IELTS Speaking: Cách Trả Lời “Describe A Famous Historical Figure” – Bài Mẫu Band 6-9

Chủ đề về nhân vật lịch sử nổi tiếng là một trong những đề tài xuất hiện thường xuyên trong kỳ thi IELTS Speaking, đặc biệt tại Part 2 và Part 3. Theo thống kê từ các đề thi thực tế, chủ đề này xuất hiện với tần suất cao trong các kỳ thi từ 2020 đến 2024, và dự đoán sẽ tiếp tục là một topic phổ biến trong tương lai.

Điều khiến nhiều thí sinh Việt Nam gặp khó khăn với chủ đề này là việc cân bằng giữa kiến thức lịch sử và khả năng diễn đạt bằng tiếng Anh. Bạn cần không chỉ biết về nhân vật đó mà còn phải trình bày một cách tự nhiên, mạch lạc và ấn tượng.

Trong bài viết này, bạn sẽ học được:

• Các câu hỏi thường gặp về nhân vật lịch sử trong cả 3 Part
• Bài mẫu chi tiết theo từng band điểm từ 6-7, 7.5-8 đến 8.5-9
• Chiến lược trả lời hiệu quả từ góc nhìn Examiner
• Từ vựng và cụm từ ăn điểm giúp bạn nâng band
• Phân tích sâu về tiêu chí chấm điểm và cách cải thiện

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, sở thích cá nhân và các chủ đề quen thuộc. Với chủ đề lịch sử, examiner thường hỏi về quan điểm chung, sở thích học lịch sử hoặc kiến thức cơ bản.

Chiến lược quan trọng cho Part 1 là trả lời tự nhiên nhưng đủ chi tiết, mỗi câu trả lời nên có 2-3 câu bao gồm: trả lời trực tiếp, giải thích lý do, và đưa thêm ví dụ nếu có thể.

Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam:

• Trả lời quá ngắn gọn chỉ “Yes” hoặc “No”
• Sử dụng từ vựng quá đơn giản, lặp lại
• Không mở rộng ý hoặc đưa thêm thông tin
• Thiếu sự tự nhiên, nghe như đang đọc thuộc

Các Câu Hỏi Thường Gặp

Question 1: Do you like learning about history?

Question 2: Did you enjoy history lessons at school?

Question 3: What historical period interests you most?

Question 4: Have you ever visited any historical sites?

Question 5: Do you think it’s important to learn about historical figures?

Question 6: Who is your favorite historical figure?

Question 7: Do you prefer reading history books or watching historical documentaries?

Question 8: Have you learned about any famous historical figures recently?

Phân Tích và Gợi Ý Trả Lời Chi Tiết

Question: Do you like learning about history?

🎯 Cách tiếp cận:

• Đưa ra câu trả lời Yes/No rõ ràng
• Giải thích lý do tại sao thích hoặc không thích
• Bổ sung ví dụ cụ thể về thời kỳ hoặc nhân vật yêu thích

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

Yes, I like learning about history. I think it’s interesting to know about the past and how people lived before. I especially like learning about Vietnamese history because it helps me understand my country better.

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Trả lời trực tiếp câu hỏi, có lý do cơ bản, đề cập đến lĩnh vực cụ thể (Vietnamese history)
• Hạn chế: Từ vựng đơn giản (interesting, like, helps), cấu trúc câu cơ bản, thiếu chi tiết cụ thể
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Câu trả lời đủ dài và mạch lạc nhưng chưa thể hiện được vốn từ vựng phong phú hay cấu trúc ngữ pháp phức tạp

📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

Actually, I’m quite fascinated by history, particularly the medieval period and revolutionary movements. What I find most compelling is how historical events shaped modern society – for instance, studying the French Revolution really helped me understand the origins of democracy and human rights concepts we take for granted today. I’d say history gives us valuable insights into human nature and patterns of social change.

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Sử dụng từ vựng tinh vi (fascinated by, compelling, shaped, insights into), cấu trúc câu phức (What I find most…, studying X helped me understand Y), ý tưởng sâu sắc với ví dụ cụ thể (French Revolution)
• Tại sao Band 8-9:
  • Fluency: Tự nhiên với discourse marker “Actually”, không có pauses
  • Vocabulary: Collocations mạnh (quite fascinated by, compelling, valuable insights)
  • Grammar: Cấu trúc phức tạp (relative clause, gerund), sử dụng thì phù hợp
  • Content: Ý tưởng mang tính phân tích, không chỉ nêu sở thích

💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

• be fascinated by: bị cuốn hút bởi, say mê
• compelling: hấp dẫn, thuyết phục
• shaped modern society: định hình xã hội hiện đại
• valuable insights into: cái nhìn sâu sắc có giá trị về
• take for granted: coi là điều hiển nhiên

---

Question: What historical period interests you most?

🎯 Cách tiếp cận:

• Nêu rõ thời kỳ lịch sử cụ thể
• Giải thích tại sao thời kỳ đó hấp dẫn bạn
• Đưa thêm thông tin về sự kiện hoặc nhân vật trong thời kỳ đó

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

I’m most interested in the 20th century because many important things happened. There were two world wars and many changes in technology. I think this period changed the world a lot and made it become modern like today.

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Xác định rõ thời kỳ (20th century), đưa ra ví dụ cụ thể (world wars, technology)
• Hạn chế: Từ vựng lặp lại (many, changed), cụm từ chung chung (important things, a lot), thiếu depth trong phân tích
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Nội dung đầy đủ nhưng cách diễn đạt còn basic, thiếu sophistication

📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

I’m particularly drawn to the Renaissance period in Europe, roughly from the 14th to 17th centuries. What makes this era so captivating is the unprecedented flourishing of art, science, and philosophy. Figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo were not just artists but polymaths who embodied the spirit of human curiosity. This period marked a pivotal shift from medieval thinking to modern rationalism, which laid the groundwork for the scientific revolution. The cross-pollination of ideas between different fields during this time is something I find remarkably relevant even today.

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Từ vựng academic và precise (unprecedented flourishing, polymaths, embodied the spirit), cấu trúc câu đa dạng (What makes…, not just X but Y), phân tích có chiều sâu về tác động lịch sử
• Tại sao Band 8-9:
  • Fluency: Câu dài nhưng mạch lạc với discourse markers tự nhiên
  • Vocabulary: Sophisticated lexical items (polymaths, cross-pollination, laid the groundwork)
  • Grammar: Complex sentences với relative clauses, participle phrases
  • Pronunciation: Stress từ nhiều âm tiết chính xác
  • Content: Thể hiện kiến thức sâu và khả năng kết nối với hiện tại

💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

• be drawn to: bị thu hút bởi
• unprecedented flourishing: sự phát triển chưa từng có
• polymath: người có kiến thức uyên bác về nhiều lĩnh vực
• embodied the spirit: hiện thân tinh thần
• marked a pivotal shift: đánh dấu sự chuyển đổi quan trọng
• laid the groundwork for: đặt nền móng cho
• cross-pollination: sự giao thoa, trao đổi qua lại

---

Question: Do you think it’s important to learn about historical figures?

🎯 Cách tiếp cận:

• Đưa ra quan điểm rõ ràng (Yes/No hoặc Depends)
• Giải thích lý do với 2-3 points
• Kết nối với giá trị thực tế trong cuộc sống

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

Yes, I think it’s very important. Historical figures can teach us many lessons about life and how to deal with problems. For example, we can learn about their courage and determination. Also, knowing about them helps us understand our history better.

