Part 1 Flashcards
1
Q
Study What’s your major?
A
My major in university is Electronics and Telecommunication
2
Q
Study Do you like your major?
A
Yes absolutely, I’m intro on electronics devices because doing work on my major actually get me a sense of job satisfaction and self-worth. I’m also really keen on building software applications for people who use Windows OS.
3
Q
Study Do you think that your country has an effective education system?
A
To be honest, I don’t think so. The reason is that our country education system still based on exams, which only provides students with theoretical knowledge than a practical one.
4
Q
Study Is that a very popular subject to study in your country?
A
Yeah, I suppose it is quite a popular subject to study, and one of the reasons for this would probably be that a lot of students feel that this major will be useful in helping them find a good job after they graduate.
5
Q
Study Is your subject very challenging (or difficult) to study?
A
Yeah, I’d say it is quite challenging, mainly because of the huge workload we get. So, for example, we’re given a considerable amount of coursework to do, which always requires a ton of background reading.
6
Q
Study What do you do when you have difficulty with your studies?
A
I think that learning, especially with some main major subjects when I was students in the University or learning English at this time is extremely difficult. At the beginning, it can be con be very confusing to understand about new notions in some subjects or to remember lists of unfamiliar words and grammar. I guess I normally either ask a course mate for help or go on the Internet to try and solve the problem myself. And if I’m still stuck, then I’ll go and ask my lecturer for help.
7
Q
Study How did you learn science at school?
A
Well, I mainly just went through the textbook and took notes, and took notes, so it was pretty similar to other subjects. Though saying that, we occasionally did some experiments, which were quite fun, but unfortunately those classes were pretty rare
8
Q
Study Why did you choose … as your major?
A
Basically, it was to the fact that my parents thought it was a useful major which would give me a good career after I graduate. Personally, I’m not so sure, but seeing as I couldn’t think of anything better, I went with my parents’ decision.
What’s more important when studying – the student or teacher?
Well, it’s really hard to say, because obviously, both play an important role, but I guess I’d say the student is probably more important because generally speaking, most studying is done out of the classroom – at least that’s the way I see it.
9
Q
Work Do you work or study?
A
I graduated for a few years ago. For the past 4 years, I’ve been working for the QPVN television channel as an engineer
10
Q
Work What is your job?
A
I have worked as a television engineer at QPVN television channel for 4 years. My job relates to configuration devices to make sure they operate well. Moreover, I’ve also operated television bulletin news in the studio every day.
11
Q
Work Where do you work?
A
Well, after I graduated from university, I worked at some companies where I often went on business away from home. At the moment, I’ve been working in Hanoi for 4 years.
12
Q
Work Why did you choose that job?
A
I graduated as a telecommuting engineer at the Military Technology Academy of Viet Nam. Because when I was a student, I learned some subjects on the school relating to television, especially transmission, television techniques, so I have chosen this job in my career.
13
Q
Work What specific things do you do in your job?
A
My major job is: I operate a studio system to broadcast television bulletin news. Other times, I also do some projects to create fresh something demanded from editors or to configure devices.
14
Q
Work What did you like most about the job?
A
I’m really keen on doing this job, which is involving configuration devices Almost all of the time I enjoy this job, however, what I like most about this job is I worked with co-workers as a team. Each individual of us gives ideas and then, we present and protect our own ideas. All of this make sure the audiences get all of the information in the fastest way.
15
Q
Work Would you recommend that job to others?
A
Well, it is hard to say to anyone about that job because the first time when I got this job, actually, it seems boring to me. But I will be very happy if a person or whoever has the same major field like me.
16
Q
Work What did you do on the first day of your job?
A
At that time, after I was led to see co-workers and sort of the seating. I was assigned a lot of manual guides to prepare work
17
Q
Work Do you think this job has a bright future?
A
Yes, I think it has a bright future for several reasons. Television technology has developed dramatically over the past decade. From TV transmission transmits via radio, and then TV cables, next satellite and at the moment is via the Internet. This is the century of information, I am sure that this job has a bright future.
18
Q
Work What do you like about your job?
A
It’s a rewarding job that helps me to support myself and my family. Moreover, the workplace is also amazing and I can learn a lot of working experience from my co-workers
19
Q
Work What do you dislike about your job?
A
I would say the tight deadlines are the things that make me daunting a little bit. In some projects, we need to work hard to meet the deadlines.
20
Q
HOMETOWN Where are you from?
A
I am from Hanoi which is the capital city, located in the northern area of Vietnam.
21
Q
HOMETOWN Do you like your hometown?
A
I’m really into when living in Hanoi. Firstly, because it’s where my relatives and friends live, so I always feel a strong sense of warmth. Also, Hanoi has a lot of tourist attractions where I can come and meet international visitors to improve my English ability.
22
Q
HOMETOWN Do you like living in the city?
A
Yes, I do because I can hang out with my friends at a pavement cafe. Besides, there a variety of lively restaurants where I can visit in order to reduce stress after a hard-working week.
23
Q
HOMETOWN What is it like where you live?
A
I’m living in Hanoi, which is the capital of Vietnam. You can see there are a number of shopping centers there so I can buy anything. Another point is that although traffic congestion is a big challenge in Hanoi, especially during rush hour, the government still maintain good public transport so it is easy to go around.
24
Q
HOMETOWN What’s the weather like in your hometown?
A
The weather in my hometown is pretty nice. We have a mild climate, so it’s never boiling hot in the summer or really cold in the winter.
25
#HOMETOWN What's your favorite season?
Well, I think it's spring. The weather is very pleasant and it's nice to see everything come back to life and blossom.
26
#HOMETOWN Is there any special food in your hometown?
I'd say my hometown is famous for the local cuisine; for example, tourists traveling to my hometown can't skip Pho, which is rice noodle soup with beef.
27
#HOMETOWN Is there any interesting place in your hometown?
There are a lot of historical buildings here which are attracted millions of tourists traveling to here. For example, Hanoi's old quarter is a fascinating area of the city where visitors can buy anything from many sidewalk vendors.
28
#HOMETOWN Would you prefer to live somewhere else? (Why?).
I haven't decided yet. For the moment, I'm quite happy living here. But sometimes, I really want to live in a place with a lower cost of living and a leisurely pace of life.
29
#HOMETOWN Do you think your hometown is a good place for young people? (Why?).
Yes, absolutely. Hanoi is an ideal place for young people because there are a lot of entertainment attractions places which are completely suitable for young. Also, young people can easily get a good job after they graduated.
30
#HOMETOWN Do you prefer to live in a big city or a smaller town?
I prefer to live in a big city because I am still young. When I live in a big city, I will have more chances for me to get a good job, and life is more colorful.
31
#HOMETOWN Are there any changes in your hometown recently?
I think my hometown has changed a lot recently. People come here to settle down and with the recent development of tourism, the city is getting more modern buildings in the center.
32
#HOMETOWN What suggestions would you make to improve your hometown?
recently the development of the economy and tourism has destroyed natural beauty. I think the government should restrict private vehicles like cars and motorbikes and improve public transport systems.
33
#HOMETOWN What kinds of cities do you like?
I'm interested in vibrant cities. If I have to take a pick, New York or Tokyo is my first choice.
34
#ACCOMMODATION Where do young guys usually live in Vietnam, in flats or houses?
The vast majority of young guys in Vietnam live in flats, but it depends on their incomes. If they are terribly posh, they can definitely afford those luxurious houses; but to common people, houses are something they can’t afford.
35
#ACCOMMODATION What are the differences between flats and houses?
There are so many differences between flats and houses. For starters, as far as the definition is concerned, a house is a building that usually has more than one floor and is intended to be used by one family. It normally has a garden, a swimming pool and a garage. A flat is a place for people to live that consists of a set of rooms that are part of a large building. Another difference is that the houses are normally much more expensive than flats, which explains why most people are living in flats rather than houses today.
36
#ACCOMMODATION Which do you prefer: living in a house or living in a flat?
I prefer living in a house rather than living in a flat because living in a house is so much more convenient than living in a flat if you could afford to get a house. Needless to say, living in a house is often more relaxing as I have more space for entertainment such as playing video games, watching TV or listening to music without disturbing other people.
37
#ACCOMMODATION What can you see from the windows of your flats?
My flat is on the 12th floor, which offers me a panoramic view of the whole community: the fountains, statues, trees, flowers and green grass. And when night falls, with all the lights on, the view is breathtaking!
38
#ACCOMMODATION Where are you living at the moment?
well, I’m living in Hanoi capital where is located in the northern part of Viet Nam. I have lived here for almost 30 years now. I’m quite happy to be here, If I have to say, this vibrant city is really on the move with a higher living standard and a lot of entertainment attractions. (you know).
39
#ACCOMMODATION Do many people live in your neighborhood?
I am living on the 12th floor in a flat of an apartment building in Hanoi. There are a lot of people living here. I could say the neighborhood where I’m living is one of these most crowded places in Hanoi.
40
#ACCOMMODATION Do you know your neighbors?
Actually, I know my neighbors quite well. They are so kind and hospitable. I usually talk to them on a regular basis and we really enjoy each other’s company.
41
#ACCOMMODATION What do you think of your neighbors?
Well, they are like my brothers and sisters who keep their eyes on me when I feel under the weather. I also consider them as my friends to confide in and count on when I encounter difficulties in my life and need support.
42
#ACCOMMODATION How often do you see your neighbors?
As I previously said, we see each other every single day when we leave for work in the morning or come back home in the evening. At that time, we always remember greeting or asking each other about our life and work. It’s quite a good fortune for me to live next to them.
43
#ACCOMMODATION Where do you meet your neighbors?
On the weekends, we often gather in the biggest house, hold a party, and gossip about the stories in our daily life together. My neighbors next door have a good sense of humor, so they tell jokes, which makes me burst into laughing every time I talk to them.
44
#ACCOMMODATION What problems do people sometimes have with their neighbors?
I think the most common is probably noise. It’s difficult to live near someone who makes too much noise. At home, people want to take time off after work time. So if I were in these situations, they would drive me crazy.
45
#ACCOMMODATION How long have you been living there?
This is my hometown so I have lived here for almost 30 years. I was born and grew up here. There is a place where I have a lot of memories of my childhood.
46
#ACCOMMODATION What changes would you like to see in this area?
I would like to ameliorate the infrastructure conditions there so that I can avoid being stuck in a traffic jam during the rush hours.
47
#ACCOMMODATION Are you planning to move to another area to live in?
I would like to change cities if I had the change. If I lived in a different city I would have a chance to meet new friends and could try lots of new kinds of food. And also I might be able to find a well-paid job to live there.
48
#ACCOMMODATION Is there anything you don’t like about this city?
