IELTS Speaking: Cách Trả Lời “Describe a Time When You Explored a New Interest or Hobby Online” – Bài Mẫu Band 6-9

Trong những năm gần đây, đặc biệt là sau đại dịch COVID-19, chủ đề về học tập và khám phá sở thích mới thông qua Internet đã trở thành một trong những đề tài phổ biến nhất trong IELTS Speaking. Theo thống kê từ các trung tâm thi IELTS chính thức, chủ đề “Describe A Time When You Explored A New Interest Or Hobby Online” xuất hiện với tần suất cao từ năm 2021 đến nay, và khả năng tiếp tục được sử dụng trong các kỳ thi tương lai là rất cao.

Chủ đề này quan trọng vì nó phản ánh xu hướng học tập và giải trí hiện đại, đồng thời cho phép giám khảo đánh giá khả năng của bạn trong việc mô tả trải nghiệm cá nhân, sử dụng từ vựng công nghệ, và thảo luận về tác động của Internet đến cuộc sống. Đây là một chủ đề tương đối dễ để bạn có câu chuyện thực tế để kể, nhưng để đạt band điểm cao, bạn cần biết cách khai thác sâu và sử dụng ngôn ngữ phù hợp.

Trong bài viết này, bạn sẽ học được các câu hỏi thường gặp trong cả 3 Part của IELTS Speaking liên quan đến chủ đề này, bài mẫu chi tiết theo nhiều band điểm từ 6-7, 7.5-8, đến 8.5-9, từ vựng và cụm từ ăn điểm, cùng với những chiến lược trả lời hiệu quả từ góc nhìn của một giám khảo IELTS giàu kinh nghiệm. Những lời khuyên này sẽ giúp bạn tự tin hơn và biết cách chuẩn bị tốt nhất cho kỳ thi của mình.

IELTS Speaking Part 1: Introduction and Interview

Tổng Quan Về Part 1

Part 1 của IELTS Speaking thường kéo dài 4-5 phút, trong đó giám khảo sẽ hỏi những câu hỏi ngắn về cuộc sống hàng ngày, sở thích, công việc hoặc học tập của bạn. Đặc điểm của Part 1 là các câu hỏi thường quen thuộc và không quá trừu tượng, nhưng bạn cần tránh trả lời quá ngắn gọn.

Chiến lược hiệu quả cho Part 1 là trả lời một cách tự nhiên và mở rộng câu trả lời của bạn thành 2-3 câu. Cấu trúc lý tưởng là: trả lời trực tiếp câu hỏi → đưa ra lý do hoặc giải thích → thêm ví dụ hoặc chi tiết cụ thể.

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

• Trả lời quá ngắn chỉ với “Yes” hoặc “No” mà không mở rộng
• Sử dụng từ vựng quá đơn giản, lặp lại những từ cơ bản
• Thiếu ví dụ cụ thể từ kinh nghiệm bản thân
• Nói quá nhanh hoặc quá chậm, không tự nhiên

Các Câu Hỏi Thường Gặp

Dưới đây là những câu hỏi thực tế thường xuất hiện trong Part 1 liên quan đến chủ đề học hỏi và sở thích trực tuyến:

Question 1: Do you often use the Internet to learn new things?

Question 2: What kinds of things do you like to learn online?

Question 3: Have you ever taken an online course?

Question 4: Do you prefer learning online or face-to-face?

Question 5: How much time do you spend on the Internet each day?

Question 6: What websites or apps do you use most frequently?

Question 7: Do you think the Internet has changed the way people learn?

Question 8: Have you ever learned a skill from watching online videos?

Phân Tích và Gợi Ý Trả Lời Chi Tiết

Question: Do you often use the Internet to learn new things?

🎯 Cách tiếp cận:

• Trả lời trực tiếp có hay không
• Giải thích tần suất hoặc lý do
• Đưa ra ví dụ cụ thể về những gì bạn đã học

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“Yes, I do. I use the Internet quite often to learn new things, maybe several times a week. For example, I recently watched some YouTube videos to learn how to cook Vietnamese dishes. It’s very convenient because I can learn anytime I want.”

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Trả lời rõ ràng, có ví dụ cụ thể, câu trả lời có độ dài phù hợp
• Hạn chế: Từ vựng còn đơn giản (quite often, very convenient), cấu trúc câu chưa đa dạng
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Câu trả lời đáp ứng yêu cầu cơ bản, có mở rộng ý nhưng chưa thể hiện được vốn từ vựng phong phú hay cấu trúc ngữ pháp phức tạp

📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

“Absolutely! I’m actually quite an avid online learner. I’d say I turn to the Internet on a daily basis whenever I want to pick up a new skill or deepen my understanding of something. Just recently, I’ve been immersing myself in online tutorials about digital photography, which has been incredibly rewarding. The beauty of online learning is that you have access to a wealth of resources at your fingertips.”

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Sử dụng từ vựng nâng cao và collocations tự nhiên (avid learner, turn to, pick up a skill, immersing myself in, wealth of resources), cấu trúc câu đa dạng với mệnh đề quan hệ, thể hiện sự nhiệt tình và có góc nhìn cá nhân rõ ràng
• Tại sao Band 8-9: Fluency tốt với discourse markers (Absolutely, Just recently), lexical resource phong phú với phrasal verbs và collocations, grammar đa dạng, và ideas được trình bày mạch lạc với personal touch

💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

• an avid learner: người ham học hỏi
• turn to something: tìm đến, sử dụng cái gì
• pick up a skill: học được một kỹ năng mới
• deepen my understanding: nâng cao hiểu biết
• immerse myself in: đắm mình vào
• incredibly rewarding: cực kỳ bổ ích
• a wealth of resources: nguồn tài nguyên phong phú

---

Question: What kinds of things do you like to learn online?

🎯 Cách tiếp cận:

• Đưa ra 2-3 loại nội dung cụ thể
• Giải thích tại sao bạn quan tâm đến chúng
• Có thể đề cập đến lợi ích hoặc ứng dụng thực tế

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“I like to learn practical things online, such as cooking recipes and language learning. I also enjoy watching videos about technology and new gadgets. These things are useful for my daily life and help me stay updated with modern trends.”

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Có ví dụ cụ thể, đề cập đến nhiều loại nội dung khác nhau
• Hạn chế: Từ vựng còn basic (practical things, useful, stay updated), thiếu depth trong giải thích, linking words đơn giản
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Câu trả lời adequate nhưng chưa sophisticated, chưa thể hiện được range of vocabulary và complexity trong ideas

📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

“I’m quite eclectic in my online learning interests. I’m particularly drawn to practical skills like cooking and home improvement – there’s something satisfying about following a tutorial and seeing tangible results. Beyond that, I’m passionate about language learning, especially through interactive platforms like Duolingo. I also have a soft spot for documentaries and educational content about history and science, which broadens my horizons and feeds my intellectual curiosity.”

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Vocabulary sophisticated và precise (eclectic, drawn to, tangible results, have a soft spot for, broadens horizons, feeds curiosity), structure tốt với nhiều loại nội dung được organized logic, thể hiện personality và enthusiasm
• Tại sao Band 8-9: Demonstrates lexical sophistication với idiomatic expressions, grammar range với present simple và continuous forms được dùng linh hoạt, ideas well-developed với personal reflection

💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

• eclectic interests: sở thích đa dạng
• be drawn to something: bị thu hút bởi cái gì
• follow a tutorial: làm theo hướng dẫn
• tangible results: kết quả hữu hình, rõ ràng
• be passionate about: đam mê về
• interactive platforms: nền tảng tương tác
• have a soft spot for: có thiện cảm đặc biệt với
• broaden one’s horizons: mở rộng tầm hiểu biết
• feed one’s curiosity: thỏa mãn sự tò mò

---

Question: Do you prefer learning online or face-to-face?

