AV

English Speaking Topics — Extended Answers

Topic 1

Describe your shopping habit.

Answer:
My shopping habits have evolved considerably over the years, shaped by changes in my schedule, financial priorities, and the growth of online commerce. Generally, I distinguish between two main types of shopping I do: planned shopping and impulse shopping. Planned shopping usually involves essentials—groceries, household supplies, and clothing items I need for work or special occasions. For these, I make a list, compare prices either online or at local stores, and try to stick to a budget. This approach helps me avoid overspending and ensures I purchase items that are genuinely useful.

Impulse shopping happens less frequently now, but I still indulge occasionally when there are significant discounts or attractive new product launches, especially in technology or fashion. I typically shop once every two to four weeks for everyday necessities, but for clothing or electronics I might go shopping a few times a year. I find that a combination of mindful, planned shopping and occasional impulse buys works well for me: planned shopping maintains financial discipline, while the occasional treat keeps things enjoyable..

Topic 2

Describe your favorite brand name.

Answer:
One of my favorite brands is Nike, a well-known international sportswear company founded in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports and later officially became Nike, Inc. in 1971. Over the decades, Nike has developed a diverse product portfolio that includes athletic footwear, apparel, sports equipment, and performance gear for a wide range of sports and activities. Their product lines cater to professional athletes, amateur sports enthusiasts, and everyday consumers looking for comfort and style.

What sets Nike apart, in my view, is the brand's constant innovation and strong identity. Nike invests heavily in research and development to create footwear technologies such as Air cushioning, Flyknit fabric, and lightweight midsole materials that enhance performance and comfort. Moreover, Nike’s marketing and branding are exceptionally powerful—the iconic Swoosh logo and the “Just Do It” slogan convey motivation and a sense of aspiration that resonates globally. I admire Nike because their products combine functionality with modern design, making them suitable for both athletic use and casual wear.

Topic 3

Talk about things you used to do when you were ten.

Answer:
When I was ten years old, my daily life centered around school, play, and simple household routines. Typical activities included riding my bicycle around the neighborhood with friends, playing outdoor games like hide-and-seek and soccer, and spending afternoons reading storybooks or watching cartoons. We had more unstructured time then, and much of it was devoted to exploring the immediate environment and building friendships through shared play.

How have these activities changed? With age, my interests and priorities shifted toward academic development and skill acquisition. Outdoor playtime reduced as electronic devices, social media, and structured extracurricular activities took center stage. While I still appreciate physical activities, my free time now is often used for purposeful hobbies such as reading in-depth books, learning new skills, or exercising in a more organized manner. Reflecting on those childhood habits makes me value unstructured play as an important part of personal and social development.

Topic 4

Describe a website you have bought something from.

Answer:
One website I frequently use for online shopping is Shopee, a popular e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia. I’ve purchased a range of items from Shopee, including clothing, phone accessories, small household goods, and educational materials. The convenience of browsing numerous sellers, reading customer reviews, and comparing prices makes Shopee a practical choice for many everyday purchases.

What I particularly like about Shopee is its user-friendly interface and frequent promotional events. The platform often provides clear product descriptions, seller ratings, and customer photos that help me evaluate item quality before purchase. Additionally, Shopee’s logistics and payment systems are convenient—cash on delivery and multiple digital payment options reduce friction during checkout. The discount vouchers and flash sales also make it possible to buy items at attractive prices.

However, Shopee is not without downsides. Product quality can vary significantly between sellers, and sometimes the advertised images do not perfectly match the actual product received. Delivery times may also fluctuate depending on the seller and shipping partner. To mitigate these issues.

Topic 5

Talk about changes in shopping trends in Vietnam.

Answer:
Shopping trends in Vietnam have experienced a remarkable transformation over the past two decades, driven by economic growth, urbanization, and technological innovation. Traditionally, Vietnamese consumers relied heavily on wet markets, family-owned shops, and small local vendors for daily needs. These markets fostered strong social ties and offered fresh produce and household essentials. Shopping was also an in-person social experience—people valued direct interaction with sellers and neighbors.

In recent years, however, there has been a significant shift towards modern retail formats and online shopping. Supermarkets, shopping malls, and convenience stores have proliferated in urban areas, offering standardized products, promotions, and a wider selection. At the same time, e-commerce platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and Tiki have rapidly gained market share. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this digital shift: consumers who were previously hesitant about online purchases began to appreciate the convenience of home delivery and contactless payment.

