IELTS Speaking: Cách Trả Lời “Describe A Goal You Have Set For Yourself This Year” – Bài Mẫu Band 6-9

Chủ đề về mục tiêu cá nhân là một trong những đề tài phổ biến và quan trọng trong kỳ thi IELTS Speaking. Với từ khóa “Describe A Goal You Have Set For Yourself This Year”, đây là dạng câu hỏi xuất hiện thường xuyên ở Part 2, đồng thời các câu hỏi liên quan cũng được khai thác sâu trong cả Part 1 và Part 3. Theo thống kê từ các đề thi thực tế, chủ đề này xuất hiện với tần suất cao từ năm 2020 đến nay, đặc biệt trong các quý đầu năm khi các kỳ thi thường tập trung vào những chủ đề liên quan đến kế hoạch và quyết tâm cá nhân.

Khả năng xuất hiện trong tương lai của chủ đề này là cao, vì nó cho phép giám khảo đánh giá được nhiều khía cạnh ngôn ngữ của thí sinh: khả năng diễn đạt về tương lai, sự quyết tâm, cách lập kế hoạch, và những suy nghĩ sâu sắc về phát triển bản thân. Với tư cách là một IELTS Examiner có hơn 20 năm kinh nghiệm, tôi nhận thấy rằng thí sinh Việt Nam thường gặp khó khăn với chủ đề này do thiếu từ vựng về mục tiêu và động lực, cũng như chưa biết cách mở rộng câu trả lời một cách tự nhiên và thuyết phục.

Trong bài viết này, bạn sẽ học được:

• Câu hỏi thường gặp về goals và ambitions trong cả 3 Part của IELTS Speaking
• Bài mẫu chi tiết theo nhiều band điểm từ 6-7, 7.5-8 đến 8.5-9 với phân tích chuyên sâu
• Hơn 50 từ vựng và cụm từ ăn điểm liên quan đến mục tiêu và thành công
• Chiến lược trả lời hiệu quả từ góc nhìn của Examiner
• Những lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam và cách khắc phục

IELTS Speaking Part 1: Introduction and Interview

Tổng Quan Về Part 1

Part 1 của IELTS Speaking kéo dài 4-5 phút với các câu hỏi ngắn về cuộc sống hàng ngày, sở thích, công việc hoặc học tập. Đây là phần khởi động để bạn làm quen với giám khảo và môi trường thi. Chiến lược quan trọng nhất là trả lời tự nhiên, mở rộng ý với 2-3 câu, và tránh câu trả lời quá ngắn kiểu “Yes” hoặc “No”.

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

• Trả lời quá ngắn gọn, không phát triển ý tưởng
• Sử dụng từ vựng quá đơn giản và lặp đi lặp lại
• Thiếu ví dụ cụ thể từ kinh nghiệm bản thân
• Ngần ngại, dừng lại quá lâu giữa các câu
• Không duy trì eye contact với examiner

Các Câu Hỏi Thường Gặp

Question 1: Do you usually set goals for yourself?

Question 2: What kind of goals do young people usually have?

Question 3: Is it important to have goals in life?

Question 4: Do you prefer to set short-term or long-term goals?

Question 5: Have you achieved any important goals recently?

Question 6: What do you do when you fail to achieve a goal?

Question 7: Do your parents help you set goals?

Question 8: How do you feel when you accomplish a goal?

Phân Tích và Gợi Ý Trả Lời Chi Tiết

Question: Do you usually set goals for yourself?

🎯 Cách tiếp cận:

• Trả lời trực tiếp có hay không
• Giải thích lý do tại sao bạn có thói quen này
• Đưa ra ví dụ cụ thể về một mục tiêu gần đây

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

Yes, I do set goals for myself quite regularly. I think it helps me stay focused on what I want to achieve. For example, at the beginning of this year, I set a goal to improve my English speaking skills, which is why I’m preparing for this IELTS test.

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Câu trả lời rõ ràng, có ví dụ cụ thể, sử dụng từ “focused” và “achieve” phù hợp
• Hạn chế: Từ vựng còn đơn giản, cấu trúc câu chưa đa dạng, thiếu sự phát triển sâu hơn về lý do
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Trả lời đầy đủ câu hỏi với ví dụ, nhưng vocabulary và grammar chưa impressive, fluency tốt nhưng chưa có complexity

📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

Absolutely, I’m quite goal-oriented by nature. I find that setting clear objectives gives me a sense of direction and purpose in both my personal and professional life. Just this January, I committed myself to enhancing my public speaking abilities, which has been quite challenging yet rewarding. Having these targets in place really helps me stay on track and measure my progress along the way.

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Từ vựng sophisticated (goal-oriented, objectives, committed myself to), cấu trúc câu đa dạng (relative clause, present perfect), ý tưởng được phát triển tự nhiên với nhiều lớp thông tin
• Tại sao Band 8-9: Fluency xuất sắc với linking natural, lexical resource rất phong phú với collocations chính xác (stay on track, measure progress), grammatical range đa dạng, pronunciation rõ ràng với stress patterns tốt

💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

• goal-oriented: có định hướng mục tiêu, người luôn hướng tới đạt mục tiêu
• clear objectives: các mục tiêu rõ ràng
• committed myself to: cam kết bản thân với việc gì đó
• stay on track: giữ đúng hướng, không đi chệch hướng
• measure progress: đo lường tiến độ

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Question: What kind of goals do young people usually have?

🎯 Cách tiếp cận:

• Nêu 2-3 loại mục tiêu phổ biến
• Giải thích tại sao những mục tiêu này quan trọng với giới trẻ
• Có thể so sánh với các thế hệ trước nếu có thể

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

I think young people today often set goals related to their careers and education. Many want to get good jobs or study abroad. They also care about their health, so fitness goals are quite popular. Some young people also want to travel and see the world.

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Đưa ra được nhiều loại mục tiêu khác nhau, có sự phân loại rõ ràng
• Hạn chế: Các câu khá đơn giản, thiếu linking words, chưa giải thích sâu tại sao những mục tiêu này lại phổ biến
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Adequate vocabulary, grammar đúng nhưng simple structures, ideas cơ bản nhưng chưa có depth

📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

Well, from what I’ve observed, millennials and Gen Z tend to prioritize different types of goals compared to previous generations. Career advancement and financial independence are certainly at the forefront, particularly in today’s competitive job market. However, there’s also been a noticeable shift towards work-life balance and personal fulfillment. Many young people are striving for experiences rather than just material success, which is why goals related to travel, self-improvement, and even mental wellness have become increasingly prevalent. It’s quite a holistic approach to life, I’d say.

