovery story)
- Bullet 4: Explain why successful (QUAN TRỌNG NHẤT – dành 40% thời gian)
Câu “explain” quan trọng: Đây là phần để bạn demonstrate analytical thinking, vocabulary range và depth of ideas. Examiner chú ý nhất đến phần này để đánh giá band điểm.
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7
Thời lượng: Khoảng 1.5-2 phút
“I’d like to talk about a small coffee shop near my university called Morning Brew. It’s a cozy café that serves coffee, tea, and light meals like sandwiches and cakes.
The shop is located on Nguyen Hue Street, which is a busy area with many students and office workers. It’s in a corner building, so it’s easy to see from the main road.
I first discovered this place about two years ago when I was looking for a quiet place to study. My friend recommended it to me, saying the coffee was good and the atmosphere was nice. Since then, I’ve become a regular customer and visit there at least once a week.
I think this business is successful for several reasons. First, the quality of their coffee is really good. They use fresh beans and the baristas are well-trained. Second, the prices are reasonable for students like me. A cup of coffee costs about 40,000 VND, which is affordable. Third, the owner is very friendly and remembers the names of regular customers, which makes people feel welcome. The café also has fast WiFi and comfortable seats, so many students come here to study or work. Finally, they are active on social media and often post photos of new drinks, which attracts more customers. All these factors help the business to be successful and popular in the area.”
Phân Tích Band Điểm
| Tiêu chí | Band | Nhận xét |
|---|---|---|
| Fluency & Coherence | 6-7 | Speaks at length nhưng có một số hesitation. Uses basic linking words (First, Second, Third, Finally). Logical organization theo bullet points. |
| Lexical Resource | 6-7 | Vocabulary adequate nhưng chưa sophisticated. Sử dụng: cozy, regular customer, reasonable, baristas. Có paraphrase đơn giản (busy area, corner building). |
| Grammatical Range & Accuracy | 6-7 | Mix of simple và complex sentences. Uses relative clauses (which is a busy area, which makes people feel welcome). Ít errors. |
| Pronunciation | 6-7 | Generally clear, có thể có accent nhưng không ảnh hưởng comprehension. |
Điểm mạnh:
- ✅ Trả lời đầy đủ tất cả bullet points theo thứ tự
- ✅ Có structure rõ ràng với linking words
- ✅ Đưa ra nhiều reasons cho success (quality, price, service, facilities, marketing)
- ✅ Length phù hợp, gần 2 phút
- ✅ Personal connection rõ ràng (regular customer)
Hạn chế:
- ⚠️ Vocabulary còn basic: good, nice, friendly
- ⚠️ Thiếu idiomatic expressions
- ⚠️ Ideas có phần predictable và surface-level
- ⚠️ Chưa có specific examples hay stories đặc biệt memorable
📝 Sample Answer – Band 7.5-8
Thời lượng: Khoảng 2-2.5 phút
“I’d like to describe a thriving little business in my neighborhood called ‘Green Fingers’, which is a boutique plant shop that specializes in indoor plants and eco-friendly gardening supplies.
The shop is tucked away on a quiet side street in District 3 of Ho Chi Minh City, though you wouldn’t know it from the constant flow of customers. It’s in a beautifully renovated colonial-era building, which gives it a distinctive character that really stands out from the typical modern shopfronts.
I stumbled upon this place about a year ago while wandering around the neighborhood. What caught my eye was their stunning window display featuring an array of exotic succulents and hanging plants. The owner, Mrs. Linh, greeted me warmly and spent nearly an hour teaching me about plant care, despite the fact that I only bought one small cactus that day.
What makes Green Fingers particularly successful, in my view, is their holistic approach to business. Rather than just pushing sales, Mrs. Linh has cultivated a community of plant enthusiasts. She runs free workshops every weekend on topics like sustainable gardening and plant propagation, which has helped her build a loyal following. Her expertise is genuinely impressive – she can diagnose plant problems instantly and always offers practical solutions.
Moreover, the business has carved out a niche in the market by focusing on rare and unusual varieties that you won’t find in typical garden centers. They’ve also embraced social media effectively, with an Instagram account that features stunning plant photography and care tips, which has helped them reach a younger demographic.
The personal touch is what really sets them apart though. Mrs. Linh remembers every customer and their specific plants, often following up with care advice. This attention to detail and genuine passion for what she does has translated into a business that’s not just surviving but truly thriving.”
Phân Tích Band Điểm
| Tiêu chí | Band | Nhận xét |
|---|---|---|
| Fluency & Coherence | 7.5-8 | Speaks fluently với minimal hesitation. Uses sophisticated linking (Moreover, Rather than, What makes X is, Though). Clear progression of ideas. |
| Lexical Resource | 7.5-8 | Wide range: thriving, tucked away, stumbled upon, carved out a niche, cultivated a community. Uses less common phrases naturally. Good collocations: genuine passion, stunning display. |
| Grammatical Range & Accuracy | 7.5-8 | Variety of complex structures: relative clauses, despite + noun phrase, rather than + -ing. Mix of tenses used appropriately. Very few errors. |
| Pronunciation | 7.5-8 | Clear pronunciation, appropriate stress and intonation, natural rhythm. |
So Sánh Với Band 6-7
| Khía cạnh | Band 6-7 | Band 7.5-8 |
|---|---|---|
| Vocabulary | “cozy café”, “busy area”, “regular customer” | “thriving little business”, “tucked away”, “carved out a niche”, “cultivated a community” |
| Grammar | Simple: “It’s in a corner building” | Complex: “which gives it a distinctive character that really stands out” |
| Ideas | Generic: good coffee, reasonable price, friendly owner | Specific: holistic approach, free workshops, rare varieties, social media strategy, personal follow-up |
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8.5-9
Thời lượng: 2.5-3 phút đầy đủ
“I’d like to talk about an exceptionally successful small enterprise in my hometown called ‘The Bookworm’s Haven’, which is an independent bookstore that has managed to thrive in an era when many such establishments have been forced to close shop due to online competition.
The shop occupies a charming three-story colonial building in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, right on Hang Gai Street. What’s particularly striking about its location is that it’s nestled among countless souvenir shops catering to tourists, yet it has carved out its own distinct identity and maintained a steady stream of both local and international customers.
My introduction to this bookstore came about quite serendipitously about three years ago. I was desperately searching for a rare Vietnamese translation of Gabriel García Márquez’s works for my literature class, and after drawing a blank at several mainstream bookstores, a professor pointed me in the direction of The Bookworm’s Haven. The owner, Mr. Hai, not only had the book in stock but also engaged me in a fascinating discussion about magical realism in Vietnamese literature, which left a lasting impression on me.
