Công viên là một chủ đề vô cùng phổ biến và thực tế trong kỳ thi IELTS Speaking. Với tư cách là một examiner có hơn 20 năm kinh nghiệm, tôi nhận thấy chủ đề “Describe A Park In Your Area Where Families Like To Gather” xuất hiện đều đặn trong các đợt thi từ 2020 đến nay, đặc biệt trong các bộ đề về Places và Local Area. Khả năng bạn gặp câu hỏi này hoặc các biến thể tương tự là rất cao – khoảng 70-80% trong các đề thi về địa điểm công cộng.
Chủ đề này tưởng chừng đơn giản nhưng lại là “bẫy” cho nhiều thí sinh Việt Nam. Tôi thường xuyên nghe các bạn mô tả công viên một cách khô khan, liệt kê các đặc điểm mà thiếu đi sự sinh động và cảm xúc cá nhân. Điều quan trọng không chỉ là MÔ TẢ công viên đó như thế nào, mà là GIẢI THÍCH tại sao nó hấp dẫn các gia đình, những hoạt động gì diễn ra ở đó, và cảm nhận của bạn về không gian này.
Trong bài viết này, bạn sẽ học được cách xử lý chủ đề công viên từ Part 1 đến Part 3 với các bài mẫu chi tiết theo từng band điểm (6-7, 7.5-8, 8.5-9), kho từ vựng phong phú về môi trường và không gian công cộng, cùng những chiến lược trả lời từ góc nhìn examiner để bạn tự tin đạt điểm cao nhất. Tôi sẽ chỉ ra cụ thể những gì làm nên sự khác biệt giữa câu trả lời band 6 và band 9, giúp bạn hiểu rõ tiêu chí chấm điểm và biết cách nâng cao kỹ năng speaking một cách hiệu quả.
IELTS Speaking Part 1: Introduction and Interview
Tổng Quan Về Part 1
Part 1 kéo dài 4-5 phút với khoảng 10-12 câu hỏi về các chủ đề quen thuộc trong đời sống hàng ngày. Đây là phần “làm quen” giữa bạn và examiner, nơi bạn cần thể hiện khả năng giao tiếp tự nhiên, thoải mái về những vấn đề cá nhân và thói quen sinh hoạt.
Chiến lược hiệu quả:
- Trả lời trực tiếp câu hỏi trong câu đầu tiên
- Mở rộng bằng 1-2 câu giải thích hoặc ví dụ cụ thể
- Tránh trả lời quá dài (không nên quá 3-4 câu)
- Giữ giọng nói tự nhiên, không học thuộc
Lỗi phổ biến của học viên Việt Nam:
- Trả lời quá ngắn gọn kiểu Yes/No mà không mở rộng
- Sử dụng từ vựng quá đơn giản như “good”, “nice”, “beautiful”
- Thiếu ví dụ cụ thể từ kinh nghiệm bản thân
- Giọng nói đơn điệu, thiếu intonation tự nhiên
Các Câu Hỏi Thường Gặp
Question 1: Do you often go to parks?
Question 2: What do you usually do when you visit a park?
Question 3: Are there many parks in your city/hometown?
Question 4: Do you prefer natural parks or modern parks with facilities?
Question 5: Did you go to parks when you were a child?
Question 6: What kind of parks do you think are popular in your country?
Question 7: Do you think parks are important in cities?
Question 8: Would you like to live near a park?
Phân Tích và Gợi Ý Trả Lời Chi Tiết
Question: Do you often go to parks?
🎯 Cách tiếp cận:
- Trả lời Yes/No rõ ràng ngay câu đầu
- Giải thích tần suất cụ thể (how often)
- Đưa ra lý do hoặc hoạt động bạn làm ở công viên
- Có thể đề cập đến công viên cụ thể nếu phù hợp
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“Yes, I go to parks quite often, maybe twice a week. I usually go there in the morning to exercise and breathe fresh air. There’s a park near my house, so it’s very convenient for me.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh: Trả lời rõ ràng, có tần suất cụ thể, đề cập lý do và địa điểm
- Hạn chế: Từ vựng còn đơn giản (very convenient, fresh air, exercise), cấu trúc câu khá cơ bản
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Đạt yêu cầu về fluency và coherence, nhưng thiếu lexical resource và grammatical range để đạt band cao hơn
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“Yes, I’m quite a regular visitor to parks, especially on weekends. I’d say I make it there at least twice a week for my morning jog or just to unwind after a hectic week. There’s a lovely park just a stone’s throw from my apartment, which has become my go-to spot for some much-needed greenery in this concrete jungle.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh:
- Từ vựng đa dạng và tự nhiên: “regular visitor”, “unwind after a hectic week”, “stone’s throw from”, “go-to spot”
- Sử dụng idiom phù hợp: “concrete jungle”, “stone’s throw from”
- Cấu trúc câu linh hoạt với relative clause
- Tạo hình ảnh sinh động về thói quen cá nhân
- Tại sao Band 8-9: Thể hiện lexical resource xuất sắc với collocations tự nhiên, grammar range phong phú, và khả năng diễn đạt ý tưởng một cách sophisticated nhưng vẫn conversational
💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:
- regular visitor: người thường xuyên lui tới
- unwind after a hectic week: thư giãn sau một tuần bận rộn
- a stone’s throw from: rất gần, chỉ vài bước chân
- go-to spot: địa điểm ưa thích, thường lui tới
- much-needed greenery: không gian xanh cần thiết
- concrete jungle: rừng bê tông (nói về thành phố đông đúc)
Question: What do you usually do when you visit a park?
🎯 Cách tiếp cận:
- Liệt kê 2-3 hoạt động cụ thể
- Có thể phân biệt theo thời điểm (buổi sáng/chiều, tuần thường/cuối tuần)
- Giải thích ngắn gọn tại sao thích các hoạt động đó
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“Well, I usually do some exercise like jogging or cycling. Sometimes I just walk around and enjoy the scenery. If I go with friends, we might sit on the grass and chat for a while.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh: Đưa ra nhiều hoạt động khác nhau, có sự phân biệt khi đi một mình hay với bạn bè
- Hạn chế: Từ vựng còn basic (do some exercise, enjoy the scenery, sit and chat), thiếu mô tả chi tiết về trải nghiệm
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Đủ thông tin nhưng chưa impressive về mặt ngôn ngữ
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“It really depends on my mood and the time of day. On weekday mornings, I typically squeeze in a quick cardiovascular workout – either jogging or cycling along the designated paths. On weekends, though, I prefer a more leisurely approach. I might bring a book and find a secluded bench to lose myself in reading, or I’ll simply people-watch and soak up the atmosphere. When friends tag along, we usually spread out a picnic blanket and catch up over some snacks.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh:
- Vocabulary sophisticated: “squeeze in”, “cardiovascular workout”, “designated paths”, “leisurely approach”, “secluded bench”
- Phrasal verbs và idioms tự nhiên: “lose myself in reading”, “soak up the atmosphere”, “catch up over”
- Cấu trúc câu đa dạng với conditional và time clauses
- Mô tả chi tiết, tạo hình ảnh rõ nét
- Tại sao Band 8-9: Fluent và flexible trong cách diễn đạt, vocabulary precise và idiomatic, grammar range ấn tượng với zero errors
💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:
- squeeze in: chen chặt, sắp xếp (thời gian)
- cardiovascular workout: bài tập tim mạch
- designated paths: các lối đi được quy hoạch
- leisurely approach: cách tiếp cận thư thái, nhàn nhã
- secluded bench: băng ghế vắng vẻ, khuất nẻo
- lose myself in reading: đắm mình vào việc đọc
- people-watch: ngồi quan sát người qua lại
- soak up the atmosphere: hòa mình vào không khí
- spread out a picnic blanket: trải khăn picnic
- catch up over some snacks: trò chuyện bên đồ ăn nhẹ
Question: Are there many parks in your city?
🎯 Cách tiếp cận:
- Trả lời về số lượng (many/few/a reasonable number)
- So sánh với quá khứ hoặc với các thành phố khác (nếu có thể)
- Đề cập đến loại công viên (lớn/nhỏ, tự nhiên/hiện đại)
- Có thể nói về xu hướng phát triển không gian xanh
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“I think there are quite a few parks in my city, but not as many as we need. Most of them are small neighborhood parks. The government is building more parks now because they know green spaces are important for people’s health.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh: Có so sánh, đề cập xu hướng phát triển, nêu được lý do
- Hạn chế: Vocabulary khá simple (quite a few, small, building more), thiếu specific details hoặc examples
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Ideas rõ ràng nhưng expression còn basic
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“Well, I’d say we have a decent number of parks scattered throughout the city, though there’s certainly room for improvement. We’ve got a mix – some sprawling green spaces in the suburbs and pocket parks dotted around the densely populated downtown area. What’s encouraging is that the municipal government has been ramping up efforts to create more urban green lungs in recent years, partly in response to growing environmental awareness and the need to combat air pollution. I’ve noticed several vacant lots being transformed into community gardens lately.”
Phân tích:
- Điểm mạnh:
- Vocabulary chính xác và đa dạng: “decent number”, “room for improvement”, “sprawling green spaces”, “pocket parks”, “densely populated”
- Collocation tự nhiên: “ramping up efforts”, “urban green lungs”, “environmental awareness”, “combat air pollution”
- Grammar phức tạp với present perfect continuous, passive voice, relative clauses
- Đưa ra nhiều góc độ: types of parks, location, government policy, recent trends
- Tại sao Band 8-9: Demonstrates sophisticated control of language với precise vocabulary, complex ideas được express một cách coherent và natural
💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:
- decent number: số lượng tương đối, khá tốt
- room for improvement: còn chỗ để cải thiện
- sprawling green spaces: không gian xanh rộng lớn, trải dài
- pocket parks: công viên nhỏ (kiểu túi)
- densely populated: đông dân cư
- municipal government: chính quyền thành phố
- ramping up efforts: tăng cường nỗ lực
- urban green lungs: lá phổi xanh đô thị
- environmental awareness: nhận thức về môi trường
- combat air pollution: chống ô nhiễm không khí
- vacant lots: khu đất trống
- transformed into: được biến đổi thành
Công viên thành phố với gia đình vui chơi và tập thể dục tại không gian xanh mát
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 để ghi chú trước khi nói. Đây là phần quan trọng nhất để thể hiện khả năng diễn đạt liên tục và có tổ chức của bạn.
