The map compares the plan of Central Library 20 years ago and today.

Overall, there have been significant changes made to the library, including the
addition of self-services machines and the removal of the tables & chairs. In addition,
most areas are either relocated or repurposed.

The left hand side and center of the library has seen noticeable updates after 20 years.
The room for CDs, videos, and computer games has been changed into an area used
for storytelling events, with a new pair of sofa added and a section for children’s
fiction books. Right outside of it, the space is dedicated for reference books in general
instead of adult fictions, which is also adjacent to the new computer room in the place
of the old reading room. The set of tables and chairs arrange at the center of the library
has been removed during the 20-year-period.

Moving onto the right hand side, the children’s books room in the upper right corner is
no longer there; instead, there is now a lecture room. Notably, where there used to be
a zone for adult non-fiction books now lies the newly built self-service machines and
an information desk, together with the relocated adult fiction books. Finally, a cafe has
been constructed in the lower right corner of the library, catering to people’s drinking
needs.

20 minutes
Large: focus on 1 specific areas + learn to work with many department
Small: do more roles -> grow in many aspects

There has been ongoing debate about whether a person should work for a large
company or a small one. Both viewpoints are valid, yet I am in favour of the latter.

Admittedly, working for big organisations allows individuals to grow specific skill
sets. This is because such companies often have various departments in charge of
particular matters; therefore, employees can focus on their own aspect of work
without the need to deeply understand how other teams operate. As a result,
employees are responsible only for their limited tasks and thus have time and space to
develop professionally in that one area they are assigned.

On the other hand, proponents of working for a small company claim that it facilitates
more growth. In a small-sized company, employees usually have to take on tasks
across different disciplines due to the lack of staff. Consequently, these people are
continuously compelled to learn and develop new skill sets and knowledge when there
is demand, leading to a mentality of constant improvement and a strong work ethic.

I would argue that working for smaller companies is more beneficial. Even though the
initial stages would almost always be stressful as acclimating to a different role can be
challenging, over time people can gain a vast amount of expertise as well as a diverse
repertoire of practical skills for their career. Working for a big company, though can
be seen as an opportunity to develop professionally in a target way, can limit
comprehensive growth in the long run, as top-performing employees usually need a
well-rounded set of skills. To excel professionally relying on a sole specialty requires
reaching a high level of expertise that can differentiate an employee with the rest,
which is not practical for most people.

In conclusion, although working for big companies has its merits, it is advisable to
work for small companies to enjoy longterm benefits of growth.

32 minutes
~~~

The picture illustrates how the cutting tool had developed during the Stone Age.
Overall, the cutting tool had become larger and sharper over 0.6 million years.

1.4 million years ago, tool A was a basic, rugged cutting tool with rudimentary shape.
The front and back view were not similar, and the side view showed a slight sense of
symmetry. The sharpest part used for cutting was 5 centimetres in length.

Over a 0.6 million-year period, tool B had replaced tool A, offering various more
advanced features. The tool generally looked bigger, thus potentially heavier and
denser. Looking from the front view, it resembled a tear-drop shaped, and this did not
change much looking from the back view. Tool B’s side view was more symmetrical,
implying more skillful tool makers. There was no change in the cutting point’s length.
16 minutes

Some say that professionals such as doctors and teachers should be paid more than
sports and entertainment personalities. I agree with this statement.

Firstly, professionals significantly contribute to the development of a country. Doctors

worldwide cure and save millions of people on a regular basis, while teachers every
where are working day in day out to guide and support learners. Without doctors,
patients cannot be treated promptly and appropriately, leading to higher risk of
ailments and fatalities. Similarly, teachers of any levels are an essential factor in the
learning process of students, who grow up to be citizens expected to help develop the
country. Paying professionals in such needed fields for the society is only natural and
common sense.

To add further credence to my argument, it is observed that the mentioned professions

are currently not paid highly. Teachers have always been among those least paid, as
education in general is one of the least financially rewarding field. Doctors may be
paid higher than teachers, but they are by no means in the top-paid list. In fact, doctors
in Vietnam public hospitals are so underpaid that most of them wish to open their own
clinic, according to a recent survey in 2024. Based on this current situation, it is
logical for doctors and teachers to receive higher pays.

Admittedly, the claim that sports and entertainment personalities deserves their pay is
not without justification. Those working in the entertainment industry play a role in
people’s life, providing an emotional outlet after stressful working or studying hours.
Nonetheless, I would argue that there is no need for their pay to be very high, as it
does not necessarily mean the society can benefit. Once an athlete or actor has reached
a certain amount of income, they can live comfortably. Any extra income goes
directly to fuel their luxury lifestyle, which is not beneficial to the people. On the
other hand, more income for doctors and teachers would result in them being able to
invest more into research or equipment, which leads to higher successful rates in their
respective fields. This is good for the professionals themselves and for the public
using their service.

In conclusion, even though sports and entertainment celebrities have a right to earn,
they do not need to be paid a lot as their work only has certain impact on the growth
of the country. Alternatively, professionals including doctors and teachers should have
higher salary, as it is beneficial not only for themselves but also for many other
people.

29 minutes