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Có quan điểm rõ ràng, đưa ra lý do và ví dụ, structure tốt
• Hạn chế: Từ vựng generic (very important, many lessons, deal with problems), thiếu specific examples về historical figures cụ thể
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Đáp án adequate và logical nhưng chưa impressive về mặt ngôn ngữ

📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

Absolutely, I’d say studying historical figures is invaluable for several reasons. Firstly, they serve as powerful role models who demonstrate resilience and vision in the face of adversity – take Nelson Mandela, for instance, whose unwavering commitment to equality transcended decades of imprisonment. Secondly, understanding these individuals helps us contextualize current social and political issues. Their triumphs and failures offer us cautionary tales and blueprints for success that remain remarkably applicable today. Moreover, learning about diverse historical figures from different cultures broadens our perspective and fosters empathy across cultural boundaries.

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Từ vựng sophisticated và precise (invaluable, resilience, unwavering commitment, transcended), structure rõ ràng với signposting (Firstly, Secondly, Moreover), ví dụ cụ thể và powerful (Nelson Mandela), phân tích đa chiều
• Tại sao Band 8-9:
  • Fluency: Discourse markers tự nhiên (Absolutely, I’d say, for instance)
  • Vocabulary: Advanced collocations (unwavering commitment, cautionary tales, blueprints for success)
  • Grammar: Complex structures (whose clause, demonstrate + noun, offer us + noun phrase)
  • Content: Multi-layered reasoning với concrete example và abstract concepts

💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

• invaluable: vô cùng quý giá, không thể định giá
• unwavering commitment: cam kết kiên định
• transcended: vượt qua, siêu việt
• contextualize: đặt vào ngữ cảnh, hiểu trong bối cảnh
• cautionary tales: những câu chuyện mang tính cảnh báo
• blueprints for success: bản thiết kế, kế hoạch cho thành công
• fosters empathy: nuôi dưỡng sự đồng cảm

Học viên Việt Nam luyện tập IELTS Speaking về chủ đề nhân vật lịch sử nổi tiếng với giáo viên

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 và ghi chú. Đây là phần quan trọng nhất vì nó cho examiner thấy khả năng trình bày liên tục của bạn mà không bị ngắt quãng.

Chiến lược cho Part 2:

• Sử dụng hết 1 phút chuẩn bị để ghi keywords, không viết câu hoàn chỉnh
• Ghi ý cho tất cả bullet points và câu “explain” cuối cùng
• Nói đủ 2 phút, tốt nhất là 2-2.5 phút
• Sử dụng các discourse markers để linking ideas
• Kết thúc tự nhiên, không nói “That’s all”

Lỗi thường gặp:

• Không tận dụng hết thời gian chuẩn bị
• Nói quá ngắn (dưới 1.5 phút) hoặc dừng đột ngột
• Bỏ sót bullet points quan trọng
• Không phát triển câu “explain” cuối – đây là phần scoring cao nhất
• Sử dụng quá nhiều “um”, “ah” khi suy nghĩ

Cue Card

Describe A Famous Historical Figure You Would Like To Learn More About

You should say:

• Who this person is
• When and where this person lived
• What this person did or achieved
• And explain why you would like to learn more about this person

Phân Tích Đề Bài

• Dạng câu hỏi: Describe a person (historical figure)
• Thì động từ: Chủ yếu quá khứ (lived, did, achieved) nhưng hiện tại cho explain (would like, is)
• Bullet points phải cover:
  • Bullet 1: Identity – tên và background cơ bản
  • Bullet 2: Time and place – thời đại và địa điểm sinh sống
  • Bullet 3: Achievements – thành tựu cụ thể, đóng góp
  • Bullet 4 (Explain): Đây là phần quan trọng nhất – giải thích lý do muốn tìm hiểu thêm, thể hiện interest và personal connection
• Câu “explain” quan trọng: Đây là nơi bạn thể hiện critical thinking và personal perspective, không chỉ liệt kê facts mà phải có depth và emotion

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7

Thời lượng: Khoảng 1.5-2 phút

The historical figure I’d like to learn more about is Cleopatra, the last queen of Egypt. She lived around 2000 years ago in Egypt, specifically in Alexandria, which was the capital at that time.

Cleopatra is famous for being a very powerful woman in history. She ruled Egypt for many years and was known for being very intelligent and beautiful. She could speak many languages, which was unusual for that time. She also had relationships with important Roman leaders like Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, which helped her protect Egypt.

What made her special was that she was not just a queen but also a skilled diplomat. She tried very hard to keep Egypt independent when Rome was becoming very powerful. Unfortunately, her country was taken by Rome after she died.

I want to learn more about Cleopatra because I find her story very interesting. She was a strong woman in a time when women didn’t have much power. I’m curious about how she managed to rule such a big country and deal with the Romans. Also, there are many movies and books about her, but I want to know the real story, not just the dramatic versions. I think understanding her better would teach me about leadership and how to be strong in difficult situations.

Phân Tích Band Điểm

Tiêu chí	Band	Nhận xét
Fluency & Coherence	6-7	Có linking words cơ bản (also, unfortunately, because), mạch lạc nhưng đơn giản, một vài pauses nhỏ khi suy nghĩ
Lexical Resource	6-7	Từ vựng adequate (powerful, skilled diplomat, relationships), một số collocations tốt nhưng lặp lại (very + adj), thiếu sophistication
Grammatical Range & Accuracy	6-7	Mix simple và complex sentences, sử dụng relative clauses (which was, which helped), một số lỗi nhỏ về article
Pronunciation	6-7	Rõ ràng, dễ hiểu, stress cơ bản chính xác

Điểm mạnh:

• ✅ Trả lời đầy đủ tất cả bullet points
• ✅ Có structure rõ ràng theo thứ tự đề bài
• ✅ Đưa ra được ví dụ cụ thể (Julius Caesar, Mark Antony)
• ✅ Phần explain có lý do personal và connection

Hạn chế:

• ⚠️ Từ vựng lặp lại “very” quá nhiều
• ⚠️ Thiếu descriptive language và advanced vocabulary
• ⚠️ Grammar structures chưa đa dạng, chủ yếu simple và compound
• ⚠️ Thời lượng hơi ngắn (khoảng 1.5 phút)

---

📝 Sample Answer – Band 7.5-8

Thời lượng: Khoảng 2-2.5 phút

The historical figure I’m particularly intrigued by is Leonardo da Vinci, the quintessential Renaissance man who lived in Italy during the 15th and 16th centuries. He was born in 1452 in Vinci, a small town near Florence, and spent most of his life in various Italian cities, particularly Florence and Milan, before passing away in France in 1519.

What makes Leonardo exceptionally fascinating is the sheer breadth of his accomplishments. He wasn’t just an artist – though he created iconic masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper – he was also an inventor, scientist, mathematician, and engineer. His notebooks were filled with sketches and designs for inventions that were centuries ahead of his time, including flying machines, submarines, and even a primitive form of the helicopter. He also made significant contributions to anatomy through his detailed anatomical drawings, which were remarkably accurate for that era.

What I find most compelling about Leonardo is how he embodied the idea that art and science are not separate disciplines but interconnected fields. His artistic work was informed by his scientific observations, and his scientific work had an aesthetic quality that was truly unique.

The reason I’d love to learn more about him is multifaceted. Firstly, I’m curious about his creative process – how did one person excel in so many diverse fields? What drove his insatiable curiosity? Secondly, I’d like to understand the historical context better – what was it about the Renaissance period that fostered such genius? Finally, on a personal level, I struggle with focusing on one career path, and studying Leonardo’s life might offer insights into how to cultivate a more interdisciplinary approach to learning and work. His life challenges the modern notion that we must specialize narrowly, and I find that perspective genuinely inspiring in today’s world where cross-disciplinary thinking is becoming increasingly valuable.