Thời gian phân bổ:
- 1 phút chuẩn bị: Ghi chú ý chính (chỉ keywords, không viết câu)
- 2-3 phút nói: Nói liên tục, không bị ngắt quãng
Chiến lược hiệu quả:
- Sử dụng hết 1 phút chuẩn bị: Ghi 4-6 keywords cho mỗi bullet point, thêm 1-2 từ cho phần “explain”
- Phân bổ thời gian nói: Mỗi bullet point khoảng 30-40 giây, phần “explain” nên dài nhất (45-60 giây)
- Bắt đầu mạnh mẽ: Câu mở đầu nên clear và engaging
- Sử dụng signposting: “First of all”, “Another thing I should mention”, “What makes it special is…”
- Kết thúc tự nhiên: Không nên dừng đột ngột, có câu kết đúng mức
Lỗi thường gặp:
- Không sử dụng hết thời gian chuẩn bị hoặc viết quá nhiều
- Nói dưới 1.5 phút (quá ngắn)
- Bỏ sót bullet points
- Lặp lại ý tưởng, thiếu chi tiết cụ thể
- Dùng quá nhiều filler words (um, ah, you know)
- Không mở rộng phần “explain” – phần quan trọng nhất để ghi điểm
Cue Card
Describe a park in your area where families like to gather
You should say:
- Where it is located
- What it looks like
- What facilities and activities are available there
- And explain why families enjoy gathering there
Phân Tích Đề Bài
Dạng câu hỏi: Describe a place (public space)
Thì động từ chủ yếu: Hiện tại đơn (miêu tả địa điểm hiện tại) và hiện tại hoàn thành (trải nghiệm cá nhân)
Bullet points phải cover:
- Where it is located: Vị trí cụ thể – đường phố, khu vực, khoảng cách từ nhà/trung tâm
- What it looks like: Mô tả ngoại quan – kích thước, cảnh quan, thiết kế, đặc điểm nổi bật
- What facilities and activities: Danh sách cơ sở vật chất và hoạt động – playground, paths, lakes, sports areas, cafes; jogging, picnicking, sports, events
- Explain why families enjoy gathering there: Phần quan trọng nhất – lý do cụ thể (safe, convenient, facilities for all ages, atmosphere, community feeling)
Câu “explain” quan trọng: Đây là nơi bạn ghi điểm cao nhất. Đừng chỉ liệt kê lý do, mà hãy:
- Phân tích sâu về những yếu tố hấp dẫn gia đình
- Đưa ra ví dụ cụ thể từ quan sát của bạn
- Nói về cảm nhận cá nhân hoặc của cộng đồng
- Sử dụng vocabulary và structures cao cấp nhất ở phần này
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7
Thời lượng: Khoảng 1.5-2 phút
“I’d like to talk about Thong Nhat Park, which is quite popular among families in my neighborhood. It’s located on Le Duan Street, about 10 minutes from my house by motorbike, so it’s easy to get there.
The park is quite big, I think it covers about 50 hectares. It has a large lake in the middle with some small bridges over it. There are many trees and green grass everywhere, which makes the air feel fresh. The park also has many beautiful flowers, especially in spring.
About the facilities, there are several things for families to do. First, there’s a big playground with swings and slides for children. There are also some sports areas where people can play badminton or do exercise. Around the lake, there are nice walking paths where families often walk together in the evening. The park also has some small cafes and food stalls where people can buy drinks and snacks.
Many families like to gather here because it’s a safe and clean place. Parents can relax while their children play safely. On weekends, I often see many families having picnics on the grass. The park is also free to enter, so everyone can come. The atmosphere is very peaceful and friendly, which makes people want to come back. That’s why it’s become such a popular spot for families in my area.”
Phân Tích Band Điểm
| Tiêu chí | Band | Nhận xét |
|---|---|---|
| Fluency & Coherence | 6-7 | Có thể nói liên tục với một số hesitation nhỏ. Sử dụng basic linking words (First, also, because) nhưng chưa sophisticated. Ý tưởng được sắp xếp logical nhưng còn predictable |
| Lexical Resource | 6-7 | Từ vựng adequate cho topic (playground, sports areas, walking paths). Có một số collocations (safe and clean place, peaceful atmosphere) nhưng còn nhiều từ đơn giản (quite big, many trees, nice) |
| Grammatical Range & Accuracy | 6-7 | Sử dụng mix của simple và complex sentences. Có relative clauses (which is quite popular, where people can play). Một số lỗi nhỏ nhưng không ảnh hưởng communication |
| Pronunciation | 6-7 | Phát âm rõ ràng, có thể hiểu được. Intonation cơ bản nhưng chưa expressive |
Điểm mạnh:
- ✅ Trả lời đầy đủ tất cả bullet points
- ✅ Structure rõ ràng, dễ follow
- ✅ Đưa ra ví dụ cụ thể (families having picnics)
- ✅ Có personal observation
Hạn chế:
- ⚠️ Vocabulary còn basic và repetitive (quite, many, nice)
- ⚠️ Thiếu idiomatic expressions
- ⚠️ Phần “explain” chưa đủ sâu và sophisticated
- ⚠️ Grammar structures chưa đa dạng, chủ yếu là simple sentences
📝 Sample Answer – Band 7.5-8
Thời lượng: Khoảng 2-2.5 phút
“I’d like to describe Thong Nhat Park, which has become something of a local landmark for families in my district. It’s conveniently situated on Le Duan Street, in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible by various means of transport.
The park is quite expansive, spanning approximately 50 hectares. What really strikes you when you first enter is the centerpiece – a serene artificial lake with charming little bridges arching over the water. The landscape is meticulously maintained, with lush greenery and well-manicured lawns providing a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. During spring, the park comes alive with vibrant flowers, particularly eye-catching cherry blossoms.
In terms of facilities, the park is remarkably well-equipped for families. There’s a state-of-the-art playground featuring modern, safe equipment that keeps children entertained for hours. Several designated sports areas cater to fitness enthusiasts who enjoy badminton or morning exercises. Encircling the lake, you’ll find paved pathways that are perfect for leisurely evening strolls. Additionally, there are scattered food kiosks and cafes where visitors can grab refreshments.
What makes this park particularly appealing to families is the combination of several factors. Firstly, it’s a secure environment where parents can let their guard down while children play freely. The park’s family-friendly atmosphere is really palpable – every weekend, you’ll see families spread out across the lawns, enjoying picnics and quality time together. Another major draw is that it’s free of charge, making it accessible to families from all economic backgrounds. But I think what really sets it apart is the sense of community it fosters. People strike up conversations, children make friends, and it becomes more than just a park – it’s a social hub where bonds are formed. This welcoming ambiance keeps families coming back time and again.”
Phân Tích Band Điểm
| Tiêu chí | Band | Nhận xét |
|---|---|---|
| Fluency & Coherence | 7.5-8 | Nói trôi chảy với minimal hesitation. Sử dụng discourse markers sophisticated (In terms of, Additionally, Firstly, Another major draw). Ý tưởng được develop fully với clear progression |
| Lexical Resource | 7.5-8 | Vocabulary range impressive với nhiều collocations natural (meticulously maintained, lush greenery, welcome respite from, comes alive with). Paraphrasing tốt (well-equipped, cater to, appealing to) |
| Grammatical Range & Accuracy | 7.5-8 | Wide range of structures: participle clauses (spanning, featuring), relative clauses, conditional forms. Flexible và accurate với very few errors |
| Pronunciation | 7.5-8 | Clear pronunciation với good control of intonation và sentence stress. Features maintained throughout |
So Sánh Với Band 6-7
| Khía cạnh | Band 6-7 | Band 7.5-8 |
|---|---|---|
| Vocabulary | “quite big” | “expansive, spanning approximately 50 hectares” |
| Vocabulary | “nice walking paths” | “paved pathways perfect for leisurely evening strolls” |
| Vocabulary | “peaceful and friendly” | “family-friendly atmosphere is really palpable” |
| Grammar | “The park is quite big, I think it covers about 50 hectares” | “The park is quite expansive, spanning approximately 50 hectares” (participle) |
| Grammar | “There are some small cafes where people can buy drinks” | “There are scattered food kiosks where visitors can grab refreshments” |
| Ideas | “Parents can relax while their children play” | “It’s a secure environment where parents can let their guard down while children play freely” |
| Ideas | “The atmosphere is peaceful” | “The welcoming ambiance keeps families coming back time and again” |
Hồ nước nhân tạo ở công viên với cầu nhỏ và gia đình đang dạo chơi xung quanh
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8.5-9
Thời lượng: 2.5-3 phút đầy đủ
“I’d like to tell you about Thong Nhat Park, which has essentially become the beating heart of family life in my district. It’s strategically positioned on Le Duan Street, right in the urban core, which means it’s within easy reach of most residential areas and well-served by public transport.
What immediately captivates visitors is the park’s sheer scale and thoughtful design. Stretching across roughly 50 hectares, it strikes a beautiful balance between manicured landscapes and pockets of wild nature. The undisputed centerpiece is this tranquil artificial lake, its surface dotted with quaint wooden bridges that seem almost plucked from a classical painting. The surrounding areas are impeccably landscaped, with verdant lawns that are practically inviting you to kick off your shoes. What I find particularly enchanting is how the park transforms with the seasons – in spring, it’s absolutely ablaze with cherry blossoms and an explosion of color that’s simply breathtaking.
Facility-wise, the park really ticks all the boxes for families. There’s a cutting-edge children’s playground that’s not only packed with innovative equipment but also meticulously designed with safety in mind. Dotted throughout the park are various recreational zones – from outdoor fitness stations to open courts where you’ll catch impromptu badminton matches. The lake-encircling pathways, which are beautifully paved and well-lit, serve multiple purposes – morning joggers pound the pavement at dawn, while in the evenings, families take leisurely constitutional walks. And I shouldn’t forget to mention the smattering of charming cafes and food vendors that line the main thoroughfares, offering everything from traditional Vietnamese snacks to modern fusion cuisine.
But what truly elevates this park to being a family favorite is a confluence of intangible factors. First and foremost, it provides what I’d call a sanctuary of safety in an otherwise hectic urban landscape. Parents can genuinely unwind, knowing their children are in a secure, supervised environment. Beyond the physical safety, there’s this palpable sense of community that you just can’t manufacture. Every weekend, the park morphs into this vibrant tapestry of family life – you’ll see multigenerational families sprawled across picnic blankets, sharing meals and stories, children from different backgrounds forming spontaneous friendships on the playground, elderly folks practicing tai chi in synchronized harmony.