🎯 Cách tiếp cận:

• Đưa ra preference của bạn (hoặc có thể nói “it depends”)
• Giải thích ưu điểm của phương thức bạn chọn
• Có thể đề cập đến nhược điểm của phương thức còn lại hoặc situations khác nhau

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“I think I prefer learning online because it’s more flexible. I can study at my own pace and choose the time that suits me best. However, face-to-face learning is better when I need to ask questions directly to the teacher. So it depends on what I’m learning.”

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Có comparison giữa hai phương thức, acknowledge cả hai sides, có personal reason
• Hạn chế: Vocabulary khá basic (flexible, suits me, better when), grammar structures không complex, ideas chưa được elaborate đầy đủ
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Adequate response với basic comparison nhưng thiếu sophistication trong language và depth trong analysis

📝 Sample Answer – Band 8-9:

“That’s a tough one because each mode has its merits. Generally speaking, I lean towards online learning for its unparalleled flexibility – I can fit it around my hectic schedule and learn at my own rhythm. That said, I fully appreciate the value of face-to-face instruction, particularly when tackling complex subjects that require immediate feedback or hands-on practice. I’d say it’s horses for courses – the ideal method really hinges on the nature of what you’re learning and your personal learning style.”

Phân tích:

• Điểm mạnh: Balanced view với sophisticated language (each mode has its merits, lean towards, unparalleled flexibility, horses for courses, hinges on), grammar range với conditionals và relative clauses, shows critical thinking với nuanced position
• Tại sao Band 8-9: Excellent lexical resource với idiomatic language, complex grammar naturally used, ideas well-developed với acknowledgment of complexity, discourse markers hiệu quả (That said, Generally speaking)

💡 Key Vocabulary & Expressions:

• each mode has its merits: mỗi phương thức đều có ưu điểm riêng
• lean towards something: thiên về, nghiêng về
• unparalleled flexibility: sự linh hoạt tuyệt đối
• fit something around: sắp xếp cái gì vào
• learn at one’s own rhythm: học theo nhịp độ riêng
• fully appreciate: đánh giá cao, thấu hiểu
• tackle complex subjects: giải quyết những chủ đề phức tạp
• require immediate feedback: cần phản hồi ngay lập tức
• horses for courses: tùy trường hợp cụ thể (thành ngữ)
• hinge on something: phụ thuộc vào

Học viên IELTS Speaking Part 1 thảo luận về học tập trực tuyến với giám khảo trong phòng thi

IELTS Speaking Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Tổng Quan Về Part 2

Part 2 là phần độc thoại trong đó bạn có 1 phút để chuẩn bị và 2-3 phút để nói về một chủ đề cụ thể được đưa ra trên cue card. Đây là phần quan trọng nhất trong bài thi Speaking vì nó chiếm thời gian dài nhất và cho phép giám khảo đánh giá toàn diện khả năng của bạn.

Chiến lược hiệu quả cho Part 2:

• Sử dụng hết 1 phút chuẩn bị để ghi chú keywords, không viết câu hoàn chỉnh
• Ghi chú theo từng bullet point để đảm bảo cover đầy đủ
• Nói đủ 2 phút, tốt nhất là gần 2.5 phút
• Trả lời đầy đủ tất cả các yêu cầu trong cue card
• Sử dụng thì động từ phù hợp (thường là quá khứ khi kể về experience)
• Tập trung vào phần “explain” cuối cùng vì đây là nơi bạn thể hiện depth of thought

Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam:

• Không tận dụng hết 1 phút chuẩn bị, bắt đầu nói quá sớm
• Nói dưới 1.5 phút, dừng quá sớm
• Bỏ sót một hoặc nhiều bullet points
• Không phát triển đủ phần “explain”, chỉ nói superficial
• Sử dụng quá nhiều fillers (um, ah, you know)

Cue Card

Describe a time when you explored a new interest or hobby online

You should say:

• What the interest or hobby was
• How you found out about it online
• What you did to explore this interest
• And explain how you felt about this experience

Phân Tích Đề Bài

• Dạng câu hỏi: Describe an experience – kể về một trải nghiệm cụ thể trong quá khứ
• Thì động từ chính: Quá khứ đơn và quá khứ tiếp diễn cho phần kể chuyện, có thể dùng hiện tại hoàn thành để nói về impact đến hiện tại
• Bullet points phải cover:
  • What: Sở thích/hobby cụ thể là gì (photography, cooking, yoga, coding…)
  • How: Làm thế nào bạn biết đến nó trên Internet (through social media, YouTube recommendation, friend’s sharing…)
  • What you did: Các hoạt động cụ thể bạn đã làm để khám phá (watched tutorials, joined online communities, practiced…)
  • Explain: Cảm xúc và suy nghĩ của bạn về trải nghiệm này (excited, challenging but rewarding, changed perspective…)
• Câu “explain” quan trọng: Đây là phần giúp bạn ghi điểm cao nhất. Đừng chỉ nói “I felt happy” mà cần giải thích why và how it impacted you. Thể hiện reflection, personal growth, và deeper understanding về bản thân

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7

Thời lượng: Khoảng 1.5-2 phút

“I’d like to talk about the time when I learned digital drawing online. This happened about six months ago during the summer vacation.

I found out about digital art through Instagram. I was scrolling through my feed and saw some amazing artwork created on iPads. The pictures looked so professional and beautiful, so I became interested in learning how to do it.

To explore this hobby, I started by watching YouTube tutorials. I found a channel that taught basic techniques for beginners. I watched several videos about how to use drawing apps and different tools. Then I downloaded a free drawing app called Procreate Pocket on my phone and started practicing. I spent around one or two hours every day drawing simple objects like fruits and flowers. I also joined a Facebook group where people shared their artwork and gave feedback to each other.

I felt really excited about this experience. At first, it was quite difficult because I had no experience with digital art before. But after a few weeks of practice, I could see my improvement. I felt proud when I finished my first complete drawing. This hobby helped me relax after stressful study sessions. It also taught me that with patience and practice, I can learn almost anything online. Overall, it was a very rewarding experience and I’m still enjoying digital drawing until now.”

Phân Tích Band Điểm

Tiêu chí	Band	Nhận xét
Fluency & Coherence	6-7	Có luồng ý rõ ràng, sử dụng một số linking words (then, at first, but, overall). Tuy nhiên còn một số hesitation và câu văn chưa hoàn toàn smooth. Sequencing tốt nhưng chưa sophisticated
Lexical Resource	6-7	Từ vựng adequate với một số collocations tốt (digital art, scrolling through feed, gave feedback, rewarding experience). Tuy nhiên phần lớn vẫn là từ vựng common, thiếu less common expressions
Grammatical Range & Accuracy	6-7	Sử dụng đúng thì quá khứ, có một số complex sentences với relative clauses. Một số variety nhưng chưa nhiều, chủ yếu là simple và compound sentences
Pronunciation	6-7	Giả định pronunciation rõ ràng, có thể có một số lỗi nhỏ nhưng không ảnh hưởng communication

Điểm mạnh:

• ✅ Cover đầy đủ tất cả bullet points trong cue card
• ✅ Có structure rõ ràng theo thứ tự câu hỏi
• ✅ Có ví dụ cụ thể (Instagram, YouTube, Procreate Pocket, Facebook group)
• ✅ Thời lượng phù hợp, nói đủ 1.5-2 phút

Hạn chế:

• ⚠️ Vocabulary chưa sophisticated, nhiều từ basic (amazing, beautiful, difficult, proud)
• ⚠️ Grammar structures chưa đa dạng, thiếu advanced structures
• ⚠️ Phần “explain” chưa deep enough, chưa thể hiện critical thinking
• ⚠️ Thiếu personal insight sâu sắc về tác động của trải nghiệm

---

📝 Sample Answer – Band 7.5-8

Thời lượng: Khoảng 2-2.5 phút

“I’d like to share my experience of getting into meditation and mindfulness through online resources, which happened about eight months ago during a particularly stressful period in my life.