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Vocabulary rất sophisticated (millennials, Gen Z, career advancement, holistic approach), có sự phân tích sâu sắc về xu hướng thay đổi, sử dụng discourse markers tự nhiên (Well, from what I’ve observed), grammar phức tạp (relative clauses, comparative structures)
• Tại sao Band 8-9: Demonstrates excellent fluency với natural pausing, lexical resource exceptional với precise word choice, grammatical structures đa dạng và chính xác, shows critical thinking khi so sánh thế hệ

💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

• career advancement: thăng tiến trong sự nghiệp
• financial independence: độc lập tài chính
• competitive job market: thị trường việc làm cạnh tranh
• noticeable shift: sự thay đổi đáng chú ý
• striving for: cố gắng đạt được điều gì
• holistic approach: cách tiếp cận toàn diện

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Question: Is it important to have goals in life?

🎯 Cách tiếp cận:

• Đưa ra quan điểm rõ ràng (có hoặc không quan trọng)
• Giải thích 2-3 lý do hỗ trợ quan điểm
• Có thể đề cập đến consequences của việc không có mục tiêu

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

Yes, I believe having goals is very important. Without goals, people might not know what to do with their lives. Goals give us motivation to work hard and improve ourselves. When we have something to aim for, we feel more satisfied when we achieve it.

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Quan điểm rõ ràng, có lý do hỗ trợ, structure logic
• Hạn chế: Vocabulary basic (very important, work hard), grammar structures đơn giản, ideas chưa develop deeply
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Communicates ideas clearly nhưng chưa có sophistication trong cách diễn đạt, vocabulary adequate nhưng không impressive

📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

I’d say it’s absolutely crucial. Goals essentially serve as a roadmap for our lives, providing us with direction and meaning. Without them, people tend to drift aimlessly, which can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and stagnation. More importantly, having well-defined goals gives us something to aspire to, which is a powerful driving force for personal growth. It’s also worth mentioning that the process of setting and working towards goals helps us develop resilience and self-discipline, qualities that are invaluable in virtually every aspect of life.

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Vocabulary exceptional (crucial, roadmap, drift aimlessly, stagnation, resilience), grammar sophisticated (conditional implications, relative clauses), ideas well-developed với multiple layers of reasoning, discourse markers natural (I’d say, More importantly, It’s worth mentioning)
• Tại sao Band 8-9: Outstanding fluency and coherence, lexical resource shows precise and natural use, grammatical accuracy với complex structures, demonstrates depth of thinking

💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

• crucial: cực kỳ quan trọng
• roadmap: lộ trình, bản đồ chỉ đường
• drift aimlessly: trôi dạt không mục đích
• dissatisfaction: sự không hài lòng
• stagnation: sự đình trệ, không phát triển
• well-defined goals: mục tiêu được xác định rõ ràng
• driving force: động lực thúc đẩy
• resilience: khả năng phục hồi, sức bền

Học viên IELTS Speaking đang luyện tập trả lời câu hỏi về mục tiêu cá nhân 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 trước khi nói. Đây là phần quan trọng nhất để thể hiện khả năng diễn đạt liên tục và tổ chức ý tưởng của bạn. Chiến lược hiệu quả:

• Sử dụng đầy đủ 1 phút để ghi chú keywords, không viết câu hoàn chỉnh
• Đảm bảo nói tối thiểu 1.5 phút, lý tưởng là 2-2.5 phút
• Trả lời đầy đủ tất cả các bullet points trong thẻ câu hỏi
• Sử dụng thì động từ phù hợp (thường là hiện tại hoặc tương lai cho goals)
• Phát triển phần “explain” sâu nhất vì đây là nơi ghi điểm cao

Lỗi thường gặp:

• Không tận dụng hết thời gian chuẩn bị, vội vàng bắt đầu
• Nói quá ngắn, dưới 1.5 phút
• Bỏ sót một hoặc nhiều bullet points
• Không phát triển đủ phần giải thích cảm xúc/lý do
• Lạc đề, nói về những thứ không liên quan

Cue Card

Describe a goal you have set for yourself this year

You should say:

• What the goal is
• Why you set this goal
• What you need to do to achieve it
• And explain how you would feel if you achieved this goal

Phân Tích Đề Bài

• Dạng câu hỏi: Describe a goal – thuộc nhóm abstract objects/plans
• Thì động từ: Hiện tại đơn cho việc mô tả goal, hiện tại hoàn thành cho việc đã làm, tương lai cho kế hoạch
• Bullet points phải cover:
  • What: Mô tả rõ ràng goal là gì (cụ thể, đo lường được)
  • Why: Động lực, lý do đằng sau việc đặt mục tiêu này
  • What to do: Các bước, hành động cần thiết để đạt được
  • Explain feelings: Cảm xúc khi thành công – phần này cần phát triển sâu nhất
• Câu “explain” quan trọng: Đây là phần ghi điểm cao nhất vì yêu cầu bạn phân tích cảm xúc và ý nghĩa sâu xa, không chỉ liệt kê sự thật

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7

Thời lượng: Khoảng 1.5-2 phút

Well, the goal I’ve set for myself this year is to improve my English to a level where I can study abroad. I chose this goal because I really want to pursue higher education in an English-speaking country, probably in the UK or Australia.

To achieve this, I need to do several things. First, I’m taking an IELTS preparation course three times a week. I also practice speaking English with my friends whenever possible. Additionally, I watch English movies and try to read English news articles every day to improve my vocabulary. I’ve been doing this for about three months now.

Another important thing I’m doing is keeping a diary in English. This helps me practice writing and expressing my thoughts. Sometimes it’s quite difficult, but I think it’s necessary.

If I achieve this goal, I would feel extremely happy and proud of myself. Getting a good IELTS score would mean I could apply to my dream universities. It would also prove to my parents that their investment in my education was worthwhile. More importantly, it would open up many opportunities for my future career. I believe studying abroad would change my life significantly, so achieving this goal is really crucial for me.