What I find most remarkable about this business’s success is the owner’s strategic vision in navigating the digital disruption that has decimated the traditional bookselling industry. Rather than attempting to compete on price with online giants, Mr. Hai has positioned his bookstore as a cultural hub and community gathering space. He hosts author readings, book clubs, and even creative writing workshops that have fostered a sense of belonging among literature enthusiasts.
Furthermore, he’s demonstrated remarkable acumen in curating a collection that appeals to a niche market – predominantly first editions, rare manuscripts, and limited translations that serious collectors and academics actively seek out. This specialization has enabled him to command premium prices while maintaining customer loyalty.
What’s equally impressive is how he’s leveraged technology without losing the charm of a traditional bookstore. He’s developed an e-commerce platform that coexists harmoniously with the physical store, using it strategically to expand his reach while still encouraging in-person visits through exclusive in-store events and personalized recommendations.
The business model also demonstrates sustainability through multiple revenue streams. Beyond book sales, they operate a quaint café on the second floor that’s become a popular working space for freelancers and students, and they’ve partnered with local artists to display and sell artwork, taking a modest commission.
What truly distinguishes this business, though, is the palpable passion and deep expertise that Mr. Hai brings to his work. His encyclopedic knowledge of literature and his genuine enthusiasm for connecting readers with books transcends mere commercial transaction – it’s elevated the bookstore into a cherished local institution. This authentic commitment to cultural enrichment rather than pure profit maximization has, ironically, been the key to his commercial success, proving that businesses built on genuine value and community connection can indeed flourish even in challenging market conditions.”
Phân Tích Band Điểm
| Tiêu chí | Band | Nhận xét |
|---|---|---|
| Fluency & Coherence | 8.5-9 | Speaks fluently với natural flow. Sophisticated cohesive devices: Furthermore, What’s equally impressive, Rather than, Ironically. Ideas progress logically và naturally. |
| Lexical Resource | 8.5-9 | Sophisticated vocabulary: serendipitously, decimated, demonstrated remarkable acumen, palpable passion, encyclopedic knowledge. Natural use of idioms: forced to close shop, drawing a blank, carved out. Precise collocations throughout. |
| Grammatical Range & Accuracy | 8.5-9 | Full range of structures: cleft sentences (What’s particularly striking), inversion, complex conditionals implicit. Tenses used with precision. Error-free. |
| Pronunciation | 8.5-9 | Native-like features: natural rhythm, appropriate intonation patterns, clear articulation, effective use of stress for emphasis. |
Tại Sao Bài Này Xuất Sắc
🎯 Fluency Hoàn Hảo:
Speaks at length không hesitation, với natural pauses chỉ để tạo emphasis. Discourse markers được sử dụng sophisticatedly: “What I find most remarkable”, “Furthermore”, “What’s equally impressive”, “What truly distinguishes” – tất cả đều tự nhiên và không mechanical.
📚 Vocabulary Tinh Vi:
- Ví dụ: “serendipitously” thay vì “by chance” – shows precision và sophistication
- Ví dụ: “decimated the traditional bookselling industry” – powerful verb choice that paints vivid picture
- Ví dụ: “palpable passion” – abstract noun + descriptive adjective cho sensory quality
- Ví dụ: “coexists harmoniously” – sophisticated adverb usage
Tất cả vocabulary được sử dụng naturally trong context, không forced.
📝 Grammar Đa Dạng:
- Ví dụ: “What’s particularly striking about its location is that…” – cleft sentence để emphasize
- Ví dụ: “Rather than attempting to compete on price with online giants, Mr. Hai has positioned…” – contrast structure với gerund
- Ví dụ: “This specialization has enabled him to command premium prices while maintaining customer loyalty” – present perfect + infinitive + while + gerund
- Ví dụ: “…businesses built on genuine value and community connection can indeed flourish” – reduced relative clause + modal
💡 Ideas Sâu Sắc:
- Không chỉ describe mà analyze business strategy: “navigating digital disruption”, “multiple revenue streams”, “strategic vision”
- Shows understanding of broader context: mentions industry challenges, competitive landscape
- Demonstrates critical thinking: explains the paradox that focusing on community rather than profit led to success
- Provides specific examples: author readings, book clubs, e-commerce platform, café operation
- Personal angle adds authenticity: the story of discovering the bookstore
Để chuẩn bị tốt cho các tình huống tương tự, bạn có thể tham khảo thêm describe a situation where you had to make a quick decision để hiểu cách xử lý các câu hỏi yêu cầu kể về trải nghiệm cụ thể.
Phân tích chi tiết các yếu tố tạo nên band điểm cao trong IELTS Speaking khi nói về doanh nghiệp thành công
Follow-up Questions (Rounding Off Questions)
Sau Part 2, examiner thường hỏi 1-2 câu ngắn để naturally transition sang Part 3. Đây là câu hỏi đơn giản, trả lời ngắn gọn 2-3 câu là đủ.
Question 1: Do you often visit this business?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I try to go there once or twice a month when I have free time. It’s a nice place to relax and I always enjoy my time there.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Actually, yes – I’ve become quite a regular patron. I’d say I drop by at least a couple of times a month, usually when I’m in the area or specifically seeking out a particular book. It’s become something of a ritual for me to browse their shelves and discover new titles.”
Question 2: Would you recommend this business to others?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Definitely! I often tell my friends about it. I think anyone who likes books would enjoy visiting this place.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Without hesitation! I’m actually something of an unofficial ambassador for the place – I rave about it to anyone who’ll listen. I’d particularly recommend it to people who appreciate the tactile experience of browsing physical books and who value that personal connection that independent bookstores offer.”
IELTS Speaking Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Tổng Quan Về Part 3
Part 3 là phần thảo luận hai chiều kéo dài 4-5 phút, trong đó examiner đặt các câu hỏi trừu tượng, sâu sắc hơn liên quan đến chủ đề Part 2. Đây là phần khó nhất và quan trọng nhất để phân biệt band 7+ với band 8+.