The fact that it’s completely free of charge certainly broadens its appeal, making it a true democratic space where families from all walks of life can mingle without financial barriers. But I think what really cements its place in the community is the intangible atmosphere it creates. There’s something almost magical about how the space facilitates genuine human connection. I’ve witnessed countless times how a simple visit blossoms into unexpected friendships, how the shared experience of watching children play breaks down social barriers, and how the park essentially weaves itself into the fabric of family traditions. It’s not uncommon to hear people say, “Let’s meet at Thong Nhat” – it’s become shorthand for quality family time. This deep emotional resonance is what keeps drawing families back, generation after generation.”
Phân Tích Band Điểm
| Tiêu chí | Band | Nhận xét |
|---|---|---|
| Fluency & Coherence | 8.5-9 | Speaks fluently với minimal repetition hay self-correction. Coherence maintained effortlessly với sophisticated markers (First and foremost, Beyond the physical safety, But what truly elevates). Ideas developed extensively với clear progression |
| Lexical Resource | 8.5-9 | Demonstrates sophisticated control với precise, natural expressions (the beating heart of family life, strategically positioned, strikes a beautiful balance, pockets of wild nature, practically inviting, ticks all the boxes, confluence of intangible factors, morphs into, weaves itself into the fabric of). Idiomatic language used naturally |
| Grammatical Range & Accuracy | 8.5-9 | Full range of structures với full flexibility và accuracy. Complex structures used naturally (participle phrases, inversion, cleft sentences, relative clauses). Virtually error-free |
| Pronunciation | 8.5-9 | Pronunciation precise và effortless to understand. Intonation varies naturally. L1 accent has minimal effect on intelligibility |
Tại Sao Bài Này Xuất Sắc
🎯 Fluency Hoàn Hảo:
- Không có hesitation, flow tự nhiên như native speaker
- Sử dụng sophisticated discourse markers một cách effortless
- Ideas được develop một cách extensive mà vẫn giữ coherence
📚 Vocabulary Tinh Vi:
- “the beating heart of family life” – metaphor mạnh mẽ, natural
- “strikes a beautiful balance between” – collocation cao cấp cho comparison
- “practically inviting you to kick off your shoes” – vivid imagery, personification
- “absolutely ablaze with” – intensive descriptive language
- “ticks all the boxes” – idiom tự nhiên
- “multigenerational families sprawled across” – precise adjective + vivid verb
- “morphs into a vibrant tapestry” – sophisticated metaphor
- “weaves itself into the fabric of family traditions” – extended metaphor, poetic
📝 Grammar Đa Dạng:
- Participle clauses: “Stretching across roughly 50 hectares, it strikes…” (reducing relative clause elegantly)
- Relative clauses: “…pathways, which are beautifully paved and well-lit, serve multiple purposes”
- Cleft sentences: “What truly elevates this park to being a family favorite is…”
- Inversion: “Not uncommon is it to hear…” (implied structure)
- Passive voice natural: “it’s meticulously designed”, “well-served by”
- Complex conditionals implied: “knowing their children are in a secure environment” (cause-result)
💡 Ideas Sâu Sắc:
- Không chỉ describe surface features mà analyze deeper meaning
- Đưa ra insight về social dynamics (breaking down barriers, forming spontaneous friendships)
- Phân tích emotional và cultural significance (weaves into family traditions)
- Demonstrates critical thinking (intangible vs tangible factors)
- Personal observations cụ thể và vivid (elderly folks practicing tai chi in synchronized harmony)
Follow-up Questions (Rounding Off Questions)
Sau khi bạn hoàn thành phần nói 2 phút, examiner thường hỏi 1-2 câu ngắn để “round off” chủ đề trước khi chuyển sang Part 3.
Question 1: Do you go to this park often?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I try to go there at least once a week, usually on Sunday mornings. It’s a good way to relax and get some fresh air.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“I’d say I’m a fairly regular visitor – I make it there most weekends, weather permitting. It’s become somewhat of a weekly ritual for me, actually. There’s something about disconnecting from screens and immersing myself in that green space that really helps me recharge for the week ahead.”
💡 Key differences: “Fairly regular visitor” vs “I try to go”, “weekly ritual” vs “usually”, “immersing myself in” vs “get some fresh air” – Band 8-9 uses more precise và evocative language.
Question 2: Have you noticed any changes to the park recently?
Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, they’ve made some improvements. They added new playground equipment and planted more trees. The park looks nicer now than before.”
Band 8-9 Answer:
“Actually, yes – the park has been undergoing quite a transformation over the past year or so. They’ve rolled out some state-of-the-art playground equipment and undertaken extensive landscaping, planting native species that are better suited to the local climate. There’s also been a noticeable uptick in maintenance, with the grounds looking more pristine than ever. I think it reflects a broader commitment to enhancing public spaces in our city.”
💡 Key differences: “Undergoing quite a transformation” vs “made some improvements”, “rolled out state-of-the-art equipment” vs “added new equipment”, “reflects a broader commitment” vs simple observation – Band 8-9 shows deeper analysis và sophisticated expression.
Các gia đình đang picnic và vui chơi trên thảm cỏ xanh tại công viên
IELTS Speaking Part 3: Two-way Discussion
Tổng Quan Về Part 3
Part 3 kéo dài 4-5 phút và là phần khó nhất của IELTS Speaking. Đây không còn là những câu hỏi về kinh nghiệm cá nhân nữa, mà là thảo luận sâu về các vấn đề xã hội, xu hướng, và ý tưởng trừu tượng liên quan đến chủ đề Part 2.
Đặc điểm của Part 3:
- Câu hỏi mang tính phân tích, đánh giá, so sánh
- Yêu cầu critical thinking và ability to discuss abstract ideas
- Examiner có thể challenge your opinions hoặc ask follow-up questions
- Không cần personal examples nhiều, focus vào general trends và societal issues
Yêu cầu để đạt điểm cao:
- Đưa ra opinions rõ ràng có supporting arguments
- Xem xét nhiều perspectives (advantages/disadvantages, different groups affected)
- Sử dụng tentative language (It seems that, I would argue that, To some extent)
- Acknowledge complexity của issues (It’s not straightforward, It depends on various factors)
- Provide specific examples từ society, không chỉ personal experience
Chiến lược trả lời:
- Direct answer – Trả lời trực tiếp câu hỏi trong 1-2 câu đầu
- Explain/Elaborate – Giải thích lý do, phân tích factors
- Example – Đưa ra examples từ society hoặc real-world observations
- Acknowledge other views – Thừa nhận complexity hoặc alternative perspectives (nếu phù hợp)
- Conclude – Kết luận ngắn gọn (optional, tùy câu hỏi)
Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam:
- Trả lời quá ngắn (1-2 câu) mà không elaborate
- Chỉ nói về personal experience thay vì general trends
- Thiếu critical thinking, chỉ đưa ra một góc nhìn duy nhất
- Không sử dụng discourse markers để structure ideas
- Vocabulary còn concrete, thiếu abstract nouns và expressions
- Grammar đơn giản, không dùng conditional, subjunctive, hay complex structures
Các Câu Hỏi Thảo Luận Sâu
Part 3 thường được tổ chức theo themes để explore different aspects của topic. Với chủ đề parks và public spaces, examiner sẽ hỏi về:
Theme 1: Benefits and Importance of Public Spaces
Question 1: Why do you think public parks are important for cities?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Opinion/Reasons – Hỏi về importance/significance
- Key words: “why”, “important”, “cities” – focus vào urban context
- Cách tiếp cận: Đưa ra 2-3 main reasons với explanation và examples. Có thể phân loại theo health, social, environmental benefits
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“I think public parks are very important for cities for several reasons. First, they give people a place to exercise and relax, which is good for their health. Many city people are stressed from work, so they need somewhere to unwind. Second, parks improve the environment because trees can clean the air and reduce pollution. Finally, they provide a place for social activities where people can meet and spend time together. Without parks, cities would be too crowded and stressful.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Clear organization với three reasons (First, Second, Finally)
- Vocabulary: Basic but adequate (exercise, relax, improve, reduce pollution, social activities)
- Hạn chế: Ideas còn surface-level, thiếu depth of analysis. Grammar mainly simple sentences. Vocabulary repetitive (people, place)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Answers the question đầy đủ với clear reasons nhưng lacks sophistication trong language và depth trong analysis
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“Public parks play an absolutely vital role in urban environments, and I’d argue their importance operates on multiple interconnected levels.
From a health perspective, they serve as what urban planners call ‘lungs of the city’ – providing crucial green spaces where residents can engage in physical activity and escape the concrete jungle. This is particularly significant given the sedentary lifestyles that characterize modern urban living. Regular access to parks has been demonstrably linked to reduced stress levels, lower rates of depression, and improved cardiovascular health.
Environmentally speaking, parks function as vital ecological sanctuaries within urban landscapes. They help mitigate the urban heat island effect, improve air quality by filtering pollutants, and provide habitats for urban wildlife, contributing to biodiversity preservation even in densely populated areas. In an era of climate consciousness, these environmental services are increasingly invaluable.
But perhaps what’s often overlooked is their profound social function. Parks act as democratic spaces where people from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds can converge naturally. They foster community cohesion and break down social barriers in ways that few other urban spaces can replicate. You might see a business executive jogging alongside a construction worker, children from different neighborhoods forming friendships – it’s this organic social mixing that strengthens the social fabric of cities.