Phân Tích Band Điểm

Tiêu chí	Band	Nhận xét
Fluency & Coherence	6-7	Maintains flow với một số hesitation, sử dụng basic linking words (first, additionally, another), có structure rõ ràng nhưng còn mechanical
Lexical Resource	6-7	Vocabulary adequate cho topic (pursue, vocabulary, opportunities), một số collocations (higher education, dream universities) nhưng chưa sophisticated
Grammatical Range & Accuracy	6-7	Mix của simple và complex sentences, sử dụng present continuous và conditional đúng, nhưng structures không đa dạng lắm
Pronunciation	6-7	Generally clear, một số mispronunciation không ảnh hưởng understanding, word stress cơ bản đúng

Điểm mạnh:

• ✅ Trả lời đầy đủ tất cả bullet points
• ✅ Có ví dụ cụ thể về actions đang thực hiện
• ✅ Cấu trúc tổ chức tốt, dễ theo dõi
• ✅ Thời lượng đủ cho Band 6-7

Hạn chế:

• ⚠️ Vocabulary chưa impressive, nhiều từ basic
• ⚠️ Grammar structures chưa đa dạng, thiếu advanced forms
• ⚠️ Phần explain feelings chưa develop sâu, còn superficial
• ⚠️ Thiếu personal touch và emotional depth

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📝 Sample Answer – Band 7.5-8

Thời lượng: Khoảng 2-2.5 phút

The goal I’ve committed myself to this year is actually quite ambitious – I want to achieve an overall IELTS band score of 7.5 or higher to pave the way for my postgraduate studies overseas. This isn’t just a random target; it’s something I’ve been contemplating for quite some time now.

The main reason I set my sights on this particular goal is that I’ve always been passionate about international education. I firmly believe that studying in a multicultural environment would not only enhance my academic knowledge but also broaden my horizons and help me develop a more global perspective. Moreover, my field of study – sustainable development – is something that’s better explored in countries where environmental policies are more progressive.

In terms of what I need to do, I’ve mapped out quite a comprehensive action plan. I’ve enrolled in an intensive IELTS course where I attend classes three times weekly. On top of that, I’ve been immersing myself in English content daily – from TED talks to BBC podcasts. I’ve also joined an online speaking club where I can practice with other learners and native speakers. What’s really helping is that I’ve made it a habit to write essays on various topics and get feedback from my tutor. It’s been challenging, particularly balancing this with my university coursework, but I’m determined to see it through.

If I manage to achieve this goal, I honestly think I’d feel an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. It would validate all the sacrifices I’ve made – the early mornings, the late nights studying, and the social activities I’ve had to skip. Beyond the personal satisfaction, it would mean I could finally pursue my dream of studying at a prestigious institution abroad. For my family, especially my parents who have invested so much in my education both financially and emotionally, it would be proof that their faith in me wasn’t misplaced. I think the confidence boost alone would be invaluable as I embark on the next chapter of my life.

Phân Tích Band Điểm

Tiêu chí	Band	Nhận xét
Fluency & Coherence	7.5-8	Speaks fluently với minimal hesitation, natural self-correction, excellent use của discourse markers, coherent progression của ideas
Lexical Resource	7.5-8	Wide range of vocabulary used precisely (committed myself to, pave the way for, set my sights on), good collocations (broaden horizons, global perspective), some less common items
Grammatical Range & Accuracy	7.5-8	Wide range of structures (relative clauses, conditional, present perfect continuous), predominantly error-free, flexible và appropriate
Pronunciation	7.5-8	Clear và easy to understand, effective use of stress và intonation, minimal L1 influence

So Sánh Với Band 6-7

Khía cạnh	Band 6-7	Band 7.5-8
Vocabulary	“improve my English”, “study abroad”	“committed myself to”, “pave the way for”, “broaden my horizons”
Grammar	“I really want to pursue”, “it would mean I could apply”	“I’ve been contemplating”, “it would validate all the sacrifices I’ve made”
Ideas	Basic reasons (want to study abroad, prove to parents)	Deeper motivations (global perspective, sustainable development, personal growth), more nuanced explanation

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📝 Sample Answer – Band 8.5-9

Thời lượng: 2.5-3 phút đầy đủ

The goal I’ve set my heart on achieving this year is perhaps one of the most pivotal objectives I’ve ever undertaken – I’m striving to attain an IELTS band score of 8.0 or above, which would serve as a gateway to pursuing my Master’s degree in Environmental Policy at a top-tier university in the UK. This isn’t merely an academic aspiration; it represents a crucial stepping stone in what I envision as my lifelong commitment to addressing climate change issues.

What really prompted me to zero in on this particular goal was a profound realization I had last year. I attended an international conference on sustainability, and it struck me how linguistic proficiency in English could amplify one’s ability to contribute meaningfully to global conversations. I came to understand that achieving fluency wasn’t just about ticking a box for university admission requirements – it was about equipping myself with the tools to engage in high-level discourse on issues that transcend national boundaries. Furthermore, I recognized that the rigorous preparation process itself would foster valuable skills like discipline, critical thinking, and resilience – qualities that are indispensable in both academic and professional spheres.

With regard to my strategy for success, I’ve devised what I’d call a holistic and multifaceted approach. I’m dedicating approximately three hours daily to deliberate practice – this includes attending an advanced IELTS course, but more importantly, I’ve cultivated habits that integrate English into virtually every aspect of my daily routine. I’m consuming academic podcasts during my commute, engaging in debates with international students through online platforms, and even volunteering to translate environmental research papers, which simultaneously enhances both my language skills and subject knowledge. What I’ve found particularly beneficial is maintaining a reflective journal where I analyze my mistakes and track my progress quantitatively through regular mock tests. I won’t deny it’s been demanding – there have been moments of self-doubt when I’ve questioned whether I was making sufficient headway – but I’ve learned to view these challenges as integral to the growth process.

As for how I’d feel upon achieving this goal – well, I think “transformative” would be the word that springs to mind. The sense of accomplishment would certainly be there, but I think what would resonate most deeply is the validation that consistent effort and strategic planning can indeed yield tangible results. For someone like me who comes from a non-English-speaking background, reaching this milestone would symbolize overcoming what once seemed like an insurmountable barrier. On a practical level, it would unlock opportunities to learn from leading experts in my field and to be part of a vibrant academic community that’s pushing the boundaries of environmental research. But on a more profound level, I think it would instill in me a renewed confidence in my capacity to achieve audacious goals – a mindset shift that would ripple through all my future endeavors. It would also be incredibly gratifying to demonstrate to my family, particularly my younger siblings, that with dedication and the right approach, one can transcend limitations and pursue their ambitions, regardless of their starting point.