Well, one thing that I don’t like when living in Ha Noi is the cost of living in this city. It’s quite difficult to afford. Another one of my least favorite things I have to fight rush hour traffic every day because of the disastrous traffic system which I bet you agree with me at this point.
49
What are you like in your hometown?
I like the hospitality and the love of people there which I hardly find them in other places. Everyone is living close together and willing to give others a hand when they need help.
50
#ACCOMMODATION Please describe your hometown a little?
My hometown is both traditional and modern. On the one hand, tradition is preserved by a number of festivals celebrated by local people, and the locals and authorities preserve historical sites for tourism and education. On the other hand, a whole lot of high-rise buildings as residential places or shopping malls are built, which turns out little hometown into a worth-living place.
51
#ACCOMMODATION Do you live in a house or a flat?
I Live in a house with 4 floors. It consists of 4 bedrooms, 1 kitchen, 4 bathrooms and 1 living room.
52
#ACCOMMODATION Who do you live with?
I live there (a flat) with my parents, my wife and 2 kids – my daughter 4 years old and my little baby son 5 months.
53
#ACCOMMODATION Is it a big place?
Not really. It’s only enough space for my family. My flat has 2 bedrooms, one for us – I and my wife and another one for 2 kids. The kitchen is quite small but it is a part of the open living room.
54
#ACCOMMODATION What is your favorite room?
It’s my reading room. It’s also the room in which I study and work there. It’s quite peaceful and quiet. When I’m in there, my wife knows I’m working, so she leaves me alone and I can concentrate on my work.
55
#ACCOMMODATION How is your apartment decorated?
I don’t like decoration, I guess I’m a minimalist. The walls are all white and the furniture is also basic colors either white or black. I like to keep things quite minimal and I hate clutter.
56
#ACCOMMODATION Is there anything you would like to change about your flat?
I would like to have a big balcony. We have a sort of balcony at the moment, but we mainly use it for washing and drying clothes. It would be really nice to have some tables and chairs on a proper balcony, with maybe a few plants, so we could sit there in the evening and relax.
57
#ACCOMMODATION Do you plan to live there for a long time?
I really like where I live but when my kids get older, I will consider moving to a bigger flat.
58
#number Are you good at remembering numbers?
No, I’m not.
Because I usually forgot others’ phone numbers no matter how many times they repeated them.
I know it may sound a little unusual to you but I often even forgot my own phone number, which was a kind of embarrassing moment for me in front of others
59
#number Do you often use numbers?
No, I don’t.
I understand that numbers play an important role in our lives but I rarely use numbers because my works doesn’t involve the use of numbers.
And plus I think the only occasion I use numbers is when I am shopping at the convenience store to calculate how much money I have to pay.
60
#number Is there any special number you like?
Humm, honestly I don’t know what a specific favorite number I like. But, if I have to choose, I think it’s number 1. The reason is that the number 1 is a symbolization of the success in all fields.
61
#pen When was the last time that you bought a pen or pencil?
Well, it was just yesterday that I used my pencil to write some IELTS essays to help me prepare for the exam. Honestly, I haven’t written anything with a pencil for in recent years except for the test preparation. I found that I needed to use it more when I realized how ugly handwriting was in pencil.
62
#pen Do you usually use a pen or pencil?
To be completely honest with you. I don’t usually use both a pen or pencil.
The reason being that I love using a ballpoint pen to writing everything. I use it nearly every day because it’s very convenient for me to carry and take notes.
63
#pen Which one do you use more often?
Well, I would say pencil because as for pencil, I still use it about 1 or twice times a week whenever I need to write a writing essay preparation. And with pen, I hadn’t use it after I graduated high school.
64
#pen What do you think is someone gives you a pen or a pencil as a gift?
I would feel so grateful! This stationery is my daily necessities when I study, and I enjoy using them very much. If someone sends me a pen or a pencil as a gift, I would say they must be so caring for me.
65
#sweeties Do you like to eat sweeties?
Unlike many others who eat a lot of sweeties. I don’t.
The reason being that it is bad for teeth since it contains more sugar.
And I think, there has been enough research that sugar has been linked to diabetes, obesity and weight gain. It’s not good for our health.
66
#sweeties Do you like sweeties compared with you were a child?
No, I don’t like it anymore.
When I was a child I like sweeties, I ate a lot in celebrating the birthday, festival and others. But when I growing up, I realized that sugar in sweeties is not good for my health.
67
#sweeties Have you ever tried to make sweeties?
To be honest with you. I haven’t tried to make sweeties because I am not good in cooking and I’m in habit of buying sweeties from bakery stores.
68
#sweeties Why people like sweeties?
Honestly, I don’t know the extract reason why people like sweeties but from my view, I am used to love to eat sweeties because of its taste and it makes me happy and boost up positive thinking.
69
#being alone Do you like to be alone?
Yes, I do.
I am a quiet person, who prefers to immerse myself in my own world and not be disturbed by others. By myself, I can do whatever I want at any time as long as it does not affect others. By contrast, with friends, I have to consider their feelings, arrangement, schedules and so on, which is annoying.
70
#being alone What was the last time when you were alone and what did you do then?
Well, let me see.
It was yesterday evening. I had studied within about 3 hours for myself. After finishing a test on the Cambridge IELTS Book and practicing oral English for a little while, I straightly went to bed at about 10 o’clock, so that I would be in my best condition to attend this exam.
71
#being alone Do you usually spend time by yourself?
Yes, I do.
I know it might be great for some people to spend time many activities with their friends or family but for me I spend most of the time by myself because I could have done a lot of work when I’m alone.
For example, yesterday, I had done two writing essay in IELTS and had read a book 7 Habits of highly effective people.
72
#being alone What do you always do when you are alone?
Well, I think it really depends on the things I have to at that time.
If I I’m too busy with homework in IELTS or work at my office. I will spend my time to finish those.
But if I have a leisure time, I often spend reading books and newspaper because it is best way to gain knowledge at my field and open my mind.
73
#scenery Is there any beautiful scenery in your hometown?
Yes, there is. My hometown, Hanoi, has been famous for peony from more than a thousand years ago and the government has invested a large sum of money in promoting it. When it comes to April and the flowers blossom, it would attract millions of tourists to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
74
#scenery How can you try to live in a house with a good view?
Honestly I can’t. It’s hard to afford a house.
| But I believe there will certainly a house with a good view for us as long as we have enough money
75
#scenery Do people like to take photos of beautiful scenery?
Well, I think it really depends on their feel with beautiful scenery.
Some people feel this scenery is beautiful and they want to take photos to keep the memory. But many are not see the beauty of this scenery.
76
#scenery Why do people prefer to use mobile phones to take photos of beautiful scenery?
Well, to be honest with you. I don’t know exactly the reason but in my view, living I the modern era. I have the habit to carry my smartphone with me wherever I go, just like others. So if I see some good views, it is quite easy to take my phone out and take a picture. Besides, with the development of technology, there is no big difference between the pictures it takes and those taken by professional cameras.
77
#history Do you have a field trip to museums to learn history?
To be completed honestly with you. Although it may sound unbelievable to you because I haven’t been any museums before. I only learned history in historical books. I will plan to go some museums to understand history better.
78
#history Do you learn much history at school?
No, I don’t.
I knew many people like history at school when I was a student but with me, historical subject was most boring subject.
Well, I wish I could go back in time so I could learn much and understand it better. That’s really open my mind.
79
#history What was the last time you read a history publication?
Yesterday, I think. I was reading a book called Vietnam war. It helped me gain deeper understanding at history of Vietnam.
80
#cake Do you like dessert?
Yes, I do, especially for breakfast.
Because they are of course delicious compared to the whole-wheat bread. And plus what is more important is that they contain a lot of energy.
81
#cake Do you like eating cakes?
Yes, I do.
I think cakes are the most wonderful thing in the world. The soft smooth cream and spongy bread can bring me a great sense of satisfaction and comfort my sorrow if I am sad. In fact, if it does not have so many calories, I would eat it every day.
82
#cake Have you ever made cakes?
No, I have not. But I did read some instructions about how to make one. I have to admit they are just too complex. All those different ingredients and complicated steps confuse me. Besides, I even lack the basic equipment, the oven.
83
#cake Special cake in your country?
Honestly I don’t know.
It really triggers my curiosity.
But I know some people who are really know special cake in our country. I plan to really get to the bottom of it by asking them after I’m home to really understand what was going on.
84
#Art Do you like art?
Yes. I like art although I’m not an art person.
I would say arts have become more accessible and comprehensible. You now can see arts in almost everywhere. From the art banners to the design of a cell phone, which I think is very cool. Look at your cell phone11 you are using right now. That’s art and that’s how far it has evolved.
85
#Art Have you ever visited an art gallery?
Yes, I have been to the national art gallery, which collects hundreds of marvelous paintings. I know nothing about painting. I can see these paintings are beautiful, but I cannot tell where their excellence lies and why they are collected and exhibited, while others are not.
86
#Art Is there any artwork on the wall in your room?
There is some my self-portrait hanging on the wall in my room. I don’t know if it counts as an artwork.
87
#Laugh Do you like to watch movies or TV shows that make people laugh?
Yes, I do.
The reason being that I always find watching these programs a good way to relax. You know, being attracted by the characters’ funny movement enables me to leave all the annoyance behind and can easily cheer me up when I am depressed.
88
#Laugh Do you usually make your friends laugh?
No, I do not.
Because I am not that kind of guy who always does funny things or tells funny words. They are the center of crowds and seem to have a good relationship with everyone. I want to be one of them, but I simply lack the talent. Even the funniest jokes will lose their amusement when they are told by me.
89
#Laugh Are you the kind of person who makes people laugh?
No, I am not.
Because I am the guy who would sit behind and listen to others’ talk. Unless it is necessary, I would not speak up or do anything to draw people’s attention. As a result, I am rarely noticed, not to mention to make others laugh.
90
#Laugh Do you think it is important to laugh with friends?
No, I do not think so.
Because It would be good if we all find something funny and laugh out, but I do not think this is essential or significant for a friendship. After all, it is quite common for people to have different interests and thus it is OK if your friends are laughing while you remain silent.
91
#Water sport Have you done water sports?
Yes, I have.
Ever since I was 10 years old, I have been playing in the pool and learned how to swim. Now, I still go swimming every 2 or 3 days. It is more like a leisure activity for me.
92
#Water sport What water sports do you like doing?
Since I only know how to swim, it seems that I do not have a choice. Swimming is different from football or basketball. I do not need to communicate and cooperate with others. In the water, I can immerse myself in my own world and will not be disturbed, enjoying the precious moment of peace in this bustling world.
93
#Park Are water sports popular in Viet Nam?