Without adequate green spaces, cities risk becoming soulless concrete mazes that prioritize efficiency over livability, ultimately eroding the quality of urban life.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Well-organized với clear progression: health → environment → social, với sophisticated introduction và conclusion
- Vocabulary:
- Abstract nouns: “biodiversity preservation”, “community cohesion”, “social fabric”, “livability”
- Collocations: “vital role”, “interconnected levels”, “sedentary lifestyles”, “urban heat island effect”
- Precise verbs: “mitigate”, “converge”, “foster”, “erode”
- Grammar:
- Complex structures: “what’s often overlooked is…” (cleft sentence)
- Participle clauses: “contributing to biodiversity preservation”
- Passive voice: “has been demonstrably linked to”
- Conditional implied: “Without adequate green spaces, cities risk…”
- Critical Thinking:
- Acknowledges multiple dimensions (health, environment, social)
- Uses expert terminology (urban planners, urban heat island effect)
- Recognizes broader context (climate consciousness, era)
- Provides nuanced analysis (what’s often overlooked)
- Tại sao Band 8-9: Demonstrates sophisticated language control, complex ideas expressed with precision, natural discourse markers, và critical analysis showing depth of thought
💡 Key Language Features:
- Discourse markers: “From a health perspective”, “Environmentally speaking”, “But perhaps what’s often overlooked”
- Tentative/Academic language: “I’d argue”, “This is particularly significant”, “they serve as what urban planners call”
- Abstract nouns: “significance”, “biodiversity preservation”, “community cohesion”, “livability”, “social fabric”
- Evaluative language: “absolutely vital role”, “increasingly invaluable”, “profound social function”
Question 2: Do you think governments should invest more money in creating parks?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Opinion + Should – Agree/Disagree with reasoning
- Key words: “should”, “invest more money”, “governments” – về policy và priorities
- Cách tiếp cận: Give clear opinion, provide 2-3 strong arguments, acknowledge potential counterarguments hoặc limitations, conclude with balanced view
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“Yes, I definitely think governments should spend more money on parks. First, parks benefit everyone in society, not just rich people, so it’s a good use of public money. They help improve people’s health, which can save money on healthcare in the long term. Also, parks can make cities more attractive for tourists and businesses, which is good for the economy. Some people might say that governments have more important things to spend money on, like hospitals or schools, but I believe parks are also essential for quality of life.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Clear opinion followed by reasons, brief acknowledgment of opposing view
- Vocabulary: Adequate (benefit, improve, attractive, essential, quality of life) but lacks sophistication
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Answers clearly với relevant reasons, but analysis is somewhat superficial. Language is clear but not particularly sophisticated or precise
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“I’m firmly of the opinion that increased government investment in parks and green spaces is not just justified but essential, though I’d add the caveat that it needs to be strategically implemented.
The economic rationale alone is compelling. While it might seem like a discretionary expense, the long-term return on investment is actually quite substantial. Studies have shown that well-maintained parks can boost property values in surrounding areas by up to 20%, which translates into higher tax revenues. More broadly, they contribute to what economists call ‘preventive health infrastructure’ – by facilitating exercise and stress reduction, they help avert chronic health conditions that place enormous burdens on healthcare systems. From a purely financial standpoint, investing a dollar in parks might save several dollars in future healthcare and social costs.
Beyond economics, there’s a strong equity argument to be made. In many cities, affluent neighborhoods tend to have disproportionate access to quality green spaces, while lower-income communities are often starved of these amenities. Government investment can help level this playing field, ensuring that the benefits of parks are distributed more equitably across society. This isn’t just about fairness – it’s about addressing systemic health disparities that are often rooted in unequal access to healthy environments.
That said, I think it’s important to be strategic rather than indiscriminate about this investment. Simply creating parks isn’t enough – they need to be thoughtfully designed, properly maintained, and integrated into broader urban planning. Money should also be allocated to upgrading existing parks rather than always building new ones. And certainly, this investment shouldn’t come at the expense of other critical services like education or emergency healthcare – it’s about finding the right balance in public spending.
On balance, I’d argue that in our increasingly urbanized world, parks represent a form of essential infrastructure, much like roads or utilities, and deserve commensurate investment.”
Phân tích:
- Structure:
- Clear thesis statement với caveat showing nuance
- Organized paragraphs: economic argument → equity argument → strategic considerations → conclusion
- Sophisticated signposting: “The economic rationale alone”, “Beyond economics”, “That said”, “On balance”
- Vocabulary:
- Precise economic terms: “return on investment”, “discretionary expense”, “tax revenues”, “preventive health infrastructure”
- Social policy language: “equity argument”, “systemic health disparities”, “level this playing field”
- Abstract nouns: “rationale”, “caveat”, “disparities”, “amenities”
- Academic collocations: “strategic implementation”, “compelling argument”, “rooted in unequal access”
- Grammar:
- Complex conditionals: “While it might seem like…, the return is…”
- Noun clauses: “Studies have shown that well-maintained parks…”
- Relative clauses: “…which translates into higher tax revenues”
- Passive constructions: “it needs to be strategically implemented”, “are often starved of”
- Participle phrases: “by facilitating exercise and stress reduction”
- Critical Thinking:
- Presents multiple angles: economic, equity, practical considerations
- Backs arguments with evidence (“studies have shown”, “up to 20%”)
- Acknowledges complexity and limitations (“That said”, “strategic rather than indiscriminate”)
- Uses expert perspectives (economists, urban planning)
- Demonstrates nuanced view (balance, not absolute position)
💡 Key Language Features:
- Strong opinion markers: “I’m firmly of the opinion that”, “I’d argue that”
- Hedging/Tentative language: “While it might seem”, “I’d add the caveat that”, “tend to have”
- Academic style: “The rationale alone is compelling”, “On balance”, “From a purely financial standpoint”
- Evaluative expressions: “not just justified but essential”, “commensurate investment”
- Contrast markers: “That said”, “Beyond economics”, “rather than”
Sơ đồ thiết kế công viên hiện đại với các khu vực chức năng khác nhau
Theme 2: Changes and Future Trends
Question 3: How have parks changed over the past few decades?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Compare (past vs present) – Changes over time
- Key words: “how”, “changed”, “past few decades” – focus on evolution and transformation
- Cách tiếp cận: Compare past characteristics với present features, explain reasons for changes, có thể mention technological integration, design philosophy shifts, changing user needs
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“Parks have changed quite a lot in recent years. In the past, parks were more simple and natural, with just trees, grass and maybe a small playground. Now, modern parks have many more facilities like sports areas, outdoor gyms, and Wi-Fi. Parks today are also cleaner and better maintained than before. The design has become more modern too, with nice lighting and decorative features. I think these changes happened because people’s needs have changed – they want more activities and conveniences when they visit parks.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Clear past-present comparison
- Vocabulary: Basic comparative language (more simple, better maintained, more modern)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Addresses the question với clear comparisons, but lacks depth in analysis of why changes occurred and broader implications
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“There’s been quite a dramatic transformation in how parks are conceived and utilized over the past few decades, reflecting broader shifts in urban planning philosophy and societal needs.
Traditionally, parks were fairly passive spaces – essentially swaths of greenery with perhaps a few benches and basic amenities. The design philosophy was quite minimalist, prioritizing natural aesthetics over functionality. They were primarily seen as places for quiet contemplation or leisurely walks.
Fast forward to today, and we’re seeing a much more dynamic and multipurpose approach. Modern parks are increasingly designed as multifunctional hubs that cater to diverse user groups and activities. You’ll now find sophisticated recreational infrastructure – outdoor fitness equipment that rivals gym facilities, dedicated cycling paths, elaborate children’s play structures with safety-certified equipment, and even tech-enabled features like free Wi-Fi hotspots and USB charging stations. Some parks have embraced smart technology, incorporating things like app-based navigation or sensor-monitored environmental conditions.
The design aesthetic has evolved considerably as well. There’s been a shift toward what planners call ‘active landscape design’ – rather than just preserving nature, there’s an intentional integration of natural and built elements. You see more architectural installations, sculptural features, and innovative lighting systems that extend parks’ usability into evening hours.
What’s driving these changes, I think, is multifaceted. Partly it’s about maximizing utility in cities where space is at a premium – parks need to serve multiple functions to justify the land they occupy. There’s also been a growing recognition of the public health imperative – with rising obesity rates and sedentary lifestyles, parks are being reimagined as tools for promoting active lifestyles. And frankly, rising public expectations play a role too – people increasingly expect Instagram-worthy experiences and modern conveniences even in natural settings.
That said, there’s an interesting counter-trend emerging where some planners are trying to strike a balance, preserving some deliberately wild or naturalistic areas within parks to maintain their restorative qualities amid all this modernization.”
Phân tích:
- Structure:
- Chronological comparison: past → present → driving forces → counter-trend
- Sophisticated transitions between timeframes
- Nuanced conclusion acknowledging counter-trends
- Vocabulary:
- Time markers: “Traditionally”, “Fast forward to today”, “over the past few decades”
- Precise descriptors: “passive spaces”, “swaths of greenery”, “multifunctional hubs”, “active landscape design”
- Technical terminology: “safety-certified equipment”, “sensor-monitored”, “app-based navigation”
- Abstract expressions: “conceived and utilized”, “broader shifts”, “public health imperative”
- Grammar:
- Present perfect for changes: “There’s been quite a dramatic transformation”
- Comparative structures: “much more dynamic”, “increasingly designed as”
- Passive voice: “are being reimagined as”, “parks need to serve”
- Participle clauses: “reflecting broader shifts”, “incorporating things like”
- Critical Thinking:
- Multi-dimensional analysis (physical, technological, philosophical changes)
- Explains causality (what’s driving these changes)
- Uses expert terminology (planners call, active landscape design)
- Acknowledges complexity (counter-trend, striking a balance)
- Provides specific examples throughout
💡 Key Language Features:
- Contrast markers: “Traditionally… Fast forward to today”, “That said”
- Evidential language: “You’ll now find”, “You see more”, “reflecting broader shifts”
- Causal language: “What’s driving these changes”, “Partly it’s about”
- Hedging: “I think”, “Partly”, “frankly”
Question 4: What kinds of parks do you think will be popular in the future?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Prediction/Speculation about future trends
- Key words: “will be”, “future”, “popular” – về trends và predictions
- Cách tiếp cận: Speculate based on current trends, consider societal changes (technology, climate change, urbanization), use tentative language, provide reasoning for predictions
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“I think future parks will be more modern and use more technology. Maybe they will have smart facilities that you can control with your phone. Because of climate change, I think parks will focus more on sustainability, like using solar power and water-saving systems. Parks might also have more exercise equipment because people care more about health now. Also, I believe green rooftop parks will become popular in crowded cities where there isn’t much space on the ground.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Multiple predictions with brief reasoning
- Vocabulary: Some future-focused terms (smart facilities, sustainability, solar power) but fairly basic
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Makes relevant predictions with some reasoning, but lacks sophistication and depth in speculation
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“Looking ahead, I think we’re likely to see several concurrent trends shaping the parks of tomorrow, many of them driven by pressing global challenges and evolving technological capabilities.
First and foremost, I’d anticipate a pronounced emphasis on climate resilience. Future parks will probably be designed not just as pleasant amenities but as critical climate infrastructure. We’re likely to see more extensive use of native, drought-resistant species, sophisticated water management systems that harvest and recycle rainwater, and design elements specifically intended to combat urban heat effects – think strategic tree placement to maximize shade, permeable surfaces to reduce flooding, and perhaps even urban wetlands that serve as natural water purification systems.