I stumbled upon this interest quite serendipitously while browsing through YouTube one evening. I was actually looking for study tips when the algorithm recommended a video about meditation for students. The title caught my attention because I’d been feeling overwhelmed with academic pressure and was looking for ways to manage my stress levels. The video featured a calm instructor explaining how meditation could help with focus and anxiety, and I found myself intrigued by the concept.

To explore this newfound interest, I took a multi-faceted approach. First, I subscribed to several meditation channels on YouTube and started following a structured program called ‘Mindfulness for Beginners.’ I would dedicate 15-20 minutes each morning to guided meditation sessions. Additionally, I downloaded the Headspace app, which offered bite-sized lessons on different meditation techniques. What really deepened my engagement was joining an online community on Reddit where practitioners from around the world shared their experiences and challenges. I actively participated in discussions and even attended a few live virtual meditation sessions hosted by experienced teachers.

Looking back, this experience was truly transformative. Initially, I was quite skeptical about whether sitting still and breathing could actually make a difference, but I decided to keep an open mind. Within a month, I noticed tangible improvements in my ability to concentrate and handle stress. What struck me most was how accessible this ancient practice had become through modern technology – I could learn at my own pace and tap into wisdom from teachers across the globe without leaving my room. This experience also sparked a broader interest in wellness and self-improvement. It taught me the value of investing time in personal development and showed me that the Internet, when used mindfully, can be an incredibly empowering tool for positive change. Even now, meditation remains an integral part of my daily routine, and I’m grateful I took that first step to explore it online.”

Phân Tích Band Điểm

Tiêu chí	Band	Nhận xét
Fluency & Coherence	7.5-8	Flow tự nhiên với minimal hesitation. Sử dụng cohesive devices hiệu quả (Initially, Additionally, Looking back, Even now). Ý tưởng được develop logic và coherent
Lexical Resource	7.5-8	Vocabulary range tốt với nhiều less common words và collocations (stumbled upon, serendipitously, overwhelmed with, multi-faceted approach, bite-sized lessons, transformative, tap into). Paraphrasing hiệu quả
Grammatical Range & Accuracy	7.5-8	Variety of complex structures (relative clauses, conditionals, participle clauses). Errors rất ít và không ảnh hưởng communication. Mix tenses appropriately
Pronunciation	7.5-8	Giả định pronunciation clear với good stress và intonation patterns

So Sánh Với Band 6-7

Khía cạnh	Band 6-7	Band 7.5-8
Vocabulary	“found out about”, “became interested”	“stumbled upon serendipitously”, “intrigued by”
Grammar	Simple past: “I started watching”	Participle clauses: “while browsing through YouTube”
Ideas	“It helped me relax”	“transformative experience”, “sparked broader interest”, “empowering tool for positive change”
Details	General activities mentioned	Specific programs, apps, communities named with their unique features
Reflection	Basic feelings (excited, proud)	Deep analysis of impact (transformative, skeptical to convinced, lifestyle change)

---

📝 Sample Answer – Band 8.5-9

Thời lượng: 2.5-3 phút đầy đủ

“I’d like to tell you about how I delved into the world of sourdough bread-making through online resources during the pandemic lockdown – an experience that turned out to be far more profound than I’d initially anticipated.

It all started quite organically, really. Like many people confined to their homes, I found myself scrolling through social media more than usual, and I kept seeing these aesthetically pleasing photos of homemade sourdough loaves with their distinctive crusty exteriors and airy crumb structures. What particularly piqued my curiosity wasn’t just the visual appeal, but the narrative that surrounded it – people were talking about nurturing their sourdough starters like pets, describing the process as almost meditative, and sharing their triumphs and disasters with remarkable candor. There was something deeply appealing about the idea of creating something so fundamentally satisfying with just flour, water, and time, especially during such an uncertain period.

My exploration was quite methodical and immersive. I started by binge-watching numerous YouTube tutorials, particularly from channels like The Bread Code and Foodgeek, which offered scientifically-grounded explanations of fermentation processes rather than just recipes. I appreciated this approach as it helped me understand the ‘why’ behind each step. I then joined several online communities – the most valuable being a Facebook group dedicated to sourdough troubleshooting, where seasoned bakers were incredibly generous with their expertise. What really elevated my learning was discovering Instagram, where I could follow hashtags like #sourdoughjourney and engage with a global community of enthusiasts. I’d post photos of my attempts, receive constructive feedback, and learn from others’ mistakes. I also invested in a couple of online masterclasses, which, while not free, provided structured learning paths and nuanced insights that casual videos couldn’t offer.

Reflecting on this experience, I find it quite remarkable how profoundly it affected me on multiple levels. On a practical level, I acquired a genuine skill that I continue to hone – there’s something incredibly gratifying about pulling a perfectly risen loaf from the oven, knowing you’ve mastered something that intimidated you initially. But beyond that, this journey taught me valuable lessons about patience and embracing failure. Sourdough baking is unforgiving – you can’t rush fermentation, and you’ll inevitably have flat, dense failures before you succeed. Learning to persevere through these setbacks, encouraged by supportive online communities, was character-building in ways I hadn’t expected.

What strikes me most is how this experience exemplifies the democratization of knowledge in the digital age. A century ago, I might have needed an apprenticeship or family tradition to learn this craft, but here I was, accessing expertise from master bakers across continents, at my own pace and often for free. It made me realize that the Internet, when approached with intention and discernment, can be an extraordinarily powerful tool for personal growth. This wasn’t passive consumption of content – it was active, engaged learning that connected me with a vibrant global community and enriched my life in unexpected ways. The experience also sparked a broader interest in fermentation and food science that continues to fuel my curiosity. In many ways, that first loaf of sourdough was just the beginning of a much larger journey of discovery.”

Phân Tích Band Điểm

Tiêu chí	Band	Nhận xét
Fluency & Coherence	8.5-9	Exceptional fluency với speech flowing naturally và effortlessly. Sophisticated cohesive devices (It all started, What particularly, Reflecting on, What strikes me most). Ideas logically sequenced với clear progression
Lexical Resource	8.5-9	Wide-ranging vocabulary với precise và sophisticated word choice (delved into, piqued my curiosity, meditative, candor, methodical, seasoned bakers, unforgiving, democratization). Natural collocation và idiomatic language. Effective paraphrasing throughout
Grammatical Range & Accuracy	8.5-9	Full range of structures used naturally và accurately (complex sentences, conditionals, relative clauses, participle phrases, passive voice). Errors rất hiếm và minor. Mix tenses expertly
Pronunciation	8.5-9	Giả định pronunciation native-like với excellent rhythm, stress patterns, và intonation

Tại Sao Bài Này Xuất Sắc

🎯 Fluency Hoàn Hảo:
Bài nói flow tự nhiên như đang conversation, không có hesitation hay unnatural pauses. Các transitional phrases được sử dụng sophisticated (It all started quite organically, Reflecting on this experience, What strikes me most) giúp guide listener through the narrative một cách mượt mà.