Phân Tích Band Điểm

Tiêu chí	Band	Nhận xét
Fluency & Coherence	7.5-8	Smooth delivery với minimal hesitation, discourse markers tự nhiên (Firstly, Secondly, Finally), ý được kết nối logic
Lexical Resource	7.5-8	Wide range of vocabulary (quintessential, intrigued by, sheer breadth, embodied), collocations mạnh (insatiable curiosity, foster genius), paraphrasing tốt
Grammatical Range & Accuracy	7.5-8	Complex structures đa dạng (relative clauses, passive voice, participle clauses), ít lỗi, flexible
Pronunciation	7.5-8	Clear articulation, natural intonation, word stress chính xác trên từ phức tạp

So Sánh Với Band 6-7

Khía cạnh	Band 6-7	Band 7.5-8
Vocabulary	“very powerful”, “very intelligent”	“particularly intrigued by”, “quintessential Renaissance man”, “sheer breadth”
Grammar	“She was a strong woman in a time when women didn’t have much power”	“His life challenges the modern notion that we must specialize narrowly”
Ideas	“I want to know the real story”	“I’m curious about his creative process – how did one person excel in so many diverse fields?”

Điểm nổi bật:

• ✅ Vocabulary sophisticated và precise với nhiều less common words
• ✅ Grammar structures phức tạp và varied
• ✅ Ideas có depth với personal reflection
• ✅ Thời lượng đủ 2-2.5 phút
• ✅ Phần explain có multi-layered reasoning

---

📝 Sample Answer – Band 8.5-9

Thời lượng: 2.5-3 phút đầy đủ

The historical figure who never ceases to captivate me is Marie Curie, the trailblazing physicist and chemist who revolutionized our understanding of radioactivity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She was born Maria Sklodowska in Warsaw, Poland, in 1867, but spent most of her groundbreaking career in Paris, France, where she navigated the male-dominated scientific establishment with remarkable tenacity until her death in 1934.

Curie’s achievements are nothing short of extraordinary. She was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, the first person to win Nobel Prizes in two different sciences – Physics in 1903 and Chemistry in 1911 – and remains the only person to have achieved this feat in multiple sciences. Her pioneering research on radioactivity, a term she actually coined, laid the foundation for numerous applications, from medical treatments to nuclear energy. What’s particularly striking is that she conducted this painstaking research under extremely challenging conditions – working in a makeshift laboratory that was barely more than a shed, often with inadequate funding and equipment. Despite facing relentless gender discrimination, she persevered and even mentored the next generation of scientists, including her daughter Irène, who also won a Nobel Prize.

What I find most profoundly inspiring about Marie Curie is the multifaceted nature of her legacy. She wasn’t just a brilliant scientist; she was a symbol of resilience, an advocate for women’s education, and a humanitarian who, during World War I, pioneered the use of mobile radiography units to help save soldiers’ lives on the battlefield. Her famous quote, “Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood,” encapsulates a philosophy that I find deeply resonant.

The reason I’m so drawn to learning more about her goes beyond mere admiration for her scientific contributions. For one, I’m fascinated by the psychological dimension – what inner resources did she draw upon to maintain her focus and optimism in the face of such formidable obstacles? How did she reconcile being a devoted mother with pursuing such demanding research? These questions are particularly relevant to me as I grapple with my own work-life balance.

Furthermore, I’m interested in understanding the nuances of her relationship with the scientific community. While she’s now celebrated as an icon, during her lifetime she faced significant prejudice and skepticism. Delving deeper into her experiences could offer valuable lessons about perseverance, institutional bias, and how paradigm-shifting discoveries are often initially met with resistance.

On a broader level, studying Curie’s life would help me understand a pivotal moment in scientific history when the boundaries between physics and chemistry were becoming increasingly blurred, and when science was transitioning from individual endeavors to more collaborative enterprises. Her story sits at the intersection of multiple historical currents – women’s rights movements, the development of modern physics, European political upheavals – making her an ideal lens through which to examine that transformative era.

Ultimately, what compels me most is that Marie Curie defied categorization. She was a scientist, yes, but also an immigrant who succeeded in a foreign land, a widow who continued her work after tragedy, and an educator who believed in democratizing knowledge. In our current age, where we’re told to “find our niche,” her life stands as a testament to the power of intellectual courage and refusing to be constrained by others’ expectations. That’s a lesson I believe remains profoundly relevant, which is why I’m eager to immerse myself more deeply in understanding not just what she did, but how she thought and what motivated her unwavering commitment to science and humanity.

Phân Tích Band Điểm

Tiêu chí	Band	Nhận xét
Fluency & Coherence	8.5-9	Completely natural delivery, sophisticated cohesive devices, seamless topic development, no noticeable pauses or hesitation
Lexical Resource	8.5-9	Skillful use of uncommon items (trailblazing, tenacity, painstaking, encapsulates, formidable obstacles), idiomatic language (sits at the intersection of, stands as a testament to), precise collocations, natural paraphrasing
Grammatical Range & Accuracy	8.5-9	Full range of structures with flexibility (cleft sentences, inversion, complex conditionals), error-free throughout, sophisticated punctuation in speech
Pronunciation	8.5-9	Native-like features, appropriate intonation patterns, clear articulation of complex vocabulary, effective use of stress and rhythm

Tại Sao Bài Này Xuất Sắc

🎯 Fluency Hoàn Hảo:
Bài nói có flow tự nhiên như một native speaker với transitions mượt mà giữa các ideas. Discourse markers được sử dụng tinh tế (For one, Furthermore, On a broader level, Ultimately) không hề forced hay mechanical.

📚 Vocabulary Tinh Vi:

• “never ceases to captivate me” – phrase động, emotional hơn “I’m interested in”
• “navigated the male-dominated scientific establishment with remarkable tenacity” – multi-word phrase thể hiện sophistication
• “sits at the intersection of multiple historical currents” – metaphorical language ở academic level
• “democratizing knowledge” – abstract noun phrase precise

📝 Grammar Đa Dạng:

• Cleft sentence: “What I find most profoundly inspiring is the multifaceted nature…”
• Relative clause phức: “…who, during World War I, pioneered the use of…”
• Participial phrase: “Delving deeper into her experiences could offer…”
• Question forms trong discourse để engage: “How did she reconcile being a devoted mother with pursuing such demanding research?”

💡 Ideas Sâu Sắc:
Không chỉ nêu facts về Marie Curie mà còn phân tích đa chiều: scientific contributions, psychological dimension, social context, personal relevance, historical significance. Thể hiện critical thinking và ability to synthesize information từ multiple perspectives.

🎨 Personal Connection Authentic:
Kết nối cá nhân không phải generic (“I admire her”) mà specific và thoughtful (“These questions are particularly relevant to me as I grapple with my own work-life balance”). Điều này tạo authenticity và emotional resonance.

---

Follow-up Questions (Rounding Off Questions)

Examiner có thể hỏi thêm 1-2 câu ngắn sau Part 2 để transition sang Part 3:

Question 1: Have you read any books about this person?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Not really, but I’ve watched some documentaries and read articles online about her. I’d like to read a proper biography in the future.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I’ve read excerpts from her autobiography and several biographical accounts, though I haven’t yet tackled the comprehensive biography by Susan Quinn. I find that firsthand accounts, even translated ones, offer unique insights that secondary sources sometimes miss.

---

Question 2: Do you think there are many people interested in this historical figure?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I think many people know about her, especially students and people interested in science. She’s quite famous around the world.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely, she remains an enduring icon, particularly in scientific circles and among those championing gender equality. However, I’d say her mainstream recognition might not do justice to the full complexity of her contributions – many know her name but fewer understand the true magnitude of her pioneering work.

Thẻ câu hỏi Part 2 IELTS Speaking về nhân vật lịch sử nổi tiếng với ghi chú ôn tập

IELTS Speaking Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Tổng Quan Về Part 3

Part 3 kéo dài 4-5 phút với các câu hỏi thảo luận trừu tượng và sâu hơn, liên quan đến chủ đề Part 2. Đây là phần khó nhất và là nơi phân biệt giữa band 7 và band 8-9.

