TOPIC 1: TECHNOLOGY

📌 Part 1: Technology –

1. Do you like using technology?

Answer:
Absolutely! I’m a big fan of cutting-edge technology (công nghệ tiên tiến), especially when it
comes to gadgets like smartphones and laptops. I find that they streamline my daily tasks (giúp
công việc hàng ngày hiệu quả hơn), from checking emails to managing my schedule. In the past, I
used to be a bit hesitant about learning new tech, but now I embrace it. It’s safe to say (có thể chắc
chắn rằng) technology has become a big part of my life.

2. What technology do you often use?

Answer:
I mainly use my smartphone and laptop. I rely heavily on productivity apps like Google Calendar
and Notion, which help me stay on top of things (giữ mọi việc trong tầm kiểm soát). Besides, I
stream music and shows almost every day. Over the last few years, I’ve also started using smart
home devices (thiết bị nhà thông minh) like smart bulbs and voice assistants, which make life much
more convenient.

3. Do you think technology makes life better?

Answer:
Without a doubt! Technology has made communication faster and more convenient. For instance,
with a single tap, I can video call someone on the other side of the world. That being said, there’s a
downside to everything (không có gì là hoàn hảo) — some people become too dependent on it.
But in general, I believe it has revolutionized the way we live (cách mạng hóa cuộc sống của
chúng ta).

4. Do you use social media apps?

Answer:
Yes, quite frequently. I use Facebook to stay connected with friends and Instagram to follow trends
and influencers. I must admit, I sometimes get sucked into scrolling for hours (bị cuốn vào việc
lướt mạng hàng giờ), which is a bit of a guilty pleasure. However, I try to maintain a balance and
avoid digital burnout (kiệt sức vì công nghệ số).

5. What technology would you like to have in the future?

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Answer:
I’d love to own a fully automated smart home (ngôi nhà thông minh hoàn toàn tự động). Imagine
coming home and the lights turn on automatically, the room temperature adjusts itself, and your
favorite music starts playing. It sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, but with the pace of
innovation (tốc độ đổi mới công nghệ), I think it could become reality soon.

Question: Describe a piece of technology you own that you find useful.
You should say:

 What it is
 How long you have had it
 What it does
 And explain why you find it useful

Sample Answer:

One piece of technology that I find incredibly useful is my smartphone. I’ve had it for about three
years, and I use it on a daily basis for various purposes. It’s a high-tech device that combines
several functionalities such as communication, entertainment, and even productivity. Besides the
basic functions like calling and texting, it has a range of applications that I rely on for tasks such
as work, shopping, and staying in touch with my friends and family.

For instance, I use apps like Google Calendar and Evernote to keep track of my schedule and
manage important tasks. The cutting-edge features, such as its high-definition camera and fast
processing speed, also come in handy for capturing moments and browsing the internet without
any lag.

I find it particularly useful because it acts as an all-in-one tool. It allows me to stay organized and
on top of things, which is crucial when balancing work, studies, and personal life. Furthermore, the
convenience of having a portable device means I can work or relax wherever I am. Given how
integral it is to my daily routine, I really don’t know how I would manage without it.

Vocabulary & Phrases Highlighted:

1. Smartphone – điện thoại thông minh

2. High-tech device – thiết bị công nghệ cao
3. Range of applications – nhiều ứng dụng
4. Cutting-edge features – tính năng tiên tiến
5. High-definition camera – camera độ phân giải cao
6. Fast processing speed – tốc độ xử lý nhanh
7. On top of things – kiểm soát tốt mọi việc
8. Portable device – thiết bị di động
9. Integral – không thể thiếu, quan trọng

Synonyms for Advanced Vocabulary:

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  Smartphone: Mobile phone, cell phone, handheld device
 High-tech device: Advanced gadget, sophisticated device, state-of-the-art equipment
 Range of applications: Variety of apps, collection of tools, array of software
 Cutting-edge features: Innovative aspects, groundbreaking characteristics, next-generation
features
 High-definition camera: HD camera, ultra-clear camera, high-resolution camera
 Fast processing speed: Rapid performance, quick processing time, speedy operation
 On top of things: In control, organized, on track, managing well
 Portable device: Mobile gadget, compact device, travel-friendly technology
 Integral: Essential, crucial, vital, indispensable

Idioms & Collocations:

 Stay on top of things – kiểm soát tốt mọi việc

 All-in-one tool – công cụ tất cả trong một
 Balancing work and studies – cân bằng công việc và học tập
 Lag in performance – sự trễ trong hiệu suất
 Capture moments – ghi lại khoảnh khắc

📌 Part 3

1. Do you think people rely too much on technology nowadays?

Answer:
That's a valid concern, and I believe it's partially true. Nowadays, people are heavily dependent on
digital tools (phụ thuộc nhiều vào công cụ số) for almost everything — from navigation to
remembering birthdays. On the one hand, it boosts productivity and convenience. But on the flip
side, it can lead to mental laziness and over-reliance (lười suy nghĩ và lệ thuộc quá mức).

Compared to the past, when people memorized phone numbers or read maps, today's generation
barely exercises such skills. This reliance, while understandable, could result in a decline in
problem-solving and memory retention (suy giảm kỹ năng giải quyết vấn đề và ghi nhớ). So,
although technology brings many benefits, I think it's important to strike a balance.