Phân Tích Band Điểm

Tiêu chí	Band	Nhận xét
Fluency & Coherence	8.5-9	Speaks fluently và effortlessly, sophisticated use của cohesive devices, logical development với complex ideas, natural pausing for effect
Lexical Resource	8.5-9	Sophisticated và precise vocabulary (pivotal, zero in on, amplify, transcend, insurmountable), idiomatic expressions used naturally, wide range of collocations
Grammatical Range & Accuracy	8.5-9	Full range of structures used accurately và appropriately, complex sentences sustained throughout, error-free
Pronunciation	8.5-9	Pronunciation features used effectively, clear articulation, natural rhythm và intonation, sustained performance

Tại Sao Bài Này Xuất Sắc

🎯 Fluency Hoàn Hảo:
Bài nói maintain được flow tự nhiên trong suốt 3 phút không có hesitation đáng kể, sử dụng pausing một cách strategic để emphasize key points

📚 Vocabulary Tinh Vi:
Ví dụ: “set my heart on” thay vì “really want”, “zero in on” thay vì “focus on”, “insurmountable barrier” thay vì “big difficulty” – tất cả đều là less common expressions được sử dụng chính xác

📝 Grammar Đa Dạng:
Ví dụ: “What really prompted me to zero in on this particular goal was a profound realization I had last year” – câu này sử dụng cleft sentence với relative clause và past tense, showing excellent range

💡 Ideas Sâu Sắc:
Không chỉ nói về việc đạt điểm cao để đi du học, mà còn connect với broader context về climate change, global discourse, và personal transformation – showing depth of thinking

Chiến lược đặt mục tiêu và lập kế hoạch cho IELTS Speaking hiệu quả

Follow-up Questions (Rounding Off Questions)

Sau Part 2, examiner thường hỏi 1-2 câu ngắn để transition sang Part 3:

Question 1: Have you started working towards this goal yet?

Band 6-7 Answer:
Yes, I’ve already started. I’m attending classes and practicing every day. It’s going quite well so far.

Band 8-9 Answer:
Absolutely. I’ve been actively pursuing it for about four months now, and I’m pleased to say I’m making steady progress. I’ve already seen noticeable improvements in my speaking fluency and my mock test scores have been trending upward, which is quite encouraging.

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Question 2: Do you think you’ll achieve it this year?

Band 6-7 Answer:
I hope so. I’m working very hard and I believe if I continue like this, I should be able to achieve it by the end of the year.

Band 8-9 Answer:
I’m cautiously optimistic. While I recognize there’s still considerable ground to cover, the trajectory of my progress so far suggests that with sustained effort and perhaps a bit of luck on test day, it’s certainly within reach. I’m aiming to sit the exam in about three months, which should give me ample time to fine-tune my skills.

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IELTS Speaking Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Tổng Quan Về Part 3

Part 3 kéo dài 4-5 phút với các câu hỏi trừu tượng và phức tạp hơn, yêu cầu bạn phân tích, đánh giá và thảo luận về các vấn đề xã hội liên quan đến chủ đề Part 2. Đây là phần khó nhất nhưng cũng là nơi thí sinh có thể thực sự ghi điểm cao.

Yêu cầu của Part 3:

• Phân tích các vấn đề từ nhiều góc độ
• So sánh và đối chiếu các quan điểm
• Đưa ra ví dụ từ xã hội, không chỉ kinh nghiệm cá nhân
• Thừa nhận complexity và nuances của vấn đề
• Sử dụng tentative language khi appropriate

Chiến lược hiệu quả:

• Mở rộng câu trả lời với 4-6 câu
• Sử dụng discourse markers để organize ideas
• Balance giữa personal opinion và broader perspective
• Show critical thinking bằng cách xem xét pros and cons
• Không sợ nói “It depends” hoặc “There are different views”

Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam:

• Trả lời quá ngắn, thiếu elaboration
• Chỉ đưa ra opinion mà không có reasoning
• Thiếu từ vựng abstract và academic
• Không structure câu trả lời theo logic path
• Quá focus vào personal experience thay vì societal issues

Các Câu Hỏi Thảo Luận Sâu

Theme 1: Goal-Setting in Society

Question 1: Why do you think some people find it difficult to set goals for themselves?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Cause analysis – yêu cầu explain reasons
• Key words: “difficult”, “set goals” – cần analyze barriers
• Cách tiếp cận: Identify 2-3 main reasons với examples và implications

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

I think there are several reasons. First, some people don’t really know what they want in life, so it’s hard for them to set clear goals. Second, they might be afraid of failure, so they don’t want to set goals because they worry they can’t achieve them. Also, some people are just lazy and don’t want to put in the effort required to achieve goals. In modern society, there are also many distractions like social media, which can make it hard to focus on long-term goals.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Lists reasons but somewhat mechanical, basic linking (First, Second, Also)
• Vocabulary: Adequate (afraid of failure, distractions) nhưng không sophisticated
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Communicates main ideas clearly với adequate vocabulary, nhưng thiếu depth trong analysis và sophisticated language

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📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

Well, I think this is quite a multifaceted issue. From a psychological standpoint, many individuals struggle with what I’d call “decision paralysis” – they’re so overwhelmed by the sheer number of possibilities in life that they find it paralyzing to commit to any specific direction. This is particularly prevalent in today’s world where we’re constantly bombarded with images of success and achievement on social media, which can actually be quite counterproductive.

Furthermore, I’d argue that societal pressures play a significant role. In many cultures, including Vietnamese society, there’s often an implicit expectation to follow predetermined paths – whether that’s pursuing certain careers or achieving specific milestones by certain ages. This can actually stifle people’s ability to set authentic, personally meaningful goals because they’re too preoccupied with meeting external expectations.

Another factor worth considering is the lack of goal-setting education. We’re often taught what to achieve but rarely how to effectively set and pursue goals. Without understanding concepts like SMART goals or the importance of breaking down larger objectives into manageable steps, people can feel daunted by the entire process. It’s rather like being asked to climb a mountain without any training or a map – naturally, many would hesitate to even begin.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Exceptionally well-organized với clear progression: psychological factors → societal influences → educational gap. Mỗi point được develop fully với explanations và implications
• Vocabulary: Sophisticated và precise (multifaceted issue, decision paralysis, counterproductive, stifle, authentic, daunted), sử dụng academic collocations natural
• Grammar: Complex structures maintained throughout (relative clauses, conditional implications, passive voice), error-free
• Critical Thinking: Shows nuanced understanding, acknowledges multiple perspectives, uses tentative language appropriately (I’d argue, I’d call)

💡 Key Language Features:

• Discourse markers: Well, From a psychological standpoint, Furthermore, Another factor worth considering
• Tentative language: I think, I’d argue, I’d call, can be quite
• Abstract nouns: decision paralysis, societal pressures, authenticity, implications
• Hedging: quite, often, many, can

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Question 2: Do you think people set more realistic goals nowadays compared to the past?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Compare and contrast – past vs present
• Key words: “realistic”, “nowadays”, “compared to the past”
• Cách tiếp cận: Acknowledge complexity, present both sides, conclude với nuanced view