Yêu cầu:
- Phân tích, so sánh, đánh giá các vấn đề xã hội
- Đưa ra quan điểm cá nhân có lý lẽ chặt chẽ
- Xem xét nhiều góc độ, thừa nhận complexity
- Sử dụng examples từ society, không chỉ cá nhân
Chiến lược:
- Mở rộng câu trả lời (4-6 câu tối thiểu)
- Sử dụng discourse markers để tổ chức ý (Well, Actually, I think…)
- Structure: Direct answer → Reason/Explanation → Example → Conclusion/Nuance
- Thừa nhận multiple perspectives: “On the one hand… On the other hand…”
- Dùng tentative language: “I would say…”, “It seems to me…”
Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam:
- Trả lời quá ngắn (1-2 câu), thiếu elaboration
- Không đưa ra lý lẽ rõ ràng, chỉ nói general
- Thiếu từ vựng trừu tượng để discuss concepts
- Không acknowledge different viewpoints
- Sounds too absolute: “Everyone thinks…”, “It’s always…”
Các Câu Hỏi Thảo Luận Sâu
Theme 1: Small Businesses vs Large Corporations
Question 1: What are the main differences between small businesses and large corporations?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Compare and Contrast
- Key words: differences, small businesses, large corporations
- Cách tiếp cận: Identify 2-3 key differences → Explain each with examples → Acknowledge pros/cons of both
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“There are several differences between small businesses and big companies. First, small businesses usually have fewer employees, maybe 10 or 20 people, while large corporations have thousands of workers. Second, small businesses often focus on local customers, but big companies sell their products internationally. Also, small businesses have more personal service because the owner often talks directly to customers. Large corporations are more formal and have many management levels. I think both types have advantages – small businesses are more flexible, but large companies are more stable.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Clear comparison với First, Second, Also
- Vocabulary: Adequate nhưng basic (fewer, local, personal, flexible, stable)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Answers the question completely nhưng lacks sophistication. Ideas đúng nhưng presentation chưa impressive. Vocabulary functional nhưng không precise.
📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:
“Well, I’d say the fundamental distinctions lie in several key areas. First and foremost, there’s a stark contrast in terms of operational scale and organizational structure. While small businesses typically operate with a lean workforce and a flat hierarchy where the owner might wear multiple hats, large corporations tend to have complex bureaucratic systems with clearly delineated departments and layers of management.
Beyond the structural differences, there’s also a marked divergence in their market approach and customer relationships. Small businesses often thrive on their ability to offer personalized service and cultivate close relationships with their clientele, which gives them an agility that larger entities simply can’t match. Large corporations, by contrast, tend to prioritize standardization and economies of scale, which can sometimes come at the expense of that personal touch.
Another crucial distinction lies in decision-making processes. Small businesses can pivot quickly and adapt to market changes almost instantaneously, whereas large corporations often need to navigate through extensive approval processes, which can hamper their responsiveness to emerging opportunities or challenges.
That said, it’s worth noting that each model has its inherent strengths. While large corporations benefit from greater resources and market influence, small businesses often enjoy greater autonomy and can be more innovative precisely because they’re not constrained by corporate protocols.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Exceptionally well-organized: structural differences → market approach → decision-making → balanced conclusion
- Vocabulary: Sophisticated throughout: fundamental distinctions, stark contrast, wear multiple hats, marked divergence, thrive on, at the expense of, pivot quickly, hamper responsiveness, inherent strengths
- Grammar: Complex structures naturally: while + clause, which gives them…, that said, precisely because
- Critical Thinking: Shows nuanced understanding, acknowledges trade-offs, avoids oversimplification
💡 Key Language Features:
- Discourse markers: Well, First and foremost, Beyond that, By contrast, Another crucial distinction, That said
- Tentative language: I’d say, tend to, often, can sometimes
- Abstract nouns: operational scale, organizational structure, agility, economies of scale, responsiveness, autonomy
- Academic style: fundamental distinctions, marked divergence, inherent strengths, constrained by
Question 2: Why do some people prefer to support small businesses rather than shopping at large stores?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Reason/Cause
- Key words: prefer, support, small businesses, rather than
- Cách tiếp cận: Multiple reasons → Explain psychology/motivation → Societal context → Examples
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“I think many people choose small businesses because they want to help their local community. When you buy from a small shop, the money stays in the local area. Also, some people believe small businesses have better quality products and more friendly service. Big stores are sometimes too crowded and impersonal. Another reason is that some people want to be different and don’t like buying the same things that everyone has from big chain stores.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Lists multiple reasons clearly
- Vocabulary: Basic expressions (help, stays in, better quality, too crowded)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Adequate coverage nhưng lacks depth. Reasons đúng nhưng không elaborate thoroughly. Missing societal/psychological insights.
📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:
“I think this preference stems from a combination of practical and ideological considerations. On a practical level, many consumers perceive small businesses as offering superior quality and more attentive service. There’s often a sense that small business owners have more at stake and therefore take greater care in maintaining standards and ensuring customer satisfaction.
Beyond the transactional benefits, though, I’d argue there’s a growing consciousness about the broader implications of where we spend our money. There’s been a notable shift towards what we might call conscious consumerism, where people actively consider the social and economic impact of their purchasing decisions. Supporting small businesses is seen as a way to foster community resilience, preserve local character, and ensure that wealth circulates within the community rather than being siphoned off to distant corporate headquarters.
There’s also, I think, a psychological dimension to this. Shopping at a small, independent store can feel more authentic and meaningful than a transaction at a faceless corporation. People often derive satisfaction from knowing the owner personally, from being recognized as a regular customer, and from feeling they’re contributing to someone’s livelihood in a direct and tangible way.
Moreover, in an era of increasing homogenization, small businesses offer diversity and uniqueness that you simply won’t find in standardized chain stores. They often stock distinctive products, reflect local tastes, and add character to neighborhoods in ways that enhance community identity.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Multi-layered analysis: practical reasons → ideological shift → psychological factors → cultural diversity
- Vocabulary: Sophisticated: stems from, ideological considerations, broader implications, conscious consumerism, foster community resilience, siphoned off, faceless corporation, derive satisfaction, homogenization
- Grammar: Advanced structures: There’s often a sense that…, what we might call, I’d argue there’s, rather than being siphoned off
- Critical Thinking: Explores multiple dimensions (practical, ideological, psychological, cultural), shows awareness of societal trends
💡 Key Language Features:
- Discourse markers: On a practical level, Beyond that, There’s also, Moreover, I’d argue
- Tentative language: I think, often, can feel, we might call
- Abstract nouns: ideological considerations, implications, consciousness, resilience, homogenization, authenticity
Theme 2: Challenges and Success Factors
Question 3: What challenges do small businesses face in today’s economy?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Problem identification
- Key words: challenges, small businesses, today’s economy
- Cách tiếp cận: Identify 3-4 major challenges → Explain each with context → Give examples → Acknowledge severity
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“Small businesses have many difficulties nowadays. One big problem is competition from online shopping. Many customers now prefer to buy things on the internet because it’s convenient and often cheaper. Another challenge is rent – in city centers, rent is very expensive and small shops cannot afford it. Also, it’s hard to find good employees because big companies can pay higher salaries. Finally, small businesses don’t have much money for advertising, so it’s difficult to attract new customers.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Lists challenges clearly với One, Another, Also, Finally
- Vocabulary: Basic (big problem, very expensive, hard to find, don’t have much money)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Identifies relevant challenges nhưng lacks depth of analysis. No discussion of broader economic context or interconnections between challenges.
📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:
“Well, small businesses today are navigating an increasingly complex and challenging landscape. Perhaps the most pressing issue is the intense competitive pressure from e-commerce giants and large retail chains. These behemoths can leverage economies of scale to offer prices that small businesses simply can’t compete with, and they’ve fundamentally altered consumer expectations regarding convenience and delivery speed.
