Writing & Speaking Task-Week 1
Writing & Speaking Task-Week 1
A. Writing
I. Task 1:
1. You have been informed about a marketing intern position in an international
company. Write a letter to the hiring manager expressing your interest in the job.
2. You accidentally have just seen a foreign company that is recruiting. Write an
email to the recruiter to express your expectation to work in their country
consisting of the reason you want to work there, English degrees or relevant
certificates, the job which you expect as well as the salary you want to receive in
the future.
Write a letter to tell them about all problems above.
II. Task 2:
1. Many young people change their jobs and careers. What are the reasons for this?
Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
2. Some people say that teenagers should work part-time and earn money. This way
they will learn basic lessons about work and become more disciplined. Others
argue that teenagers shouldn't sacrifice their rest and after-school activities to
work. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
3. The job market today is very competitive and it is best to choose a career or field
of study early in order to get a good job later in life. To what extent do you agree
or disagree?
B. Speaking
Part 1 & Part 3.2
1. What do you do? / What is your job?
2. What responsibilities do you have at work?
3. What do you like / dislike about your job?
4. Why did you choose that job?
5. Are you a hard worker? What motivates you to work?
6. When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
7. If you could do a job for one day to learn what it is like, what would you do?
8. Where is the best place to look for work these days?
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9. What qualities should a good boss have?
10. How many vacation days do workers in your country usually get per year? Is it
enough?
11. How important is it to get along with co-workers? Is it a good idea to socialize
with them outside work?
12. Some companies use a flexible time system and employees can work hours that
suit their lifestyles. What do you think about this?
Part 2: (2mins prepare – 2mins present)
1. Your sister is getting three jobs in three different places: in a government office
near your house, in an international company in HCM city, and in a company in
Singapore. Which job do you think would be the best choice for her?
2. You have just graduated with a degree in English language and now you're finding
a job to practice English. Your friend suggested 3 types of jobs: a telephone
operator, a hotel receptionist and a tourism agent. Which option do you think is
the best choice?
Part 3.1:
1. Workplace stress is caused by a few things.
Poor working conditions.
Too much work.
Bad management.
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Vocabulary
To be called for an interview: to be invited to attend an
interview
Although he has been called for an interview, he hasn’t got a
job yet.
Run your own business/be self-employed: to have your own
business
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It has been my dream is to be my own boss, because I can do
everything in my way If I run my own business.
A nine-to-five job: a normal job that consists of an 8 hour a
day
The idea of doing a nine-to-five job is quite arduous for few
people.
To be stuck behind a desk: to be unhappy in office job
Working full-time in an office can lead to being stuck behind a
desk.
One of the perks of the job: an extra benefit you get from a
job
Extra meal is one of the perks of the job, which make
chooses a job.
Manual work: work that requires physical activities
Many people have manual work that requires them to work in
dangerous environment.
Temporary work: work done for a limited time only
Taxi driver is just my temporary work, I am applying for better
job.
Voluntary work: to work without pay
In my free time, I join in voluntary work to help the society.
To be well paid: to earn a good salary
Working in auditing area will be well paid.
Working conditions: the hours, salary and other entitlements
that comes with the job
Employer should spend more money on improving the working
conditions.
To meet a deadline: to finish a job on time
Last week she was really stress, because she had to work too
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Shift work: a system in which different groups of workers
work somewhere at different times of the day and
night ==> Morning/Night shift
Many industries rely heavily on shift work, and millions of
a year.
Lay off staff: dismiss staff because there is no work for them
to do
My start-up went through a difficult period and had to lay off
staff
Volume of work: workload
Earn a good living
I had a substantial volume of work – private students and
ladder fast
Get the sack: be dismissed (từ này nên dùng trong speaking
hơn vì informal)
I want to take one weeks off from work but I’m afraid of
accepting a job.
Sick leave: permission to stay away from work because of illness or
injury
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Important factors when choosing a job include holiday
entitlement, sick leave and a company pension scheme.
Annual leave: a period of time when you are allowed to be away
from work for a holiday/vacation
Parents often take their annual leave at the same time as the
satisfaction.
be entitled to sth. = be given the right to do sth
The majority of the workers have been entitled to paid
holidays.
a sense of fulfillment= having the opportunity to develop
one’s abilities and interests
Madison found a sense of fulfillment and joy as a teacher.
frustration= the feeling of being upset because you cannot
achieve sth.
All her efforts met with frustration.