On the technology front, I wouldn’t be surprised if parks become increasingly ‘smart’ and data-driven. Conceivably, we might see sensors that monitor everything from air quality to foot traffic, helping optimize maintenance and improve user experience. There could be augmented reality features that overlay educational information about plants and wildlife, or interactive installations that respond to environmental conditions. However, I think there’ll need to be a delicate balance between technological enhancement and preserving the restorative, unplugged experience that draws people to parks in the first place.
Given ongoing urbanization and space constraints, I think we’ll see more creative approaches to vertical greening – rooftop parks will likely become commonplace rather than novelties, and we might see ‘sky parks’ integrated into buildings or spanning between structures. Singapore’s approach with vertical forests and elevated parks might become a global template.
There’s also likely to be a greater emphasis on multifunctionality. Parks might double as venues for urban farming with community gardens producing local food, or integrate renewable energy generation through discreetly placed solar panels. Increasingly, I think they’ll be designed to serve as emergency response infrastructure – doubling as cooling centers during heatwaves or even evacuation spaces during disasters.
Importantly, I think there’ll be a growing recognition that parks need to serve diverse communities with culturally responsive designs – not just one-size-fits-all Western models but spaces that reflect and celebrate the cultural diversity of their users.
All that said, there’s a bit of a paradox here – even as parks become more sophisticated, I think there’ll simultaneously be a yearning for wilder, more naturalistic spaces. We might see some parks deliberately minimizing human intervention, creating urban wilderness areas that offer a counterpoint to our increasingly mediated and managed environments.”
Phân tích:
- Structure:
- Well-organized around themes: climate → technology → space constraints → multifunctionality → diversity → paradox
- Each paragraph develops one clear trend
- Sophisticated conclusion acknowledging paradox
- Vocabulary:
- Future-oriented expressions: “Looking ahead”, “I’d anticipate”, “Conceivably”, “likely to become”
- Technical terminology: “climate resilience”, “augmented reality”, “vertical greening”, “permeable surfaces”
- Precise collocations: “pronounced emphasis”, “pressing global challenges”, “delicate balance”, “culturally responsive designs”
- Abstract nouns: “capabilities”, “resilience”, “multifunctionality”, “paradox”
- Grammar:
- Future forms with hedging: “likely to see”, “probably be designed”, “might see”, “could be”
- Conditional structures: “if parks become increasingly smart”
- Complex noun phrases: “urban wetlands that serve as natural water purification systems”
- Participle clauses: “helping optimize maintenance”, “spanning between structures”
- Critical Thinking:
- Multiple dimensions considered (climate, technology, space, society, culture)
- Acknowledges complexity and trade-offs (“delicate balance”, “paradox”)
- References real-world examples (Singapore’s approach)
- Connects to broader global issues (climate change, urbanization, diversity)
- Nuanced view (both high-tech and wild natural spaces)
- Anticipates potential conflicts (technology vs unplugged experience)
💡 Key Language Features:
- Speculative language: “I’d anticipate”, “We’re likely to see”, “Conceivably”, “I wouldn’t be surprised if”
- Hedging devices: “probably”, “might”, “perhaps”, “I think”
- Emphatic markers: “First and foremost”, “Importantly”, “All that said”
- Contrast structures: “not just… but”, “even as… simultaneously”, “offer a counterpoint to”
Hình ảnh tương lai công viên thông minh với công nghệ và thiết kế bền vững
Theme 3: Social and Cultural Aspects
Question 5: Do you think the way people use parks differs between generations?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Compare/Contrast – Generational differences
- Key words: “differs”, “between generations” – so sánh habits và preferences
- Cách tiếp cận: Compare different age groups (children, young adults, middle-aged, elderly), explain reasons for differences (technology, lifestyle, values), provide specific examples of activities
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“Yes, I think different generations use parks in different ways. Older people usually go to parks early in the morning to do tai chi or just walk slowly. They like peaceful activities. Young people and teenagers often go to parks to play sports or meet friends. They’re more active and social. Families with children use playgrounds and have picnics. I think these differences happen because people’s needs and interests change as they get older. Also, younger generations are more interested in exercise and fitness than before.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Clear generational groups compared
- Vocabulary: Basic but relevant (peaceful activities, active, social)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Addresses different generations with appropriate examples, but analysis is somewhat superficial
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“Absolutely – there are quite stark generational divides in how parks are perceived and utilized, and I find these differences quite revealing about broader societal shifts.
If we look at older generations – particularly retirees and seniors – parks tend to be spaces for ritualistic, contemplative activities. You’ll often see them congregating at dawn for tai chi sessions or purposeful walking routines that have become ingrained habits. There’s a certain communal aspect to it too – parks serve as informal social clubs where the same groups meet regularly. What strikes me is how this generation tends to gravitate toward the less manicured, more naturalistic sections of parks, seeking genuine connection with nature rather than orchestrated experiences.
Younger adults and millennials, by contrast, approach parks through a markedly different lens. For them, parks are often multifunctional venues that need to align with their lifestyle aspirations. You’ll see them doing Instagram-worthy yoga sessions, using parks as outdoor co-working spaces with laptops and coffees, or engaging in trendy fitness activities like outdoor bootcamps. There’s also a performative element – the park experience often gets curated and shared on social media. Interestingly, this generation seems more drawn to parks with contemporary amenities and Instagrammable features – artistic installations, unique architecture, or distinctive landscaping.
Teenagers and young adults use parks predominantly as social sanctuaries – spaces to congregate away from parental supervision and institutional settings. Parks become neutral territories for peer bonding, whether through pickup basketball games, skateboarding, or simply hanging out. There’s an element of claiming space and establishing social identity.
Families with young children obviously gravitate toward playgrounds, but what’s evolved is the parenting style you observe. Contemporary parents are far more helicopter-ish, hovering near play equipment with smartphones ready to capture every moment. Contrast this with previous generations where children had more autonomous free play.
The underlying factors driving these generational differences are quite complex. Part of it stems from different relationships with technology – younger generations can’t seem to fully unplug, even in natural settings. There are also divergent values around community, fitness, and nature. Older generations often have more discretionary time and different health priorities, while younger people are juggling multiple demands and seeking efficient, multitasking solutions.
What’s particularly interesting is how each generation, in a sense, is reshaping what parks mean and what functions they serve, which challenges park designers to create inclusive spaces that accommodate these diverse needs without alienating any particular group.”
Phân tích:
- Structure:
- Systematic progression through generations: elderly → young adults → teenagers → families
- Each paragraph develops distinct characteristics
- Concluding analysis of underlying factors
- Meta-observation about implications for park design
- Vocabulary:
- Precise generational descriptors: “retirees and seniors”, “millennials”, “contemporary parents”
- Sophisticated expressions: “stark generational divides”, “ritualistic activities”, “performative element”, “social sanctuaries”
- Social analysis terms: “lifestyle aspirations”, “social identity”, “divergent values”, “inclusive spaces”
- Vivid verbs: “congregating”, “gravitate toward”, “curated and shared”, “hovering”
- Grammar:
- Relative clauses: “that have become ingrained habits”, “that need to align with”
- Participle phrases: “seeking genuine connection”, “juggling multiple demands”
- Contrast structures: “by contrast”, “Contrast this with”
- Present perfect: “What’s evolved is”
- Critical Thinking:
- Goes beyond surface observations to analyze underlying causes
- Makes sociological observations (“revealing about broader societal shifts”)
- Compares not just behaviors but motivations and values
- Identifies trends (“performative element”, “curated experiences”)
- Acknowledges complexity (“quite complex”, “particularly interesting”)
- Connects to broader implications (park design challenges)
💡 Key Language Features:
- Strong affirmation: “Absolutely – there are quite stark…”
- Observational language: “What strikes me”, “Interestingly”, “What’s particularly interesting”
- Generational markers: “If we look at”, “by contrast”, “Contemporary parents”
- Causal language: “The underlying factors”, “Part of it stems from”, “driving these differences”
- Contrast devices: “by contrast”, “Contrast this with”, “whereas”
Question 6: Why do you think some people prefer to spend their free time indoors rather than visiting parks?
🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:
- Dạng: Explain reasons – Why some people avoid parks
- Key words: “prefer”, “indoors”, “rather than” – về preferences và barriers
- Cách tiếp cận: Identify multiple factors (lifestyle, climate, accessibility, personal preferences, health), show empathy and understanding for different viewpoints, avoid judgmental tone
📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:
“There are several reasons why some people prefer staying indoors. First, many people work long hours and feel too tired to go out. They just want to rest at home. Second, the weather can be a problem – if it’s too hot, too cold, or rainy, people don’t want to go to parks. Also, some people prefer indoor activities like watching movies, playing video games, or shopping in malls. For some people, especially older ones or people with health problems, it’s difficult to walk around in parks. Finally, I think modern technology makes indoor life more comfortable and entertaining, so people don’t feel they need to go outside.”
Phân tích:
- Structure: Multiple clear reasons identified
- Vocabulary: Straightforward expressions (too tired, feel they need to)
- Tại sao Band 6-7: Covers multiple relevant factors but lacks depth in analysis and sophisticated language
📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:
“This is quite a multifaceted question, and I think it’s important to resist the temptation to judge these preferences too harshly – there are often legitimate underlying factors at play.
Perhaps most significantly, modern urban lifestyles have created what some sociologists call ‘time poverty’. People are stretched incredibly thin between work demands, family obligations, and daily logistics. By the time they get home, many people are so mentally and physically drained that even the idea of venturing out to a park feels like too much of an undertaking. For them, collapsing on the couch might be the only realistic form of recovery. There’s an element of conservation of energy – they’re prioritizing rest over recreation.
Climate and environmental factors play a surprisingly significant role too. In many cities, extreme weather – whether it’s sweltering summer heat, harsh winter cold, or poor air quality – makes outdoor activities genuinely unpleasant or even hazardous to health. When your city regularly exceeds safe pollution levels, staying indoors isn’t preference – it’s prudent self-care.
From a psychological standpoint, some people simply find indoor environments more predictable and controllable. Parks come with variables – unpredictable weather, crowds, insects, uneven terrain. For people with anxiety tendencies or certain health conditions, these uncertainties can be genuinely stressful rather than refreshing. Indoor spaces offer climate control, consistent lighting, and controlled stimuli, which some people find far more relaxing.
The appeal of modern indoor amenities shouldn’t be underestimated either. With high-quality home entertainment systems, immersive video games, endless streaming content, and air-conditioned comfort, indoor spaces have become increasingly seductive. Why brave the heat and mosquitoes when you can enjoy sophisticated entertainment in optimal comfort? For some, this isn’t laziness – it’s a rational preference based on their personal definition of enjoyment.