~~~

The pie charts compare age distribution across 3 cohorts in Yemen and Italy in 2000
and 2025.
Overall, the percentage of 15-59-year-olds take up notable percentages in both
countries. It is projected that more of Yemen’s population will enter adulthood, yet
Italy will see a big jump in its senior citizens.

In 2000, 46.3% of Yemen’s population were between 15 and 59 years of age, while
nearly two thirds of Italy residents fell into this bracket. The second most common
cohort in Italy was people over 60 years old, accounting for almost a quarter of the
total population, which was nearly 8 times the equivalent data for Yemen. About half
of Yemen’s population were not older than 14 years old, compared to a mere 14.3% in
Italy.

After 50 years, the prediction is that Yemen will see a shift in age allocation as the
figure for the 15-to-59-year-old category surpassess 0-to-14-year-old, comprising
57.3%. Italy’s most dominant cohort will still be the same as in 2000, although there is
a decline of about 15% in its number. A significant growth can be seen in the
proportion of Italian senior citizens, which will nearly double to reach 42.3% after a
50-year period.

32 minutes

~~~
(Bùi Thành Việt)

The pie charts illustrate the differences in population age distribution between Yemen
and Italy in 2000 and their projected changes by 2050.

Overall, both nations are expected to undergo an aging population, with the 15-59 age
group having the highest population figures in both countries in 2050. However,
Yemen will maintain a significantly younger demographic compared to Italy.

In 2000, Yemen had a predominantly youthful population, with over half of its
citizens falling into the 0-14 age category. 46.3% were in the working age group (15-
59), while only 3.6% were aged 60 or older. In contrast, Italy had an older population,
with 61.6% in the working age group, and a relatively high percentage, 24.1% aged 60
or above.

By the year 2050, Yemen’s population under 15 will see a decline of 13.1% to only
37%. The 15-59 and over 60 age brackets, in contrast, are projected to rise to 57.3%
and 5.7% respectively, indicating an aging society. Italy is projected to experience a
similar trend in 2050, with the youngest demographics expected to decline to 11.5%,
the 15-59 age group projected to decrease to 46.2%, and the elderly population nearly
doubling to 42.3%.

There is an increasing number of students opting for studying abroad in pursuit of

higher education. While there may be reasonable concerns about loss of traditional
values, I believe that the benefits are more significant.

Studying for a degree in a foreign country is not without risks, particularly of losing
one’s traditional beliefs and values. This may be caused by the constant exposure with
new cultures that may hold opposing worldviews to one’s existing stance, potentially
causing a phenomenon called cognitive dissonance, which in turn leads to a state of
conflict and confusion. Consequently, some young and gullible students may abandon
values tied to their upbringing to follow what seems to be innovative ideas newly
discovered from other cultures that they are yet to fully understand.

However, I would argue that this drawback only happens with naive and unprepared
students with weak mentality. For the majority, going abroad to study after high
school is an important milestone for a young person and their family, so it is expected
that they come into the new land with preparations, especially spiritual ones about
holding on to their roots. For example, the mindset of high patriotism and great
respect of motherland’s history and culture is an important aspect of the Vietnamese
life. Therefore, it is likely that most Vietnamese students do not face such an issue.

On the other hand, choosing to take a bachelor’s degree abroad brings about
unquestionable benefits. While trying to acclimate to a new learning and living
environment, young students are forced to break through limitations to adapt, leading
to long-term growth, academically and personally. In addition, taking tertiary
education abroad can also strengthen one’s cultural heritage instead of damaging it.
This is because when a person learn more about other countries and gain global
perspective about the hardships and terror in other parts of the world, they also foster
gratitude and appreciation for their country history and cultural values that kept they
safe and nurture them physically as well as mentally.

In conclusion, it is understandable that there are worries about a possible loss of

traditional values when a student chooses to enter college in a foreign country.
Nonetheless, I maintain that such a case happens to a minority of all cases and in fact,
the majority should experience the opposite which is a strengthened and more robust
tie to their background.

38 minutes