📚 Vocabulary Tinh Vi:

• “delved into” thay vì “started learning” – sophisticated phrasal verb
• “aesthetically pleasing” instead of “beautiful” – precise và academic
• “piqued my curiosity” instead of “made me interested” – idiomatic expression
• “democratization of knowledge” – abstract noun phrase showing intellectual depth
• “character-building” – thoughtful compound adjective
• “with intention and discernment” – sophisticated abstract nouns showing nuanced thinking

📝 Grammar Đa Dạng:

• Relative clauses: “people were talking about nurturing their sourdough starters like pets, describing the process as almost meditative” – multiple -ing forms creating flow
• Conditional structures implied: “A century ago, I might have needed an apprenticeship”
• Passive voice: “I continue to hone”, “can be accessed”
• Complex sentences với multiple clauses: “What really elevated my learning was discovering Instagram, where I could follow hashtags like #sourdoughjourney and engage with a global community of enthusiasts”

💡 Ideas Sâu Sắc:

• Không chỉ describe what happened mà analyze why it mattered
• Reflects on personal growth (patience, embracing failure, perseverance)
• Broader societal commentary (democratization of knowledge, digital age)
• Connects personal experience to universal themes
• Shows metacognition – thinking about the learning process itself

Thí sinh IELTS Speaking Part 2 đang trình bày về trải nghiệm khám phá sở thích trực tuyến

Follow-up Questions (Rounding Off Questions)

Sau khi bạn hoàn thành Part 2, giám khảo có thể hỏi thêm 1-2 câu ngắn để kết thúc trước khi chuyển sang Part 3. Đây là những câu hỏi đơn giản liên quan trực tiếp đến câu chuyện bạn vừa kể.

Question 1: Do you still practice this hobby now?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I do. I still practice it regularly, maybe a few times a week. It has become part of my routine now.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“Absolutely! It’s actually become an integral part of my daily life. I’ve progressed from a complete novice to someone who can produce consistently decent results, and I find that the more I practice, the more nuances I discover. It’s one of those hobbies that offers endless room for improvement, which keeps me genuinely engaged.”

---

Question 2: Would you recommend this to others?

Band 6-7 Answer:
“Yes, I would definitely recommend it to others. It’s a good hobby that can help people relax and learn something new.”

Band 8-9 Answer:
“Without hesitation! I think it’s particularly valuable in today’s fast-paced world where we’re constantly bombarded with digital stimulation. What I especially appreciate is how accessible it is – anyone with an Internet connection can embark on a similar journey. That said, I’d emphasize the importance of approaching it with realistic expectations and patience, as mastery doesn’t happen overnight, but the journey itself is incredibly rewarding.”

IELTS Speaking Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Tổng Quan Về Part 3

Part 3 kéo dài 4-5 phút và là phần thảo luận hai chiều về các khía cạnh rộng hơn, trừu tượng hơn liên quan đến chủ đề Part 2. Đây là phần khó nhất và cũng là nơi phân biệt rõ giữa band 6-7 và band 8-9.

Yêu cầu của Part 3:

• Phân tích, so sánh, và đánh giá các vấn đề xã hội
• Đưa ra quan điểm cá nhân có lý lẽ chặt chẽ
• Xem xét nhiều góc độ của một vấn đề
• Sử dụng ngôn ngữ trừu tượng và academic hơn

Chiến lược hiệu quả:

• Mở rộng câu trả lời thành 4-6 câu (không quá dài, không quá ngắn)
• Sử dụng discourse markers để structure câu trả lời (Well, I think…, On the one hand…, Having said that…)
• Đưa ra examples từ xã hội rộng hơn, không chỉ personal experience
• Thừa nhận sự phức tạp của vấn đề (It depends, To some extent, There are various factors)
• Balance giữa giving opinion và acknowledging other perspectives

Lỗi thường gặp của học viên Việt Nam:

• Trả lời quá ngắn, thiếu elaboration và analysis
• Không đưa ra lý lẽ rõ ràng để support opinion
• Thiếu từ vựng trừu tượng để discuss social issues
• Chỉ nói về personal experience thay vì broader trends
• Không structure câu trả lời logic
• Hesitate quá nhiều khi gặp câu hỏi khó

Các Câu Hỏi Thảo Luận Sâu

Dưới đây là các câu hỏi Part 3 được phân loại theo themes khác nhau, tất cả liên quan đến chủ đề học tập và phát triển sở thích trực tuyến.

Theme 1: Online Learning và Tác Động Xã Hội

---

Question 1: How has the Internet changed the way people learn new skills?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Change/Impact – yêu cầu so sánh quá khứ và hiện tại
• Key words: Internet, changed, way people learn, new skills
• Cách tiếp cận: Structure theo: Overview of change → Specific examples → Impact/Implications

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“The Internet has changed learning a lot. In the past, people had to go to schools or buy expensive books to learn new skills. Now, they can learn almost anything online for free or at low cost. For example, websites like YouTube have many tutorials about cooking, languages, and other subjects. This makes learning more convenient because people can study at home whenever they have time. I think this is a positive change that helps many people improve themselves.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Có comparison giữa past và present, có example cụ thể
• Vocabulary: Adequate nhưng basic (a lot, expensive, convenient, positive change)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Trả lời đúng câu hỏi với main ideas clear nhưng thiếu depth trong analysis, vocabulary chưa sophisticated, grammar structures khá simple

---

📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

“Well, I’d say the Internet has fundamentally transformed the learning landscape in several profound ways. Most significantly, it’s democratized access to knowledge – what was once confined to formal educational institutions or expensive courses is now freely available to anyone with an Internet connection. This has leveled the playing field considerably, particularly for people in developing countries or remote areas who previously lacked access to quality education.

Beyond just accessibility, I think the Internet has also revolutionized the learning methodology itself. We’ve moved from a one-size-fits-all approach to highly personalized learning paths. For instance, platforms like Coursera or Khan Academy use adaptive algorithms to tailor content to individual learning paces and styles. Moreover, the interactive nature of online learning – with features like instant feedback, discussion forums, and peer collaboration – creates a more engaging and dynamic experience compared to traditional passive learning.

However, I should mention that this transformation isn’t without its challenges. The overwhelming abundance of information can be paralyzing for some learners who lack the discernment to distinguish between credible sources and misinformation. There’s also the issue of digital literacy and self-motivation – online learning requires considerable discipline and autonomous learning skills that not everyone possesses. Nevertheless, on balance, I believe the Internet has been an immensely positive force in democratizing education and empowering individuals to take control of their own learning journeys.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Well-organized: Direct answer với “fundamentally transformed” → Main point 1 (democratization) with example → Main point 2 (methodology change) with specific examples → Acknowledgment of challenges → Balanced conclusion
• Vocabulary: Sophisticated và precise (democratized, confined to, leveled the playing field, one-size-fits-all, adaptive algorithms, paralyzing, discernment, autonomous learning)
• Grammar: Complex structures xuất hiện tự nhiên: relative clauses (“what was once confined to…”), participle phrases (“particularly for people in…”), passive voice (“is now freely available”)
• Critical Thinking: Shows nuanced understanding với balanced view (acknowledges both positives và challenges), uses specific examples (Coursera, Khan Academy), demonstrates deeper analysis về implications

💡 Key Language Features:

• Discourse markers: Well, Most significantly, Beyond just, For instance, Moreover, However, Nevertheless, on balance
• Tentative language: I’d say, I think, I should mention, I believe – shows sophisticated hedging
• Abstract nouns: transformation, accessibility, methodology, discipline, discernment, empowerment
• Academic collocations: fundamentally transformed, democratized access, leveled the playing field, autonomous learning, credible sources

---

Question 2: Do you think online learning can completely replace traditional classroom education?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Opinion/Prediction – yêu cầu đưa ra quan điểm về khả năng
• Key words: online learning, completely replace, traditional classroom
• Cách tiếp cận: Clear position (Yes/No/Depends) → Reasons for aspects that can be replaced → Reasons for aspects that cannot → Conclusion with nuanced view

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“I don’t think online learning can completely replace traditional classrooms. Although online learning has many advantages like flexibility and convenience, face-to-face learning is still important. In classrooms, students can interact directly with teachers and classmates, which helps them learn better. Also, some subjects like science experiments or art need physical practice that online learning cannot provide. So I believe both types of learning should exist together, and people can choose based on their needs.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Clear position (No) → Reasons (interaction, practical subjects) → Conclusion
• Vocabulary: Basic (advantages, flexibility, interact directly, learn better)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Addresses the question với relevant points nhưng analysis chưa deep, vocabulary adequate nhưng không impressive, grammar mostly simple structures

---

📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

“That’s a thought-provoking question, and while I’m generally an advocate for educational technology, I don’t believe online learning will – or indeed should – entirely supplant traditional classroom education. Rather, I envision a future where both modalities coexist and complement each other, each playing to its respective strengths.