Other notable trends include the rise of mobile-first shopping, influencer marketing, and social commerce through platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Younger consumers increasingly prioritize convenience, variety, and speed, while older shoppers may still prefer traditional retail for certain goods. Additionally, sustainability and ethical consumption are slowly emerging concerns, influencing choices for eco-friendly products and brands.

Topic 6

Describe an accident you saw.

Answer:
A few months ago, I witnessed a road accident near a busy intersection in my neighborhood. It happened on a rainy afternoon when the streets were slick and visibility was reduced. A motorbike traveling at moderate speed attempted to overtake a slower vehicle while a car simultaneously turned into a side street without signaling. The motorbike collided with the side of the car, causing the rider to be thrown onto the sidewalk. Immediate chaos ensued as bystanders rushed to help while others called emergency services.

Thankfully, because local residents acted quickly and the rider wore a helmet, the injuries seemed non-life-threatening—mostly cuts and bruises. The prompt arrival of an ambulance and local traffic police helped stabilize the situation, clear the scene, and ensure the injured person received medical attention. Witnessing this accident made me acutely aware of how quickly everyday routines can become dangerous when road safety practices break down. It also highlighted the importance of wearing protective gear like helmets and the need for mutual caution among drivers.

Topic 7

Talk about a news in a newspaper that you have recently read.

Answer:
Recently, I read a comprehensive article in an English-language Vietnamese newspaper about Vietnam's efforts to expand renewable energy infrastructure. The piece highlighted several new solar and wind power projects being developed across the country, as well as government policies designed to encourage private investment in clean energy. The article included interviews with energy experts and local officials who discussed both the economic benefits and technical challenges of transitioning to renewable sources.

What I found particularly interesting was the analysis of how renewable energy projects are being integrated into Vietnam’s broader development plans. The article explained that expanding renewables not only helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also strengthens energy security and creates new economic opportunities in rural areas where large solar farms and wind farms are often located. However, the article also touched on legitimate concerns: grid stability issues, the need for battery storage, and the social impacts on communities where land is repurposed for energy installations.

Topic 8

Describe a crime story you heard.

Answer:
A while ago, I heard about a burglary case that took place in a small neighborhood near my city. According to reports, a group of burglars targeted several houses late at night during a festival when most residents were away visiting relatives. They exploited the low occupancy and used basic tools to break through unsecured doors. The community was alarmed when neighbors discovered missing valuables and signs of forced entry the following morning.

What interests me about this case are the social dynamics and preventive measures that followed. After the incident, local residents organized neighborhood watch groups and coordinated with local police to increase patrols during high-risk periods. The municipality also launched a public safety campaign advising homeowners to install better locks, motion-sensor lights, and security cameras. Interestingly, the burglars were apprehended within a short time due to collaborative efforts—neighborhood tips and CCTV footage played a crucial role in the investigation.

Topic 9

Talk about your future goal.

Answer:
One of my primary future goals is to build a career in public administration or policy analysis, where I can contribute to improving public services and governance. I aim to work for a government agency or a reputable international organization focused on policy development, administrative reform, or civic engagement. To achieve this, I have a clear plan that combines education, practical experience, and continuous personal development.

First, I plan to pursue advanced studies—either a master’s degree in public administration, public policy, or a related field. This would provide theoretical grounding and exposure to global best practices. Second, I intend to gain practical experience by interning or working in governmental offices, NGOs, or think tanks. Hands-on experience will help me understand real-world challenges and build professional networks. Third, I will continuously improve my technical skills—data analysis, project management, and communication—through courses and workshops. Finally, I want to develop leadership capabilities by taking on responsibilities in community projects and professional environments.

Topic 10

Talk about a magician that you know.

Answer:
A magician I admire is David Blaine, an American performer known for blending street magic with endurance stunts and illusions. Blaine gained widespread recognition in the late 1990s with his unique style that focuses on close-up magic and psychological misdirection, often performed in everyday urban environments. Over the years, he has also undertaken extreme endurance feats, such as being buried alive, encased in ice for days, and standing on a narrow pillar for extended periods.

What made David Blaine particularly fascinating to me is his minimalist stage presence and emphasis on the raw emotion of performance. Rather than relying on flashy props or elaborate sets, Blaine’s acts often place emphasis on personal risk and audience engagement. His street performances capture spontaneous reactions from onlookers, and his endurance stunts provoke conversations about human limits and perseverance. I would love to meet him to learn more about his creative process and mental preparation, because his combination of showmanship, technical skill, and psychological insight is truly inspiring.