Accessibility issues are often overlooked too. Not everyone has easy access to quality parks. If the nearest decent green space requires a lengthy commute or passing through less safe neighborhoods, the barrier to entry becomes quite high. For people with mobility challenges, many parks simply aren’t adequately equipped with accessible facilities.
That said, I do think there’s a concerning feedback loop here. The less time people spend in natural outdoor environments, the less attuned they become to their benefits – both the immediate mood lift and the long-term health advantages. They might not realize what they’re missing because they’ve become so accustomed to indoor living that it’s normalized as the default.”
Phân tích:
- Structure:
- Introduction establishes non-judgmental tone
- Systematic exploration of factors: lifestyle → climate → psychology → amenities → accessibility → concluding reflection
- Each paragraph fully develops one distinct reason
- Nuanced conclusion with societal observation
- Vocabulary:
- Academic/sociological terms: “time poverty”, “conservation of energy”, “feedback loop”, “normalized as the default”
- Precise expressions: “stretched incredibly thin”, “prudent self-care”, “increasingly seductive”, “attuned to”
- Empathetic language: “legitimate underlying factors”, “genuinely stressful”, “rational preference”
- Abstract nouns: “uncertainties”, “stimuli”, “accessibility”, “mobility challenges”
- Grammar:
- Complex conditionals: “When your city regularly exceeds safe pollution levels, staying indoors isn’t preference”
- Rhetorical questions: “Why brave the heat and mosquitoes when you can enjoy…”
- Comparative structures: “far more relaxing”, “increasingly seductive”
- Passive constructions: “aren’t adequately equipped”, “normalized as”
- Critical Thinking:
- Avoids simplistic judgments (“resist the temptation to judge”)
- References expert perspectives (sociologists)
- Distinguishes between preference and necessity
- Acknowledges multiple valid perspectives
- Identifies systemic issues (accessibility, urban design)
- Recognizes concerning trends (feedback loop)
- Shows empathy for different circumstances
💡 Key Language Features:
- Non-judgmental framing: “resist the temptation to judge”, “legitimate underlying factors”
- Hedging/Nuance: “Perhaps most significantly”, “surprisingly significant”, “shouldn’t be underestimated”
- Emphatic language: “genuinely unpleasant”, “incredibly thin”, “quite a multifaceted question”
- Cause-effect language: “creating time poverty”, “makes outdoor activities unpleasant”, “The less time… the less attuned”
- Concessive structures: “That said”, “For some, this isn’t laziness”
Nhóm người trẻ tập thể dục và yoga ngoài trời tại công viên vào buổi sáng
Từ Vựng và Cụm Từ Quan Trọng
Topic-Specific Vocabulary
| Từ vựng/Cụm từ | Loại từ | Phiên âm | Nghĩa tiếng Việt | Ví dụ | Collocation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| sprawling green space | n. phrase | /sprɔːlɪŋ griːn speɪs/ | không gian xanh rộng lớn | The city has several sprawling green spaces perfect for family gatherings. | sprawling park, sprawling landscape, create sprawling areas |
| meticulously maintained | adj. phrase | /məˈtɪkjələsli meɪnˈteɪnd/ | được bảo trì tỉ mỉ | The gardens are meticulously maintained by dedicated staff. | meticulously groomed, meticulously designed, meticulously planned |
| designated path | n. phrase | /ˈdezɪɡneɪtɪd pɑːθ/ | lối đi được quy hoạch | Cyclists must use the designated paths for safety. | designated area, designated zone, follow designated routes |
| recreational facility | n. phrase | /ˌrekriˈeɪʃənl fəˈsɪləti/ | cơ sở vật chất giải trí | The park offers excellent recreational facilities for all ages. | recreational space, recreational activity, recreational opportunity |
| urban heat island effect | n. phrase | /ˈɜːbən hiːt ˈaɪlənd ɪˈfekt/ | hiệu ứng đảo nhiệt đô thị | Trees help mitigate the urban heat island effect in cities. | combat the effect, reduce the effect, address urban heat |
| biodiversity preservation | n. phrase | /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti ˌprezəˈveɪʃn/ | bảo tồn đa dạng sinh học | The park plays a role in biodiversity preservation. | promote biodiversity, support biodiversity, biodiversity conservation |
| community cohesion | n. phrase | /kəˈmjuːnəti kəʊˈhiːʒn/ | sự gắn kết cộng đồng | Parks foster community cohesion by bringing people together. | strengthen community cohesion, promote cohesion, social cohesion |
| concrete jungle | n. phrase (idiom) | /ˈkɒŋkriːt ˈdʒʌŋɡl/ | rừng bê tông (nói về thành phố) | We need more parks in this concrete jungle. | escape the concrete jungle, urban concrete jungle |
| go-to spot | n. phrase (informal) | /ɡəʊ tuː spɒt/ | địa điểm ưa thích | This park is my go-to spot for weekend relaxation. | favorite go-to spot, become a go-to spot |
| soak up the atmosphere | v. phrase | /səʊk ʌp ðiː ˈætməsfɪə/ | hòa mình vào không khí | I love to just sit and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. | soak up the sun, soak up the experience, soak up nature |
| state-of-the-art | adj. phrase | /steɪt əv ðiː ɑːt/ | hiện đại nhất, tối tân | The park features state-of-the-art playground equipment. | state-of-the-art facility, state-of-the-art technology |
| well-manicured lawn | n. phrase | /wel ˈmænɪkjʊəd lɔːn/ | bãi cỏ được chăm sóc kỹ lưỡng | The well-manicured lawns are perfect for picnics. | manicured gardens, manicured landscape |
| cardiovascular workout | n. phrase | /ˌkɑːdiəʊˈvæskjələ ˈwɜːkaʊt/ | bài tập tim mạch | Jogging provides an excellent cardiovascular workout. | cardiovascular exercise, cardiovascular health, improve cardiovascular fitness |
| people-watch | v. | /ˈpiːpl wɒtʃ/ | ngồi quan sát người qua lại | I enjoy people-watching from the park bench. | great for people-watching, love people-watching |
| lush greenery | n. phrase | /lʌʃ ˈɡriːnəri/ | cây xanh tươi tốt | The park is filled with lush greenery throughout. | lush vegetation, lush landscape, surrounded by lush greenery |
| densely populated | adj. phrase | /ˈdensli ˈpɒpjuleɪtɪd/ | đông dân cư | Even in densely populated areas, we need green spaces. | densely populated city, densely populated neighborhood |
| ramping up efforts | v. phrase | /ræmpɪŋ ʌp ˈefəts/ | tăng cường nỗ lực | The government is ramping up efforts to create more parks. | ramp up investment, ramp up initiatives |
| combat air pollution | v. phrase | /ˈkɒmbæt eə pəˈluːʃn/ | chống ô nhiễm không khí | Urban parks help combat air pollution effectively. | combat pollution, combat climate change |
| striking a balance | v. phrase | /ˈstraɪkɪŋ ə ˈbæləns/ | tìm kiếm sự cân bằng | Park designers must strike a balance between nature and facilities. | strike the right balance, strike a fine balance |
| foster relationships | v. phrase | /ˈfɒstə rɪˈleɪʃnʃɪps/ | nuôi dưỡng các mối quan hệ | Community parks foster relationships among neighbors. | foster community, foster connection, foster social bonds |
Idiomatic Expressions & Advanced Phrases
| Cụm từ | Nghĩa | Ví dụ sử dụng | Band điểm |
|---|---|---|---|
| a stone’s throw from | rất gần, chỉ vài bước chân | The park is just a stone’s throw from my apartment. | 7.5-9 |
| much-needed greenery | không gian xanh rất cần thiết | This park provides much-needed greenery in the city center. | 7.5-9 |
| escape the hustle and bustle | thoát khỏi sự hối hả, ồn ào | Parks offer a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. | 7.0-8.5 |
| the beating heart of | trung tâm, trái tim của | This park has become the beating heart of our community. | 8.0-9 |
| tick all the boxes | đáp ứng tất cả các yêu cầu | This park ticks all the boxes for a family-friendly destination. | 7.5-9 |
| let one’s guard down | buông lỏng, thả lỏng cảnh giác | Parents can let their guard down in this safe environment. | 8.0-9 |
| weave itself into the fabric of | hòa quyện vào cấu trúc của | The park has woven itself into the fabric of community life. | 8.5-9 |
| shorthand for | cách nói tắt của, đại diện cho | “Meet at the park” has become shorthand for quality family time. | 8.0-9 |
| at a premium | khan hiếm, quý giá | In cities where space is at a premium, parks are essential. | 7.5-9 |
| level the playing field | tạo sự công bằng | Public parks help level the playing field in terms of access to nature. | 8.0-9 |
| come at the expense of | với cái giá phải hy sinh | Investment in parks shouldn’t come at the expense of healthcare. | 8.0-9 |
| strike up conversations | bắt chuyện | Parks make it easy to strike up conversations with neighbors. | 7.0-8.5 |
| gravitate toward | hướng về, bị thu hút bởi | Families naturally gravitate toward parks on weekends. | 7.5-9 |
| soak in the experience | tận hưởng trải nghiệm | Visitors can simply sit and soak in the peaceful experience. | 7.0-8.5 |
| accommodate diverse needs | đáp ứng nhu cầu đa dạng | Modern parks must accommodate diverse needs of all age groups. | 7.5-9 |
Discourse Markers (Từ Nối Ý Trong Speaking)
Để bắt đầu câu trả lời:
- 📝 Well,… – Khi cần một chút thời gian suy nghĩ (Well, I think parks play a vital role…)
- 📝 Actually,… – Khi muốn đưa ra góc nhìn khác hoặc correct misunderstanding (Actually, parks serve multiple purposes beyond recreation…)
- 📝 To be honest,… – Khi muốn nói thật lòng (To be honest, I don’t visit parks as often as I should…)
- 📝 I’d say that… – Khi đưa ra quan điểm cá nhân (I’d say that parks are essential for urban wellbeing…)
- 📝 From my perspective,… – Góc nhìn cá nhân (From my perspective, the social benefits outweigh the costs…)
- 📝 Looking at it from… – Nhìn từ góc độ nào đó (Looking at it from a health perspective…)
Để bổ sung ý:
- 📝 On top of that,… – Thêm vào đó (The park has great facilities. On top of that, it’s completely free…)
- 📝 What’s more,… – Hơn nữa (Parks improve air quality. What’s more, they boost property values…)
- 📝 Not to mention… – Chưa kể đến (The park offers sports areas, playgrounds, not to mention beautiful scenery…)
- 📝 Beyond that,… – Ngoài ra (Beyond that, parks create social connections…)
- 📝 In addition to this,… – Thêm vào điều này (In addition to this, parks provide environmental benefits…)
Để đưa ra quan điểm cân bằng:
- 📝 On the one hand,… On the other hand,… – Một mặt… mặt khác… (On the one hand, modern facilities attract visitors. On the other hand, they can detract from natural beauty…)
- 📝 While it’s true that…, we also need to consider… – Tuy đúng là… nhưng ta cũng cần xem xét… (While it’s true that parks require investment, we also need to consider the long-term benefits…)
- 📝 That said,… – Tuy nhiên cần nói rằng (Parks are wonderful. That said, they need proper maintenance…)
- 📝 Having said that,… – Sau khi nói điều đó thì… (I love natural parks. Having said that, modern facilities have their place…)
Để kết luận:
- 📝 All in all,… – Tóm lại (All in all, parks are invaluable urban assets…)
- 📝 At the end of the day,… – Cuối cùng thì (At the end of the day, parks improve quality of life…)
- 📝 On balance,… – Sau cân nhắc (On balance, the benefits of parks far outweigh the costs…)
- 📝 Taking everything into account,… – Xét tất cả các yếu tố (Taking everything into account, investment in parks is justified…)
Để diễn đạt uncertainty hoặc tentative opinion:
- 📝 I would say… – Tôi có thể nói rằng (I would say parks are becoming more important…)
- 📝 It seems to me that… – Có vẻ như với tôi (It seems to me that people value parks more now…)
- 📝 To some extent… – Ở một mức độ nào đó (To some extent, modern parks have lost their natural charm…)
- 📝 Arguably,… – Có thể lập luận rằng (Arguably, parks are a city’s most valuable asset…)
Grammatical Structures Ấn Tượng
1. Cleft Sentences (Câu chẻ) – Nhấn mạnh thông tin:
Formula: What/The thing that… is…
Ví dụ:
- “What really strikes you when you enter is the serene lake.”