Yêu cầu của Part 3:

• Phân tích, so sánh, đánh giá issues từ nhiều góc độ
• Đưa ra quan điểm có lý lẽ chặt chẽ và evidence
• Xem xét complexity của vấn đề, không chỉ một chiều
• Sử dụng abstract vocabulary và complex ideas

Chiến lược thành công:

• Mở rộng câu trả lời 3-5 câu với clear structure
• Sử dụng discourse markers để organize ideas (Well, Actually, On the one hand…)
• Đưa ra examples từ society, trends, không chỉ personal experience
• Acknowledge different perspectives trước khi state position
• Sử dụng tentative language (I would say, It seems to me, To some extent) để sound thoughtful

Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam:

• Trả lời quá ngắn như Part 1 (1-2 câu)
• Không phân tích mà chỉ state opinion đơn giản
• Thiếu từ vựng abstract và academic
• Không đưa ra reasoning hoặc evidence
• Sợ nói nhiều nên dừng sớm

Các Câu Hỏi Thảo Luận Sâu

Theme 1: The Importance of Studying History

---

Question 1: Why do you think people study historical figures?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Reason/Purpose question – Tại sao
• Key words: people, study, historical figures
• Cách tiếp cận: Đưa ra multiple reasons với explanations và examples cụ thể

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

People study historical figures for many reasons. First, they can learn important lessons from their lives. For example, leaders like Ho Chi Minh teach us about patriotism and dedication. Second, studying historical figures helps us understand history better and why our world is the way it is today. Also, some people find their stories inspiring and want to follow their examples in their own lives.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Có First, Second, Also – basic signposting
• Vocabulary: Common words (important lessons, understand better, inspiring)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Ideas rõ ràng nhưng phát triển còn surface-level, thiếu depth và sophistication

---

📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

Well, I think there are several compelling reasons why people are drawn to studying historical figures. Primarily, these individuals serve as embodiments of significant historical moments and movements, so studying them provides a human lens through which to understand broader social, political, and cultural transformations. For instance, examining Gandhi’s life gives us insight into not just Indian independence but the broader philosophy of non-violent resistance that influenced civil rights movements worldwide.

Beyond the educational aspect, I’d say there’s also a psychological dimension. Historical figures often overcame tremendous adversity and exemplified qualities like resilience, vision, and moral courage that people find deeply inspiring. In a sense, their stories function as modern-day myths or parables that help us navigate our own challenges.

Moreover, studying these figures can be a form of identity construction. People often gravitate toward historical figures who reflect their values or aspirations, whether that’s social justice, scientific innovation, or artistic expression. This selective engagement with history helps individuals and communities define who they are and what they stand for.

That said, I think it’s worth acknowledging that the study of historical figures can sometimes be problematic when it veers into hagiography – uncritical hero worship that glosses over their flaws or the complex circumstances they operated in. The most intellectually honest approach involves understanding these figures as products of their time while still appreciating their contributions.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Well-organized với clear progression: Primarily → Beyond that → Moreover → That said (showing nuance)
• Vocabulary: Sophisticated academic language (embodiments of, compelling reasons, veers into hagiography, intellectual honest approach)
• Grammar: Mix of complex structures (serve as, function as, relative clauses, gerunds as subjects)
• Critical Thinking: Multi-dimensional analysis (educational, psychological, identity, critical perspective) với acknowledgment of complexity

💡 Key Language Features:

• Discourse markers: Well, Primarily, Beyond the educational aspect, Moreover, That said
• Tentative language: I think, I’d say, In a sense, can sometimes be
• Abstract nouns: embodiments, transformations, dimension, adversity, aspirations, hagiography
• Precise verbs: gravitate toward, navigate, exemplified, glosses over

---

Question 2: Do you think schools should teach more about historical figures?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Opinion question with “should” – Education policy
• Key words: schools, teach more, historical figures
• Cách tiếp cận: Take a position nhưng acknowledge both sides, focus on “more” vs current situation

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

Yes, I think schools should teach more about historical figures. Many students don’t know much about important people from history, so learning about them would make history lessons more interesting. When students learn about real people and their stories, they can understand history better than just reading about dates and events. However, schools also need to teach other important subjects, so they need to balance the time.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Clear opinion + reason + caveat – good logical flow
• Vocabulary: Basic academic words (important, interesting, balance)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Coherent argument nhưng lacks depth và sophisticated language

---

📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

Well, I’d say this is a nuanced issue that requires some careful consideration. On balance, I believe there’s merit in dedicating more curriculum time to historical figures, but with some important caveats.

The case for increased focus is quite strong. Historical figures humanize abstract historical concepts and make them more accessible and engaging for students. Research in education suggests that narrative-based learning – which is essentially what you get when studying individuals – tends to foster deeper retention and understanding compared to purely factual, event-based instruction. When students learn about, say, Emmeline Pankhurst’s personal struggles in the suffragette movement, they’re more likely to internalize lessons about gender equality than if they simply memorized the date women got the vote.

That being said, there are potential pitfalls to avoid. First and foremost, we need to ensure that the teaching of historical figures doesn’t devolve into a kind of superficial glorification that presents them as flawless heroes rather than complex individuals operating within specific contexts. This “great man” theory of history has been rightly critiqued for downplaying the role of ordinary people and systemic forces in driving historical change.

Furthermore, there’s the question of which figures to include. Historically, curricula have tended to privilege Western, male, and elite figures while marginalizing the contributions of women, people of color, and those from non-Western societies. If we’re going to teach more about historical figures, we need to be deliberate about ensuring diverse representation that reflects the full spectrum of human experience and achievement.

Ideally, I think the approach should be integrated rather than isolated. Rather than simply adding more biographical units, schools could weave the study of historical figures into broader thematic explorations of social movements, scientific developments, or cultural transformations. This way, students benefit from the narrative engagement that individual stories provide while still understanding the larger forces at play.

So in short, yes to more historical figures in education, but with a critical, inclusive, and contextualized approach that enhances rather than replaces structural and thematic historical understanding.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Sophisticated organization: State nuanced position → Case for → Caveats/Problems → Ideal solution → Conclusion. Shows ability to think from multiple angles
• Vocabulary: Academic precision (nuanced issue, merit in, internalize, devolve into, privilege, marginalize, deliberate about)
• Grammar: Advanced structures (Research suggests that…, This way students benefit from…, Rather than simply adding…)
• Critical Thinking: Balanced argument acknowledging benefits and problems, proposing thoughtful solution, showing awareness of educational theory and historical debates

💡 Key Language Features:

• Discourse markers: On balance, The case for, That being said, First and foremost, Furthermore, Ideally, So in short
• Academic hedging: I’d say, tends to, are more likely to, potential pitfalls
• Sophisticated vocabulary: humanize, internalize, devolve into, privilege (as verb), marginalize
• Abstract concepts: narrative-based learning, “great man” theory, systemic forces, diverse representation

---

Theme 2: How Historical Figures Are Remembered

Question 3: Do you think the way we remember historical figures changes over time?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Yes/No opinion + Explain why – về changing perceptions
• Key words: way we remember, changes over time
• Cách tiếp cận: Definitely yes + explain factors causing change + give concrete examples

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

Yes, definitely. The way we remember historical figures changes a lot over time. This happens because society changes and people have different values. For example, some historical figures who were considered heroes before might be criticized now because of things they did that we now think are wrong. Also, we discover new information about historical figures that can change our opinion of them.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Clear yes + two reasons with brief example
• Vocabulary: Basic expressions (changes a lot, considered heroes, wrong)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Addresses the question adequately but lacks specific examples và sophisticated analysis

---

📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

Absolutely, and I’d argue this is one of the most fascinating aspects of how societies engage with history. Historical memory is far from static; it’s constantly being reinterpreted through the lens of contemporary values, new information, and evolving social consciousness.

Perhaps the most obvious driver of this change is shifting moral and ethical standards. Figures who were once venerated may come to be seen as deeply problematic when viewed through modern ethical frameworks. Take Christopher Columbus, for instance – for centuries celebrated in the Americas as a bold explorer, he’s now increasingly recognized as someone whose voyages initiated the devastating colonization and exploitation of indigenous peoples. This reassessment reflects our society’s growing awareness of colonial legacies and indigenous perspectives.