Yes, I think so. Swimming is quite popular, especially in summer. You can see the swimming pool is crowded with children, adults, and senior citizens. Some of them are still beginners, while others are quite proficient at this sport. However, besides swimming, I rarely see other water sports in Vietnam, at least in my hometown.
94
#Park What do people often do in the park?
Well, it really depends on the person.
Some people prefer skiing activities at most parks that have lakes. But others prefer running in the morning or during the evening to keep fit because parks usually have better air quality.
95
#Park Do you prefer natural parks or amusement parks?
I prefer amusement parks over natural parks. Because I think it’s probably because I enjoy the creational activities in the amusement parks quite a lot, for example, the roller coaster, which really brings me fun and excitement.
Well, the natural parks only allow me to see the natural sceneries such as the green trees which are good to the eyes but they are not my cup of tea.
96
#Park Do you think people like going to parks?
Well, I think it really depends on the person.
Some people prefer going to parks. They really want to have a place to relax with their family or friends. But others prefer going to shopping centers or recreational attraction to unwind, some people like me prefer stay at home.
97
#Park Do you often go to a park?
No, I don’t go the park often.
I have lots of assignments to do during the weekends and the weekdays. So, I got very limited chances of being there. I remember the last time I went to a park was actually two months ago with my parents.
98
#Running Do you like running?
Yes, I do, but not too much.
Because running is not bad. It is just not that interesting. So I only do it when I do not have other choices.
I prefer sports that involve more confrontations, like badminton or football, where I can feel the joy of victory and depression of being defeated.
99
#Running Do you think running is a good way to stay healthy?
Yes, I do.
Running can not only help us lose weight, but also strengthens our heart and lungs. What’s more important is that unlike football or basketball, which are quite intensive, running almost suits everyone.
If you are weak, jogging would be the best option. But ff you are strong, you can speed up and challenge your own record.
100
#Running Where do you usually go running?
There is a huge park near my home and I normally run in it. Its narrow, winding path is not as comfortable as those professional plastic tracks. But the beautiful sceneries are enough to compensate. Various flowers, trees, and bushes have been planted along the path, turning running into a sight-seeing tour.
101
#Running How often do you go for a run?
Once a week, or even less I think. Like I have said before, I run only when I cannot find friends to do other sports. And this hardly happens.
102
#Science class Do you think science classes are important?
Yes, I think so.
Science classes help children learn about the principles behind various natural phenomenons to satisfy their curiosity, foster their interest in scientific subjects to lay the foundation for further study. They are basically the first step towards becoming a scientist.
103
#Science class Did you have a science class in primary school or high school?
Yes, I had one back in primary school.
It introduced some principles behind every day phenomenons, like why we see the lightning before hearing the thunder and why the dog’s sense of smell is more sensitive than humans. These are pretty simple from today’s perspective, but they did arouse my interest in science.
104
#Science class Do you like science class?
Yes, I do. it can greatly satisfy my curiosity. But what is more important is that this kind of class often involves experiments, where I can operate various equipment and add a range of ingredients to create some wonders. When I succeed, I can feel a great sense of satisfaction.
105
#Science class What kind of science did you do at school
I would say a lot of subjects.
Although I understand that some other subjects are important as well but for me I love learned physics, chemistry, biology and geography in high school.
106
#Haircut What is your favorite hairstyle?
I’m quite into my current undercut hairstyle, as it particularly fits my face. It not only makes me look more youthful but also elegant.
107
#Haircut Have you ever had an unhappy haircut experience?
Yes, I have. It actually happened last weekend. I went to the barbershop and have my hair cut. I told the barber exactly what I wanted my hairstyle to be. But, it just came out quite different than I what I pictured. I felt quite annoyed at that time.
108
#Haircut How long have you had your current haircut?
It’s been a week. I just went to the barbershop last Saturday. My hair grows fast. You know, even it’s been only 7 days, I can notice there’s a growth of my sideburns and bangs.
109
#Haircut How often do you have a haircut?
Normally, I’ll have my hair cut once a month because I feel that it’s the most cost-effective way and I don’t have to worry about my personal image being ruined by my long hair. But, if there‘re some special events such as a birthday party or a formal meeting, then I would have a haircut a week earlier.
110
#Haircut Do you like having your hair cut?
Yes, I do. The reason why I love it is that every time I have my hair cut, I will have a new look, which is refreshing to others. I love to bring good mood to them. Also, I find it always easier to wash my hair after trimming. So, I’m pretty into it.
111
#Makeup Do you often wear makeup?
I know of very few men wear makeup. Most men never wear makeup including me. In my opinion, makeup products have a lot of chemicals which are not good for our skin. Moreover, applying and removing makeup costs a huge amount of time
112
#Makeup What does wearing makeup mean to you?
I think this is a way for people to look younger, more beautiful and to conceal defects. It is not wrong since it can help us become more confident. But I’m not a fan of it because when people use makeup too much, they tend to be over-reliant on it and ignore the consequences it may bring, such as the insecurity of showing our bare skin or letting people see you without makeup.
113
#Makeup Do you give makeup as gifts?
Not at all, unless the person requests or asks me to have cosmetics as a gift. If not, I don’t buy one as a present as I’m afraid that the person whom I would give that kind of present may not like or use it. I don’t want to waste money – buying something for nothing.
114
#Makeup What do you think when you see a man wearing makeup?
I don’t mind at all, it has become a trend these days. I think in pop culture, men look attractive wearing make-up as they have the image of a rockstar, punk, or an idol like those K-pop artists. I also think that it’s a form of art, if wearing make-up makes them feel good about themselves, so be it! I’m sure that, it doesn’t make them less of a man.
115
#Patience Are you a patient person?
I think patience is a situational quality. There are certain circumstances under which I am patient and other circumstances under which I am impatient. But in general I find myself a person of patience. Somewhat I have the ability to keep calm when dealing with disappointment, distress or suffering.
116
#Patience Do you like waiting?
Well, actually I don’t like waiting. When I was young, I usually jumped from thought to thought when having several tasks in my head. At the present time. I’m more mindful of my own thoughts. I slow down myself and focus on one task at a time.
117
#Patience Were you less or more patient when you were angry?
I think I am less patient when I am angry. I remember there was a time that I completely lost my temper when I had a disagreement with my friend on a decision making. At that moment, I was so impatient that I was not listening to any words my friend had told me.
118
#Patience How do you feel when other people are not patient?
I feel impatient as well because they are not listening to what I am saying but neither do I. That’s a horrible thing that I least expect to see. It would be quite time-consuming to cope with the issue happened between us.
119
#Jean Do you wear Jeans?
Yes, I do. I wear them. Actually, I only have three pair of trousers that I wear often. But, you know what, three of them are jeans. I felt they are pretty durable.
120
#Jean How often do you wear jeans?
I wear them quite often. I’d say every time when I go out, jeans would be my first choice. The reason is simply because I feel jeans are fashionable and also comfortable.
121
#Jean Do you like wearing jeans? Why?
Yes, they are my favorite. The reason why I love jeans is that I feel that they are the most trendy kind of trousers, which somewhat makes me feel confident among my friends. Also, they are very durable. I don’t have to worry that it will be worn out easily
122
#Jean Why do you think jeans are popular?
Well, I guess the main reason why jeans are favored by most people is that they are really durable, which is cost-effective for most consumers. Also, it seems that jeans generally have good styles. You know, people of all walks find them suitable to wear on most occasions.
123
#Walking Where do you usually take a walk?
I usually have a walk in a public park near the place I live in. It’s a large park where there are lots of green plants which are healthy for our eyes, and some facilities for recreational activities. So, I usually take a walk in that park with my family after dinner to loosen up. This has already been one of our daily routines.
124
#Walking Do you think people will walk more or not in the future?
Well, I feel that people will walk less in the future. You know, nowadays, it’s become easier and easier for families to own a vehicle or get access to public transportation like the subway or the bus. So, people would rather take these transportation tools to commute than having a time-consuming walk.
125
#Walking Do you walk more often than in the past?
Yes, I do. In the past, I was living far away from the city center where my office was located. So, I have to take a bus and an individual vehicle to commute every weekday. But now, our family have moved to a place that is pretty near to our company. So, I’ve got more time to walk than taking any transportations.
126
#Walking Do you walk a lot?
No, I don’t. Even though my company is pretty near to my home, it normally takes me just 15 minutes to walk there. So, I actually don’t have much time to walk. But, I hope in the future I could walk more because it’s really a good way to keep fit.
127
#Walking Would you say that your city is good place for walking?
No definitely note. There can hardly be enough space for citizens to enjoy walking. When the rush hours, you can see the road is the crowded traffic. The only place that is suitable for walk is at the parks which are rare in my country.
128
#Concentration When do you need to be focused?
In my case, when I’m deep in reading or listening activity or try to remember something. I’m often super focused. For instance, when I’m listening attentively to an Ielts listening test, I have to concentrate every detail of the conversation to get the gist of the talk.
129
#Concentration Why do you need to be focused?
I believe when we are concentrated, we can get more work done. Furthermore, focus is one of the key factors leading to productivity and effectiveness. When I am focus, I can get up to 90% in my tests, while the maximum I can achieve with distraction is only about 60%.
130
#Concentration What do you need to be focused?
Well, first, I need to be in good physical condition. You know, I couldn’t make the most of my energy to concentrate on something without having a good sleep. Also, to keep focused, I have to learn to develop my personal motivation. I cannot focus on something I don’t have an interest in.
131
#Concentration What may distract you when you are trying to stay focused?
There are a lot of distractions that can drive us away from our focus such as the noise from the surrounding; the wandering thoughts inside our heads or the disturbance of people and alerts from your devices.
132
#Concentration What do you do to help you concentrate?
Normally, if something is about to distract me, I would just focus on the work I am having and try to stop thinking about anything unrelated to my work. I find this extremely effective. You know, sometimes it’s just the curiosity that distracts us. So, trying to let go would save me.
133
#Concentration Is it difficult for you to stay focused on something?
Yes, it is. It takes much patience to keep focused on something. I remember there’s a history class that I was taking that made me feel extremely painful. Our teacher was speaking in a monotone, and there were some car horns coming in from the street near our building. I just felt so difficult to simmer down and hardly listened to my teacher’s lecture.
134
#Outdoor Do you prefer to be indoors or outdoors?
Hum. It depends, if there I have a lot of leisure time, I'd love to be outside to take part in various outdoor activities. However, sometimes I prefer enjoying my hobbies such as watching movies, reading books and surfing the internet.
135
#Outdoor Did you like to go outside when you were young?
Well, when I was young, I'd say I spent most of my spare time in outdoor activities. I experienced a variety of activities such as fish, kite flying, hide and seek, biking, running and so on.