- “The thing that makes this park special is the sense of community it fosters.”
- “What I find most appealing is how families from all backgrounds gather here.”
Khi nào dùng: Để emphasize một aspect cụ thể, thường dùng trong phần explain của Part 2 hoặc khi muốn highlight điểm quan trọng trong Part 3.
2. Inversion (Đảo ngữ) – Formal và emphatic:
Formula: Not only… but also / Rarely / Seldom / Never + auxiliary + subject
Ví dụ:
- “Not only does the park provide recreation, but it also serves as a social hub.”
- “Rarely do you find such a well-maintained public space in urban areas.”
- “Seldom have I seen a park that caters to all age groups so effectively.”
Khi nào dùng: Trong Part 3 khi muốn sound formal và emphatic, đặc biệt khi making strong points.
3. Participle Clauses (Mệnh đề phân từ) – Concise và sophisticated:
Formula: Present/Past participle phrase + main clause
Ví dụ:
- “Spanning approximately 50 hectares, the park offers diverse recreational zones.”
- “Designed with families in mind, the playground features safe, modern equipment.”
- “Surrounded by lush greenery, visitors can escape the urban noise.”
- “Having visited numerous parks, I can say this one stands out.”
Khi nào dùng: Để reduce unnecessary words và connect ideas smoothly, thường dùng trong Part 2 descriptions và Part 3 explanations.
4. It-Cleft Structures (Nhấn mạnh bằng “It”):
Formula: It is/was… that/who…
Ví dụ:
- “It’s the sense of safety that makes families choose this park.”
- “It was only recently that the government started investing in green spaces.”
- “It’s not just the facilities but the atmosphere that attracts visitors.”
Khi nào dùng: Khi muốn emphasize một yếu tố cụ thể là reason/cause, rất hữu ích trong Part 3 khi explaining reasons.
5. Conditional Sentences (Câu điều kiện) – Complex thinking:
Mixed Conditional:
- “If cities had invested more in parks earlier, urban life would be much healthier today.”
- “If people understood the long-term benefits, they would support more investment.”
Third Conditional (Past unreal):
- “If the park hadn’t been created, this neighborhood would have remained disconnected.”
Khi nào dùng: Part 3 khi discussing hypothetical situations, past mistakes, hoặc future possibilities.
6. Passive Voice (Câu bị động) – Academic và objective tone:
Formula: Be + Past Participle
Ví dụ:
- “The park is meticulously maintained by dedicated staff.”
- “These facilities were designed with accessibility in mind.”
- “Green spaces are increasingly recognized as essential urban infrastructure.”
- “It is widely believed that parks improve quality of life.”
Khi nào dùng: Trong Part 3 để sound objective và academic, especially when discussing general truths hoặc policies.
7. Noun Clauses (Mệnh đề danh từ) – Express complex ideas:
Formula: What/How/Whether/That + clause acts as noun
Ví dụ:
- “What makes this park unique is its integration of nature and modern facilities.”
- “How families use parks has changed dramatically over decades.”
- “Whether parks should prioritize nature or amenities is debatable.”
- “Studies have shown that regular park visits improve mental health.”
Khi nào dùng: Throughout all parts, especially trong Part 3 để introduce complex topics.
8. Comparative Structures (So sánh phức tạp):
The + comparative…, the + comparative:
- “The more green spaces a city has, the healthier its residents tend to be.”
- “The better maintained parks are, the more visitors they attract.”
As + adjective + as:
- “Modern parks are as much about community building as they are about recreation.”
Not so much… as…:
- “The appeal is not so much the facilities as the atmosphere they create.”
Khi nào dùng: Part 3 khi making sophisticated comparisons và showing relationships.
Chiến Lược Toàn Diện Để Đạt Band 8+
1. Mindset và Preparation Strategy
Hiểu Đúng Về IELTS Speaking:
- IELTS Speaking không phải là test về vocabulary hay grammar thuần túy – đó là test về khả năng communicate effectively
- Examiner không expect perfect English – họ muốn thấy natural, confident communication
- Band 8-9 không có nghĩa là zero mistakes – có nghĩa là mistakes không affect communication và demonstrate sophisticated language control
Mental Preparation:
- Treat examiner như một conversation partner, không phải judge
- Đừng overthink – speak naturally như khi chat với friends nhưng với more formal vocabulary
- Nếu không hiểu câu hỏi, đừng ngại ask for clarification: “Could you repeat that?” hoặc “Do you mean…?”
Practice Strategy:
- Record yourself answering questions và listen back – identify patterns trong speech (filler words, repetitive vocabulary)
- Practice với variety of topics, không chỉ common ones
- Simulate exam conditions – time yourself, speak for full 2 minutes in Part 2
- Get feedback từ teachers hoặc native speakers nếu có thể
2. Fluency & Coherence – Flow Tự Nhiên
Những gì Examiner đánh giá:
- Ability to speak without hesitation hoặc repetition
- Logical organization of ideas
- Natural use of discourse markers
- Ability to self-correct smoothly
Cách cải thiện:
✅ Reduce Hesitation:
- Thay vì “um… ah…”, use fillers có purpose: “Well…”, “Let me think…”, “That’s an interesting question…”
- Practice thinking in English để giảm translation time
- Prepare “thinking phrases”: “I’d say that…”, “From my point of view…”
✅ Develop Ideas Smoothly:
- Use PREP method: Point → Reason → Example → Point (restate)
- Part 1: Direct answer (1 câu) + Reason/Explanation (1-2 câu) + Example (optional)
- Part 2: Follow bullet points but add transitions between them
- Part 3: State opinion → Explain why → Give example → Acknowledge complexity/alternative view
✅ Master Discourse Markers:
- Không overuse basic ones (and, but, so)
- Use sophisticated alternatives:
- Adding: “Moreover”, “Furthermore”, “On top of that”
- Contrasting: “Having said that”, “On the flip side”, “Conversely”
- Sequencing: “Initially”, “Subsequently”, “Ultimately”
- Emphasizing: “Particularly”, “Notably”, “Especially”
✅ Self-correction Techniques:
- Nếu nhận ra mistake mid-sentence, correct naturally: “I mean…”, “Or rather…”, “To put it another way…”
- Don’t panic về small errors – continue confidently
3. Lexical Resource – Vocabulary Sophistication
Những gì Examiner đánh giá:
- Range of vocabulary (variety, không repetitive)
- Precision (exact words cho exact meaning)
- Natural collocations
- Idiomatic expressions
- Paraphrasing ability
Cách nâng cao:
✅ Build Topic-Specific Vocabulary:
- For mỗi common topic (environment, technology, education, etc.), learn 15-20 key words/phrases
- Focus on collocations hơn là individual words:
- Không chỉ “green space” mà “sprawling green space”, “pocket park”, “urban green lung”
- Không chỉ “important” mà “vital”, “crucial”, “paramount”, “indispensable”
✅ Develop Paraphrasing Skills:
- Practice expressing same idea in multiple ways:
- “Parks are important” → “Green spaces play a vital role” → “Public parks serve an essential function” → “Urban greenery is indispensable”
✅ Use Idiomatic Language Naturally:
- Don’t force idioms – chỉ use khi truly natural
- Safe idioms for IELTS: “a stone’s throw from”, “at the end of the day”, “on the same page”, “strike a balance”
- Avoid cliché idioms: “every cloud has a silver lining”, “the tip of the iceberg”
✅ Precision Over Complexity:
- “The park facilitates social interaction” better than “The park makes people interact“
- “Parks mitigate urban heat” better than “Parks help reduce city temperature”
✅ Common Words to Upgrade:
| Basic | Band 6-7 | Band 8-9 |
|---|---|---|
| important | significant, essential | vital, paramount, indispensable |
| good | beneficial, positive | advantageous, conducive, favorable |
| bad | negative, unfavorable | detrimental, adverse, deleterious |
| big | large, substantial | expansive, extensive, considerable |
| help | assist, support | facilitate, foster, promote |
| many | numerous, various | myriad, a multitude of, diverse |
| think | believe, consider | contend, maintain, posit |
| show | demonstrate, illustrate | exemplify, underscore, manifest |
4. Grammatical Range & Accuracy
Những gì Examiner đánh giá:
- Variety of structures (simple, compound, complex)
- Appropriate use of tenses
- Error frequency và severity (minor errors OK for Band 8)
Cách improve:
✅ Mix Sentence Types:
- Don’t use all simple sentences hoặc all complex sentences
- Balance: 40% simple/compound, 60% complex structures
- Example mix:
- Simple: “The park is very popular.”