Another factor is the democratization of history and the amplification of previously marginalized voices. Thanks to more inclusive scholarship and greater access to historical records, we’re now uncovering stories of historical figures who were overlooked or deliberately suppressed – often women, people of color, or those from non-elite backgrounds. This doesn’t necessarily change how we remember existing canonical figures, but it fundamentally reshapes our understanding of who shaped history.

Political contexts also play a significant role. Historical figures can be rehabilitated or demonized depending on prevailing political winds. In post-Soviet Russia, for example, attitudes toward figures like Stalin have fluctuated considerably as different political movements seek to claim or distance themselves from various aspects of Russian history.

What’s particularly interesting is how new evidence or reinterpretations of existing evidence can transform reputations. Recent scholarship on figures like Thomas Jefferson has complicated our understanding by foregrounding his slaveholding and relationship with Sally Hemings – aspects that were long known but minimized in historical narratives. This shows how even with the same factual record, what we choose to emphasize changes dramatically.

I think this fluidity is actually healthy for society. It suggests we’re engaging critically with history rather than treating it as a fixed mythology. The ongoing reassessment of historical figures keeps history alive and relevant, forcing each generation to grapple with difficult questions about morality, progress, and the complexities of human nature. The risk, of course, is presentism – judging historical figures solely by today’s standards without considering their context – but on the whole, I believe this dynamic relationship with historical memory is a sign of intellectual maturity rather than a problem.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Exceptional organization: Direct answer → Multiple factors (moral standards → democratization → political contexts → new evidence) → Evaluation of this phenomenon. Each point supported with concrete examples
• Vocabulary: Highly sophisticated (venerated, devastating colonization, canonical figures, fundamentally reshapes, rehabilitated or demonized, foregrounding, presentism)
• Grammar: Full range including passive structures, cleft sentences (What’s particularly interesting is…), complex relative clauses
• Critical Thinking: Multi-causal analysis, specific historical examples (Columbus, Jefferson, Stalin), balanced perspective acknowledging both benefits and risks

---

Question 4: How do you think the internet has changed the way people learn about historical figures?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: How + change – về impact of technology
• Key words: internet, changed, way people learn, historical figures
• Cách tiếp cận: Identify multiple changes (access, diversity of sources, interactive learning) + pros and cons

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

The internet has changed how people learn about historical figures in many ways. Now, it’s much easier to find information online compared to before when people had to go to libraries. There are websites, videos, and documentaries available anytime. People can also read different opinions about historical figures from various sources. However, not all information online is reliable, so people need to be careful about what they read.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Identifies changes + advantage + caveat
• Vocabulary: Common phrases (much easier, available anytime, need to be careful)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Adequate response covering main points but lacks specific examples và depth

---

📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

The internet has fundamentally transformed the landscape of historical learning in ways that are both profoundly empowering and somewhat concerning.

On the positive side, the most obvious change is the democratization of access. What once required painstaking research in specialized libraries or archives is now literally at our fingertips. Primary sources – letters, speeches, photographs – that were once accessible only to academics are now freely available through digital archives. This has lowered the barriers to entry for anyone wanting to conduct serious research into historical figures, effectively democratizing historical scholarship to some degree.

Furthermore, the internet has enabled more diverse and multifaceted representations of historical figures. Rather than relying on a single authoritative narrative – often from a Western, academic perspective – we can now access multiple interpretations from different cultural viewpoints. For instance, learning about Gandhi now might involve reading not just traditional biographies but also critiques from Dalit scholars in India or perspectives from South African historians regarding his time there. This plurality of voices creates a more nuanced understanding.

The interactive dimension is also significant. Digital platforms enable people to engage with historical content in ways that were previously impossible – through virtual reality reconstructions of historical sites, interactive timelines, or collaborative research projects. These tools can make historical figures feel more immediate and relevant, particularly for younger learners.

However, this transformation comes with substantial drawbacks. The sheer volume of information can be overwhelming and lead to what scholars call “information overload” – where people struggle to synthesize or critically evaluate the material they encounter. More problematically, the internet has facilitated the spread of misinformation and historically inaccurate myths about historical figures. Conspiracy theories and sensationalized narratives often gain more traction than well-researched, nuanced accounts because they’re more emotionally engaging or algorithmically favored.

There’s also the issue of fragmentation. While the internet provides access to diverse sources, algorithmic echo chambers mean people often gravitate toward interpretations that confirm their existing beliefs rather than challenging them. This can lead to increasingly polarized understandings of the same historical figure.

Additionally, I think there’s something lost in the transition from physical to digital research. The serendipitous discovery that happens when browsing library shelves or the sustained, focused attention that reading a comprehensive biography requires – these aspects of learning are somewhat diminished in a digital environment characterized by hyperlinks and distraction.

So overall, while the internet has undeniably expanded opportunities for learning about historical figures, it requires users to develop stronger critical literacy skills to navigate both the abundance of resources and the prevalence of misinformation. The technology itself is value-neutral – it’s how we use it that determines whether it enhances or degrades our historical understanding.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Masterful organization: Positive changes (democratization → diverse representations → interactive learning) → Negative aspects (information overload → misinformation → fragmentation → loss of depth) → Balanced conclusion
• Vocabulary: Sophisticated and precise (democratization, plurality of voices, serendipitous discovery, algorithmic echo chambers, value-neutral)
• Grammar: Complex structures throughout (Rather than relying on X, we can now…; The technology itself is neutral – it’s how we use it that…)
• Critical Thinking: Exceptionally balanced showing both opportunities and challenges, acknowledging complexity, using specific examples (Gandhi, Dalit scholars), demonstrating awareness of digital culture and pedagogy

Thí sinh IELTS thảo luận Part 3 về tầm quan trọng của nhân vật lịch sử trong giáo dục

Theme 3: The Influence of Historical Figures Today

Question 5: Do you think historical figures still influence people’s lives today?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Yes/No opinion + explanation về contemporary relevance
• Key words: historical figures, influence, people’s lives today
• Cách tiếp cận: Strong yes + explain different ways they influence (values, movements, pop culture) + give concrete examples

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

Yes, I definitely think historical figures still influence us today. Their ideas and actions continue to inspire people. For example, Martin Luther King’s message about equality still motivates people fighting for civil rights. Also, scientists like Albert Einstein changed how we understand the world, and their discoveries are still used today. Many people also try to follow the examples of historical figures in their own lives.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Clear position + examples from different fields
• Vocabulary: Basic but appropriate (inspire, motivate, changed, follow examples)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Answers the question with relevant examples but analysis remains surface-level

---

📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

Without question, and I’d argue their influence operates on multiple levels – some obvious, others more subtle but equally profound.

At the most direct level, the concrete achievements of historical figures continue to shape our material reality. Scientists like Marie Curie or Isaac Newton laid the groundwork for technologies and medical treatments we rely on daily. Their intellectual legacy isn’t just abstract history; it’s embedded in the functioning of modern society. Similarly, political figures who fought for civil rights, women’s suffrage, or independence movements created the institutional frameworks and legal protections we often take for granted today.

Perhaps more intriguingly, historical figures function as cultural touchstones and moral reference points. When people today invoke figures like Mandela, Gandhi, or Rosa Parks, they’re not just paying tribute to the past – they’re drawing on symbolic resources to legitimize contemporary struggles and articulate visions for the future. These figures become shorthand for certain values or approaches. For instance, when someone says “We need a Churchill moment,” they’re tapping into a particular narrative about leadership in crisis that transcends the historical specifics of World War II.

In the realm of personal development, historical figures often serve as aspirational models. Biographical literature remains perennially popular precisely because people seek guidance from those who’ve navigated challenges successfully. Entrepreneurs might study Steve Jobs or Henry Ford, activists might draw inspiration from Suffragettes or Civil Rights leaders. This isn’t mere imitation but rather extracting principles and strategies that can be adapted to contemporary contexts.