136
#Outdoor How often do you go outside every week?
Well, maybe 2 or 3 times a month. I spend a bit of time traveling to work, but most of the time on weekdays I stay at home or my office. I often go outside on the weekends for shopping.
137
#Outdoor Do you spend enough time doing outdoor activities?
I could say it's not enough, you know. I have to work during the daytime at the office, Also, I have the IELTS exam to prepare for, so I've stayed at home in the nighttime for studying. So I don't have enough time to take part in outdoor activities.
138
#Outdoor What kind of outdoor activity do you often?
I usually go walking and sometimes play football in the park during my spare time. I think walking is good for my health and can get me close to nature, and playing football is good for me to keep, relax and unwind after a whole day's work or study.
139
#Outdoor What're the advantages of outdoor activities?
Well, there are a lot of benefits to outdoor activities. Some people play outdoor sports such as football, tennis, basketball to lose weight, or to get healthy. Others prefer to do exercise, yoga, aerobics to improve the flexibility or to stay in shape. Or avoiding sickness or diseases.
140
#Outdoor Is it important for children to play outdoors?
Yes, absolutely. Outdoor activities are good for children. They could help children develop their physique and can also teach them to keep a healthy lifestyle. Nowadays, children often study a lot, so playing outdoors helps them could work more effectively.
141
#Outdoor How should children balance outdoor activities and indoor activities?
I think parents should help their children by making plans every week. They should set some time for indoor and outdoor activities. For example, they could register outdoor activity clubs such as football, hiking clubs for children.
142
#Voice Has your voice ever changed?
Yes, I think so. Just like others, my voice has experienced a natural change during the process of growing up. I mean, when I get older, it has become more mature and less piercing than before. When I call somebody, he or she can immediately recognize that I am a grown-up instead of a child.
143
#Voice Do you enjoy recording your voice and listening to it?
No, I have never done that. Actually, I think it is a bit weird. I am not a singer or an orator, who lives on his or her voice and thus has the need to check it constantly in order to perfect it or see if anything goes wrong. As a normal person, I simply do not care so much about how I sound.
144
#Voice Do you like your own voice?
I have never thought about this question. For me, voice is a quality that I was born with and I accept it just like I accept my arms and legs. It is a part of who I am. Like it or not, I still need to live with it. So, I think my attitude towards it is neutral.
145
#Voice Does your voice sound similar to your parents?
I do not think so. We actually sound quite different. As a boy who has gone through the puberty, my voice cracks compared to my mother’s. In terms of my father, he is much older than me. The muscle of his vocal cords has loosened up, which makes his voice sounds a little thicker than me.
146
#Friends What do you think makes good friends?
Well, there are many factors. But I believe the most important one should be sharing some common interest or goals. Only under this condition would strangers have the aspiration to learn about each other, have fun with each other or fight together. During this process, their bond would be enhanced and friendship would be strengthened.
147
#Friends Do you keep in contact with friends from your childhood?
I am afraid not. I had two or three best friends back in primary school. We used to go to school together, have meals together, and play together. But, we then went to different secondary schools and met new friends. Gradually we drifted apart. In fact, although I know they are living in the same city, I never contact them.
148
#Friends What kinds of people do you like to make friends with?
I love to make friends with forthright individuals who always talk bluntly, so that when I do something wrong or inappropriate, they can tell me straight away, rather than hiding their discontent or talking about it behind me. It is really annoying.
149
#Friends Do you think you are a good friend to others?
Although it would be a little arrogant to say this, I believe I am an excellent friend to others. When they encounter some difficulties and need help, I am always there, day and night. I have lent them money, given them consolation when they broke up with their girlfriends, and celebrated their achievements. I did everything a good friend should do.
150
#Friends How can be a good friend to others?
A good friend must be supportive, loyal, trustworthy. Whenever you need him, he will be there. He can share happiness and sorrow with you.
151
#Friends What are the qualities you value in your best friend?
Honesty and faith, I think are the most important. We needn’t agree on everything, but we can trust each other totally.
152
#Friends How do you do make new friends?
I have many friends who used to be my classmates and who are my colleagues now. It is also easy to make friends online or during a trip. I got many foreign friends when I traveled.
153
#Friends Have you made any friends on the Internet?
Yes, I’m keen on surfing the Internet, especially chatting with others on Facebook. I have made some friends via the Internet. We often discuss something we are both interested in, like movies, playing online video game.
154
#Movies Which movies do you like?
Oh, I’m quite keen on an American movie named Forrest Gump. I know it’s a pretty old one. But, I benefit a lot from the main character who showed his strong resilience and passion towards what he wanted. His story in the movie motivates me in both my studies and my daily life.
155
#Movies Do your friends like this movie?
Yes, they do. They are quite into this movie. I remember it was the time when I invited them to watch this movie together at my house. They all felt that the movie brought them positive energy that helped them develop their own agency towards their own life goals.
156
#Movies Do you want to be a movie star?
No, I don’t. The reason why I hate to become a movie star is that being a well-known person means I would lose my privacy. You know, the paparazzi will do whatever they can to have a peek of my private life, which is kind of creepy. Also, being a movie star means you will have a heavier workload. That’s something I can’t stand with.
157
#Movies What kind of movies do you think young people like?
It’s hard to say. But, to my knowledge, it seems that all youngsters are keen on comedies. These movies help reduce their stress from their work or studies by making them laugh. Also, I feel that they enjoy live-action movies which resonate their own lives and make them think deeper about their daily matters.
158
#Rubbish/ garbage Why do some people litter?
I think because they are lazy, they lack of environmental protection awareness. They might have not known about the consequences of their behaviours and the pollution that people all over the world are bearing.
159
#Rubbish/ garbage What do you do with garbage when you are on the street?
I would either put it in the bin or put it in my bag. You know in Singapore you can get 10.000 dollars fine for littering in public areas.
160
#Rubbish/ garbage How do you feel when you see people throw garbage on the street?
I could definitely classify them as uneducated. I could remind them about the importance of keeping the street clean, and guide them to put their trash in the right place.
161
#Rubbish/ garbage Do you pick up litter when you see it on the road?
Yes definitely, I'm in the habit of picking up the trash while walking on the street. I just want our local environment to look clean.
162
#Rubbish/ garbage Do you think your city is clean or not?
To be honest, I think my city is not clean, and in fact, it is one of the most polluted cities in the world. The air quality is seriously low, and the trash is frequently seen on the street.
163
#Perfume Do you use perfume?
Well, I have a perfume at home, but I don't really use. Although wearing perfume can lift people's mood or appeal to the opposite sex, but I see no need at this time. So I guess people like or love at sight rather than from smell.
164
#Perfume How do you feel by using perfume?
I have perfume intolerance, my nose is quite sensitive to fragrances that every time I smell some perfume, especially if it's a strong one, I might be got headaches and stuffy nose.
165
#Perfume What kind of perfume do you like?
Although I don't wear perfume, as I consider it as an accessory of females. I I know that perfumes have a variety of scent such as flowery, fruity or sweet sugary. If I could choose, I prefer scents that are fairly neutral.
166
#Perfume Are you willing to spend money on perfume?
I have no intention to spend money on perfumes for myself because perfumes are not my taste. But I'm could afford to pick perfumes as gifts on occasions like valentine or Mother’s Day.
167
#Social networking website/ apps Do you often use social networking sites?
Yes, I use every day. I often use when I wake up and surfing on Facebook or Instagram to keep up-to-date information from my friends or relatives.
168
#Social networking website/ apps Why do you use social networking apps?
For me, I make use of social networks often for entertainment and educational purposes at the same time. Facebook, for example, makes me laugh with funny images, videos, and comments. In addition, I am in a lot of studying groups which are related to English. This is where I can get English materials, learning or sharing experience in studying English from teachers or friends.
169
#Social networking website/ apps Do social networking sites have disadvantages?
As far as I’m concerned, the negative aspect of social networks is that they easily addiction, especially those young generations. They just glue their eyes to social networking sites, without paying attention to the priorities in their life such as studying or doing exercise …
170
#Social networking website/ apps Will you use these sites more in the future?
Certainly, no. I found myself quite addicted to entertaining content and neglect my work for 2 years ago, I made a change and made less use of online networking sites, I limited the time that I spent on social networking sites, less than 1 hour. And I think in the future, I will continue doing it.
171
#Social networking website/ apps Do you think it is good to make friends online?
I think it’s good. Because of the popularity of social communication platforms, we could easily make friends online. We can learn about others more faster online since people are generally more comfortable and find easier to express their opinions. Moreover, We need to be careful when we make friends online.
172
#Social networking website/ apps Do you think it is possible to be friends with someone if you never meet them in person?
Yes, it’s possible. I know that making friends online will be difficult to do because friendship itself is all about trust and sharing. So it takes time to trust each other.
173
#Mathematics Do you think math is important?
Yes, it’s important because math forms the foundation of many other sciences. We couldn’t develop further a lot of science fields if we don’t have math.
174
#Mathematics When do kids in Vietnam start to learn math?
in grade 1 of the primary school, they start to familiarize themselves with the multiplication table, and the methods to solve basic calculations.
175
#Mathematics Are girls generally good at math?
As far as I know, girls tend no to be good at mathematics as they don’t seem to have a good with numbers. I think they’re good more at social sciences and humanities.
176
#Mathematics When did you start learning math?
As I said, math is a subject which is taught beginning in grade 1 in primary school, so every child has to learn this subject, including me.
177
#Mathematics Do you like math?
Frankly speaking, since I was a boy, I was not keen on learning Math because I found it complicated. But I still got good marks in this subject.
178
#Mathematics Is it difficult to learn math well?
Yes, it’s not easy to know of mathematical theory. If you want to have a firm grasp of this subject, you have to use the brainpower and figure out the correct steps to the final solution
179
#Mathematics Do you like to use a calculator?
I’m really into using a calculator because a calculator is especially useful in working out a math problem that involves big data. If students calculate the numbers manually, it may take long a half hour.
180
#Mathematics What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a calculator?
The benefits of using a calculator are it saves your time a lot, it will allow you to calculate numbers more quickly without having to think much and focusing more than finding out the final result. However, the drawback of over-reliance on the calculator is that students may forget to perform simple calculations formulas. So if children want to be sharp in their calculation, they should less rely on calculators for simple calculations.
181
#Mathematics What methods can be applied to make math class more interesting?
In my opinion, I’d strongly recommend that teachers relate the math lessons to real-life issues. For example, with kids, teachers should give the homework which consists of more real-life problems, less on theoretical knowledge such as calculating numbers when going shopping in the market.
182
#Mathematics How do schools teach math in Vietnam?