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brain drain = a situation in which professionals go to
another country in order to improve their living or working
conditions
This brain drain was caused by highly-skilled people only
heart attack.
work under enormous stress = work under great pressure
Jasmine is very resilient and effective at working under
enormous stress
an employee-friendly environment= an environment that
emphasises the happiness and self-fulfillment of employees
The company will build an employee-friendly environment,
in the workplace.
work long hours for low pay= work many hours a day for
very little money
leisure activities= recreational activities carried out when
someone is free from work or other duties
A wide range of leisure activities is available to students
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work ethic= the belief that hard work is good for developing
one’s moral character
Riley is a perfect example of dedication. We really admire his
work ethic.
flexible arrangement= a plan that can be changed easily
according to the situation
Telecommuting may give employees very flexible work
schedules.
routine work= the things a person does in a fixed order
He found doing the routine work boring.
be well-staffed= have capable staff
A properly designed programme should be well-staffed and
well-managed.
be short-staffed= do not have sufficient members of staff
Now the company is seriously short-staffed because business
is picking up.
have access to= have the right or opportunity to use sth.
In the course of your work you may have access to information
the manager.
conflicts arise= has caused angry disagreemen
Sometimes conflicts arise between older and younger
employees.
stress-induced diseases= diseases caused by great worry
There has been a continuous search for the cure for stress-
induced diseases.
the pace of work= the speed at which someone works
Successful professionals tend to work at a steady pace.
occupational hazard= a risk for people doing a particular job
Every company should have goals to eliminate occupational
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Noise-induced hearing loss is one of the most common
occupational diseases in the UK.
backbreaking tasks / laborious tasks = tasks that are hard
and need a great deal of effort
The toughest part of Katie’ s job is not the
laborious/backbreaking tasks.
manual work / manual labour= physical work
There is a big demand for manual labour in the construction
industry.
mental work= work that involves a great deal of thinking
Many people feel that mental work can be physically
exhausting.
be in charge of sth. = have control over and be responsible
for sth.
Mr. Thompson is in charge of this department.
has an attitude problem= does not take someone’s own job
seriously
Justin has a real attitude problem. In fact, he’s just a slacker
be an indicator of ability= be something that can be
regarded as a sign of ability
Age is not of itself an indicator of ability
work around the clock= work continuously / work non-stop
=work all day and all night
The construction workers worked non-stop to build a new
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Many women complain about the glass ceiling that bars them
from upper management in large corporations
discriminate against sb. = treat sb. unfairly because of their
beliefs, race or other features
In this country, employees are not allowed to discriminate on
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Week 1-VSTEP Topic 2: Travel & Holidays
A. Writing
I. Task 1:
1. You received an email from your English friend, Keith. He is on holiday with his
family. Read part of his email below.
“I have spent a holiday with my family. My father decided to go to the sea; I was
worried that I could not swim. However, I am really interested in this trip.
How about you? How did you spend your holiday? Where? With whom? And are
there any interesting activities?”
Write a letter to answer your friend's questions.
2. Your friend is working at the English center and she is going to travel around the
world, so she is so excited about this trip. However, next month is your birthday,
so do you have any plans? Where is it going to be held? Do you want your friend
to give some gifts for trip, to give some you after her trip?
Write a letter to ask your friend about all your problems.
II. Task 2:
1. It is not necessary to travel to other places to learn the culture of other people. We
can learn just as much from books, films, and the internet. To what extent do you
agree or disagree?
2. The best way to travel is traveling in a group led by a tour guide. To what extent
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1. Do you like travelling?
2. Do you like to travel alone or with your friends?
3. How often do you travel?
4. Have you travelled this year?
5. Why do you like travelling?
6. What are the benefits of travelling?
7. What public holidays do you have in your country?
8. Do you like public holidays
9. Which public holidays do you like the most?
10.What do other people in your country usually do on public holidays
11. Do you think public holidays are important?
12. Do you prefer to travel or stay at home during holiday periods? Why?
13. How have people's travel habits in Vietnam changed over the past few decades?
14. Do you think travel has become more or less accessible for the average
Vietnamese person?
15. Do you think virtual reality technologies will ever replace physical travel?
16. How has technology changed the way people travel and plan their holidays?
Part 2: (2mins prepare – 2mins present)
1. You plan to take a solo trip. Would you travel to a bustling city, a serene
countryside, or a tropical beach?
2. You are thinking about ways to celebrate international women's Day with your
class. There are three options: giving flowers, organizing a class picnic, and having a
party in a Karaoke room. Which would be the best option?
3. You plan to travel abroad. Would you take a trip to China in winter, a trip to
Thailand in summer or a trip to Russia in spring?