Interestingly, I think social media has amplified this influence in complex ways. Quotes attributed to historical figures – whether accurate or not – circulate widely, shaping public discourse. Memes and viral content featuring historical figures can reinforce or reshape their cultural significance. Einstein didn’t just influence physics; his image as a quirky genius influences how we conceptualize intelligence and creativity today.

There’s also a cautionary aspect to this influence. Historical figures can be weaponized in ideological battles, with different groups claiming the mantle of the same figure to justify opposing positions. Abraham Lincoln is invoked by both progressives and conservatives in the US, each emphasizing different aspects of his legacy. This shows that the influence isn’t always straightforward or unifying – historical figures can be sources of contestation as much as inspiration.

Moreover, the selective commemoration of certain historical figures and the relative obscurity of others shapes collective memory and identity in profound ways. Who we choose to memorialize through monuments, currency, or holidays reflects and reinforces particular narratives about national identity and values, thereby influencing how people understand their society and their place within it.

So yes, historical figures exert considerable influence, but it’s important to recognize that this influence is mediated, contested, and constantly reinterpreted rather than simply flowing linearly from past to present. Their impact says as much about our present preoccupations as it does about their historical actions.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Sophisticated multi-layered argument: Direct material influence → Symbolic function → Personal development → Social media amplification → Cautionary aspect → Collective memory → Nuanced conclusion
• Vocabulary: Highly academic and precise (embedded in, touchstones, invoke, legitimize, transcends, aspirational models, weaponized, contestation, mediated)
• Grammar: Full range of complex structures including cleft sentences, participle clauses, sophisticated use of tenses
• Critical Thinking: Exceptional depth showing awareness of sociology, cultural studies, and critical theory; acknowledges complexity and contradiction; uses varied examples from different domains

---

Question 6: Should governments spend money preserving sites related to historical figures?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Should question – về government spending và cultural policy
• Key words: governments, spend money, preserving sites, historical figures
• Cách tiếp cận: Take position (qualified yes/no) + acknowledge trade-offs + consider practical factors

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

I think governments should spend money on preserving historical sites because they are important for education and tourism. These places help people learn about history and can attract visitors, which brings economic benefits. However, governments should not spend too much money if they have other urgent problems like healthcare or education that need funding. They need to find a balance between preserving history and taking care of current needs.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Position + reasons + caveat about priorities – logical flow
• Vocabulary: Appropriate but common (important, attract visitors, economic benefits, find a balance)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Coherent argument with both pros and practical considerations but lacks sophistication

---

📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

This is a contentious issue that requires weighing cultural value against opportunity costs. My position is nuanced – I believe such preservation is generally worthwhile but with important qualifications regarding priorities, scale, and approach.

The case for government investment in historical sites is quite compelling. These sites serve multiple valuable functions that justify public expenditure. First and foremost, they’re tangible connections to the past that provide educational value that transcends what can be conveyed through books or digital media. There’s something profoundly impactful about standing in the room where a historical figure actually lived or worked – it makes history visceral and immediate in ways that abstract learning cannot replicate.

From an economic standpoint, well-preserved historical sites can be significant drivers of tourism, generating revenue that far exceeds the maintenance costs. Take sites like Churchill’s birthplace at Blenheim Palace or Anne Frank’s house in Amsterdam – these attract millions of visitors annually, creating jobs and supporting local economies. In this sense, preservation can be viewed not as mere expenditure but as cultural infrastructure investment with measurable returns.

Moreover, these sites play a crucial role in identity formation and collective memory. They serve as physical anchors for national or community narratives, providing spaces where people can engage with their heritage in meaningful ways. This intangible cultural value is difficult to quantify but nonetheless profoundly important for social cohesion.

That said, there are legitimate concerns about allocation of limited public resources. In countries grappling with poverty, inadequate healthcare, or crumbling essential infrastructure, spending on historical preservation might seem like a luxury. The question becomes: at what point does cultural preservation become less urgent than addressing immediate human needs?

Furthermore, not all historical sites merit preservation equally. We need to be discerning about which sites genuinely serve educational or cultural purposes versus those that might be more appropriately maintained through private funds or allowed to naturally deteriorate. Blanket preservation policies can divert resources from more significant sites.

There’s also the question of who gets commemorated. Historically, preservation efforts have disproportionately focused on sites associated with powerful, often elite figures, while sites significant to marginalized communities or ordinary people have been neglected. Any government investment should be accompanied by critical examination of whose history is being preserved and whether current allocations reflect diverse historical narratives.

An alternative or complementary approach might involve public-private partnerships where governments provide some funding and regulatory protection while also leveraging donations, volunteer efforts, and heritage organizations. This hybrid model can distribute the financial burden while still ensuring sites are adequately maintained.

In conclusion, I’d argue governments should indeed invest in preserving sites related to historical figures, but with a strategic approach that prioritizes sites with demonstrated educational and cultural significance, considers economic sustainability, and ensures equitable representation of diverse histories. This investment should be proportionate to a country’s economic capacity and balanced against other pressing social needs. Rather than viewing it as an either-or choice, perhaps the question should be how to preserve historical heritage efficiently and inclusively within available resources.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Exceptionally well-organized: Nuanced position → Case for (educational + economic + identity) → Concerns (resource allocation + selectivity + whose history) → Alternative approach → Balanced conclusion
• Vocabulary: Sophisticated and domain-specific (contentious issue, opportunity costs, visceral and immediate, cultural infrastructure investment, intangible cultural value, grappling with, disproportionately focused on, hybrid model)
• Grammar: Advanced structures including complex conditionals, cleft sentences (The question becomes…), sophisticated use of modals and hypotheticals
• Critical Thinking: Demonstrates understanding of economics, cultural policy, social justice issues; presents multi-stakeholder perspective; proposes practical solutions; acknowledges complexity without avoiding taking position

💡 Key Language Features:

• Discourse markers for balance: That said, Furthermore, Moreover, In conclusion
• Hedging and nuancing: generally worthwhile, can be viewed not as… but as, might be more appropriately
• Policy/Economic language: opportunity costs, measurable returns, allocation of limited resources, public-private partnerships
• Critical vocabulary: disproportionately, marginalized, equitable representation, strategic approach