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

I think it depends on the person. Some people today set more realistic goals because they have more information and can research better. They can use the internet to learn about what’s possible and what’s not. However, other people might set unrealistic goals because they see successful people on social media and think they can achieve the same thing easily. In the past, people might have had more realistic goals because they had fewer options and knew their limitations better.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Có attempt to show both sides nhưng còn simplistic
• Vocabulary: Basic (more information, successful people, limitations)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Addresses question với reasonable ideas nhưng lacks sophistication và depth

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📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

That’s quite an intriguing question, and I’d say the answer is rather nuanced. On the one hand, you could argue that modern goal-setting has become more grounded in reality due to the unprecedented access to information we now have. People can leverage data, success stories, and even failure stories to calibrate their ambitions more accurately. For instance, someone aspiring to become a professional athlete can now easily research the statistical likelihood of success, the typical trajectory, and the requisite skills – information that wasn’t readily available to previous generations.

On the other hand, I’d contend that we’re actually living in an era of increasingly inflated expectations. Social media has created what psychologists call the “highlight reel effect”, where we’re constantly exposed to curated versions of others’ successes while their struggles remain hidden. This distorted perspective can lead people to set goals that are wildly unrealistic given their circumstances. Compounding this is what I’d term “instant gratification culture” – the expectation that success should come quickly and easily, which is fundamentally at odds with the reality that most worthwhile achievements require sustained effort over time.

If I had to strike a balance, I’d say that while the tools for realistic goal-setting have improved, the psychological environment has become more conducive to unrealistic thinking. So it really boils down to whether individuals have developed the critical thinking skills and self-awareness to filter out the noise and set goals that are both ambitious and attainable. It’s less about the era and more about individual discernment, I’d argue.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Exemplary organization: acknowledge complexity → present argument 1 với evidence → present counterargument với evidence → synthesize với balanced conclusion
• Vocabulary: Exceptional range (intriguing, nuanced, calibrate, inflated expectations, curated, conducive, discernment)
• Grammar: Full range của complex structures, all accurate
• Critical Thinking: Demonstrates sophisticated analysis, references psychological concepts, shows balanced perspective, arrives at nuanced conclusion

💡 Key Language Features:

• Discourse markers: On the one hand, On the other hand, For instance, If I had to strike a balance
• Tentative language: I’d say, I’d contend, I’d argue, you could argue
• Academic vocabulary: unprecedented, leverage, requisite, compounding, fundamentally at odds
• Hedging: quite, rather, can, might

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Theme 2: Success and Achievement

Question 1: What factors do you think contribute most to achieving goals?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Analyze contributing factors
• Key words: “factors”, “contribute most”, “achieving goals”
• Cách tiếp cận: Identify 2-3 key factors, explain each với examples và reasoning

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

I believe several factors are important for achieving goals. First is determination – you need to really want to achieve your goal and not give up easily. Second is having a good plan. If you don’t plan properly, you might waste time and energy. Third, I think having support from family and friends is also important because they can encourage you when things are difficult. Finally, I’d say having the necessary skills and knowledge is crucial for most goals.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Clear organization với enumeration, covers multiple factors
• Vocabulary: Adequate (determination, plan, support, skills) but basic
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Communicates ideas clearly but lacks sophistication và depth of analysis

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📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

From my perspective, goal achievement is really the confluence of several interrelated factors. First and foremost, I’d highlight what psychologists call “grit” – which goes beyond mere determination to encompass resilience in the face of setbacks and the ability to maintain long-term commitment even when motivation wanes. Research by Angela Duckworth has shown that this quality is often a better predictor of success than talent or intelligence alone, which is quite revelatory.

Equally crucial, though perhaps less discussed, is what I’d term “strategic flexibility”. This means having a clear overarching goal while remaining adaptable about the path to get there. The ability to recalibrate one’s approach when encountering obstacles, rather than rigidly adhering to a plan that isn’t working, often distinguishes those who succeed from those who don’t. It’s essentially the difference between being goal-oriented and being method-oriented.

I’d also emphasize the role of environmental factors – what some researchers call your “ecosystem for success”. This encompasses everything from having mentors who can provide guidance, to being in supportive communities, to simply having access to resources and opportunities. We often underestimate how much our circumstances shape our capacity to achieve goals. Someone with identical drive and ability will face vastly different trajectories depending on their starting point and the support structures available to them.

Finally, I think self-awareness is profoundly underrated. Understanding your own strengths, weaknesses, working style, and limitations allows you to set goals that are authentically aligned with who you are, rather than chasing objectives that look good on paper but don’t actually resonate with your values or capabilities.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Sophisticated organization, each factor developed extensively với research references và implications
• Vocabulary: Exceptional (confluence, interrelated, grit, recalibrate, ecosystem, profoundly underrated)
• Grammar: Complex structures sustained naturally, error-free
• Critical Thinking: References academic research, shows deep understanding, acknowledges systemic factors beyond individual control

💡 Key Language Features:

• Academic references: “Research by Angela Duckworth”, “what some researchers call”
• Abstract concepts: grit, strategic flexibility, ecosystem for success, self-awareness
• Precise verbs: encompasses, distinguishes, underestimate, resonate
• Hedging: From my perspective, I’d highlight, I’d term, often, can

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Các yếu tố quyết định thành công khi đạt mục tiêu trong IELTS Speaking

Theme 3: Goal-Setting Across Different Life Stages

Question 1: Do you think the types of goals people set change as they get older?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Change over time analysis
• Key words: “types of goals”, “change”, “get older”
• Cách tiếp cận: Compare goals across life stages, explain reasons for shifts

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

Yes, definitely. When people are young, they usually set goals about their career and education, like getting into a good university or finding a good job. As they get older and have families, their goals change to things like providing for their children or buying a house. When people become elderly, they might set goals related to health or spending time with family. So I think goals become less ambitious and more practical as people age.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Logical progression through life stages
• Vocabulary: Basic descriptions, limited range
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Clear answer với reasonable ideas, but lacks sophistication và nuanced analysis

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📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

Absolutely, I think there’s quite a pronounced evolution in the nature of goals across one’s lifespan, and this shift is both fascinating and revealing about human development. In adolescence and early adulthood, goals tend to be quite aspirational and often externally validated – think academic accolades, career milestones, or material achievements. There’s typically a strong outward focus, driven by what I’d call the need to establish one’s place in society and prove oneself to the world.