Part 3.1:
1. There are important things to consider when choosing a holiday destination.
Appropriate budget
Types of interests
Weather
….
2. Travelling has many benefits.
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Learning opportunity
Relaxation
Relationship building
…
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Vocabulary
Short break: A short holiday – Kỳ nghỉ ngắn ngày
I feel so stressed after a hard – working week that I am certainly going to have
wildlife safari to Africa next week to find out more endangered animals.
2. NOUN – THINGS IN A HOLIDAY
Guided tour: An organised group shown around a place of interest by an expert -
Chuyến đi có hướng dẫn viên du lịch
If you want to travel around Da Nang to enjoy all beautiful landscapes there,
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Choosing to stay in a youth hostel when having a holiday is a saving – cost
option for everyone.
Holiday brochure: a glossy publication with details of holiday packages – Cuốn sách
nhỏ về những kỳ nghỉ
It is very nescessary for tourists to read holiday brochures when they have a
holiday.
3. NOUNS – PLACES/TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS
Places of interest: Sites of interest to tourists – Địa điểm thu hút khách du lịch
Do you know some places of interest in Da Nang? I am going to have a short
each year.
Picturesque village: Very pretty village – Ngôi làng rất đẹp
When we went to Sa Pa to do some volunteer, we saw a picturesque village
foreigners.
Out of season: (adj) Outside of the main holiday period – Trái mùa
We should not go to Ha Giang out of season because there is no breathtaking
landscape of Ha Giang.
Far-off destination: Somewhere a long way away – Điểm đến xa xôi
South Polar is considered as a far – off destination that few visitors want to
come there.
Travel agent: A shop that specialises in booking holidays – Đại lý du lịch
I have just stopped by a travel agent near my office to book a flight to Nha
Trang.
Departure lounge: Where you wait for your flight to be called – Phòng chờ khởi
hành
Sitting in the departure lounge makes me excited about this holiday.
locals.
hordes of tourists: crowds of tourists.
Hordes of tourist can be seen during summer near the city park.
in the middle of nowhere: in a place that is far away from where most people live.
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My grand-mother lives in the middle of nowhere, but she loves her old little
village.
head for: go in a direction for.
I’m heading for France for my next holidays.
all-inclusive: a hotel deal where the price includes accommodation, meals and drinks
at any time.
I’ve never thought that hotels with all-incusive service are so comfortable! You
afternoon.
To try/ sample the local food: Thử các món đặc sản
It is really wonderful to try the local food when we have a holiday in Hoi An.
To go out at night: đi chơi buổi tối
If we go to Ho Chi Minh city, we should spend time going out at night because
that is when there are a range of lively activities for the youth.
To dive: Lặn
My friends are really excellent at diving, so they will teach you to dive when
try.
To waterski: Trượt nước
Have ever you waterskied when you were at primary school?
To laze around on the sandy beach: Nghỉ ngơi, thư giãn bên bãi biển
After my friends and I go shopping in Nha Trang, I will spend all afternoon
holiday.
To dispel the heat of summer: Xua tan cái nắng của mùa hè
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xét ví dụ: Sam Son is an ideal destination of Ha Noi people in order to dispel
the heat of the summer.
To promote tourism image: Quảng bá hình ảnh du lịch
To promote tourism image for foreigners, the government should enhance the
advertisement system.
5. ADJ TOPIC "TRAVEL / TRAVELLING"
1. Exotic
Definition: Attractive or striking because it is unusual or from a distant place.
The couple decided to spend their honeymoon in an exotic location with white
sandy beaches and vibrant culture.
2. Picturesque
Definition: Visually charming or attractive, often like a picture.
The small village nestled in the mountains was truly picturesque, with its
mountains.
7. Serene
Definition: Calm, peaceful, and untroubled.
The serene lake reflected the clear blue sky, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
8. Vibrant
Definition: Full of energy and life; colorful and lively.
The market was vibrant, with stalls selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and
sophisticated.
As a cosmopolitan city, London attracts people from diverse backgrounds,
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2. Explore
Definition: To travel in or through an unfamiliar area in order to learn about it.
The travelers set out to explore the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu.
3. Navigate
Definition: To plan and direct the course of a journey.
With a detailed map, she navigated through the bustling streets of Tokyo.
4. Journey
Definition: To travel a long distance over a period of time.
The couple embarked on a romantic journey across the scenic landscapes of
New Zealand.
5. Roam
Definition: To move around aimlessly or without a fixed destination.
During their gap year, they decided to roam through Southeast Asia,
7. Venture
Definition: To undertake a risky or daring journey.