---

Từ vựng và cụm từ quan trọng

Topic-Specific Vocabulary

Từ vựng/Cụm từ	Loại từ	Phiên âm	Nghĩa tiếng Việt	Ví dụ	Collocation
legacy	n	/ˈleɡəsi/	di sản, thừa kế	Marie Curie’s scientific legacy continues to influence researchers today.	leave a legacy, lasting legacy, cultural legacy, scientific legacy
pioneering	adj	/ˌpaɪəˈnɪərɪŋ/	tiên phong, đi đầu	Her pioneering work in radioactivity opened new fields of research.	pioneering research, pioneering spirit, pioneering figure, pioneering effort
influential	adj	/ˌɪnfluˈenʃl/	có ảnh hưởng lớn	Gandhi was one of the most influential figures of the 20th century.	highly influential, influential figure, influential thinker, influential leader
revolutionary	adj	/ˌrevəˈluːʃəneri/	mang tính cách mạng	Einstein’s theories were revolutionary for modern physics.	revolutionary idea, revolutionary change, revolutionary figure, revolutionary approach
visionary	n/adj	/ˈvɪʒəneri/	người có tầm nhìn xa, có tầm nhìn	Steve Jobs was a visionary who transformed multiple industries.	visionary leader, visionary thinker, visionary approach, true visionary
accomplishment	n	/əˈkɑːmplɪʃmənt/	thành tựu, thành tích	Her accomplishments in science were unprecedented for a woman of her era.	major accomplishment, remarkable accomplishment, significant accomplishment, list of accomplishments
groundbreaking	adj	/ˈɡraʊndbreɪkɪŋ/	đột phá, mang tính đột phá	His groundbreaking research changed our understanding of the universe.	groundbreaking work, groundbreaking discovery, groundbreaking research, groundbreaking achievement
perseverance	n	/ˌpɜːrsəˈvɪrəns/	sự kiên trì, bền bỉ	Her perseverance in the face of discrimination was remarkable.	show perseverance, require perseverance, demonstrate perseverance, through perseverance
adversity	n	/ədˈvɜːrsəti/	nghịch cảnh, khó khăn	He overcame tremendous adversity to achieve his goals.	face adversity, overcome adversity, triumph over adversity, in the face of adversity
commemorate	v	/kəˈmeməreɪt/	tưởng nhớ, kỷ niệm	We commemorate historical figures through monuments and holidays.	commemorate someone, commemorate an event, widely commemorated, officially commemorate
renowned	adj	/rɪˈnaʊnd/	nổi tiếng, có tiếng	She was renowned for her contributions to civil rights.	internationally renowned, widely renowned, renowned for, renowned scholar
transformative	adj	/trænsˈfɔːrmətɪv/	có tính chất chuyển đổi	His ideas had a transformative impact on society.	transformative impact, transformative effect, transformative experience, transformative power
embodiment	n	/ɪmˈbɑːdimənt/	hiện thân, thể hiện	She was the embodiment of courage and determination.	embodiment of, perfect embodiment, living embodiment, true embodiment
tenacity	n	/təˈnæsəti/	sự kiên cường, ngoan cường	His tenacity in pursuing his goals was inspiring.	show tenacity, remarkable tenacity, with tenacity, demonstrate tenacity
profound	adj	/prəˈfaʊnd/	sâu sắc, thâm thúy	Her work had a profound influence on modern medicine.	profound impact, profound effect, profound influence, profound understanding
monumental	adj	/ˌmɑːnjuˈmentl/	to lớn, có tính lịch sử	His monumental achievements changed the course of history.	monumental achievement, monumental work, monumental task, monumental contribution
resilience	n	/rɪˈzɪliəns/	khả năng phục hồi, sức bật	Her resilience in difficult times inspired many people.	show resilience, remarkable resilience, demonstrate resilience, build resilience
enduring	adj	/ɪnˈdʊrɪŋ/	lâu dài, bền vững	His philosophy has had an enduring impact across generations.	enduring legacy, enduring influence, enduring impact, enduring appeal
trailblazer	n	/ˈtreɪlbleɪzər/	người tiên phong, đi đầu	She was a trailblazer for women in science.	trailblazer in, true trailblazer, trailblazer for women, regarded as a trailblazer
formidable	adj	/ˈfɔːrmɪdəbl/	đáng gờm, ấn tượng	She faced formidable obstacles throughout her career.	formidable challenge, formidable opponent, formidable obstacles, formidable reputation

Idiomatic Expressions & Advanced Phrases

Cụm từ	Nghĩa	Ví dụ sử dụng	Band điểm
ahead of their time	tiên tiến hơn thời đại	Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions were ahead of their time by centuries.	7.5-9
left an indelible mark	để lại dấu ấn khó phai	Martin Luther King left an indelible mark on American society.	7.5-9
rose to prominence	nổi lên, trở nên nổi tiếng	She rose to prominence during the suffragette movement.	7-8
stand the test of time	trường tồn với thời gian	His ideas have stood the test of time and remain relevant today.	7.5-9
broke new ground	tạo ra bước đột phá mới	Marie Curie broke new ground in the field of radioactivity.	7-8
paved the way for	mở đường cho, tạo điều kiện cho	Her achievements paved the way for future generations of women scientists.	7-8
made waves	tạo ra ảnh hưởng lớn, gây chấn động	His controversial theories made waves in the scientific community.	7-8
carved out a niche	tạo dựng vị trí riêng	She carved out a niche for herself in a male-dominated field.	7.5-8
went against the grain	đi ngược lại với số đông	Gandhi went against the grain by advocating non-violent resistance.	7.5-8
larger than life	phi thường, ấn tượng mạnh	His personality was larger than life, making him unforgettable.	7-8
captured the imagination	thu hút sự tưởng tượng, gây ấn tượng sâu sắc	The story of his adventures captured the imagination of millions.	7.5-9
set the bar high	đặt ra tiêu chuẩn cao	Her achievements set the bar high for future researchers.	7-8

Discourse Markers (Từ Nối Ý Trong Speaking)

Để bắt đầu câu trả lời:

• 📝 Well,… – Sử dụng khi cần một chút thời gian suy nghĩ
• 📝 Actually,… – Khi muốn đưa ra góc nhìn khác hoặc điều chỉnh
• 📝 To be honest,… – Khi muốn chia sẻ quan điểm thật
• 📝 I’d say that… – Cách mềm mại để đưa ra quan điểm
• 📝 From my perspective,… – Nhấn mạnh quan điểm cá nhân

Để bổ sung ý:

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

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 ta cũng cần xem xét
• 📝 That being said,… – Tuy nhiên, dù vậy
• 📝 Having said that,… – Tuy đã nói như vậy nhưng

Để giải thích hoặc làm rõ:

• 📝 What I mean is… – Ý tôi là
• 📝 In other words,… – Nói cách khác
• 📝 To put it another way,… – Nói theo cách khác
• 📝 By that I mean… – Tôi muốn nói là

Để đưa ra ví dụ:

• 📝 For instance,… – Ví dụ
• 📝 Take… for example,… – Lấy… làm ví dụ
• 📝 A case in point is… – Một ví dụ điển hình là
• 📝 To illustrate this,… – Để minh họa điều này

Để kết luận:

• 📝 All in all,… – Tóm lại, nhìn chung
• 📝 At the end of the day,… – Cuối cùng thì
• 📝 In short,… – Tóm lại
• 📝 Overall,… – Nhìn chung
• 📝 So to sum up,… – Vì vậy tóm lại

Grammatical Structures Ấn Tượng

1. Conditional Sentences (Câu điều kiện):

• Mixed conditional: “If Marie Curie hadn’t persevered despite discrimination, modern medicine would be far less advanced today.”

  • Công thức: If + past perfect, would/could + infinitive
  • Dùng để nói về điều kiện trong quá khứ và kết quả ở hiện tại

• Inversion for emphasis: “Had Gandhi chosen violence over peaceful resistance, the independence movement might have taken a very different course.”

  • Công thức: Had + subject + past participle, subject + might/could have…
  • Tạo formal register và nhấn mạnh

2. Relative Clauses (Mệnh đề quan hệ):

• Non-defining: “Leonardo da Vinci, who was born in 1452, revolutionized both art and science.”

  • Dùng dấu phẩy, bổ sung thông tin không thiết yếu
  • Làm câu sophisticated hơn

• Which referring to whole clause: “She won two Nobel Prizes, which was unprecedented at the time.”

  • “Which” thay thế cho cả mệnh đề trước nó

3. Passive Voice (Câu bị động):

• It is thought/believed/said that: “It is widely believed that Shakespeare’s works reflect universal human experiences.”

  • Formal way to express general opinions
  • Tránh nói “People think” quá đơn giản

• Advanced passive: “Historical figures are often commemorated through monuments that are designed to inspire future generations.”

  • Multi-layer passive structures

4. Cleft Sentences (Câu chẻ):

• What I find most…, is…: “What I find most fascinating about Cleopatra is her political acumen.”

  • Nhấn mạnh phần thông tin quan trọng
  • Tạo variety trong structure

• The thing that…, is…: “The thing that makes Einstein remarkable is not just his intelligence but his creativity.”

  • Tương tự, tạo focus point

• It was X who/that…: “It was Marie Curie who first coined the term ‘radioactivity.'”

  • Nhấn mạnh subject

5. Inversion for Emphasis:

• Not only… but also: “Not only did she win a Nobel Prize, but she also became the first woman professor at the Sorbonne.”