As people transition into middle age, I’ve observed – both personally and in those around me – that goals often become more multidimensional. While professional ambitions certainly remain, they’re increasingly balanced against family commitments, health considerations, and what we might call legacy concerns – the desire to make a meaningful impact that transcends one’s immediate sphere. There’s often a recalibration where people start questioning whether they’re climbing the right ladder, so to speak.

What’s particularly interesting is how goals in later life often undergo what psychologists term “generativity” – a shift from acquisition to contribution. Rather than focusing on accumulating more achievements or possessions, many older individuals gravitate toward goals that involve passing on wisdom, nurturing younger generations, or deepening existing relationships. There’s also typically a greater emphasis on experiential goals – things like travel or pursuing long-delayed passions – now that practical constraints like career building have diminished.

I’d also add that this evolution isn’t necessarily linear or uniform – it’s quite context-dependent. Cultural factors, socioeconomic circumstances, and individual personality traits all modulate how one’s goals evolve. Some people maintain entrepreneurial ambitions well into their seventies, while others prioritize family and health much earlier in life. The key commonality, though, seems to be an increasing alignment between goals and one’s authentic values as self-knowledge deepens with age.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Exceptionally sophisticated, tracing developmental arc with psychological insights, acknowledges individual variation
• Vocabulary: Extensive range (pronounced evolution, aspirational, generativity, modulate, authentic values)
• Grammar: Complex structures throughout, including parenthetical remarks và sophisticated clauses
• Critical Thinking: References psychological concepts, shows awareness of complexity, provides nuanced analysis acknowledging exceptions

💡 Key Language Features:

• Academic terminology: lifespan, generativity, socioeconomic circumstances, modulate
• Metaphorical language: “climbing the right ladder”, “transcends one’s immediate sphere”
• Discourse structuring: In adolescence, As people transition, What’s particularly interesting, I’d also add
• Hedging: tend to be, often, typically, seems to be

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Question 2: Is it better to focus on one major goal or pursue several smaller goals simultaneously?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Evaluate và compare approaches
• Key words: “better”, “focus”, “one major goal”, “several smaller goals”
• Cách tiếp cận: Present merits of both approaches, conclude với “it depends” with conditions

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

I think both approaches have advantages. Focusing on one major goal means you can put all your energy into it and might achieve it faster. However, if you fail, you might feel very disappointed. Having several smaller goals is safer because if you fail at one, you still have others. But you might not achieve anything significant because your attention is divided. Personally, I think it’s better to have one main goal with some smaller supporting goals.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Presents both sides và personal opinion
• Vocabulary: Basic (advantages, energy, disappointed, divided)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Adequate discussion but lacks depth và sophisticated reasoning

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📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

This is really a question that hinges on individual circumstances and personality, though I think we can tease out some general principles. The case for singular focus is quite compelling from a psychological standpoint. Research in cognitive science suggests that our attentional resources are fundamentally finite – what’s often called “cognitive bandwidth”. When we channel these resources toward one overarching objective, we can achieve what psychologist Cal Newport calls “deep work” – the kind of sustained, undistracted concentration that catalyzes significant achievements. History is replete with examples of individuals who achieved extraordinary things through single-minded dedication – think of Olympic athletes or groundbreaking researchers.

That said, I think the multiple goals approach has considerable merit, particularly in our complex modern lives where different domains of well-being need attention. Pursuing only career goals to the exclusion of health or relationships often proves shortsighted in the long run. Moreover, having diversified goals creates what I’d call “psychological hedging” – if you encounter a setback in one area, progress in others can sustain your overall sense of efficacy and motivation. This is particularly relevant given that external factors beyond our control often impede specific goals.

Where I’d land on this is that the ideal approach is probably what we might call “hierarchical goal structure” – having one primary objective that provides overarching direction, supported by complementary smaller goals that either contribute to the main goal or address other important life domains. For instance, if someone’s major goal is career advancement, their smaller goals might include networking, skill development, and maintaining health and relationships that sustain their capacity to pursue that career goal. This structure provides both focus and balance, avoiding the pitfalls of either extreme.

It’s also worth noting that the optimal approach likely varies across life stages and circumstances. A university student might benefit from concentrated focus on academic goals, while a middle-aged professional juggling family and career might necessity require a more distributed approach. The key is developing enough self-awareness to recognize what serves you best in your current context, rather than rigidly adhering to one philosophy.

Phân tích:

• Structure: Masterful organization: present case for each approach với evidence → synthesize into nuanced middle ground → acknowledge contextual variation
• Vocabulary: Exceptional sophistication (hinges on, tease out, catalyzes, replete with, hierarchical structure, distributed approach)
• Grammar: Full range of complex structures, perfectly accurate
• Critical Thinking: References research, uses specific examples, acknowledges complexity, arrives at sophisticated synthesis rather than simple either/or

💡 Key Language Features:

• Academic references: “research in cognitive science”, “psychologist Cal Newport”
• Metaphorical language: “cognitive bandwidth”, “psychological hedging”, “hierarchical structure”
• Tentative language: I think, likely, probably, might
• Complex conditionals: “if you encounter…, progress…can sustain”
• Nominalization: singular focus, the multiple goals approach, hierarchical goal structure

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Từ vựng và cụm từ quan trọng