2. What are the disadvantages of modern technology?

Answer:
Well, one major drawback is the erosion of face-to-face communication (suy giảm giao tiếp trực
tiếp). People spend more time glued to their screens than having real conversations. Another issue
is information overload (quá tải thông tin) — we’re bombarded with news, ads, and notifications
constantly.

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Compared to simpler times, people now suffer more from anxiety and digital fatigue (lo âu và mệt
mỏi kỹ thuật số). Also, there are security concerns. Hackers and cybercriminals can exploit
vulnerabilities (lợi dụng lỗ hổng bảo mật) in the system. All in all, modern tech is a double-edged
sword.

3. How has technology changed education?

Answer:
Technology has brought a paradigm shift (sự thay đổi hoàn toàn) in the way we learn. Instead of
sitting in a traditional classroom, students can now attend virtual classes, watch online tutorials, and
use interactive apps. This change has democratized education (làm cho giáo dục trở nên phổ cập
hơn) by making it accessible to people in remote areas.

Compared to the past, learning has become more flexible and engaging. However, some argue that
screen-based learning lacks the personal touch (học qua màn hình thiếu sự tương tác cá nhân) of
face-to-face instruction. In my view, technology should complement, not replace, traditional
teaching methods.

4. Do old people and young people use technology differently?

Answer:
Absolutely, there’s a clear generation gap when it comes to tech usage. Young people are typically
more tech-savvy and use gadgets for everything — from studying to entertainment. Older
generations, on the other hand, often use it more conservatively, mostly for essential tasks like
video calls or reading the news.

This contrast can be attributed to digital literacy (kiến thức kỹ thuật số) and exposure. While young
people grew up with the internet, older folks had to adapt later in life. However, many seniors are
catching up quickly by attending workshops or using user-friendly devices (thiết bị thân thiện với
người dùng).

5. Should children be allowed to use technology freely?

Answer:
I believe technology should be used with proper guidance and moderation (sự hướng dẫn và điều
độ phù hợp). While educational apps and videos can enhance learning, too much screen time may
hinder social development and physical activity. Children are particularly vulnerable to digital
addiction (nghiện công nghệ số) and inappropriate content (nội dung không phù hợp).

Parents should set clear boundaries and encourage offline interaction (tương tác ngoài đời thực) as
well. In contrast to past generations, today’s kids are exposed to tech very early. That’s not
necessarily bad, but it needs to be supervised. Striking a balance is the key.

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🎯 Common Ideas – Technology
Advantages:

 Convenience and time-saving

 Improved communication (video calls, instant messaging)
 Access to information
 Medical and scientific advancements
 Smart home and automation

Disadvantages:

 Overdependence
 Reduced social skills
 Privacy issues
 Cybercrime
 Distraction and addiction

💡 Tips for Technology Topic

1. Use real-life examples (smartphones, social media, AI).
2. Compare the past and present to show awareness of change.
3. Use specific tech terms (e.g. artificial intelligence, virtual reality).
4. Include both pros and cons in part 3.
5. Use advanced linkers: whereas, however, in contrast, for instance, that being said…

📝 40 Practice Questions for Each Part

🔹 Part 1

1. Do you like using technology?

2. What technology do you use every day?
3. How has your use of technology changed over time?
4. Do you think people depend too much on technology?
5. What apps do you use most often?
6. What do you usually do on your phone?
7. Do you prefer texting or calling?
8. Do you use social media?
9. What was the first gadget you owned?
10. How often do you upgrade your phone?
11. Do you prefer using a laptop or a desktop?
12. Are you good at learning new technology?
13. Do you think older people struggle with new tech?
14. Do you use technology at work/school?
15. How does technology help you study or work?

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 16. Have you ever taken a break from technology?
17. What’s the most useful app on your phone?
18. Do you like online shopping?
19. Would you survive without your phone?
20. Have you used AI tools before?

🔹 Part 2

1. Describe a piece of technology you use often.

2. Describe a gadget you bought recently.
3. Describe a useful app on your phone.
4. Describe a time when technology helped you.
5. Describe a modern invention you like.
6. Describe a website you often visit.
7. Describe an old gadget you still use.
8. Describe a new piece of tech you want.
9. Describe how technology changed your life.
10. Describe someone you know who loves technology.

🔹 Part 3

1. How has technology changed the way we communicate?

2. What are the risks of using technology too much?
3. Is technology affecting personal relationships?
4. How has social media influenced communication?
5. Do you think students should rely on technology for learning?
6. How can technology help older people?
7. How do businesses benefit from technology?
8. What role does technology play in education?
9. Is face-to-face communication becoming outdated?
10. Should young children be introduced to technology early?
11. How do you think technology will evolve in the future?
12. What are the dangers of AI?
13. How can people protect their privacy online?
14. Has technology made people more impatient?
15. Do you think traditional skills will disappear?
16. What is the future of online learning?
17. How is technology used in healthcare?
18. Should everyone learn basic programming?
19. What are the ethical issues of modern technology?
20. How has technology impacted the job market?