The intrepid explorers ventured into the uncharted wilderness.
8. Sightsee
Definition: To visit and observe famous or interesting places.
Tourists often spend their days sightseeing in historic cities like Rome.
3. Take off
Definition: The moment when an aircraft leaves the ground.
The plane is scheduled to take off at 3:30 PM.
4. Get in
Definition: To arrive at a destination.
We are expected to get in by midnight.
5. Hold up
Definition: To delay or make someone/something late.
Our flight was held up due to bad weather conditions.
6. Turn up
Definition: To arrive or appear, especially when not expected.
We waited for hours, but he never turned up.
7. Look forward to
Definition: To anticipate or be excited about something in the future.
I'm looking forward to exploring the historical sites during my trip.
8. Get away
Definition: To go on a vacation or take a break.
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We decided to get away for the weekend and relax at the beach.
9. Check out
Definition: To leave a hotel after settling the bill.
We need to check out by noon, but we can leave our bags at the reception.
10.Catch up on
Definition: To do something that one has not had time to do recently.
During the long flight, I plan to catch up on some reading.
waterfall.
3. Take the scenic route:
Definition: To choose a path with beautiful views rather than the shortest or
quickest way.
Instead of taking the highway, we decided to take the scenic route through the
mountains.
4. Go the extra mile:
Definition: To make a special effort beyond what is required.
The tour guide always goes the extra mile to ensure that visitors have an
unforgettable experience.
5. On the right track:
Definition: Moving in the right direction or making progress.
Despite a few setbacks, the project is on the right track to completion.
others.
We're all dealing with the challenges of a new job, so we're in the same boat
travel.
3. Roam the streets:
Definition: To wander or stroll around a place, usually a city or town.
We spent the afternoon roaming the historic streets of the old town, absorbing
its charm.
4. Book accommodation:
Definition: To reserve a place to stay, such as a hotel room or vacation rental.
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It's advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak
tourist seasons.
5. Capture the scenery:
Definition: To take photographs or mentally preserve the beauty of the
surroundings.
I brought my camera to capture the stunning scenery of the mountainous
landscape.
6. Savor local cuisine:
Definition: To enjoy and appreciate the traditional food of a particular region.
One of the highlights of my trip was savoring the local cuisine at a family-run
restaurant.
7. Forge connections:
Definition: To establish and build relationships with people during a journey.
Traveling allows you to forge connections with individuals from diverse
backgrounds.
8. Embassy assistance:
Definition: Help or support provided by one's country's embassy while abroad.
In case of emergencies, it's important to know how to seek embassy assistance
area.
After a busy week of sightseeing, we decided to unwind on the beautiful
2. Efficiently:
Definition: In a way that achieves maximum productivity with minimum
wasted effort.
The new transportation system operates efficiently, reducing travel time for
commuters.
3. Comfortably:
Definition: In a manner that provides physical ease and relaxation.
We traveled comfortably in business class, enjoying spacious seats and
personalized service.
4. Adventurously:
Definition: In a bold and daring manner, seeking excitement and new
experiences.
The couple explored the remote island adventurously, discovering hidden
local atmosphere.
6. Incessantly:
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Definition: Without interruption; constantly.
The rain fell incessantly throughout our journey, creating a soothing
soundtrack for our road trip.
7. Carefully:
Definition: With attention to detail and a focus on avoiding mistakes or
accidents.
The archaeologist excavated the ancient ruins carefully, preserving delicate
artifacts.
8. Spontaneously:
Definition: In an unplanned and impulsive manner.
We decided to take a road trip spontaneously, packing our bags and hitting the
connectivity.
London is known for its well-connected transportation, making it easy for
appreciation of a culture.
Our visit to the local museum provided culturally enriching experiences,
attractions.
The travel agency created time-saving itineraries, ensuring that we could
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Definition: Unconventional and less-explored places away from popular tourist
routes.
We prefer off-the-beaten-path destinations to avoid crowds and discover
hidden gems.
7. Picture-perfect moments:
Definition: Moments that are so beautiful or ideal that they resemble a perfect
photograph.
The sunset at the beach provided us with many picture-perfect moments that
we captured on camera.
8. Adventure-packed journeys:
Definition: Journeys filled with exciting and daring activities.
Our adventure-packed journey through the mountains included hiking, rock
surroundings.
10.Environmentally-friendly accommodations:
Definition: Accommodations that prioritize sustainability and minimize
environmental impact.
We chose environmentally-friendly accommodations with eco-friendly
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