Closely tied to this is the challenge of digital transformation. Small businesses often lack the capital and technical expertise to establish a robust online presence or implement sophisticated digital marketing strategies. This digital divide has become particularly acute since the pandemic, which accelerated the shift towards online commerce.
Another significant hurdle involves access to capital and cash flow management. Unlike large corporations that can easily secure financing or weather temporary losses, small businesses often operate on razor-thin margins and can be devastated by even brief disruptions. The bureaucratic obstacles in obtaining loans, especially for newer ventures without established credit history, further compound this challenge.
Beyond these economic factors, there’s also the issue of regulatory compliance. While regulations are necessary, the administrative burden of navigating various permits, licenses, tax requirements, and labor laws can be disproportionately onerous for small businesses that lack dedicated legal and accounting departments.
What’s particularly concerning is how these challenges are interconnected – difficulty with digital presence affects competitiveness, which impacts revenues, which then constrains the ability to invest in improvements or hire skilled personnel. It’s a vicious cycle that makes sustainability increasingly difficult for many small enterprises.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Highly sophisticated: main challenge → related issue → financial constraints → regulatory burden → interconnection of problems
- Vocabulary: Precise and varied: navigating, complex landscape, behemoths, leverage, digital divide, razor-thin margins, disproportionately onerous, vicious cycle
- Grammar: Complex structures throughout: Unlike X that can…, While regulations are necessary, What’s particularly concerning is how…, which impacts revenues, which then constrains
- Critical Thinking: Shows deep understanding of interconnected nature of challenges, mentions both immediate and systemic issues, references pandemic context
💡 Key Language Features:
- Discourse markers: Perhaps the most pressing, Closely tied to this, Another significant hurdle, Beyond these, What’s particularly concerning
- Tentative language: often, can be, increasingly
- Sophisticated vocabulary: behemoths, acute, compound, devastated, disproportionately onerous
Cũng giống như describe a time when you felt very motivated, việc thể hiện được cảm xúc và động lực cá nhân sẽ làm câu trả lời thêm chân thực và ấn tượng.
Chiến lược trả lời hiệu quả cho IELTS Speaking Part 3 về chủ đề kinh doanh và thương mại
Question 4: What qualities or skills are essential for running a successful small business?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Description/Analysis of qualities
- Key words: qualities, skills, essential, successful
- Cách tiếp cận: Identify 3-4 key qualities → Explain why each matters → Give examples → Prioritize if possible
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“I think business owners need several important skills. First, they need to be hardworking because running a business takes a lot of time and effort. Second, they should be good with money and know how to manage finances. Communication skills are also important because they need to talk to customers and employees. Also, they need to be creative to think of new ideas and solve problems. Finally, they should be patient because success doesn’t come quickly.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Clear list of qualities với First, Second, Also, Finally
- Vocabulary: Basic descriptors (hardworking, good with money, creative, patient)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Lists relevant qualities nhưng doesn’t elaborate deeply. Lacks sophistication in explaining why these matter.
📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:
“I’d argue that successful small business ownership requires a unique amalgamation of hard skills and soft skills, along with certain personality traits that aren’t easily taught.
At the foundation, I’d place financial acumen. Business owners need to grasp not just basic bookkeeping but also understand cash flow dynamics, profit margins, and strategic financial planning. The ability to make informed decisions based on financial data can mean the difference between thriving and merely surviving.
Equally crucial, in my view, is adaptability or what some might call entrepreneurial agility. The business landscape is perpetually evolving, and owners who cling rigidly to their original plans often find themselves left behind. This requires a growth mindset – being willing to pivot when something isn’t working, to learn continuously, and to embrace innovation even when it’s uncomfortable.
I’d also emphasize the importance of people skills. Running a small business isn’t just about products or services; it’s fundamentally about relationships – with customers, employees, suppliers, and the broader community. The ability to build trust, communicate effectively, and foster loyalty is invaluable. In fact, I’d go so far as to say that emotional intelligence often trumps technical expertise when it comes to long-term success.
Another often-overlooked quality is resilience or psychological fortitude. Small business ownership is inherently precarious – there will be setbacks, rejections, and periods of uncertainty. Owners need the mental stamina to weather these storms, to bounce back from failures, and to maintain their vision even when things look bleak.
Finally, there’s something to be said for domain expertise and genuine passion for what you’re doing. While it’s possible to run a business in any field, those who combine deep knowledge of their industry with authentic enthusiasm tend to distinguish themselves. This passion becomes contagious and helps sustain motivation through the inevitable challenges.
What ties all these together, I think, is self-awareness – understanding your own strengths and limitations and being willing to delegate or seek expertise in areas where you’re weak.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Sophisticated organization: financial foundation → adaptability → people skills → resilience → passion → integrating factor (self-awareness)
- Vocabulary: Highly sophisticated: amalgamation, acumen, perpetually evolving, cling rigidly, entrepreneurial agility, psychological fortitude, inherently precarious, mental stamina, contagious enthusiasm
- Grammar: Full range: not just X but also Y, what some might call, I’d go so far as to say, those who combine X with Y tend to, what ties these together
- Critical Thinking: Prioritizes qualities, explains interconnections, shows nuanced understanding of business success, balances different types of skills
💡 Key Language Features:
- Discourse markers: At the foundation, Equally crucial, I’d also emphasize, Another often-overlooked, Finally, What ties all these together
- Tentative language: I’d argue, I’d place, in my view, I’d go so far as to say
- Sophisticated expressions: mean the difference between, trumps, weather these storms, bounce back from
Theme 3: Economic and Social Impact
Question 5: How do small businesses contribute to the local economy?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Cause-Effect / Explanation
- Key words: contribute, local economy, small businesses
- Cách tiếp cận: Multiple contributions → Explain mechanisms → Examples → Broader implications
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“Small businesses help the local economy in many ways. First, they create jobs for local people, which means more people have income to spend. They also pay taxes to the local government, which can be used for public services. When people shop at local businesses, the money stays in the community instead of going to big companies in other places. Small businesses also make neighborhoods more attractive and bring customers to the area. This helps other businesses too.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Clear points về jobs, taxes, money circulation, neighborhood improvement
- Vocabulary: Functional (create jobs, pay taxes, stays in the community)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Covers main points adequately nhưng lacks economic terminology và sophisticated analysis of multiplier effects.
📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:
“Small businesses are, in many ways, the lifeblood of local economies, and their contributions are both direct and indirect, immediate and long-term.
Most obviously, they’re significant job creators. While each individual small business might only employ a handful of people, collectively they account for a substantial proportion of local employment. What’s particularly valuable is that these tend to be accessible entry-level positions that provide crucial work experience for young people and employment opportunities for those who might be excluded from corporate hiring practices.