Online learning undoubtedly excels in certain areas. It offers unparalleled flexibility for working professionals or those with family commitments who can’t attend fixed-schedule classes. It’s also remarkably cost-effective and scalable – a single online course can accommodate thousands of learners simultaneously, which is simply impossible in physical classrooms. For theoretical subjects or skill-based learning like programming or graphic design, online platforms can be extraordinarily effective, often providing superior resources through interactive simulations and immediate feedback mechanisms.

However, there are inherent limitations that make complete replacement problematic. Firstly, the social dimension of learning is crucial, particularly for younger students. Classrooms foster not just academic knowledge but also critical social skills – collaboration, conflict resolution, emotional intelligence – that are difficult to replicate in virtual environments. Secondly, certain disciplines require hands-on experience and face-to-face mentorship. Can you imagine training doctors, engineers, or performing artists purely online? The tactile, experiential aspects of these fields are irreplaceable. Additionally, traditional education provides crucial structure and accountability that many learners, especially younger ones, need to stay on track. The physical presence of teachers and peers creates a motivational environment that’s challenging to recreate digitally.

In my view, the future lies in hybrid models that harness the strengths of both approaches. Forward-thinking institutions are already implementing blended learning strategies where theoretical content is delivered online while practical sessions, collaborative projects, and personalized mentoring happen in person. This synergy offers the best of both worlds and caters to diverse learning needs.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Exceptionally well-organized: Clear thesis statement (coexist and complement) → Argument 1 (strengths of online) with examples → Argument 2 (limitations of online) with multiple specific reasons → Future-oriented conclusion with solution (hybrid model)
• Vocabulary: Sophisticated với academic register (advocate, supplant, modalities, coexist, excels in, unparalleled, scalable, inherent limitations, foster, tactile, harness, synergy)
• Grammar: Full range of complex structures naturally integrated: cleft sentences (“That’s a thought-provoking question”), conditionals (“Can you imagine training doctors… purely online?”), relative clauses, passive constructions
• Critical Thinking: Demonstrates exceptional analytical thinking với multi-faceted argument, acknowledges complexity (not black and white), provides specific examples across different contexts, offers forward-looking solution

💡 Key Language Features:

• Discourse markers: While, Rather, Undoubtedly, However, Firstly, Secondly, Additionally, In my view
• Tentative/hedging language: I don’t believe, I envision, In my view, are difficult to – shows academic sophistication
• Rhetorical questions: “Can you imagine training doctors… purely online?” – engaging technique
• Abstract nouns: flexibility, scalability, limitations, mentorship, accountability, synergy
• Academic collocations: entirely supplant, coexist and complement, excels in, inherent limitations, foster social skills, harness the strengths

---

Thảo luận sâu về giáo dục trực tuyến trong IELTS Speaking Part 3

Theme 2: Digital Skills và Công Nghệ

Question 3: What are the potential downsides of learning everything online?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Problem/Disadvantage – yêu cầu identify và elaborate về nhược điểm
• Key words: potential downsides, learning everything online
• Cách tiếp cận: Acknowledge benefits trước → Main disadvantages (2-3 points) với explanation và examples → Conclusion về balance

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“Although online learning has many benefits, there are some downsides too. First, spending too much time online can be bad for health, especially for eyes and posture. Second, not everyone has good Internet connection or devices, which creates inequality. Third, some people find it hard to concentrate when studying online because of distractions at home. Also, online learning lacks personal interaction, which can make students feel lonely. So while online learning is useful, we should be aware of these problems.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Lists several downsides systematically
• Vocabulary: Basic descriptors (bad for health, hard to concentrate, feel lonely)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Covers main points adequately nhưng lack depth in analysis, vocabulary straightforward, limited elaboration on each point

---

📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

“While I’m enthusiastic about the potential of online learning, it’s important to acknowledge several significant pitfalls that warrant careful consideration.

Perhaps the most concerning is the exacerbation of the digital divide. Despite the Internet’s widespread availability, millions of people worldwide still lack reliable connectivity or access to appropriate devices. This means that as we increasingly pivot towards online education, we risk further marginalizing already disadvantaged communities. In Vietnam, for example, the pandemic starkly highlighted this disparity when students in urban areas could seamlessly transition to online learning while those in rural or mountainous regions were effectively left behind.

Another substantial concern is the erosion of social skills and face-to-face communication abilities. Human beings are inherently social creatures, and much of our learning – particularly emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills – happens through direct human interaction. When we relegate learning entirely to digital platforms, we risk producing a generation that’s technically proficient but potentially lacking in the soft skills that are crucial for personal and professional success.

I’d also highlight the issue of information overload and attention fragmentation. The online environment is rife with distractions – notifications, social media, endless tabs. This can severely compromise one’s ability to engage in deep, focused learning. Research suggests that the constant context-switching associated with digital environments actually impairs our capacity for sustained concentration and critical thinking.

Lastly, there’s the question of credibility and quality control. The democratization of content creation means anyone can produce and disseminate educational material, regardless of their qualifications. This proliferation of information makes it increasingly challenging for learners to discern between authoritative sources and misinformation, particularly for younger or less experienced learners who haven’t yet developed strong critical evaluation skills.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Sophisticated organization: Introduction acknowledging the question → Issue 1 (digital divide) with specific example from Vietnam → Issue 2 (social skills) with reasoning → Issue 3 (attention) with research reference → Issue 4 (credibility) with implications
• Vocabulary: Advanced và precise (pitfalls, exacerbation, pivot towards, marginalizing, starkly highlighted, erosion, inherently, relegate, rife with, proliferation, discern)
• Grammar: Complex structures throughout: passive constructions, participle phrases, relative clauses, conditional implications
• Critical Thinking: Exceptional depth với each point thoroughly developed, specific example (Vietnam pandemic), reference to research, sophisticated analysis of implications

---

Theme 3: Tương Lai của Học Tập

Question 4: How do you think online learning will develop in the future?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Future prediction/Speculation
• Key words: online learning, develop, future
• Cách tiếp cận: Current state → Predicted trends (2-3) với reasons → Potential implications → Cautious conclusion

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“I think online learning will continue to grow in the future. More people will use it because technology is improving and Internet access is getting better. I believe we will see more virtual reality and artificial intelligence in online education, which will make learning more interactive. Universities might offer more online degree programs that are accepted globally. However, traditional schools will still exist because some people prefer face-to-face learning. Overall, I expect online learning will become more popular and advanced.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Basic prediction → Supporting reasons → Acknowledgment of traditional education continuing
• Vocabulary: Simple future expressions (will continue, will see, will become), basic descriptors (improving, better, interactive, advanced)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Addresses the question với relevant predictions nhưng lacks sophistication in language và depth in speculation about implications

---

📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

“That’s fascinating to contemplate because we’re standing at quite a pivotal moment in educational evolution. Based on current trajectories, I envisage several transformative developments.

