Part 1: Introduction & Interview

Các câu hỏi ngắn về quan sát cá nhân và tình hình thực tế nơi bạn sống.

1. Has the economy in your country changed in recent years? (Nền kinh tế ở đất nước bạn có thay đổi trong những năm gần đây không?)

Gợi ý: Yes, significantly. Vietnam is considered an emerging economy, so we are seeing rapid growth. The infrastructure has improved a lot with new highways and metro lines. However, the cost of living in big cities has also skyrocketed.

2. Is it easy to find a job in your country these days? (Ngày nay tìm việc ở nước bạn có dễ không?)

Gợi ý: It depends on the sector. While the tech industry is booming, other sectors are facing market saturation. Also, there is a bit of a brain drain as many talented young people are looking for opportunities abroad where the per capita income is higher.

3. Do you think people in your country spend too much money? (Bạn có nghĩ mọi người ở nước bạn tiêu xài quá nhiều không?)

Gợi ý: I think consumerism is definitely on the rise. People care more about their standard of living and buying material goods than before. However, with the fear of a potential economic downturn, many are also trying to save for a rainy day.

Part 2: Individual Long Turn (Cue Card)

Bạn có 1 phút chuẩn bị và 2 phút để nói.

4. Describe a successful small business that you know. (Mô tả một doanh nghiệp nhỏ thành công mà bạn biết)

You should say:

• What the business is

• How you know about it

• Why it is successful

• And explain how it contributes to the local economy.

Gợi ý trả lời (Sample Answer): I’d like to talk about a local coffee chain called “The Workshop” which started as a tiny shop but has flourished into a popular brand in my city.

I first knew about it through social media because their marketing was very innovative. What makes them successful is not just their coffee, but their entrepreneurship spirit. They focused on quality of life for their customers by creating a green, relaxing space, rather than just maximizing tables for profit.

Economically, they contribute significantly to the local community. Firstly, they generate revenue by attracting tourists, which helps other nearby shops too. Secondly, they help with poverty alleviation in a small way by hiring local students and paying them a wage well above the average, helping them make ends meet.

I think their model of sustainable development—balancing profit with community value—is why they continue to thrive even when big competitors arrive.

Part 3: Discussion

Thảo luận sâu về các vấn đề vĩ mô (Macro-economics).

5. Should the government prioritize economic growth over environmental protection? (Chính phủ có nên ưu tiên tăng trưởng kinh tế hơn bảo vệ môi trường?)

Gợi ý: No, I don’t think so. It’s a double-edged sword. If we focus solely on GDP and ignore the depletion of resources, we will face long-term disasters. The goal should be sustainable development where we foster growth without destroying the planet.

6. Why is the gap between the rich and the poor widening in many countries? (Tại sao khoảng cách giàu nghèo lại nới rộng ở nhiều quốc gia?)

Gợi ý: There are many reasons for this wealth gap. One major factor is that the wealthy have access to better education and investment opportunities, allowing their assets to thrive. Meanwhile, low-income workers often suffer from wage stagnation and struggle with the rising cost of living. Without government intervention like fair taxation, this income inequality will persist.

7. How can the government reduce the unemployment rate? (Chính phủ có thể làm gì để giảm tỷ lệ thất nghiệp?)

Gợi ý: The government can stimulate the economy by lowering interest rates to encourage borrowing and business expansion. Additionally, they should allocate resources to vocational training to help workers adapt to new technologies. Supporting entrepreneurship through tax breaks is also a great way to create new jobs.

8. Do you think a high salary is the most important factor in a job? (Bạn có nghĩ lương cao là yếu tố quan trọng nhất trong công việc?)

Gợi ý: While a high salary helps people make ends meet, it’s not the only factor. Job satisfaction and a healthy work-life balance are equally important for a good quality of life. If you earn a lot but are stressed and burnt out, the money loses its value.

9. What are the effects of an aging population on the economy? (Tác động của dân số già hóa đối với nền kinh tế là gì?)

Gợi ý: An aging population can hinder economic growth because it reduces the workforce. This puts a strain on the social safety net and the pension system. Governments may need to raise the retirement age or implement policies to encourage higher birth rates to balance the demographic.

10. Is globalization good for developing countries? (Toàn cầu hóa có tốt cho các nước đang phát triển không?)

Gợi ý: It has pros and cons. On the positive side, FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) brings in capital and technology, which boosts the economy. However, it can also lead to the exploitation of cheap labor and make local businesses struggle to compete with international giants. It can be a vicious cycle if not managed well.