Beyond employment, there’s what economists call the ‘local multiplier effect’. When you purchase from a local business, a much higher percentage of that money recirculates within the community compared to spending at chain stores. Local owners typically source supplies locally, hire local services like accountants or marketers, and spend their profits within the community. This ripple effect can amplify the economic impact of each dollar spent.
Small businesses also contribute to what we might call the economic ecosystem. They fill niches that larger corporations often deem unprofitable, ensuring that communities have diverse commercial offerings. This diversity makes an area more economically resilient – when one sector falters, others can help sustain the overall economy.
There’s also a tax contribution that shouldn’t be overlooked. While individual small businesses may not pay as much as large corporations, in aggregate they represent a significant tax base for local governments, funding everything from infrastructure to public services.
Perhaps less tangible but equally important is their role in community identity and social cohesion. Local businesses often become gathering places and community anchors. They sponsor local events, support community initiatives, and create a sense of place that makes neighborhoods more livable and attractive, which can drive property values and attract further investment.
What’s particularly noteworthy is that small businesses tend to be more adaptive to local needs and more responsive to community concerns, creating a kind of economic democracy where local preferences shape commercial development rather than being dictated by distant corporate decisions.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Multi-dimensional analysis: employment → multiplier effect → economic ecosystem → tax contribution → social impact → economic democracy
- Vocabulary: Economic terminology used naturally: lifeblood, multiplier effect, recirculates, economic ecosystem, in aggregate, economic resilience, social cohesion
- Grammar: Sophisticated: What’s particularly valuable is that…, compared to spending at…, which can drive…, rather than being dictated by
- Critical Thinking: Shows understanding of both direct and indirect effects, uses economic concepts accurately, connects economic and social dimensions
💡 Key Language Features:
- Discourse markers: Most obviously, Beyond employment, There’s also, Perhaps less tangible, What’s particularly noteworthy
- Economic terminology: multiplier effect, recirculates, economic ecosystem, in aggregate, ripple effect
- Abstract concepts: social cohesion, community anchors, economic democracy
Question 6: Do you think governments should provide more support to small businesses? Why or why not?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Opinion with justification
- Key words: should, governments, support, why
- Cách tiếp cận: Clear stance → Multiple reasons → Acknowledge counterarguments → Balanced conclusion
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“Yes, I think the government should help small businesses more. Small businesses create many jobs but they often have financial problems, especially when they’re new. The government could give them loans with low interest rates or reduce their taxes. This would help them grow and hire more people. Some people might say the government shouldn’t interfere in business, but I think small businesses need this help to compete with big companies. Without support, many small businesses will close, which is bad for the economy.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Clear position → reasons → counterargument → conclusion
- Vocabulary: Basic (help, financial problems, reduce taxes, interfere)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Has clear opinion với some justification, acknowledges opposing view briefly nhưng discussion lacks sophistication và specific policy knowledge.
📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:
“This is quite a nuanced question, and I think the answer lies somewhere in the middle. I would advocate for strategic, targeted support rather than blanket subsidies or complete laissez-faire approaches.
The case for government intervention is, I think, fairly compelling. Small businesses face inherent disadvantages in competing with large corporations, particularly around access to capital, economies of scale, and regulatory compliance costs. Without some leveling of the playing field, we risk excessive market concentration and the loss of the economic and social benefits that small businesses provide. From this perspective, interventions like tax incentives, simplified regulatory processes, access to credit guarantees, or business development programs can be justified as correcting market failures rather than distorting markets.
Moreover, there’s a public interest argument. If we accept that small businesses contribute to economic diversity, community resilience, and local employment in ways that benefit society broadly, then government support can be framed as an investment in public goods rather than corporate welfare. This is particularly relevant in areas struggling with economic decline or in sectors deemed strategically important.
That said, I think support needs to be carefully calibrated. Indiscriminate subsidies can create dependency, prop up inefficient businesses that would otherwise fail, and potentially disadvantage more competitive enterprises. The goal should be to help viable businesses overcome temporary barriers rather than sustaining fundamentally uncompetitive ones.
The form of support matters too. Rather than direct financial subsidies, I’d argue for infrastructure investments that benefit small businesses – like affordable commercial spaces, business incubators, digital infrastructure, and accessible training programs. These create enabling conditions without picking winners.
It’s also crucial to consider the trade-offs. Government resources are limited, and support for small businesses means fewer resources for other priorities like education or healthcare. Any support framework should be evaluated rigorously for cost-effectiveness and actual impact.
In conclusion, I believe measured government support is warranted, but it should be strategic, outcomes-focused, and regularly reassessed rather than becoming permanent entitlements. The aim should be to foster genuine competitiveness and innovation, not to insulate businesses from market realities.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Exceptionally sophisticated: states nuanced position → case for intervention → public interest dimension → necessary caveats → preferred approaches → trade-offs → balanced conclusion
- Vocabulary: Policy-oriented and precise: laissez-faire, leveling the playing field, market concentration, correcting market failures, calibrated, indiscriminate subsidies, prop up, enabling conditions, cost-effectiveness
- Grammar: Full range of advanced structures: Without some leveling…, If we accept that…, Rather than X, I’d argue for Y, Any support framework should be evaluated
- Critical Thinking: Shows exceptional analytical depth, considers multiple dimensions (economic, social, fiscal), acknowledges complexity and trade-offs, demonstrates policy awareness
💡 Key Language Features:
- Discourse markers: The case for, Moreover, That said, Rather than, It’s also crucial, In conclusion
- Tentative/Academic language: I think, I would advocate for, can be justified, should be, I’d argue for
- Policy vocabulary: strategic intervention, market failures, public goods, cost-effectiveness, outcomes-focused
Nếu bạn muốn tìm hiểu thêm về cách thư giãn và phục hồi năng lượng giữa các phần thi, hãy tham khảo describe a hobby you find relaxing để có thêm ý tưởng về các hoạt động giúp bạn giữ được tinh thần thoải mái.
Theme 4: Future Trends
Question 7: How do you think technology will affect small businesses in the future?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Prediction/Future speculation
- Key words: technology, affect, small businesses, future
- Cách tiếp cận: Identify trends → Positive impacts → Challenges → Overall assessment
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“I think technology will have both positive and negative effects on small businesses. On the positive side, technology like social media and websites will help small businesses reach more customers without spending too much money on advertising. They can also use online payment systems to make transactions easier. However, technology also brings challenges. Small businesses need to keep up with new technology, which can be expensive and difficult. Also, big companies use technology better because they have more money. So technology might help some small businesses but make things harder for others.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Balanced view với positive and negative effects
- Vocabulary: Basic technology terms (social media, websites, online payment)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Addresses both sides adequately nhưng lacks specific examples of emerging technologies và sophisticated understanding of digital transformation.
📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:
“I think we’re at a real inflection point regarding technology and small businesses, and the impacts will be profoundly transformative, though not uniformly so.
On the opportunity side, technology is democratizing capabilities that were once the exclusive domain of large corporations. Cloud computing, for instance, allows even the smallest businesses to access enterprise-grade software and infrastructure at affordable subscription rates. E-commerce platforms like Shopify or social media marketing tools have lowered barriers to entry for reaching customers, enabling a mom-and-pop shop in a small town to potentially tap into global markets.
Artificial intelligence and automation also hold promise for small businesses. AI-powered tools can now handle tasks like customer service through chatbots, data analysis, or even personalized marketing – functions that previously required dedicated staff. This can level the playing field somewhat, allowing small businesses to operate more efficiently and punch above their weight.
However, and this is crucial, technology is also a double-edged sword. The same tools that empower small businesses can also amplify the advantages of larger competitors. Big corporations can leverage technology at scale, using sophisticated algorithms and vast data sets to optimize operations and undercut prices in ways small businesses can’t match. There’s a risk of technology exacerbating rather than reducing competitive disparities.
Moreover, keeping pace with technological change imposes costs – not just financial, but in terms of time and expertise. Small business owners often lack the technical knowledge to effectively implement new technologies, and hiring expertise can be prohibitively expensive. There’s a real danger of a digital divide emerging between tech-savvy businesses that thrive and those that fall behind because they can’t navigate the technological landscape.
Looking ahead, I think technologies like blockchain for secure transactions, IoT (Internet of Things) for inventory management, and AR/VR for enhanced customer experiences will become increasingly accessible to small businesses. But success will hinge on whether small businesses can access adequate training and affordable technical support to adopt these tools effectively.
What concerns me most is the potential for technology to accelerate consolidation. If technology advantages accrue primarily to large players, we might see even more small businesses being squeezed out or forced to sell to bigger companies. This would be detrimental to economic diversity and community vitality.
Ultimately, I’d say technology is more of an enabler than a determinant – it amplifies existing capabilities rather than creating success on its own. Small businesses that combine technological tools with their traditional strengths – personal service, community connections, agility – will be best positioned to thrive.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Highly sophisticated: introduction of stakes → opportunities → AI/automation potential → counterarguments → implementation challenges → future technologies → concerns → nuanced conclusion
- Vocabulary: Technology-specific and precise: inflection point, democratizing, cloud computing, enterprise-grade, AI-powered, chatbots, double-edged sword, algorithms, IoT, AR/VR, accrue primarily
- Grammar: Advanced structures throughout: while… previously required, the same tools that empower, not just X but Y, whether small businesses can, I’d say X is more Y than Z
- Critical Thinking: Exceptional depth – considers both opportunities and risks, specific technology examples, implementation challenges, future trends, systemic implications, concludes with nuanced synthesis
💡 Key Language Features:
- Discourse markers: On the opportunity side, However and this is crucial, Moreover, Looking ahead, What concerns me most, Ultimately
- Speculation language: I think we’re at, will be, hold promise, might see, would be
- Technology vocabulary: democratizing, cloud computing, AI-powered, algorithms, blockchain, IoT, AR/VR
Question 8: Will small businesses still be important in the future, or will everything be dominated by large corporations?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Prediction with comparison
- Key words: future, still important, dominated by large corporations
- Cách tiếp cận: Acknowledge trend → Reasons for continued relevance → Areas of advantage → Balanced outlook
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“I think small businesses will still be important in the future even though big companies are getting bigger. Small businesses can offer things that big companies cannot, like personal service and unique products. Also, many people prefer to shop at local stores to support their community. Some areas like restaurants and specialty shops will always need small businesses because they understand local tastes better. However, small businesses will need to adapt and use technology to compete. So I believe both types will exist together in the future.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Clear position → reasons → examples → caveat → conclusion
- Vocabulary: Adequate (personal service, unique products, local stores, adapt)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Takes clear stance với reasonable justification nhưng lacks sophistication in analyzing economic trends và specific future scenarios.
📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:
“While it’s tempting to envision a future of complete corporate dominance, I think that’s overly simplistic and doesn’t account for several countervailing forces that will sustain small business viability.
To be realistic, we’re certainly seeing ongoing consolidation in many sectors – retail, hospitality, and increasingly services are being absorbed by large platforms and chains. The economies of scale and network effects that big players enjoy are formidable competitive advantages that will likely intensify with technological advancement.
However, I’d argue there are inherent limitations to corporate scale that create enduring space for small businesses. Large corporations excel at standardization and efficiency, but they struggle with customization, niche markets, and rapid adaptation to hyper-local preferences. This creates persistent opportunities for small businesses that can cater to specialized needs or deliver experiences that resist commodification.
We’re also witnessing, I think, a cultural shift in consumer values. There’s growing awareness of the social and environmental costs of unchecked corporate power, manifesting in movements supporting local commerce, ethical consumption, and community resilience. While this remains a niche preference now, it could gain momentum among younger generations who prioritize these values. This conscious consumerism could provide a bulwark against complete corporate domination.
Furthermore, the very nature of certain industries militates against consolidation. Creative services, specialized crafts, bespoke products, and relationship-intensive businesses like counseling or personal training are inherently resistant to mass-market scaling. Human connection and artisanal quality aren’t easily replicated by corporations, no matter their size.
That said, I don’t want to be Pollyannish about this. Small businesses that simply replicate what large corporations do better will inevitably struggle. Survival will depend on differentiation – offering something genuinely distinct, whether that’s superior expertise, unique products, exceptional service, or community embeddedness.
The landscape will likely be bifurcated. We’ll see dominant corporations controlling mass-market segments while small businesses carve out niches in specialized, localized, or experience-oriented domains. Success will require small businesses to play to their strengths – agility, personalization, authenticity – rather than attempting to compete on the terms where corporations have insurmountable advantages.
In essence, I believe small businesses will remain important not because they’ll challenge corporate dominance broadly, but because they’ll occupy ecological niches in the economy that large corporations can’t efficiently serve. It’s a coexistence based on complementary roles rather than direct competition.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Exceptionally sophisticated: acknowledges opposing view → limitations of corporate scale → cultural shifts → industry-specific factors → realistic caveats → future landscape prediction → synthesis
- Vocabulary: Highly advanced: envision, countervailing forces, ongoing consolidation, formidable competitive advantages, hyper-local, resist commodification, militates against, bespoke, Pollyannish, bifurcated, insurmountable advantages, ecological niches
- Grammar: Full range including: while it’s tempting to, doesn’t account for, that create space, we’re witnessing, manifesting in, prioritize, play to their strengths, rather than attempting
- Critical Thinking: Exceptional – considers economic forces, consumer trends, industry characteristics, acknowledges complexity, makes nuanced predictions, uses ecological metaphor effectively
💡 Key Language Features:
- Discourse markers: To be realistic, However, We’re also witnessing, Furthermore, That said, In essence
- Tentative/Academic language: I think that’s, I’d argue, likely, I believe, don’t want to be Pollyannish
- Sophisticated expressions: countervailing forces, formidable advantages, resist commodification, militates against, provide a bulwark, bifurcated landscape, ecological niches
Tương tự như khi describe a successful small business you know about, việc có ví dụ cụ thể và chi tiết sẽ giúp câu trả lời của bạn thuyết phục và ghi điểm cao hơn.