Firstly, I anticipate we’ll see unprecedented integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into online education platforms. We’re already seeing early iterations of this with adaptive learning systems, but I expect this will evolve dramatically. Imagine personalized AI tutors that can identify your specific learning patterns, knowledge gaps, and optimal study times, then curate entirely customized curricula just for you. This hyper-personalization could revolutionize how effectively we learn, essentially giving everyone access to what amounts to a private tutor.

Secondly, I believe virtual and augmented reality will transition from novelty to necessity. These technologies have tremendous potential to overcome one of online learning’s key limitations – the lack of hands-on experience. Medical students could perform virtual surgeries, history students could immerse themselves in historical events, language learners could practice in simulated real-world environments. This would bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in ways previously impossible.

I also foresee greater blurring of boundaries between formal and informal learning. We’re moving towards a more fluid model where micro-credentials, digital badges, and project-based portfolios might carry as much weight as traditional degrees. This shift could democratize education further, valuing actual skills and competencies over institutional pedigree.

However, I’d caution against unbridled techno-optimism. As these developments unfold, we’ll need to grapple with significant ethical and practical challenges – issues of data privacy, algorithmic bias, equitable access, and maintaining human elements in education. The trajectory won’t be uniformly positive; it’ll require thoughtful regulation and ongoing critical evaluation to ensure technology serves educational goals rather than dictating them.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Outstanding organization: Engaging opening → Prediction 1 (AI) với detailed explanation và implications → Prediction 2 (VR/AR) với specific examples → Prediction 3 (credential evolution) → Thoughtful caveat about challenges
• Vocabulary: Highly sophisticated (pivotal moment, trajectories, envisage, transformative, unprecedented integration, hyper-personalization, micro-credentials, unbridled techno-optimism, algorithmic bias, equitable access)
• Grammar: Full range expertly deployed: future perfect and continuous, conditionals, passive voice, complex noun phrases, participle constructions
• Critical Thinking: Exceptional analytical depth với detailed predictions based on current trends, specific examples across domains, acknowledgment of complexity và potential problems, balanced perspective avoiding simple optimism

💡 Key Language Features:

• Speculation language: I anticipate, I expect, I believe, I foresee, could revolutionize, might carry – appropriate hedging for predictions
• Discourse markers: Firstly, Secondly, Also, However – clear signposting
• Academic vocabulary: trajectories, envisage, iterations, curate, transition from, grapple with
• Metaphorical language: standing at a pivotal moment, bridge the gap, blurring of boundaries

---

Theme 4: Cân Bằng Cuộc Sống Số

Question 5: Is it important for people to have hobbies? Why or why not?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Opinion với justification
• Key words: important, people, hobbies, why
• Cách tiếp cận: Clear position (Yes/No) → Multiple reasons with elaboration → Potential counterargument → Conclusion

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“Yes, I think hobbies are very important for people. First, hobbies help people relax and reduce stress after working or studying. When you do something you enjoy, you feel happier and more energetic. Second, hobbies can help you learn new skills and meet new people who share the same interests. For example, if you join a photography club, you can improve your skills and make friends. Also, having hobbies makes life more interesting and meaningful. So I believe everyone should have at least one hobby.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Clear position → Three reasons (stress relief, skill development, life meaning) → Recommendation
• Vocabulary: Basic và repetitive (very important, help people, feel happier, make friends, more interesting)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Adequate response với relevant points nhưng lacks sophistication, reasons not deeply elaborated, vocabulary limited

---

📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

“Absolutely, I’d argue that hobbies are fundamental to human well-being, not merely optional luxuries. They serve multiple crucial functions in our increasingly demanding modern lives.

From a psychological perspective, hobbies provide essential outlets for stress and mental tension. We live in an era characterized by relentless productivity demands and constant connectivity, which can be mentally exhausting. Engaging in activities purely for enjoyment – whether that’s painting, gardening, or playing music – offers what psychologists call ‘flow states‘ where we’re fully immersed and present. These experiences are vital for mental health, providing respite from the pressures of work and daily responsibilities. Research consistently shows that people with active hobbies report higher levels of life satisfaction and lower instances of anxiety and depression.

Beyond mental health, hobbies play a crucial role in personal development and identity formation. They allow us to explore different facets of ourselves beyond our professional roles. In career-focused cultures like Vietnam’s, there’s often excessive emphasis on productivity and achievement. Hobbies remind us that we’re multidimensional beings with diverse interests and capabilities. A software engineer who does pottery, for instance, exercises completely different cognitive muscles and derives satisfaction from tactile, creative work that contrasts with their analytical daily tasks. This diversity of engagement actually makes us more well-rounded and resilient individuals.

I’d also highlight the social dimension. Many hobbies naturally foster communities of like-minded people, whether through photography clubs, running groups, or online forums. These connections are particularly valuable in our increasingly atomized society where traditional community bonds are weakening. Shared interests provide natural foundations for genuine relationships that transcend professional networking.

That said, I should acknowledge that in practice, many people struggle to prioritize hobbies amid competing demands. The key is reframing hobbies not as indulgent time-wasters but as essential investments in our long-term well-being and productivity. Paradoxically, taking time for non-productive activities often makes us more effective in our professional lives by preventing burnout and maintaining perspective.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Masterfully organized: Strong thesis → Dimension 1 (psychological) with research reference → Dimension 2 (personal development) with specific example → Dimension 3 (social) với societal analysis → Acknowledgment of practical challenges với reframing solution
• Vocabulary: Exceptionally sophisticated (fundamental to, relentless demands, flow states, respite from, facets of ourselves, multidimensional beings, atomized society, paradoxically)
• Grammar: Full range naturally used: passive constructions, relative clauses, participle phrases, complex noun phrases, rhetorical devices
• Critical Thinking: Outstanding depth với multi-level analysis (psychological, developmental, social), reference to research, specific examples, acknowledgment of real-world constraints, sophisticated counterargument và solution

---

Question 6: Do you think people spend too much time on the Internet nowadays?

🎯 Phân tích câu hỏi:

• Dạng: Opinion về social trend
• Key words: people, too much time, Internet, nowadays
• Cách tiếp cận: Nuanced position (not absolute yes/no) → Acknowledge legitimate concerns → Consider positive aspects → Context-dependent conclusion

📝 Sample Answer – Band 6-7:

“I think many people do spend too much time on the Internet today. We can see people looking at their phones everywhere – on buses, in restaurants, even when walking. This can be bad because it affects their health and relationships. Too much screen time is bad for eyes and can cause sleeping problems. Also, people might ignore their family and friends because they are busy with their phones. However, the Internet is also useful for work and learning, so we need to find a balance. People should control their Internet use and spend more time on offline activities.”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Position → Problems identified → Acknowledgment of benefits → Solution suggested
• Vocabulary: Common expressions (too much time, looking at phones, bad for, find a balance)
• Tại sao Band 6-7: Relevant answer với main points covered nhưng analysis superficial, vocabulary basic, lacks nuance in discussion

---

📝 Câu trả lời mẫu – Band 8-9:

“This is quite a loaded question because it presupposes a universal standard for what constitutes ‘too much,’ which I think is problematic. My view is that it’s less about quantity and more about quality of Internet usage and its impact on individual well-being.