It’s quite boring when learning math in Vietnam. Teachers often focus more on theoretical knowledge rather than prioritizing aspects of the subjects. Most Vietnamese people are weak when it comes to applying the knowledge obtained from maths into real-life issues.
183
#BORROWING Have you borrowed books from others?
Yes, I have. I have some friends who are bookworms, so I'm in the habit of borrowing some books such as comic books from them to read during my days off.
184
#BORROWING Have you ever borrowed money from others?
Yes. I have. Sometimes I was short of cash and often asked my friends to lend me small sums of money, but I will give back money in a few days.
185
#BORROWING Do you like to lend things to others?
No, I don’t really like it. I could lend less to you some less valuable things such as books, pens, a small money. If my friends were in difficult situations, I could lend a helping hand to help them with my time to deal with the problems on their own. I’ll try to do this way.
186
#BORROWING How do you feel when people don’t return things, they borrowed from you?
For me, it’s disappointing when my friends won’t return what they borrow from me. I could remind them that they borrowed from me somethings, and they have to be conscious of the duty to pay things back.
187
#BORROWING Do people feel embarrassed when they request things back from friends?
I don’t know their feeling but from my personal aspect, I have a bit embarrassed when ask things back from my friends. It’s natural because I don’t want to undermine the relationship we are having and requesting stuff back can hurt other’s self-respect.
188
#PHOTOS Do you like to take photographs?
Although I’m not a big fan of photography, I do enjoy taking beautiful pictures in my spare time. Whenever I travel to a new place, I always take my camera with me to capture stunning natural scenery.
189
#PHOTOS Do you prefer to take photos using a camera or a mobile phone?
I would say a mobile phone is better. The reason is that the mobile phone is much more portable, convenient than a camera. I could take photos within few seconds. In addition, it’s cheaper than a camera.
190
#PHOTOS Do you share your photos with other people on the Internet?
Many people do, but I don’t. I prefer to keep those memories to myself rather than share them with others, especially people on the Internet that I don’t know to avoid online dangers sometimes.
191
#PHOTOS Do you prefer to take pictures of people or of scenery?
I think I’m gonna go for taking scenery photos. I can’t really make the person in my photo become lively as I do with the scenery. Besides, looking at the beauty of nature and capturing it is a good way to unwind.
192
#PHOTOS Do you prefer to take photos of yourself or to have other people take your photos?
Honestly, I’m not interested in taking photos for myself, and also I am not comfortable when I stand in front of somebody’s camera and take a photo of myself.
193
#PHOTOS How did you become interested in photography?
I quite like photography for scenery. When I was a student, I saw many stunning landscape pictures in magazines. I tried to afford a camera and learn how to make beautiful pictures, and shared them with others. From positives feedbacks, I became more interested in photography.
194
#PHOTOS In what situations do you take photographs?
Normally, I’ll probably go with the scenery to take photos because I really enjoy the marvelous natural scenery such as the seashore, sunset, sunshine. Sometimes I take photographs to capture the precious moment in my life such as the graduation ceremony, the sweet moment with my friends and family.
195
#PHOTOS Do you prefer to send postcards to people or to send photos that you took yourself?
Well, if have to choose between the two, I’ll probably go with my own photos because they are unique and seeing a lot of comments from my friends is really a pleasant thing. Meanwhile, postcards are not as meaningful as photos taken by me.
196
#STARSWho is your favorite movie star?
Well, My favorite actress is Angelina Jolie. She is a very versatile actress because she is strong and beautiful. So she can plan in action movies and romantic movies. She is also a philanthropist.
197
#STARSAre international superstars popular in your country?
Yes, I gotta say many youngsters in Vietnam are crazy about Korean stars, especially beautiful boy bands like BTS. I guess the reason behind can be their graceful dances and their superb outward appearance.
198
#STARSHave you ever met a celebrity/ superstar in real life?
Yes, I have. I once bumped into Angela Baby who is a very popular Vietnamese movie actress. I remember I was waiting for my flight at the airport. She was wearing a black trench coat walking beside me.
199
#STARS Do you want to be a superstar?
No, I don’t want to. Being a superstar means my private life would be deprived of. In addition, I have to be careful about the words and actions because I don’t want my fans would do crazy things because of me.
200
#LANGUAGES Will you learn other languages in the future?
Probably, I will. Recently, I am quite into Korean pop songs and bands. So, I wish I could learn some Korean to get to more information about Korean pop culture.
201
#LANGUAGES Do you think it is difficult to learn a new language?
Yes, I do. I think learning a new language takes much effort to grasp its grammatical structure and pronunciation. I remember, while I was learning the pronunciation of the English alphabets, I often confused them with Vietnamese alphabets. It took me almost a month pronounce them correctly.
202
#LANGUAGES What language can you speak?
Currently, I can speak two languages, which are Vietnamese and English. Vietnamese is my mother tongue, I’ve been using it since I was a kid. English is a foreign language for me, and I started to learn it probably while I was in grade 6 of the elementary school.
203
#LANGUAGES Why do you learn English?
Well, honestly, it’s a compulsory course at my school. So, I had no choice. But, another reason why I learn English is that English is the most widely spoken language on the planet, which would enable me to get to know more about this world.
204
#LANGUAGES How long have you been learning English?
I’ve been learning for quite a while, probably something like 10 to 15 years, because most students here start learning English from a pretty early age.
205
#LANGUAGES What do you think is the fastest way to learn a language?
Well, I guess I’d say probably the fastest way is to immerse yourself in the language you’re trying to learn. And one of the best ways of doing this would be to go and stay for a while in the country where the language is spoken.
206
#Animal/ Pets Have you ever kept pets?
Our family had a dog and a cat when I was in the primary and middle school. I could still remember the moment that they were fighting and playing together, which was really touching me. They were always fun makers in our family.
207
#Animal/ Pets Do you like to go to the zoo?
No, I do not. The sanitary condition in the zoo is normally unsatisfactory. You can smell the stink from the animals and where they live even when you just set your foot in the area. It can cause quite unpleasant feelings. Moreover, the animals in the zoo are quite lazy. They are pretty used to the gaze of the tourists and barely move.
208
#Animal/ Pets Have you ever seen any wild animals before?
As a person who was born in the city, grew up in the city and still lives in the city, I have never seen any wild animals in my life. I guess the bustling city life may scare them off and the expansion of the city has taken up their habitat, driving them out into those inhabitable areas, where I have never been.
209
#Animal/ Pets What wild animal do you like most?
My favorite wild animal is the arctic fox, also known as the snow fox, because of their snowy fur. I have once seen a video introducing how this kind of creature hunt. It first tracked the trace on the snow and when it found something, it jumped high, dived into the snow with its head down and caught the prey. It is a beautiful, cute predator.
210
#Animal/ Pets Why do some people keep pets at home?
I don’t know what others think, probably same like me. You know, our life pace is getting faster and faster and keeping a pet can make our life not that boring. That’s, I guess, the main reason why some people like to have a pet at home.
211
#Animal/ Pets Do you like to see animals in the zoo?
Well, I love to see some wild animals or some that can not be seen very often in my living area. I remember there was a time that I saw some elephants and tigers in a zoo in Hanoi. That was actually the first time that I touched a tiger in my life.
212
#Animal/ Pets What kind of animals do people have in their home?
Well, I think small four footed animals like dogs and cats are preferred and popular as pets at homes. Sometimes people also pick rabbits or fancy rats as their pet animals. Further, some of the people prefer birds as their pets too.
213
#Countryside Have you ever lived in the countryside?
Yes, I have. I spent my whole childhood in the countryside with my grandma. Back then, my parents were both occupied with their work, which left them little energy to take good care of me. So they sent me to my grandma living in the countryside and asked her to look after me. In fact, I did not return to the city until I went to primary school.
214
#Countryside Do you enjoy living in the countryside?
When I was a child, I did love living there. There were so many wonderful things, such as various livestock, crop fields, huge trees, the fresh air, and the clear sky. But now, I find life in the countryside is a little inconvenient. I have to drive a long way to reach the supermarket and the infrastructures are not well-developed.
215
#Countryside Will you live in the countryside in the future?
There is a chance. Maybe one day, I will be fed up with the city, get tired of the fast-pace life and bustling crowds everywhere. Then I would go to the peaceful countryside, buy a small house, and grow some food by myself. Hopefully, I can still gain access to high-speed internet and the convenient online shopping by then.
216
#Countryside What do you usually do in the countryside?
Basically, getting close to nature. I would help my grandma with some farm work, you know, plowing, watering, and harvesting. I would also pick some home-grown vegetables to cook dinner. It is a good way to get rid of my busy schedule and relax.
217
#Teacher What kinds of teachers do you like best?
I love those teachers who can patiently explain the things that I can’t comprehend. Because I always felt unconfident when I misunderstood something. So a good teacher to need can help me out in this trouble.
218
#Teacher Who was your favorite teacher when you were young?
When I was young, I especially loved teachers who were very funny or humorous. It’s not the knowledge they passed me that made me feel the subject they taught is interesting but you know it’s the personality that stimulated my interest for my study.
219
#Teacher Would you want to be a teacher in the future?
No, honestly speaking, I don’t want to become a teacher. Because my mother is a teacher who has a lot of teaching to do. You know to become a teacher means to undertake a lot of responsibilities for a number of students and plus the pressure goes on especially you want to help every student get improvement.
220
#Teacher Have you ever had bad teachers before?
I once have had an experience of meeting a bad teacher who was teaching me P.E course. It’s not the knowledge that made me feel unprofessional but because of his personality and behavior. You know sometimes he even smashed someone who didn’t have something wrong.
221
#Teacher What’s the difference between young and old teachers?
There’s probably not all that much difference actually, but I guess the main one would be the level of experience. I think it’s fair to say that old teachers tend to have more experience than young ones
222
#Time management Are you good at organizing time?
I'm quite proud of my time-controlling ability. I’ve been using two ways to use time effectively, which are Pomodoro and making a to-do-list. I use them as frequently as possible and find them very effective.
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#Time management It is important to be punctual?
There is no doubt about it. Being on time is one of the most basic manners showing that you are the man of your words and can be relied on.
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#Time management How do you feel when others are late?
I think it really depends on whether there is a good reason for it or not. For example, I would feel very annoyed if someone came late just because they oversleep or forget about it. However, in some situations, if there is an objective reason like getting stuck in a traffic jam. I think it can be acceptable.
225
#Time management Are you, yourself, late very often?
Well, I can be late sometimes. But of course, with a good reason for it. I mean, for example, in some situations like getting stuck in a traffic jam or having an illness.
226
#Time management How often do you check your time?
Oh, I do it frequently. I usually have to check the time to ensure that I am on schedule.
227
#Time management What do you do when you wait?