Topic-Specific Vocabulary

Từ vựng/Cụm từ	Loại từ	Phiên âm	Nghĩa tiếng Việt	Ví dụ	Collocation
goal-oriented	adj	/ɡəʊl ˈɔːrientɪd/	có định hướng mục tiêu	I’ve always been quite goal-oriented in my approach to life.	goal-oriented person/approach/mindset
ambitious	adj	/æmˈbɪʃəs/	đầy tham vọng, có tham vọng	Setting ambitious goals can be motivating.	ambitious goal/plan/project/target
attainable	adj	/əˈteɪnəbl/	có thể đạt được	It’s important to set goals that are challenging but attainable.	attainable goal/objective/target
commitment	n	/kəˈmɪtmənt/	sự cam kết	Achieving this goal requires a long-term commitment.	strong/deep/lifelong commitment
determination	n	/dɪˌtɜːmɪˈneɪʃn/	sự quyết tâm	His determination to succeed was evident.	show/demonstrate determination
milestone	n	/ˈmaɪlstəʊn/	cột mốc quan trọng	Graduating is an important milestone in life.	reach/achieve a milestone
perseverance	n	/ˌpɜːsɪˈvɪərəns/	sự kiên trì	Success often requires perseverance.	show/require perseverance
setback	n	/ˈsetbæk/	trở ngại, thất bại tạm thời	Despite several setbacks, she continued pursuing her goal.	major/significant/temporary setback
strive for	phrasal verb	/straɪv fɔː/	cố gắng đạt được	I’m striving for excellence in my work.	strive for success/perfection/excellence
pave the way for	idiom	/peɪv ðə weɪ fɔː/	mở đường cho	This qualification will pave the way for better career opportunities.	pave the way for success/change
set one’s sights on	idiom	/set wʌnz saɪts ɒn/	đặt mục tiêu vào	She’s set her sights on becoming a doctor.	set your sights high/on something
map out	phrasal verb	/mæp aʊt/	lập kế hoạch chi tiết	I’ve mapped out a detailed strategy.	map out a plan/strategy/route
resilience	n	/rɪˈzɪliəns/	khả năng phục hồi, sức bền	Building resilience helps you bounce back from failures.	build/develop/show resilience
sustainable	adj	/səˈsteɪnəbl/	bền vững, có thể duy trì	We need sustainable practices for long-term success.	sustainable development/growth/approach
breakthrough	n	/ˈbreɪkθruː/	bước đột phá	Making this breakthrough would be life-changing.	major/significant breakthrough
self-discipline	n	/self ˈdɪsəplɪn/	tính tự kỷ luật	Achieving goals requires strong self-discipline.	develop/maintain self-discipline
tangible	adj	/ˈtændʒəbl/	hữu hình, cụ thể	I want to see tangible results from my efforts.	tangible results/benefits/progress
viable	adj	/ˈvaɪəbl/	khả thi	We need to assess whether this plan is viable.	viable option/alternative/solution
prioritize	v	/praɪˈɒrətaɪz/	ưu tiên	I need to prioritize my goals effectively.	prioritize tasks/goals/needs
measurable	adj	/ˈmeʒərəbl/	có thể đo lường	Setting measurable goals helps track progress.	measurable results/progress/outcomes

Idiomatic Expressions & Advanced Phrases

Cụm từ	Nghĩa	Ví dụ sử dụng	Band điểm
the sky’s the limit	không có giới hạn, có thể đạt bất cứ điều gì	With hard work and dedication, the sky’s the limit for your career.	7.5-8
shoot for the stars	đặt mục tiêu cao, tham vọng lớn	My parents always encouraged me to shoot for the stars.	7.5-8
bite off more than you can chew	đặt mục tiêu quá cao so với khả năng	Be careful not to bite off more than you can chew with too many goals.	7.5-8
keep your eye on the prize	tập trung vào mục tiêu cuối cùng	When things get difficult, just keep your eye on the prize.	7.5-8
Rome wasn’t built in a day	thành công cần thời gian	Achieving major goals takes time – Rome wasn’t built in a day.	7-8
put your money where your mouth is	chứng minh bằng hành động, không chỉ nói suông	It’s time to put your money where your mouth is and actually work towards that goal.	8-8.5
the ball is in your court	quyết định thuộc về bạn	I’ve given you all the resources – now the ball is in your court.	7.5-8
push the envelope	vượt qua giới hạn, thử thách bản thân	This goal really pushes the envelope of what I thought possible.	8-8.5
go the extra mile	nỗ lực thêm, làm nhiều hơn mong đợi	To achieve excellence, you need to go the extra mile.	7.5-8
hit the ground running	bắt đầu mạnh mẽ và hiệu quả	I want to hit the ground running when I start my new course.	8-8.5
move the goalposts	thay đổi yêu cầu giữa chừng	It’s frustrating when circumstances move the goalposts.	8-8.5
raise the bar	nâng cao tiêu chuẩn	This achievement has raised the bar for what I think I can accomplish.	7.5-8

Discourse Markers (Từ Nối Ý Trong Speaking)

Để bắt đầu câu trả lời:

• 📝 Well,… – Được dùng khi cần một chút thời gian suy nghĩ, làm mềm câu trả lời
• 📝 Actually,… – Khi muốn đưa ra góc nhìn hơi khác hoặc surprising
• 📝 To be honest,… – Khi muốn nói thẳng thắn về opinion cá nhân
• 📝 I’d say that… – Cách formal để đưa ra quan điểm
• 📝 From my perspective,… – Nhấn mạnh đây là góc nhìn cá nhân
• 📝 In my view,… – Tương tự “from my perspective” nhưng ngắn gọn hơn

Để bổ sung ý:

• 📝 On top of that,… – Thêm vào đó, bổ sung thêm
• 📝 What’s more,… – Hơn nữa, nhấn mạnh importance
• 📝 Not to mention… – Chưa kể đến, thường cho điều quan trọng
• 📝 Furthermore,… – Formal hơn “moreover”
• 📝 Additionally,… – Thêm vào đó (academic style)
• 📝 Beyond that,… – Vượt ra ngoài điều đó

Để đưa ra quan điểm cân bằng:

• 📝 On the one hand,… On the other hand,… – Mặt này… mặt kia
• 📝 While it’s true that…, we also need to consider… – Trong khi… chúng ta cũng cần xem xét
• 📝 That said,… – Tuy nhiên, mặc dù vậy
• 📝 Having said that,… – Sau khi nói điều đó
• 📝 Then again,… – Nhưng mà, xét theo khía cạnh khác

Để kết luận:

• 📝 All in all,… – Tóm lại, nhìn chung
• 📝 At the end of the day,… – Cuối cùng thì, sau tất cả
• 📝 To sum up,… – Tóm lại
• 📝 In conclusion,… – Kết luận (formal, dùng cho Part 2)
• 📝 Ultimately,… – Cuối cùng, về cơ bản

Để đưa ra ví dụ:

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

Grammatical Structures Ấn Tượng

1. Conditional Sentences (Câu điều kiện):

Mixed conditional:

• Formula: If + past perfect, would/could + bare infinitive (mix type 3 và 2)
• Ví dụ: “If I had set clearer goals earlier in life, I would be in a much better position now.”
• Khi nào dùng: Nói về past action với present consequence

Inversion trong conditional:

• Formula: Had/Were/Should + subject + verb
• Ví dụ: “Had I known how challenging this would be, I might have prepared more thoroughly.”
• Tại sao ấn tượng: Very formal, shows advanced grammar

2. Relative Clauses (Mệnh đề quan hệ):

Non-defining relative clauses:

• Formula: …, which/who/where + clause, …
• Ví dụ: “This goal, which I set at the beginning of the year, has already transformed my life.”
• Lưu ý: Luôn có commas, cung cấp thông tin thêm (không essential)

Reduced relative clauses:

• Formula: …noun + V-ing/V-ed…
• Ví dụ: “Goals requiring long-term commitment are often the most rewarding.”