Undeniably, there are legitimate concerns about problematic Internet use. We’re seeing troubling patterns of behavior – the compulsive checking of notifications, doomscrolling through social media feeds, and what psychologists term ‘nomophobia‘ – the fear of being without one’s phone. These behaviors can manifest in genuine problems: disrupted sleep patterns from late-night screen use, diminished attention spans, impaired face-to-face social skills, and in extreme cases, genuine addiction that interferes with daily functioning. The design of many platforms, with their dopamine-triggering notification systems and infinite scroll features, is deliberately engineered to maximize engagement, which is a euphemistic way of saying they’re designed to be habit-forming.

However, I think the narrative of ‘people waste too much time online’ is somewhat reductive and fails to appreciate the nuanced reality. For many people, especially during the pandemic, the Internet was a lifeline – maintaining professional productivity, preserving social connections, accessing education and entertainment during lockdowns. For remote workers, substantial online time is occupational necessity, not frivolous waste. Moreover, as we discussed earlier, the Internet facilitates valuable learning and skill development that previous generations couldn’t access.

What I take issue with isn’t necessarily the quantity of time spent online but rather its qualitative nature. There’s a world of difference between passive consumption of endless social media content versus active engagement in online learning, creative projects, or meaningful communication. Someone spending four hours taking an online course or collaborating with colleagues on a project is using time very differently from someone spending four hours mindlessly scrolling through celebrity photos.

So rather than making blanket judgments, I think we need individualized assessment of whether someone’s Internet use is serving their goals and well-being or detracting from them. The key is intentionality – being conscious and deliberate about how we use this technology rather than letting it dictate our behavior. Perhaps the more pertinent question isn’t ‘Are we spending too much time online?’ but ‘Are we spending our online time wisely?'”

Phân tích:

• Structure: Exceptional sophistication: Challenge the question’s premise → Acknowledge legitimate concerns with specific terminology → Present counterargument with context → Reframe the issue around quality vs. quantity → Thoughtful conclusion with more pertinent question
• Vocabulary: Highly advanced (loaded question, presupposes, compulsive checking, doomscrolling, nomophobia, euphemistic, habit-forming, reductive, lifeline, blanket judgments, intentionality)
• Grammar: Full range expertly deployed: complex conditionals, rhetorical questions, passive voice, participle constructions, sophisticated punctuation
• Critical Thinking: Outstanding analytical depth với challenge to question premise, nuanced position avoiding false dichotomy, specific psychological terms, consideration of multiple contexts, reframing of core issue

💡 Key Language Features:

• Discourse markers: Undeniably, However, Moreover, So rather than
• Hedging/Tentative language: I think, somewhat, Perhaps, I’d argue – appropriate academic caution
• Rhetorical techniques: Rhetorical questions, challenging premises, reframing issues
• Academic collocations: legitimate concerns, troubling patterns, genuine problems, nuanced reality, individualized assessment

Bảng từ vựng và collocations quan trọng cho chủ đề học tập trực tuyến IELTS

Từ vựng và cụm từ quan trọng

Topic-Specific Vocabulary

Từ vựng/Cụm từ	Loại từ	Phiên âm	Nghĩa tiếng Việt	Ví dụ	Collocation
avid learner	noun phrase	/ˈævɪd ˈlɜːrnər/	người ham học hỏi	She’s an avid learner who constantly seeks new knowledge online.	avid reader, avid collector, keen learner
delve into	phrasal verb	/delv ˈɪntuː/	đào sâu, tìm hiểu kỹ	I decided to delve into digital photography through YouTube tutorials.	delve deeper, delve into details, delve into research
stumble upon	phrasal verb	/ˈstʌmbl əˈpɒn/	tình cờ phát hiện	I stumbled upon this hobby while browsing social media.	stumble across, accidentally discover
pique one’s curiosity	idiom	/piːk wʌnz ˌkjʊəriˈɒsəti/	khơi dậy sự tò mò	The documentary piqued my curiosity about marine biology.	spark interest, arouse curiosity, capture attention
immerse oneself in	phrasal verb	/ɪˈmɜːrs wʌnˈself ɪn/	đắm mình vào	She immersed herself in online language learning for months.	fully immerse, deeply immerse, completely absorbed
hands-on experience	noun phrase	/hændz ɒn ɪkˈspɪəriəns/	trải nghiệm thực hành	Some skills require hands-on experience that online learning cannot provide.	practical experience, direct experience, first-hand experience
self-paced learning	noun phrase	/self peɪst ˈlɜːrnɪŋ/	học theo tốc độ riêng	Online courses offer self-paced learning, which suits busy professionals.	flexible learning, independent study
democratize education	verb phrase	/dɪˈmɒkrətaɪz ˌedʒuˈkeɪʃn/	dân chủ hóa giáo dục	The Internet has democratized education globally.	democratize access, democratize knowledge, equal access
digital literacy	noun phrase	/ˈdɪdʒɪtl ˈlɪtərəsi/	kiến thức công nghệ số	Digital literacy is essential in today’s learning environment.	computer literacy, technological competence, digital skills
interactive platform	noun phrase	/ˌɪntərˈæktɪv ˈplætfɔːrm/	nền tảng tương tác	Duolingo is an interactive platform for language learning.	interactive learning, online platform, digital platform
cultivate a skill	verb phrase	/ˈkʌltɪveɪt ə skɪl/	trau dồi kỹ năng	She cultivated her coding skills through online bootcamps.	develop skills, hone abilities, refine techniques
overwhelming abundance	noun phrase	/ˌəʊvərˈwelmɪŋ əˈbʌndəns/	sự dồi dào quá mức	The overwhelming abundance of online content can be confusing.	excessive amount, information overload
credible source	noun phrase	/ˈkredəbl sɔːrs/	nguồn đáng tin cậy	It’s important to distinguish credible sources from misinformation.	reliable source, trustworthy information, authoritative reference
adaptive algorithm	noun phrase	/əˈdæptɪv ˈælɡərɪðəm/	thuật toán thích ứng	Modern platforms use adaptive algorithms to personalize learning.	intelligent system, machine learning, AI-powered
tangible results	noun phrase	/ˈtændʒəbl rɪˈzʌlts/	kết quả hữu hình	Online tutorials helped me achieve tangible results quickly.	concrete outcomes, visible progress, measurable improvement
broaden one’s horizons	idiom	/ˈbrɔːdn wʌnz həˈraɪznz/	mở rộng tầm hiểu biết	Learning online can broaden your horizons significantly.	expand knowledge, widen perspectives, gain exposure
nurture an interest	verb phrase	/ˈnɜːrtʃər ən ˈɪntrəst/	nuôi dưỡng sở thích	Online communities help nurture interests in niche subjects.	foster interest, cultivate passion, develop hobby
trial and error	noun phrase	/ˈtraɪəl ənd ˈerər/	học qua thử và sai	I learned through trial and error using online tutorials.	experimental approach, learning by doing, practice-based
steep learning curve	noun phrase	/stiːp ˈlɜːrnɪŋ kɜːrv/	quá trình học khó	The software had a steep learning curve initially.	challenging process, difficult to master, gradual improvement
autonomous learning	noun phrase	/ɔːˈtɒnəməs ˈlɜːrnɪŋ/	học tập tự chủ	Online education requires strong autonomous learning skills.	independent study, self-directed learning, self-motivated