Waiting time is really not my cup of tea, so I always try to find interesting things to kill the time like surfing Facebook, talking on the phone.
228
#Time management What do you think some people pay to learn time management?
I guess for some people, it's important. You know, for time, time is money and if they don't manage their time efficiently, they won't be earning as much as they could.
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#Time management Where did you learn how to organize your time?
From my experience, I often learn from the internet. You know, there are a lot of guides you can learn such as ted talks or basically searching on google everything you want to learn.
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#Time management How do you organize your time?
I mainly organize it by using the calendar app on my phone, so whenever I need to check something, I can just look at my phone. So I find it extremely helpful, and ever since I started using it.
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#Time management Why do you organize your time?
There is a lot of work to do in the office, I also want to study and spend my time on my family and friends. That's why I need to organize my schedule.
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#Time management If you had more time, what would you do?
If I were given more time, I'd spend it on traveling. Travel can open my mind and give me time to relax.
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#Time management Do you think young people organize their time in the same way?
No, it depends on each individual. Some people prefer to have no plans at all. Others always plan out the schedule in advance.
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#Time management Do you think children should learn to manage time?
Yes, I actually think it's a really useful thing for them to learn, and in fact, a lot more useful than many other things they're taught at school. Managing their time at an early age, then it's gonna help them throughout their life.
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#Time management How do you feel when you are late for an appointment?
I really don't like to keep others waiting. Sometimes I can be late, but with an objective reason like getting stuck in a traffic jam or having an illness.
236
#Holiday Do you like holidays?
Yes, definitely. Holidays give me a chance to get away from work, relieve stress and enjoy the life more. Also, holiday is also an occasion for family or friend gathering.
237
#Holiday Which do you prefer: city breaks or beach holidays? Why?
I prefer beach holidays because most of the time I live in the bustling city, so I need time out to relax to recharge. Avoiding the hustle and bustle of city life, and soak up the sun, sea, and sand in a calm location, listening to the sounds of the waves lapping up on the shore.
238
#Holiday Which do you prefer: a long holiday or a short holiday?
I like long holidays because I am totally free from work and without any tension. In long holidays I can explore new places in a country, and to get more experiences which I hardly have when I take a city break in short holidays.
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#Holiday What kind of places do you want to travel to on holiday?
I am a working person. Therefore, I prefer to visit the places which elevate my mood and energize me. I want to travel some of the most beautiful beaches and lakes in my country. These places bring me closer to nature.
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#Holiday Which holiday is your favorite: public or personal?
I prefer public holidays, especially the new year Eve, which lasts long and in which lots of foods can be tasted. Also, I love it because I can meet friends and relatives who I haven’t met for months. You know, it’s the only time that I can meet them in a year.
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#Holiday Do you think holidays are becoming more and more important?
Certainly.. yes, holidays play an increasingly important role in the modern life. Holidays are good days for them to get an escape from their working or studying pressure. People would be more efficient in their work if they were given more public holidays to loosen up. We need more holidays just like those countries in Europe.
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#Holiday Are there many tourists in your country?
Actually, Vietnam has a variety of places of interest which attract millions of visitors. When visitors come there, they can enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountainous areas in the north such as Ha Giang, Moc Chau. In addition, tourists are able to enjoy bustling trade and try to bargain with sellers about prices of goods in Ben Thanh or Dong Xuan market. This is the very interesting experience that I ensure most foreigners prefer.
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#Holiday What do most people do during their holidays in your country?
Mostly, people will have parties, in which they can see and talk to the people they did not see for a long time. But they also go on a trip to the countryside to enjoy the breathtaking views.
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#Holiday Do you prefer to travel alone or in group?
I prefer to travel in group. Because going on holiday with a group of people have tons of benefits. Firstly, you can save a great deal of money. You can share the cost of accommodation transportation and food with your companions to save money. Secondly, you can hang out with your friends, go sightseeing and take photos together. It will be definitely more enjoyable than traveling aline.
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#Sharing thing Do you like sharing? What do you like to share?
To be honest, it really depends on what the thing is that I'm sharing. I love to share somethings like food or drinks or my time if someone needs my help, however, I'm much less a fan of sharing worth things like my house, my motorbike...
246
#Sharing thing Who do you want to share things with: friends or colleagues?
I like to share things with my friends, especially close friends. But I like to share somethings like food and drinks with them, for example.
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#Sharing thing What kinds of things that are not suitable for sharing?
Well, money and property like houses, motorbikes or so on are at the top of the list as far as I'm concerned, it's not suitable for sharing. I'm happy to buy you a drink if you're my friend or even my time if you have a serious problem.
248
#Sharing thing How do you think parents could encourage their children to share?
Obviously, it should start very early when the child is learning to play with others. When two kids want the same toy, it becomes a teachable moment and you can encourage them sharing either both can share or none of them gets it.
249
#Sharing thing Are you willing to share your favorite possessions?
Not really. If I've worked hard to get money to buy something valuable like house, car. I think I can only share that with my family.
250
#shopping Do you like/enjoy shopping?
Well, I love shopping because spending time on some of my favorite and essential things makes me feel happy. It is my most enjoyable activity which always elevates my mood.
251
#shopping Do you shop online?
Previously, I used to shop at Big C, but these days I do most of my shopping through e-commerce. I find shopping online more convenient and effort-saving since I don't have to spend time on traveling to shops.
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#shopping Does shopping take you a lot of time?
I think it doesn’t take a lot of time because online shopping is growing. I can shop online when I have free time. In addition, I could do it anywhere at any time, online shopping is so convenient. Beside I don’t need to carry the things I have bought since I will have them delivered at my door.
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#shopping What’s the best part about shopping?
Well, for me, the best part of shopping is relaxing experience. It is about buying some essential things and make me feel happy.
254
#Bags Do you often use bags?
Yes. I can tell that I use bags every day because it is a very useful accessory. I can easily put many items in it and carry them around.
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#Bags What types of bags do you like?
I’m not a big fan of this item so the only bag I use from time to time is the backpack. I love backpack because I tend to put a lot of heavy stuff inside such as my laptop, my water bottles, etc. whenever I get outdoors
256
#Bags Do you usually carry a bag when you go out?
I carry my backpack all the time, When I go to work or hang out with friends. Although it may not give me a fashionable look, I think comfort and convenience is the top priority to me.
257
#Bags Do you have different bags for different occasions?
Well, I have two bags for different occasions. I often use a big-sized backpack for work or study because I could put many things in it. Beside, when I hang out with friends, I prefer using a small shoulder bag.
258
#Eating How often do you eat with your family?
I often have dinners with my family on weekend evenings. During weekdays, I am busy with my work and I usually get back home very late in the evening, so I choose eating at the office.
259
#Eating Do you like eating healthy food?
Yes. I like eating healthy food because it makes my health better. Rice, vegetables and fruit are the main part of my diet. I don't often eat meat since I prefer vegetarian food.
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#Eating Do you eat out a lot?
No, I often eat at home or eat homemade food prepared by my self. I just eat at restaurants occasionally, especially when I hang out with my friends or when I am a mood for foreign food.
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#Eating Do you prefer eating at home or at a restaurant?
I like home-cooked food more because I think it's healthier and you know exactly what you're eating. I also enjoy cooking for family and friends. Also, eating at home often cheaper than eating at restaurants.
262
#Forest When was the last time you went to a forest?
The last time I went to a forest was 10 years ago in July 2009. I and my friend went to Cuc Phuong National Park in Northern Vietnam for three days during the summer holiday. Cuc Phuong is an intriguing place to visit surrounded by lots and lots of trees.
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#Forest Do you like going to a forest if you are free?
Yes, absolutely. I really like forests, particularly trees. An ideal day for me would be when I could lie under the beautiful, cool shade of a big oak tree, enjoying the breeze, listening to the amazing sound of birds chirping, and not having to worry about anything at all.
OR: I would definitely say yes. A trip to the forest can help me relax, release a lot of burdens and refill my pack of energy.
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#Island Have you been to an island?
Yes, I have had a chance to visit some islands in our country such as Phu Quoc, Ly Son. There are still many beautiful islands in Vietnam and I’ll try to arrange time to visit one someday.
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#Island Are there any islands in your country?
My country has a very long coastal line with a lot of islands. Most of them are very beautiful and attractive to visitors. They have a wild environment, and people having been there usually want to come back.
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#Island Do you want to live on an island if you have a chance?
No, living permanently on an island is not appealing to me at all. I have been long accustomed with the modern and convenient life of cities, so the life on an island is not suitable for me. Also, I hate mosquitoes, ants and bugs, and you have higher risk of encountering these creatures when living on an island.
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#Island What do you like to do when you are on an island?
I would enjoy the sea atmosphere, the beach and the seafood of that island. I could imagine myself waking up in the morning with a cool sea breeze and surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature.
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#Tiredness What things make you tired?
Most of the things that cause my tiredness are related to work, for example the huge workload making me work overtime, unexpected problems I have to deal with, aggressive and impatient customers, or unsupportive colleagues. All of the things I've just listed are really troublesome and tiring.
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#Tiredness What do you do when you feel tired?
Every time tiredness arises, a cup of herbal tea or a gentle song is what I need. In general, I tend to lose myself into music or the nice smell of herbal tea to clear my mind and somewhat distract myself from the stress and anxiety.
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#Tiredness Who do you prefer to talk to when you feel mentally tired, your friends or your families?
I have my preference for talking to my family, particularly my wife, every time I feel stressed or mentally tired. My wife is the one who I spend most of my time with and feel very comfortable when being with her. So, a small talk with her is what I need.
271
#Tiredness Do you want to talk to strangers when you feel mentally tired?
No, I don't. I'm usually not in the mood of small talks to strangers when the mental tiredness arises. I'd rather stay alone and get some sleep rather than get involved in small talks.
272
#Music Do you like music?
I really love music and it also plays an important part in my life. Even at the moment I am so busy, I play music in my smartphone whenever I have free time.
273
#Music When would you like to listen to music?
I listen to music when I’m in need or relaxation or a quick escape from the stressful world of work, or when I need to stay focus.
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#Music Do you like to listen to music alone or with others?
I like listening to music alone at the moment because I am quite busy at the moment. So it really save the time when I just need to play music on my mobile phones whenever I have free time.
275
#Music What kinds of music do you like to listen to?
Well, it’s hard for me to select only one genre of music. I love music in general but if I need to choose, I would say that I’m a big fan of pop music. It makes me popular with my friends because we have the same taste in music
Or: I have my inclination towards pop music, especially US-UK pop music, when I am getting excited. But when my mood is down or I need to stay focus, I love to enjoy peaceful relaxing instrumental music.
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#Music Has the music that you listen to changed since you were young?