3. Passive Voice (Câu bị động):

Impersonal passive:

• Formula: It is thought/believed/said/considered that…
• Ví dụ: “It is widely believed that setting specific goals increases the likelihood of success.”
• Tại sao quan trọng: Sounds academic, không commit trực tiếp đến opinion

Passive with modal verbs:

• Formula: can/could/should/must be + past participle
• Ví dụ: “Goals should be reviewed regularly to ensure they remain relevant.”

4. Cleft Sentences (Câu chẻ):

What-cleft:

• Formula: What + clause + is/was…
• Ví dụ: “What I find most challenging about goal-setting is maintaining motivation over time.”
• Tác dụng: Emphasize một phần của câu

It-cleft:

• Formula: It + is/was + emphasized part + that/who…
• Ví dụ: “It was my parents who first taught me the importance of setting goals.”

5. Inversion for Emphasis:

• Formula: Not only… but also, Rarely, Seldom, Never + auxiliary + subject
• Ví dụ: “Not only does goal-setting provide direction, but it also enhances self-discipline.”
• Ví dụ: “Rarely have I encountered someone who achieved significant success without clear goals.”

6. Participle Clauses:

• Formula: V-ing/Having + past participle, main clause
• Ví dụ: “Having achieved this milestone, I now feel more confident about tackling larger challenges.”
• Ví dụ: “Recognizing my limitations, I decided to set more realistic targets.”

Cấu trúc ngữ pháp và từ vựng nâng cao cho chủ đề Goals trong IELTS Speaking

Chiến Lược Tổng Thể Để Đạt Band 8+

Fluency & Coherence

Làm gì để đạt 8+:

• Nói liên tục không hesitation đáng kể
• Tự sửa lỗi một cách natural (không làm gián đoạn flow)
• Sử dụng discourse markers đa dạng và appropriately
• Develop ideas fully với logical progression
• Pausing có mục đích (for emphasis), không phải vì không biết nói gì

Luyện tập:

• Record yourself và identify hesitations
• Practice shadowing native speakers
• Learn chunks of language, không phải individual words
• Simulate real test conditions regularly

Lexical Resource

Làm gì để đạt 8+:

• Sử dụng less common vocabulary một cách natural
• Demonstrate awareness of style và collocation
• Use paraphrase effectively
• Show precision in word choice
• Minimal errors trong word formation

Luyện tập:

• Learn collocations, không phải isolated words
• Keep a vocabulary journal with example sentences
• Read extensively để absorb natural usage
• Practice using new words in context immediately

Grammatical Range & Accuracy

Làm gì để đạt 8+:

• Use wide range of structures naturally
• Majority of sentences error-free
• Complex grammar không làm gián đoạn communication
• Show flexibility với tenses và structures

Luyện tập:

• Master one advanced structure at a time
• Notice grammar in authentic materials
• Record yourself và transcribe để check errors
• Get feedback from teachers on specific patterns

Pronunciation

Làm gì để đạt 8+:

• Intelligible throughout
• Effective use of intonation và stress
• Natural rhythm và connected speech
• Minimal L1 influence

Luyện tập:

• Focus on word stress và sentence stress
• Practice linking sounds
• Record và compare với native speakers
• Work on problematic sounds specific to Vietnamese learners

Lời Khuyên Từ Examiner

Với hơn 20 năm kinh nghiệm chấm thi IELTS Speaking, tôi muốn chia sẻ một số insights quan trọng:

Những gì Examiners thực sự chú ý:

1. Naturalness quan trọng hơn perfection – Một vài lỗi nhỏ trong Band 8 answer tự nhiên tốt hơn một câu trả lời perfect nhưng nghe như đã học thuộc
2. Ideas matter – Ở Band 7+, depth of thinking trở nên crucial. Don’t just list ideas, analyze them
3. Personality – Cho examiner thấy bạn là ai. Genuine enthusiasm và personal examples make you memorable

Common misconceptions:

• ❌ Sử dụng từ vựng academic khó = điểm cao → Sai! Natural và appropriate usage mới quan trọng
• ❌ Nói nhanh = fluent → Sai! Fluency là về smooth delivery, không phải speed
• ❌ Never make mistakes → Sai! Native speakers cũng self-correct và hesitate đôi khi

Red flags examiners notice:

• Memorized answers (we can tell!)
• Inappropriate formality (quá formal cho speaking)
• Off-topic tangents
• One-word answers ở Part 1 hoặc Part 3
• Reading from notes ở Part 2

Specific advice cho học viên Việt Nam:

1. Overcome “chuẩn bị câu trả lời” mentality – IELTS Speaking tests your ability to communicate spontaneously
2. Work on pronunciation of word endings – Vietnamese learners often drop final consonants
3. Practice thinking in English – Don’t translate from Vietnamese
4. Develop opinions on common topics – Có sẵn ideas giúp bạn respond naturally
5. Build confidence – Nervousness affects all criteria, especially fluency

Test day tips:

• Arrive early để settle nerves
• Make eye contact với examiner
• Treat it like a conversation, not an interrogation
• If you don’t understand a question, ask for clarification
• Don’t panic nếu examiner interrupts – đó là bình thường ở Part 2

Kế Hoạch Luyện Tập 8 Tuần

Tuần 1-2: Foundation Building

• Master basic discourse markers
• Build topic vocabulary cho “goals”
• Record yourself answering Part 1 questions
• Focus: Fluency và natural expression

Tuần 3-4: Part 2 Intensive

• Practice 15 different cue cards related to goals
• Work on timing (full 2 minutes)
• Develop bullet points fully
• Focus: Structure và time management

Tuần 5-6: Part 3 Deep Dive

• Practice analytical thinking
• Learn abstract vocabulary
• Develop complex arguments
• Focus: Depth of ideas và sophisticated language

Tuần 7-8: Integration & Refinement

• Full mock tests
• Record và analyze performance
• Work on weak areas
• Focus: Consistency across all parts

Chủ đề về goals và personal ambitions sẽ luôn relevant trong IELTS Speaking vì nó cho phép examiners đánh giá toàn diện khả năng ngôn ngữ của bạn – từ việc mô tả kế hoạch cụ thể đến phân tích các vấn đề xã hội phức tạp. Với sự chuẩn bị kỹ lưỡng theo hướng dẫn trong bài viết này, kết hợp với practice đều đặn và feedback constructive, bạn hoàn toàn có thể đạt được band điểm mong muốn. Remember, the goal itself – getting a high IELTS score – is achieved through consistent effort, strategic preparation, và maintaining genuine communication. Good luck với journey của bạn!