Bảng từ vựng chuyên ngành về kinh doanh và doanh nghiệp cho IELTS Speaking band cao
Từ vựng và cụm từ quan trọng
Topic-Specific Vocabulary
| Từ vựng/Cụm từ | Loại từ | Phiên âm | Nghĩa tiếng Việt | Ví dụ | Collocation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| thriving business | adj + n | /ˈθraɪvɪŋ ˈbɪznəs/ | doanh nghiệp phát triển mạnh | The bakery has become a thriving business in just two years. | thriving economy, thriving community, thriving industry |
| boutique [business] | adj/n | /buːˈtiːk/ | cửa hàng/doanh nghiệp nhỏ chuyên biệt | It’s a boutique coffee shop that specializes in single-origin beans. | boutique hotel, boutique store, boutique firm |
| carve out a niche | phrasal v | /kɑːv aʊt ə niːʃ/ | tạo dựng thị trường ngách riêng | They’ve carved out a niche in sustainable fashion. | carve out market, carve out position, carve out space |
| build a loyal following | phrase | /bɪld ə ˈlɔɪəl ˈfɒləʊɪŋ/ | xây dựng lượng khách hàng trung thành | The restaurant built a loyal following through consistent quality. | loyal customer base, loyal clientele, dedicated following |
| word-of-mouth | n | /wɜːd əv maʊθ/ | truyền miệng | Their success relies heavily on positive word-of-mouth. | word-of-mouth marketing, word-of-mouth advertising, generate word-of-mouth |
| profit margin | n | /ˈprɒfɪt ˈmɑːdʒɪn/ | tỷ suất lợi nhuận | Small businesses often operate on thin profit margins. | narrow margin, healthy margin, profit margin ratio |
| overheads | n (plural) | /ˈəʊvəhedz/ | chi phí vận hành cố định | Reducing overheads was essential to their survival. | reduce overheads, high overheads, overhead costs |
| cash flow | n | /kæʃ fləʊ/ | dòng tiền | Managing cash flow is critical for small businesses. | positive cash flow, cash flow problems, maintain cash flow |
| economies of scale | n (plural) | /ɪˈkɒnəmiz əv skeɪl/ | lợi thế kinh tế theo quy mô | Large corporations benefit from economies of scale. | achieve economies, economies of scale advantage |
| startup capital | n | /ˈstɑːtʌp ˈkæpɪtl/ | vốn khởi nghiệp | They raised startup capital through crowdfunding. | initial capital, startup investment, capital requirements |
| entrepreneurial spirit | n | /ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜːriəl ˈspɪrɪt/ | tinh thần khởi nghiệp | Her entrepreneurial spirit drove the business forward. | entrepreneurial mindset, entrepreneurial culture, entrepreneurial skills |
| business acumen | n | /ˈbɪznəs əˈkjuːmən/ | nhạy bén kinh doanh | His business acumen helped identify profitable opportunities. | financial acumen, commercial acumen, demonstrate acumen |
| market saturation | n | /ˈmɑːkɪt ˌsætʃəˈreɪʃn/ | thị trường bão hòa | The coffee shop market is reaching saturation in urban areas. | saturation point, market saturation level |
| competitive edge | n | /kəmˈpetətɪv edʒ/ | lợi thế cạnh tranh | Quality service gives them a competitive edge. | maintain edge, competitive advantage, gain an edge |
| brick-and-mortar | adj | /brɪk ənd ˈmɔːtə/ | cửa hàng thực tế (không online) | Many brick-and-mortar stores struggle against e-commerce. | brick-and-mortar store, brick-and-mortar presence |
| pivot | v | /ˈpɪvət/ | thay đổi hướng kinh doanh | The company had to pivot during the pandemic. | pivot strategy, pivot business model, quick pivot |
| sustainable business model | adj + n + n | /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈbɪznəs ˈmɒdl/ | mô hình kinh doanh bền vững | They’ve developed a sustainable business model. | sustainable growth, sustainable practices, sustainability |
| customer retention | n | /ˈkʌstəmə rɪˈtenʃn/ | giữ chân khách hàng | Customer retention is more cost-effective than acquisition. | retention rate, retention strategy, improve retention |
| brand recognition | n | /brænd ˌrekəɡˈnɪʃn/ | nhận diện thương hiệu | Building brand recognition takes time and consistency. | brand awareness, brand visibility, increase recognition |
| business incubator | n | /ˈbɪznəs ˈɪŋkjubeɪtə/ | vườn ươm doanh nghiệp | The startup joined a business incubator for mentorship. | incubator program, incubator support |
Idiomatic Expressions & Advanced Phrases
| Cụm từ | Nghĩa | Ví dụ sử dụng | Band điểm |
|---|---|---|---|
| weather the storm | vượt qua khó khăn, sống sót qua khủng hoảng | Small businesses that weathered the pandemic storm often emerged stronger. | 7.5-9 |
| hit the ground running | bắt đầu nhanh chóng và hiệu quả | With her experience, she hit the ground running when opening her shop. | 7.5-9 |
| a level playing field | điều kiện công bằng cho mọi đối thủ | Government support helps create a level playing field for small businesses. | 7.5-9 |
| cut corners | cắt giảm chi phí một cách thiếu trách nhiệm | Successful businesses never cut corners on quality. | 7-8.5 |
| in the red / in the black | thua lỗ / có lãi | After three years, the business finally moved from the red into the black. | 7.5-9 |
| go under / fold | phá sản, đóng cửa | Many restaurants went under during the economic downturn. | 7-8.5 |
| jump through hoops | phải vượt qua nhiều thủ tục rắc rối | Small businesses often have to jump through hoops to get bank loans. | 7.5-9 |
| make ends meet | đủ sống, trang trải cuộc sống | In the first year, they barely made ends meet. | 7-8 |
| cash cow | nguồn thu nhập ổn định | Their catering service became a real cash cow for the business. | 7.5-9 |
| mom-and-pop store | cửa hàng gia đình nhỏ | Mom-and-pop stores add character to neighborhoods. | 7-8.5 |
| a drop in the ocean | rất nhỏ so với tổng thể | Their market share is just a drop in the ocean compared to big chains. | 7.5-9 |
| ahead of the curve | đi trước xu hướng, tiên phong | They stayed ahead of the curve by adopting digital payments early. | 7.5-9 |
Discourse Markers (Từ Nối Ý Trong Speaking)
Để bắt đầu câu trả lời:
- 📝 Well,… – Khi cần suy nghĩ một chút (Well, I’d say there are several factors…)