Of course, it happened already. Logically people from different ages will have taste in music variation. When I was a teenager, I was fond of rock music which blasts out from its strong melody. I always listened to the latest rock songs as soon as they were released. However, when I grow up a little bit, pop music is my choice because it has a slow melody that I can relax my mind
277
#Music Have you ever been to a concert before?
No, I have never been to a music concert. I don’t like crowded places and prefer watching the concert broadcasted on TV or Youtube.
278
ArtDo you think that children should attend painting classes?
Yes, definitely. Learning arts, especially at a young age, can help stimulate children’s cognitive development and encourage them to think outside the box. Because they’re still little, their ideas are very fresh and lovely, which is worth appreciating.
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ArtHow these classes will help them?
Art is that part of our lives that brings out the creative side of ours. If children go these classes, children might be able to understand things better and may be feel motivated to draw things and explore their creative side.
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#Art Why do adults attend art classes?
Because art is very important. if there was no art, everyone and everything would be the same. There would be no entertainment. Life would be dull; we would all just work and go crazy. If we didn’t have art, we would all be robots.
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#Travelling Do you like traveling?
Yes. I do love travelling. It is truly the best therapy to relax and refresh yourself.
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#Travelling What is your favorite destination?
I’d love to visit modern cities like Singapore and Melbourne. But I’m also interested in cities with captivating natural scenery and distinct cultural features, such as Kyoto City in Japan or Istanbul in Turkey.
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#Travelling What is the most difficult part do you think for traveling in a foreign country?
Obviously, there are manifold drawbacks of travelling but the biggest one that I can think of is the expenses. Travelling may be costly because of spendings on airfares, transportation, lodging, food, entertainment and other additional costs.
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#Travelling Do you prefer a job which needs a lot of traveling?
No. Occupations which involve heavy travel, like flight attendants, pilots, tour guides or travel bloggers, are not appealing to me at all. High frequency of traveling will definitely lead to the feelings of tiredness and exhaustion.
285
#Weather Has the weather in Vietnam changed a lot?
Living in places with the weather being varied or changing dramatically over a short period of time is not pleasant at all. The biggest disadvantage I can think of is the increase in spendings on clothes since we have to have different clothes for different weather.
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#Weather Does the weather affect your mood?
Yes, obviously. A sunny day with the blue sky and sunshine can somewhat lift up my moods and create positive feelings. Also, I can work more efficiently and happily if the weather is pleasant. On the other hand, grey days can bring about annoyance and low moods as I hate rains and wetness.
287
#Weather What’s your favorite season?
My favourite one is dry season. The reason is that I will not be subject to daily downpours making me run for cover. In addition, dry season is better because my plans will not be ruined by the weather and I can stay dry all day.
288
#Weather Which do you prefer: cold or hot weather?
I prefer hot weather. Although I have to drink a lot of water to stay healthy, it is still better than cold weather, which causes a great deal of inconvenience.
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#Weather What kind of weather is typical in your hometown?
It is hard to say. Every season has its own feature. In spring, it is often cloudy and rains a lot. In summer, it is often very hot and stuffy. Autumn has bright sunshine and clear blue sky. Winter is freezing with the wind howling.
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#Tea and coffee Do you like tea?
Well, Actually I like to drink coffee than tea. I often weak up with a cup of coffee before a working day. Sometimes, I hang out with my friends at coffee shops.
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#Tea and coffee How was your first experience of trying tea?
I think it was good. I didn’t have problems with tea. The first time I tried drink a cup of tea when I went my relatives and they offered me green tea.
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#Tea and coffee Which is more popular: tea or coffee?
I’d say coffee. People in my country love to drink coffee. In Vietnam, coffee is more than a beverage and the habit of drinking coffee has become an integral part of our daily life.
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#Tea and coffee Do you prepare tea or coffee for the guests?
None of them. Guests visiting my home are usually welcomed with mineral water because serving mineral water is much easier and faster than tea or coffee.
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#Tea and coffee When was the last time you drank tea or coffee?
I just drank some coffee in the morning before I took the paper test of IELTS. I felt like it’s effective to prevent me from getting drowsy the whole morning.
295
#Sky How often do you look at the sky?
I seldom watch the sky as I was quite busy working/studying, which took up nearly the entire day. I couldn’t be able to take any time to look up above my head to see what’s happening there in the sky. I looked at them only someone told me to do so.
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#Sky Do you prefer the sky in the morning or the sky at night?
I prefer the sky at night because its darkness makes me contemplate. If I was feeling blue, I would watch the huge night sky to remind me that all human beings are quite tiny compared to the universe and that I should always enjoy the positive sides of life.
297
#Sky Can you see the moon and stars at night where you live?
No, because the air pollution in my living area, which is in hometown. I can’t see the shining stars during the night, the fog prevents us from seeing the stars clearly.
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#Sky Is there a good place to look at the sky where you live?
Yes, in the place where I live, the best position is on a mountain, which was about 700m high. Standing on top, you could see the blue sky is right above the cloud sea after the sunrise. And during the night, you can see the stars much more clearly as there’s less air pollution.
299
#Transportation What’s the most popular means of transportation in your hometown?
Motorcycles or scooters are the most widely-used means of transportation in Vietnam. Even a poor family will strive to own one motorcycle to commute.
300
#Transportation Can you compare the advantages and disadvantages of planes and trains?
Travelling by planes is definitely faster compared to trains, for example it takes only 2 hours to fly from HCMC to Hanoi, but it takes 2 days to travel by trains. However, there are some convenient facilities on trains which cannot be found on planes, such as the comfortable dining car and sleeping car.
301
#Transportation How often do you take buses?
I did take buses every day when I was in university. However, this is no longer the case at the present time as now I am an office worker and I commute by motorcycle, so I hardly take buses.
302
#Transportation Is driving to work popular in your country?
I would say that driving car to work cannot gain as much popularity as riding motorbike. Scooters are more suitable to the road system in Vietnam with narrow streets and a lot of alleyways. Also, cars are not affordable to the majority of Vietnamese people.
303
#Transportation Would you ride bikes to work in the future?
If in the future the municipal authorities develop the public transportation in Hanoi, improve the traffic system, as well as adopt the bicycle-sharing scheme like in Singapore, I will be happy to commute by bike.
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#Transportation Do you prefer public transportation or private transportation?
Private vehicles are still a preferred transport option to me. Public transportation may not stop at the precise address that I want to travel to, and I have to look for additional means. Also, there is a lack of privacy while being on buses or trains. Travelers are crowded and personal space may not be available.
305
#Sleep How much sleep do you need everyday?
I actually sleep less than 7 hours every day. Usually， I only got 6 hours to sleep. It’s not only because I’ve got a very busy schedule for the day, but also I feel that there’s more I could do before bed, for example, scrolling down the last minute Facebook moment page, and so on.
306
#Sleep Do you take naps at noon?
Yes, absolutely. It is very necessary for me to take a nap. Because I always feel exhausted if I get some non-stop work the whole day. Usually lying on the sofa for just 5 minutes will reinvigorate me.
307
#Sleep Do you read before bed?
Yes, for some time. When I hit on the bed, If I want to take short time to fall asleep, so I would choose reading book. That’s a good way which can help people go to sleep easier.
308
#Sleep Have your sleeping habits changed since you were young?
Yes. When I was young, I could go to sleep pretty early. But now I’m much busier and often stay up until around midnight to 1 am.
309
#Sleep What time do you usually go to bed?
I usually go to bed at 12ish pm. I know it’s not a healthy habit. But I’ve got something that needs to be finished before another day starts. I hope I could sleep a bit earlier, I’m working on it.
310
#Sleep Do you always have a good sleep?
Well, for the most time, I have a good sleep. When I hit on the bed, it won’t take long to fall asleep. My Miband, which is an electronic sleep detector, often shows me that I have more than 2 hours of deep sleep, which is a good sign for me.
311
#Sleep Do old people sleep a lot? Why?
I think they don’t. They sleep really less than young people do, sometimes they only have 5 hours of sleep, which is not that normal for us. The reason why they do so? Well, I guess it’s because their metabolism is quite different from us youngsters.
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#Sleep Do you think sleep is important?
Yes, of course. From my perspective, sleeping plays an important role in people’s physical health. It’s the time for our body to take a rest after a long day. A good night’s sleep also helps us release our emotions and forget all the bad things that happened during the day.
313
#Email How often do you write an Email?
I’m a white-collar worker so writing emails is part of my job. I write about 5 -10 emails every day.
314
#Email Who do you write to?
I send emails to the company’s partners in Vietnam. I also correspond by email with service providers and other agencies working with my company.
315
#Email What kind of email do you receive that makes you happy?
I feel happy when I receive emails about my pay slip or emails informing good news. For example, my company has got a deal with a new customer.
316
#Email Do you think it’s important to reply emails quickly?
Yes, I think so. Responding to the emails quickly is a good way to show your sincerity and also helps improve the progress of the whole matter. Nobody wants to wait too long for an email that involves a quite urgent issue.
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#Email How do you communicate with others at work？
If it is something formal, like a notification or a regulation, I will choose Email. It leaves proof and is easy to check. If it is just daily-routine communication, like some details about a specific job, I will choose Zalo, it more convenient and I can send a voice message.
318
#Email How do you feel when you receive emails?
Well, my feelings will highly depend on what kind of email I receive. If it is a junk mail or advertisement, I will be annoyed. But if it brings good news, it will cheer me up.
319
#Email What are the differences between emails and letters?
In my eyes, emails are much more efficient than letters. Your correspondent can receive it at the moment you send it. But, it is less formal than letters. When somebody sends you a hand-writing letter, you must have an important place in his or her heart.
320
#Email What kind of email do you think is the hardest to write?
It must be the email to ask for time off. I have to be very sincere and manage to find a good excuse, which I often lack, so that the manager would approve it.
321
#Crowded place What places do you think are often crowded?
The places that are often crowded in Hanoi are shopping malls. Because of the hot weather, people tend to visit the air-conditioned buildings, like shopping malls to enjoy the cool air there. You can see AEON Malls or bigC get super crowded in the evenings or at weekends.
322
#Crowded place When was the last time you were in a crowded place?
It has been around 3 years since the last time I was in a crowded place. That was in Tet holiday. I took my cousin to visit the Hoan Kiem lake to enjoy the art of flower arrangements. The place was fully occupied by visitors from all ages. And because of the heavy crowds, I hardly saw anything except people’s heads.
323
#Crowded place How do you feel when you are in crowded places?
I feel quite uncomfortable when I was in a quite squishy place. You know I feel like I couldn’t breathe in a place that’s filled with lots of people and sometimes makes indeed the air quality in a crowded place is bad.
324
#Cities What cities have you ever travelled to?