  • Công thức: Not only + auxiliary + subject + verb, but also…
  • Tạo dramatic effect

• Rarely/Seldom at beginning: “Rarely has a historical figure had such a profound impact on multiple fields.”

  • Công thức: Rarely/Seldom + auxiliary + subject + verb

6. Participle Clauses:

• Present participle: “Working tirelessly despite limited resources, Marie Curie made groundbreaking discoveries.”

  • Thay thế cho “While she worked…”
  • Tạo câu concise và sophisticated

• Past participle: “Born into poverty, Lincoln rose to become one of America’s greatest presidents.”

  • Thay thế cho “Although he was born…”

7. Subjunctive Mood:

• It’s crucial/essential that: “It’s essential that we remember not only their achievements but also their struggles.”
  • Công thức: It’s + adjective + that + subject + base verb
  • Formal register

8. Nominalization:

• Chuyển verb thành noun: “His discovery of penicillin” thay vì “He discovered penicillin”
• “The preservation of historical sites” thay vì “preserving historical sites”
• Tạo academic tone

---

Chiến Lược Và Lời Khuyên Từ Examiner

Chuẩn Bị Trước Khi Thi

1. Chọn nhân vật phù hợp:

• Chọn người mà bạn thật sự biết và quan tâm, không phải chỉ nổi tiếng
• Nên có thông tin đa chiều: achievements, personal struggles, context
• Tránh chọn người quá gần đây (politicians đương nhiệm) hoặc controversial figures có thể gây tranh cãi
• Ideal candidates: scientists, inventors, artists, historical leaders, social reformers

2. Nghiên cứu kỹ lưỡng:

• Timeline: when and where they lived
• Major achievements: specific, measurable contributions
• Personal qualities: resilience, vision, creativity
• Historical context: why their work was significant at that time
• Legacy: how they influence us today
• Interesting anecdotes: memorable stories that humanize them

3. Chuẩn bị vocabulary chủ động:

• Không chỉ học từ mà học collocations: “groundbreaking research” không phải “breaking research”
• Practice pronunciation của proper nouns và specialized terms
• Chuẩn bị synonyms để avoid repetition

Trong Phòng Thi

Part 1 Strategy:

• Extend but don’t over-elaborate (2-3 câu là đủ)
• Sound natural, không như đang recite
• Nếu không biết câu trả lời, honest nhưng creative: “Actually, I haven’t thought much about that, but I suppose…”

Part 2 Strategy:

• Sử dụng hết 1 phút preparation – ghi keywords cho mỗi bullet point
• Structure notes theo thứ tự: Who → When/Where → What → Why (explain)
• Trong 2 phút, allocate time: 20s introduction, 40s per bullet point, 40s cho explain
• Nếu hết ý trước 2 phút, elaborate phần explain hoặc add personal reflection
• Maintain eye contact, không đọc notes liên tục

Part 3 Strategy:

• Take 2-3 giây để organize thoughts trước khi nói
• Use discourse markers để buy time: “Well, that’s an interesting question…”
• Structure: Opinion → Reason 1 + example → Reason 2 + example → Conclusion/Nuance
• Show critical thinking: acknowledge complexity, different perspectives
• Nếu không chắc chắn, dùng tentative language: “I’d say…”, “It seems to me…”
• Length: aim for 3-5 câu phức, avoid one-sentence answers

Common Mistakes Của Học Viên Việt Nam

❌ Mistake 1: Memorizing and reciting templates

• Examiners nhận ra ngay và sẽ stop hoặc lower band score
• Solution: Learn flexible language chunks, không phải whole speeches

❌ Mistake 2: Sử dụng từ vựng quá phức tạp không phù hợp

• “Utilize” thay vì “use” nghe unnatural
• Solution: Sophisticated không có nghĩa là unnecessarily complex

❌ Mistake 3: Trả lời quá ngắn, đặc biệt Part 3

• Nhiều bạn sợ nói sai nên dừng sớm
• Solution: Better to speak more and make minor errors than to give minimal answers

❌ Mistake 4: Lack of examples và specificity

• Nói chung chung: “They did many important things”
• Solution: Always aim for concrete examples với details

❌ Mistake 5: Pronunciation issues với proper nouns

• Phát âm sai tên người, địa danh làm giảm intelligibility
• Solution: Check pronunciation trước, practice saying them clearly

❌ Mistake 6: Over-using “very” và basic intensifiers

• “Very important”, “very interesting” lặp đi lặp lại
• Solution: Learn stronger adjectives và varied intensifiers (particularly, exceptionally, remarkably)

❌ Mistake 7: Không maintain conversation tone

• Nói như đang viết essay, quá formal và stiff
• Solution: Use contractions (I’m, they’ve), discourse markers, natural pauses

❌ Mistake 8: Hesitation markers quá nhiều

• “Um”, “ah”, “like” liên tục làm giảm fluency
• Solution: Practice pausing silently, use discourse markers như “Well”, “Actually” thay thế

Tips Nâng Band Từ 7 Lên 8+

Vocabulary:

• Thay basic words bằng precise alternatives:
  • “famous” → renowned, celebrated, iconic
  • “important” → significant, pivotal, crucial
  • “good” → exemplary, exceptional, remarkable
• Sử dụng less common idiomatic expressions naturally
• Master collocations: “exert influence” không phải “make influence”

Grammar:

• Incorporate mixed conditionals
• Use inversion for emphasis
• Employ cleft sentences để highlight information
• Vary sentence beginnings (không phải lúc nào cũng Subject-Verb)

Discourse Management:

• Sophisticated signposting: “What’s particularly intriguing is…”
• Show ability to self-correct naturally: “Or perhaps I should say…”
• Reference earlier points: “As I mentioned earlier…”

Content:

• Demonstrate critical thinking: weigh different perspectives
• Show cultural awareness and global mindset
• Make insightful connections between past and present
• Acknowledge complexity rather than oversimplifying

Delivery:

• Natural pace with strategic pauses for emphasis
• Varied intonation to show engagement
• Appropriate stress on key words
• Confident body language

Sơ đồ chiến lược đạt band điểm cao trong IELTS Speaking về nhân vật lịch sử

Lộ Trình Luyện Tập

Week 1-2: Foundation

• Chọn 3-4 historical figures và nghiên cứu kỹ
• Học 20-30 từ vựng core và practice pronunciation
• Record yourself trả lời Part 1 questions
• Mục tiêu: Familiarize với topic và build confidence

Week 3-4: Development

• Practice Part 2 với timing (1 min prep + 2 min speak)
• Học grammatical structures và incorporate vào answers
• Record và listen back để identify areas for improvement
• Mục tiêu: Develop fluency và structural awareness

Week 5-6: Refinement

• Focus on Part 3 với complex questions
• Practice critical thinking và multi-perspective analysis
• Work on linking ideas smoothly
• Mục tiêu: Achieve sophistication trong content và delivery

Week 7-8: Simulation

• Full mock tests với feedback
• Focus on weak areas identified
• Polish pronunciation và intonation
• Mục tiêu: Test readiness và fine-tuning

Final Words Of Encouragement

Speaking về historical figures là cơ hội tuyệt vời để showcase không chỉ English skills mà còn cultural knowledge và critical thinking. Remember rằng examiner muốn nghe natural conversation, không phải perfect academic presentation.

Đừng quá lo lắng về making mistakes – even Band 9 candidates occasionally slip up. Điều quan trọng là maintain fluency, show range of language, và demonstrate ability to discuss ideas thoughtfully.

Practice regularly nhưng đừng over-rehearse đến mức mất đi spontaneity. The best candidates sound like they’re having an interesting conversation, không phải delivering a memorized speech.

Historical figures đã overcome tremendous challenges để achieve greatness – let their stories inspire your own journey to IELTS success. You’ve got this!

Good luck with your preparation, và remember: confidence, clarity, và authenticity là keys to success trong IELTS Speaking!