- 📝 Actually,… – Khi đưa ra góc nhìn có thể bất ngờ (Actually, small businesses face more challenges than people realize…)
- 📝 To be honest,… – Khi nói thật, thẳng thắn (To be honest, not all small businesses deserve to survive…)
- 📝 I’d say that… – Khi đưa ra quan điểm (I’d say that location is absolutely crucial…)
- 📝 From my perspective,… – Khi bày tỏ góc nhìn cá nhân (From my perspective, passion alone isn’t enough…)
Để bổ sung ý:
- 📝 On top of that,… – Thêm vào đó, hơn nữa (On top of that, they need strong financial management…)
- 📝 What’s more,… – Hơn thế nữa (What’s more, technology has leveled the playing field…)
- 📝 Not to mention… – Chưa kể đến (Not to mention the regulatory burden they face…)
- 📝 Beyond that,… – Ngoài điều đó (Beyond that, there’s the challenge of digital transformation…)
- 📝 Moreover, / Furthermore,… – Hơn nữa (Moreover, customer loyalty is harder to build nowadays…)
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… nhưng cũng cần xem xét…
- 📝 That said,… – Tuy nhiên, dù vậy (Small businesses are important. That said, not all of them are well-managed…)
- 📝 Having said that,… – Tuy đã nói vậy (Technology helps businesses. Having said that, it also creates new challenges…)
Để giải thích và làm rõ:
- 📝 What I mean is… – Ý tôi là… (What I mean is that success requires more than just a good product…)
- 📝 To put it another way,… – Nói cách khác (To put it another way, they need to find their unique selling point…)
- 📝 In other words,… – Nói cách khác
- 📝 The thing is,… – Vấn đề là (The thing is, most small businesses don’t have adequate capital…)
Để kết luận:
- 📝 All in all,… – Tóm lại, xét trên tất cả (All in all, I believe small businesses will remain important…)
- 📝 At the end of the day,… – Cuối cùng thì, kết cục (At the end of the day, customer satisfaction determines success…)
- 📝 In the final analysis,… – Khi phân tích cuối cùng (In the final analysis, adaptability is key…)
- 📝 To sum up,… – Tóm lại
Grammatical Structures Ấn Tượng
1. Conditional Sentences (Câu điều kiện):
Mixed conditional:
Formula: If + Past Perfect, would + infinitive (hoặc ngược lại)
- Ví dụ: “If they hadn’t adapted to online sales, they would be struggling now.”
- Ví dụ: “If I were more business-savvy, I would have started my own company years ago.”
Inversion (Đảo ngữ):
Formula: Had + S + Past Participle, S + would have…
- Ví dụ: “Had they not diversified their revenue streams, the business would have folded.”
- Ví dụ: “Were it not for community support, many local shops wouldn’t survive.”
2. Relative Clauses (Mệnh đề quan hệ):
Non-defining (thêm thông tin, dùng dấu phẩy):
- Ví dụ: “Small businesses, which often operate on thin margins, are particularly vulnerable to economic shocks.”
- Ví dụ: “The owner, who had no prior business experience, learned through trial and error.”
Reduced relative clause:
- Ví dụ: “Businesses built on genuine passion tend to be more resilient.” (= Businesses that are built on…)
- Ví dụ: “The challenges facing small businesses today are unprecedented.” (= The challenges that face…)
3. Passive Voice (Câu bị động – Academic style):
It is thought/believed/said that…
- Ví dụ: “It’s widely believed that personal service gives small businesses an advantage.”
- Ví dụ: “It’s often said that location is everything in retail.”
S + be + past participle + to + infinitive:
- Ví dụ: “Small businesses are thought to contribute significantly to local employment.”
- Ví dụ: “Technology is expected to transform the small business landscape.”
4. Cleft Sentences (Câu chẻ – để nhấn mạnh):
What I find most…, is…
- Ví dụ: “What I find most impressive about this business is their commitment to sustainability.”
- Ví dụ: “What really sets them apart is their exceptional customer service.”
The thing that…, is…
- Ví dụ: “The thing that makes small businesses special is their personal touch.”
- Ví dụ: “The reason why they succeeded is their ability to adapt quickly.”
It is… that… (for emphasis):
- Ví dụ: “It’s the community support that has sustained many local businesses.”
- Ví dụ: “It was their innovative marketing that attracted younger customers.”
5. Concession Structures (Diễn đạt nhượng bộ):
While/Whereas/Although + clause:
- Ví dụ: “While large corporations have more resources, small businesses often show greater agility.”
- Ví dụ: “Although technology creates opportunities, it also poses challenges for less tech-savvy owners.”
Despite/In spite of + noun/gerund:
- Ví dụ: “Despite facing intense competition, many small businesses continue to thrive.”
- Ví dụ: “In spite of having limited budgets, they’ve managed to build a strong brand.”
6. Cause and Effect Structures:
Due to / Owing to + noun phrase:
- Ví dụ: “Due to their flexibility, small businesses can respond quickly to market changes.”
Lead to / Result in / Give rise to:
- Ví dụ: “Strong customer relationships lead to increased loyalty and repeat business.”
- Ví dụ: “Their innovative approach resulted in rapid growth.”
Enable / Allow / Facilitate:
- Ví dụ: “Technology enables small businesses to compete on a global scale.”
- Ví dụ: “This specialization allows them to command premium prices.”
Bài viết này đã cung cấp cho bạn một cái nhìn toàn diện về cách tiếp cận chủ đề “Describe a Successful Small Business” trong IELTS Speaking. Từ việc phân tích chi tiết band điểm, các sample answers đa dạng cho cả ba parts, đến hơn 50 từ vựng và cụm từ ăn điểm, bạn đã có đủ công cụ để tự tin bước vào phòng thi.
Điều quan trọng nhất là đừng học thuộc lòng các câu trả lời mẫu. Thay vào đó, hãy hiểu rõ structure, học vocabulary trong context và luyện tập tư duy phản biện. Examiner đánh giá cao sự tự nhiên, ý tưởng cá nhân và khả năng diễn đạt linh hoạt hơn là những câu trả lời hoàn hảo nhưng mechanical.
Hãy nhớ rằng, mục tiêu không phải là nói hoàn hảo mà là giao tiếp hiệu quả. Sự tự tin, nhiệt huyết khi nói về chủ đề và khả năng duy trì cuộc trò chuyện tự nhiên sẽ giúp bạn ghi điểm trong mắt examiner hơn bất kỳ từ vựng nào. Chúc bạn thành công trong kỳ thi IELTS Speaking!