I’ve travelled lots of cities, but most of cities are in Vietnam. I’ve travelled some coastal cities like Da Nang, Nha Trang or some old cities like Hue and Hoi An.
325
#Cities Would you ever move to another city for work?
Actually. I haven’t a chance to move another city for work. But If I have a chance. I have my inclination towards living in big cities which are a capital or a major economic hub of a country. Those places are where I can seek job more easily and enjoy various amenities and conveniences.
326
#Cities In what ways do you think a city can be designed to best suit the needs of pedestrians?
Yes, I think the safety is the first need of pedestrian, and there’re many ways to improve the safety of pedestrians on public roads like city planners can reduce traffic speed on the road or they can dedicate spaces for pedestrians.
327
#Cities Who would you say uses public transport more, young people or old people?
I’d say young people choose public transport more. Young people choose public transport because it’s cheaper than others means of transport. Because public transport is not convenient and does not go where you want, it’s so difficult for old people travelling.
328
#Making plans Do you make a plan every day?
I do plan on a basic daily. I have been trying scheduling my day before it really happens. Without planning, I don't think I can have a successful day.
329
#Making plans Are you good at managing your time?
I'm quite proud of my time-controlling ability. I’ve been using two ways to use time effectively, which are Pomodoro and making a to-do-list. I use them as frequently as possible and find them very effective.
330
#Making plans What is the latest plan you made?
Well, the most recent plan I had was to attend my friend's wedding in a city 1000 km from where I live. I had to book the flight ticket, asked for days off, and dif some research about the destination before departure.
331
#Making plans What is the biggest difficulty you have in managing your time?
I think the most difficult thing in creating plans is to set true priorities in a time limit. I'm afraid of a long-term goals and struggle to break them down into smaller achievable tasks and finish it regularly.
332
#Street markets What is the street market for?
In my knowledge, street markets are a place to display products right on the streets outside. The purpose of these markets provides more choices for goods, it's also more convenient for customers.
333
#Street markets What do street markets sell?
Well, the street markets sell everything such as food, drink, and clothes. It's also great place to find handmade crafts like jewelry, other souvenirs. But it's the food and drink that seem to be most popular.
334
#Street markets What the different between street market and supermarkets?
Well, I think they are completely different. I'd say, at the markets you have the freedom to bargain with seller for the best deal while in the supermarkets, there is a price tag for every product.
335
#Street markets Do you often go to the supermarket?
Maybe 1 time a month. I'd say I'm quite busy at the moment and If I went to the supermarket, I would stock up all the food for a whole week.
336
#Street markets Are street markets common in your country?
Yes, they are. I myself prefer to shop in the street markets than in the supermarkets. And weekends are my busiest shopping days.
337
#Street markets Do you think people like street markets? Why?
I can't speak for everyone, but I like to buy things in the street market which is close to my house. It is definitely more convenient than going to the supermarket and goods are more affordable.
338
#Family activities Do you often visit relatives? Why?
Personally, I rarely have a chance to visit my relatives but I do visit them a few times on special occasions such as Tet holiday and their birthdays. I'm trying to fit with the busy life in Hanoi, and the time I can spend on visiting them is quite limited.
339
#Family activities What do you do when you visit them?
Well, it depends. If we haven't been in touch in a long time, the first thing I do is to ask after them to let me know they're good. Then I prefer spend time with my relatives together by sitting around a table and enjoy our party.
340
#Family activities When was the last time you visited your relatives? What did you do?
I'd say it's a couple of months ago, that day is the National Independence day. We took the time to dine out and shared about stories in our daily life, they gave me a lot of support and encouragement.
341
#Family activities Do you prefer visiting your relatives, or your friends?
When it comes to choosing relatives and friends. I believe relatives should be my priority. It's obvious that visiting relatives will be an incredibly precious opportunity for all members even your family to gather and talk to catch up with them.
342
#Family activities Do you take anything when you visit your relatives?
As my relatives are getting older, they don't really appreciate the material gifts, instead, they prefer to have some cook, a meal made at home. That's the reason why I often go to the street market and shop some raw materials to their house and to be ready to cook in the kitchen.
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#Family activities Why do people visit their relatives?
Visiting relatives is a way to have a chance to catch up with their daily life. After that, maybe they could give me a lot of support and encouragement.
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#Family activities Do you often stay together with family? Do you prefer to stay together with friends or family?
I prefer to stay with family. Although I am quite an independent person, I could go outside to work every day, but i will come back home before dinners in the evening. Sitting around a table and talking to them always a good way for me to refresh my self after hard-working days.
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#Family activities What are some family activities?
Well, it depends. Some family prefers to do indoor activities like cooking together, watching movies, playing some quiz games together or even playing video games. Others prefer to do outdoor activities such as picnic in a park, go hiking, go walking, go to museums. The important point is doing activities together.
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#Family activities What activities did your family do when you were young?
Well, when I was young. My family used to be going on a picnic together. We often prepare food at home to bring along to eat for lunch.
347
#Family activities What is the difference between families in ordinary times and on holidays?
As far as I know, if it's an ordinary occasion. It's quite common for families to do some actives that often last no more half a day. For example, going on a camping trip, dining out at restaurant or doing morning exercise together. By contrast, when it comes to holidays, there's a trend to go somewhere far away from home. Maybe a couple or more of days since they have more days off.
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#Family activities What is the difference in family activities when you were young and now?
I'd have to say, in the past, the bond between family members was strong, members tended to be more willing to take part in family activities. But in modern times, everyone is so busy at work or study and can hardly manage time for their families. Because of this, family activities take place less frequently than ever before.
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#Family activities How do you usually spend your time?
I often spend time listening to EDM songs or playing some computer games, or watching YouTube videos if I have a lot of spare time. You now because of that time for relax before getting back to work.
350
#Family activities Do you like to spend time on your own or with your family/ friends?
I would love to hang out with my family more. My family is always busy at the moment, and we can hardly manage time for each other. So I could I would spend time for them like having dinner together, see a movie…
351
#Smile Do you like to smile?
Yes definitely. To be honest, a smile helps me find happiness and peace of mind. Especially smiling can lift my spirits when I'm feeling unhappy and it might be beneficial for me to overcome stressful situations in my life.
352
#Smile How often do you smile?
I smile on a regular basis when I have some good news. For example, when I pass the university entrance exam, I smile all the time to let others know I am really happy. Also, sometimes, I start my day by smiling to get motivated.
353
#Smile Do you smile when someone take photos for you? Why?
Not really. I smile whenever I am very happy. I will show the exact facial expression I have at that time to keep the unforgettable moments. In addition, I will look more picturesque when I express my happiness on my face.
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#Smile Why do people smile?
Smiling is a way to express one's satisfaction and happiness for most of the cases. For example, when you finish something challenging, it's typical you give a smile as a feeling of comfort (idiom = a sigh of relief) after you overcome through a period of difficulty. One other case, a smile is treated as a symbol of friendliness, and it's commonly used as a part of our daily greetings. When you meet a stranger, giving a smile shows our hospitality towards others.
355
#Smile When do people smile?
When they're happy. I can judge that they're overcome something difficulty and having the feeling happy or like I said, they just want to show their hospitality when they smile because a smile is treated as a symbol of friendliness.
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#Smile Can you sense of someone's smile is fake?
Honestly, no. Because I'm not actually a sensitive person. I couldn't know when others smile to try to hide their feelings. However, when somebody sneers, I do realize the kind of an unkind expression.
357
#Reading books Do you like reading a book? Why or why not?
I am deep into reading books, especially really page-turners this brings me a lot of advantages. Firstly, I give me relief from stress and slow me down after the daily rat race. Secondly, it also broadens my knowledge of different cultures and lives.
358
#Reading books Do you read electronic books?
Definitely, yes. I like e-books as they are portable. I often download my favorite books and copy them into my tablet or smartphone device. And when I could read anywhere I want, I just need take my hi-tech devices out and start to read.
359
#Reading books What kinds of books do you like to read?
As I mentioned before, reading is my favorite but I love reading biographies books and self-help books most. It's really exciting which brings me a lot of knowledge and getting motivated in my life.
360
#Reading books Did you reach much when you were a child?
Yes. I was a bookworm when I was a boy. My mother gave me a bit of money monthly, and I spent that money on books, I could read whole the book I like around 1 or 2 days.
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#Reading books What kinds of books did you read when you were a child?
The books with many colorful images like comics were my all-time favorite books. I just couldn’t put them down and were engrossed in those books.
362
#Reading books Do children like reading books?
I don't think so. In the past, there was nothing to play with, so I think books become children's best friends. However, nowadays, while technology and the internet are popular, children tend to read less and spend their time playing video games or watching videos instead.
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#Reading books What kinds of stories do children like to learn?
As far as I'm concerned, kids have a lot in common, particularly when it comes to what books interest them. The first type would be comic ones. For example, almost all Vietnamese kids would know famous comic series like Dragon Ball or Doremon. Besides, as their parents often buy fable stories, and encourage them to read. Most of those books give children many moral lessons and help them become good people when they grow up later.
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#Reading books What do you think are the benefits of reading for children?
Obviously reading plays an important role in children's lives because it brings a lot of advantages. Firstly, it broadens their knowledge of different cultures and people in the whole world. Secondly, it could nurture the souls that help them more sensitive to things around them.
365
#Reading books What do you think of the benefits of reading to children?
Totally, parents should read books for their children, especially bedtime reading books. It not only nurtures their children's souls but also makes a close-knit relationship between parents and children.
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#Reading books Have you lent books to others?
Yes, I have. I often lend some books, mostly english books to my friends, and get in return some science fiction books or biographies books in my free time.
367
#Reading books Have you borrowed books from others?
Yes, I have. I have some friends who are bookworms, so I'm in the habit of borrowing some books such as comic books from them to read during my days off.
368
#Reading books Do you read books about your major? Do you read professional books?
No, I prefer to search for information on the internet and read from that. There is a lot of information that I can get it easily from any field. But in the past, during my university years. I had to say I was a bookworm and purchased books every week to enhance my expertise.
369
#Reading books How often do people in your country read novels?
Personally speaking, I’m not a fan of novels. From observations, only teenagers have time to read novels. I guess for others, they have to spend time working and studying, but as far as teenage boys are concerned, I have to say that they read a great deal.
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#Reading books What kinds of books that old people like to read?
Since I’m not an elderly person, what I’m going to say just guesswork but old people are really into books containing philosophy or moral lessons to read. The reason I feel this way is they can not only while away the time, but also they can improve their personality and pass the experience they read onto their grandchildren.
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#Reading books Are you reading any books at the moment?
I have a lot of books on my bookshelf to read, but at the moment I don’t have time reading until this last year because I am quite busy working and studying in the IELTS exam.