- Complex: “What makes the park popular is its diverse facilities.”
- Compound-Complex: “The park attracts many visitors, not only because it’s well-maintained but also because it offers something for everyone.”
✅ Master Key Complex Structures:
- Relative clauses: “The park, which was renovated last year, now attracts…”
- Conditionals: “If cities invested more in parks, residents would benefit…”
- Participles: “Located in the city center, the park is easily accessible…”
- Cleft sentences: “What I appreciate most is how the park brings community together…”
✅ Tense Control:
- Part 1: Mainly present simple + present perfect for experiences
- Part 2: Depends on topic (past for memories, present for current places)
- Part 3: Present simple for general truths, present perfect for recent changes, future forms for predictions
✅ Common Grammar Mistakes to Avoid:
- ❌ Article errors: “The parks are important” (when talking generally – no article needed)
- ❌ Subject-verb agreement: “The government are” (UK) vs “The government is” (US) – both acceptable but be consistent
- ❌ Preposition errors: “depend of” → “depend on”, “focus to” → “focus on”
- ❌ Word form: “The park is popularity” → “The park is popular”
5. Pronunciation – Sounding Natural
Những gì Examiner đánh giá:
- Individual sounds (phonemes)
- Word stress
- Sentence stress and intonation
- Chunking (pausing at right places)
Cách improve:
✅ Word Stress:
- Learn stress patterns với new vocabulary
- Common patterns:
- Two-syllable nouns: stress on first (PARent, EXport)
- Two-syllable verbs: stress on second (reLAX, imPROVE)
- Words ending -tion, -sion: stress before suffix (poLLUtion, verSion)
✅ Sentence Stress & Intonation:
- Stress content words (nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs)
- Reduce function words (articles, prepositions, auxiliaries)
- Example: “The PARK in my NEIGHborhood is very POpular with FAMilies.”
- Rising intonation for yes/no questions, listing
- Falling intonation for statements, Wh-questions
✅ Chunking:
- Pause at natural break points, not randomly
- “The park / which is located near my house / has become / a popular gathering spot / for local families.”
- Use pauses to emphasize important points
✅ Connected Speech:
- Linking: “an_apple”, “park_is”
- Elision: “next day” → “nex(t) day”
- Assimilation: “green park” → “gree(m) park”
- Note: Don’t overdo này – naturalness is key
✅ Common Pronunciation Challenges for Vietnamese Speakers:
- /θ/ and /ð/ sounds (think, this) – don’t substitute with /t/ hoặc /d/
- Final consonants – don’t drop them (“park” not “par”)
- /l/ and /r/ distinction
- Long vs short vowels (/i:/ sheep vs /ɪ/ ship)
6. Xử Lý Các Tình Huống Khó
Khi không hiểu câu hỏi:
- ✅ “I’m sorry, could you repeat that please?”
- ✅ “Do you mean [paraphrase your understanding]?”
- ❌ Đừng im lặng hoặc guess without clarifying
Khi không biết từ vựng cụ thể:
- ✅ Paraphrase: Nếu quên “biodiversity”, nói “variety of plants and animals”
- ✅ Use general term: “facilities” thay vì specific equipment names
- ❌ Đừng switch sang tiếng Việt hoặc ask “How do you say…?”
Khi cạn ý tưởng trong Part 2:
- ✅ Elaborate on existing points với more examples
- ✅ Describe feelings/emotions associated
- ✅ Compare/contrast với other experiences
- ❌ Đừng simply repeat same ideas
Khi bị challenge opinion trong Part 3:
- ✅ Acknowledge the point: “That’s a valid perspective…”
- ✅ Maintain your view: “However, I still believe…”
- ✅ Show flexibility: “Though I can see both sides…”
- ❌ Đừng become defensive hoặc change opinion completely
7. Time Management Strategies
Part 1 (4-5 minutes):
- Mỗi câu hỏi: 2-3 câu trả lời (15-20 seconds)
- Don’t speak quá lâu – examiner cần hỏi multiple questions
- Nếu examiner cuts you off, đó là normal – not a negative sign
Part 2 (3-4 minutes total):
- 1 minute preparation: Ghi 4-6 keywords per bullet point (không viết sentences)
- 2-3 minutes speaking: Aim for 2 phút minimum, ideally 2-2.5 phút
- Time distribution:
- Introduction: 15-20 seconds
- First 3 bullet points: 30-40 seconds each
- Last “explain” point: 45-60 seconds (quan trọng nhất)
- Brief conclusion: 10-15 seconds
Part 3 (4-5 minutes):
- Mỗi answer: 3-5 câu (30-45 seconds)
- Longer answers OK cho complex questions
- Develop ideas fully – don’t rush
8. Common Mistakes Vietnamese Learners Make
❌ Using templates too obviously:
- Examiner recognize templates immediately
- Better: Learn flexible phrases và adapt naturally
❌ Speaking too slowly/too fast:
- Too slow: Sounds hesitant, fills time poorly
- Too fast: Difficult to understand, more errors
- Aim for natural conversational pace
❌ Overusing memorized vocabulary:
- Forcing sophisticated words unnaturally
- Better: Use words you’re confident with correctly
❌ Not answering the actual question:
- Going off-topic với memorized speeches
- Always address what’s actually being asked
❌ Being too brief in Part 3:
- One-sentence answers won’t demonstrate range
- Aim for developed, nuanced responses
❌ Showing nervousness too much:
- Apologizing constantly, self-deprecating comments
- Better: Show confidence even if you make mistakes
9. Day-of-Exam Tips
Before Your Test:
- Arrive 30 minutes early để settle nerves
- Do light warm-up – talk to yourself in English for 10 minutes
- Review key vocabulary và phrases (but don’t cram)
- Stay hydrated but don’t drink too much (no bathroom breaks allowed)
During Part 1:
- Smile, make eye contact với examiner
- Speak clearly từ câu đầu tiên
- Establish a good pace early on
- Don’t overthink – respond naturally
During Part 2:
- Use ALL of 1-minute preparation time
- Organize notes clearly (one idea per line)
- Start strong với confident introduction
- Monitor examiner’s cues (they may signal when time is running out)
- If you finish before 2 minutes, don’t panic – conclude naturally
During Part 3:
- This is where you showcase sophisticated language
- Take a brief pause before answering to organize thoughts
- Don’t be afraid của longer, more developed answers
- Show critical thinking – acknowledge complexity của issues
Managing Anxiety:
- Remember: Examiner wants you to do well
- Small mistakes won’t significantly impact your score
- If you stumble, keep going confidently
- Focus on communication, not perfection
10. Sample Study Plan (4-6 Weeks)
Weeks 1-2: Foundation Building
- Study band descriptors chi tiết – hiểu exactly what examiners look for
- Build vocabulary banks cho 10 common topics
- Practice recording yourself daily (5-10 minutes)
- Master basic discourse markers và linking devices
Weeks 3-4: Skill Development
- Practice full Part 2 responses (pick 20 different cue cards)
- Work on complex grammar structures
- Focus on pronunciation (word stress, intonation)
- Practice Part 3 với increasingly abstract questions
Weeks 5-6: Refinement & Mock Tests
- Complete 5-7 full mock tests
- Get feedback từ teacher/native speaker nếu possible
- Identify remaining weaknesses và target practice
- Review và internalize best phrases/structures
- Mental preparation – visualization, confidence building
Daily Routine (30-45 minutes):
- 10 minutes: Vocabulary review (new words + recycling old ones)
- 15-20 minutes: Speaking practice (rotate between Part 1, 2, 3)
- 10 minutes: Listen to model answers, analyze what makes them good
- 5 minutes: Self-reflection – what improved, what needs work
Lời Khuyên Cuối Cùng Từ Examiner
Sau hơn 20 năm chấm thi IELTS Speaking, tôi muốn chia sẻ những insights quan trọng nhất:
1. Authenticity beats perfection: Examiner prefer một candidate nói tự nhiên với minor errors hơn là người speak perfectly nhưng sounds robotic. Your personality CAN shine through – đừng sợ show enthusiasm, humor (appropriate), hoặc genuine opinions.
2. The “explain” parts score highest: Whether it’s Part 1 extensions, Part 2 “explain why”, or Part 3 reasoning – đây là nơi bạn demonstrate critical thinking và sophisticated language. Don’t rush through these parts.
3. Recovery matters more than mistakes: Tôi ít quan tâm đến small errors hơn là how you handle them. A confident correction hoặc smooth continuation after a mistake shows language control.
4. Context matters in vocabulary: A Band 5 word used perfectly fits score higher than a Band 9 word used awkwardly. “The park is very popular” sounds better than “The park exhibits tremendous popularity paradigms.”
5. Listen carefully to the question: Nhiều candidates lose marks simply vì answer a different question. Take that 1-2 second pause to understand exactly what’s being asked.
6. Variety shows control: Using the same structure 5 times (even if correct) suggests limited range. Mix it up – nếu bạn used “I think” twice, try “From my perspective” or “I’d argue that” next time.
7. You can’t fool an experienced examiner: Templates, memorized answers, prepared speeches – we recognize them instantly. They actually LOWER your score because they demonstrate inability to respond flexibly.
8. The test gets progressively harder: Part 3 questions should challenge you. If you’re finding them easy, you’re probably not demonstrating enough depth. Embrace the complexity – that’s where high scores come from.
9. Cultural knowledge isn’t required: Bạn don’t need to know British/American culture perfectly. Examiner accept and expect answers from YOUR cultural perspective. Talking về Vietnamese parks, customs, or society is perfectly fine – actually, it’s interesting!
10. Confidence is contagious: When you speak confidently, examiner leans in and engages more. This creates a positive feedback loop. Start strong, maintain energy, and finish strong.
Cuối cùng: Remember that IELTS Speaking is just a snapshot of your English ability. A band score is not a judgment of your intelligence hay worth as a person. It’s simply a measure of current language proficiency. With proper preparation và the right mindset, improvement is absolutely achievable.
Chủ đề về parks là một trong những topics “friendly” nhất trong IELTS Speaking vì hầu hết candidates đều có real experiences và genuine opinions về nó. Use this advantage – speak from your heart về những gì bạn genuinely appreciate (or dislike!) về parks. That authenticity, combined với sophisticated language skills bạn đã develop, sẽ help you achieve the band score you’re aiming for.
Chúc bạn thành công trong kỳ thi IELTS Speaking! Remember: You’ve got this – just breathe, be yourself, and let your English shine through.