Idiomatic Expressions & Advanced Phrases

Cụm từ	Nghĩa	Ví dụ sử dụng	Band điểm
hit the ground running	bắt đầu nhanh chóng và hiệu quả	After taking the online course, I was able to hit the ground running with my new skills.	7.5-9
steep oneself in something	chìm đắm trong cái gì	He steeped himself in online resources about sustainable architecture.	7.5-9
a wealth of resources	nguồn tài nguyên phong phú	The Internet provides a wealth of resources for independent learners.	7-8
at one’s fingertips	trong tầm tay, dễ tiếp cận	With smartphones, knowledge is literally at our fingertips.	7-8
pick up steam	tăng tốc, phát triển nhanh	My progress picked up steam after joining online study groups.	7.5-8
trial by fire	thử thách khắc nghiệt	Learning to code online was a trial by fire, but incredibly rewarding.	8-9
carve out time	dành thời gian	I carved out time each morning for online learning sessions.	7.5-8
it’s a game-changer	thay đổi cuộc chơi hoàn toàn	Access to online courses has been a game-changer for rural students.	7.5-8
think outside the box	suy nghĩ sáng tạo	Online learning encourages you to think outside the box.	7-8
level the playing field	cân bằng cơ hội	The Internet has leveled the playing field in education.	8-9
get one’s foot in the door	có cơ hội bước vào	Online certifications can help you get your foot in the door.	7.5-8
horses for courses	phù hợp cho từng trường hợp cụ thể	When it comes to learning methods, it’s horses for courses.	8-9

Discourse Markers (Từ Nối Ý Trong Speaking)

Để bắt đầu câu trả lời:

• 📝 Well,… – Khi cần thời gian suy nghĩ một chút: “Well, that’s an interesting question…”
• 📝 Actually,… – Khi đưa ra góc nhìn khác hoặc thông tin surprising: “Actually, I found it quite challenging at first…”
• 📝 To be honest,… – Khi muốn nói thật và tạo authenticity: “To be honest, I was skeptical initially…”
• 📝 I’d say that… – Khi đưa ra quan điểm có suy nghĩ: “I’d say that online learning suits independent learners best…”
• 📝 From my perspective,… – Để nhấn mạnh personal viewpoint: “From my perspective, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks…”

Để bổ sung ý:

• 📝 On top of that,… – Thêm vào đó, hơn nữa: “The course was free. On top of that, it offered certificates…”
• 📝 What’s more,… – Hơn nữa (formal hơn): “What’s more, I could learn at my own pace…”
• 📝 Not to mention… – Chưa kể đến (thường cho điểm quan trọng): “The content was excellent, not to mention the supportive community…”
• 📝 Beyond that,… – Ngoài ra: “Beyond that, it opened up new career opportunities…”
• 📝 Additionally,… – Thêm vào đó (formal): “Additionally, the platform provided regular feedback…”

Để đưa ra quan điểm cân bằng:

• 📝 On the one hand,… On the other hand,… – Một mặt… mặt khác: “On the one hand, it’s convenient. On the other hand, it requires discipline…”
• 📝 While it’s true that…, we also need to consider… – Mặc dù đúng là… nhưng cũng cần xem xét: “While it’s true that online learning is flexible, we also need to consider the lack of personal interaction…”
• 📝 Having said that,… – Tuy nhiên, mặc dù vậy: “Online learning is effective. Having said that, it’s not suitable for everyone…”
• 📝 That said,… – Tuy nhiên (less formal): “I enjoy online courses. That said, I still value classroom experiences…”

Để kết luận:

• 📝 All in all,… – Tóm lại, nhìn chung: “All in all, it was a rewarding experience…”
• 📝 At the end of the day,… – Cuối cùng thì, xét cho cùng: “At the end of the day, it depends on individual learning styles…”
• 📝 Overall,… – Nhìn chung: “Overall, I’d highly recommend online learning…”
• 📝 In retrospect,… – Nhìn lại: “In retrospect, I wish I’d discovered this sooner…”

Để thể hiện sự cân nhắc:

• 📝 It depends on… – Tùy thuộc vào: “It depends on what subject you’re learning…”
• 📝 To some extent,… – Ở mức độ nào đó: “To some extent, I agree that online learning has limitations…”
• 📝 In certain circumstances,… – Trong những trường hợp nhất định: “In certain circumstances, traditional education is irreplaceable…”

Grammatical Structures Ấn Tượng

1. Conditional Sentences (Câu điều kiện):

Mixed conditional (kết hợp thì):

• Formula: If + past perfect, would/could + present
• Ví dụ: “If I hadn’t discovered that YouTube channel, I wouldn’t be pursuing photography today.”
• Giải thích: Dùng để nói về điều kiện trong quá khứ ảnh hưởng đến hiện tại

Inversion (đảo ngữ trong câu điều kiện):

• Formula: Had + subject + past participle, would have…
• Ví dụ: “Had I known about these resources earlier, I would have started learning much sooner.”
• Giải thích: Formal alternative cho if-clause, thể hiện sophistication

2. Relative Clauses (Mệnh đề quan hệ):

Non-defining relative clauses:

• Formula: …, which/who/where + clause, …
• Ví dụ: “I joined an online community, which turned out to be incredibly supportive, and learned from experienced practitioners.”
• Giải thích: Cung cấp thông tin bổ sung, tạo câu phức và flowing

Reduced relative clauses:

• Ví dụ: “The challenges faced during online learning actually strengthened my problem-solving skills.”
• Giải thích: Concise hơn, sophisticated hơn so với “challenges that I faced”

3. Passive Voice (Câu bị động):

Impersonal passive (bị động khách quan):

• Formula: It is thought/believed/said/considered that…
• Ví dụ: “It is widely believed that online learning will continue to grow in popularity.”
• Giải thích: Academic style, tránh I think quá nhiều

Passive with modals:

• Ví dụ: “This skill can be acquired through consistent online practice.”
• Giải thích: Formal và objective hơn active voice

4. Cleft Sentences (Câu chẻ):

What-cleft:

• Formula: What + clause + is/was…
• Ví dụ: “What I found most valuable was the sense of community in online learning groups.”
• Giải thích: Nhấn mạnh điểm quan trọng, tạo dramatic effect

It-cleft:

• Formula: It + be + emphasized element + that/who…
• Ví dụ: “It was the flexibility of online learning that attracted me initially.”
• Giải thích: Focus attention vào specific element

5. Participle Clauses (Mệnh đề phân từ):

Present participle:

• Ví dụ: “Having completed several online courses, I felt confident to start my own projects.”
• Giải thích: Shows sequence of events, sophisticated alternative cho after-clause

6. Inversion for Emphasis:

Negative adverbials:

• Ví dụ: “Not only did I learn new skills, but I also gained confidence in my abilities.”
• Formula: Not only + auxiliary + subject + verb, but also…
• Giải thích: Emphatic structure, impressive trong Part 3

Seldom/Rarely at beginning:

• Ví dụ: “Rarely have I encountered such comprehensive online resources.”
• Giải thích: Literary style, shows advanced grammar control

---

Chủ đề “Describe a time when you explored a new interest or hobby online” là một trong những đề tài phổ biến và thực tế nhất trong IELTS Speaking hiện nay. Hy vọng qua bài viết này, bạn đã có cái nhìn toàn diện về cách trả lời hiệu quả cho cả ba Part của bài thi, cùng với vốn từ vựng phong phú và những chiến lược hữu ích.

Điều quan trọng nhất là hãy nhớ rằng giám khảo không chỉ đánh giá khả năng ngôn ngữ của bạn mà còn đánh giá khả năng giao tiếp tự nhiên và trình bày ý tưởng mạch lạc. Đừng cố gắng học thuộc template hay sử dụng từ vựng quá phức tạp mà bạn không tự tin. Thay vào đó, hãy tập trung vào việc phát triển câu trả lời genuine từ trải nghiệm thực tế của bản thân, sử dụng ngôn ngữ phù hợp với band điểm bạn đang hướng tới.

Hãy thực hành thường xuyên, ghi âm và nghe lại câu trả lời của mình, và quan trọng nhất là đừng sợ mắc lỗi trong quá trình học. Chúc bạn tự tin và thành công trong kỳ thi IELTS Speaking sắp tới!