~~~~~

(Bùi Thành Việt)

Nowadays, an increasing number of students opt to pursue their tertiary education

abroad. In my opinion, although this trend presents several advantages, they are
outweighed by more significant drawbacks.

There are indeed several benefits to pursuing education in a foreign country. Firstly,
students’ personal growth can significantly benefit from exposure to diverse cultures,
languages, and perspectives. With this exposure, studying abroad can help to foster
open-mindedness, adaptability, and empathy towards individuals from diverse socio-
economic backgrounds, Moreover, studying in more developed countries can provide
students with access to higher-quality education and more modern research facilities,
This can be especially beneficial for fields requiring advanced and new knowledge,
such as energy or rocket science.

Notwithstanding the benefits, I would contend that the drawbacks are weightier, far
surpassing the advantages. The primary downside is the financial burden associated
with studying in a foreign land, including higher tuition fees, living expenses, and
potential currency fluctuations. This strain can stress family members who may need
to take on loans or make sacrifices to support the student’s education abroad,
potentially affecting their own financial stability. On the societal level, when students
study abroad, they may choose to settle and work in the host country, contributing to
the brain-drain phenomenon. This migration of educated individuals can weaken the
workforce and impede progress in their home country,

In conclusion, while overseas education does offer unique advantages for learners, the
drawbacks for their families and societies, running from substantial to the brain-drain
phenomenon, may be stronger.

~~~~
The bar graph illustrates how much time the youngest and oldest cohorts in the US in
2015 spent their day on entertainment activities.

Overall, senior US citizens preferred passive forms of leisure while those in their
teenage years enjoyed more active ones. Notably, watching TV was by far the most
popular pastime for both age groups.

Regarding passive activities including watching TV, reading, relaxing and thinking,
watching TV was greatly enjoyed by those surveyed, with teenagers 15 to 19 years of
age spending 2.4 hours on it daily and people 75 or over spending nearly double at a
whopping 4.5 hours. The elderly also allocated 1 and 0.6 hours on a daily basis on
reading and relaxing or thinking, respectively, which is at least 5 times the data of the
youth.

Active activities saw more participation from young people, with playing games or
using computers for leisure taking the lead at 1.1 hours, whereas the equivalent figure
for those aged 75 and over was only about half of that. There was a slight gap between
hours spent by the younger and older age group for sports or recreational activities,
with the specific numbers being 0.6 hours for people under 20 and 0.2 hours for
people older than 75. Socializing witness more even distribution, as the figures for
both brackets stay in the 0.7-0.8 hour range.

19 minutes
~~~

(Bùi Thành Việt)

The bar chart illustrates how the daily leisure time spent on six different recreational
acitivites varied between Americans aged from 15 to 19 and those ever 75 in 2015.

Overall, the senior group dedicated a larger proportion of their time to passive
activities, including watching TV, reading, relaxing, and thinking. In contrast, social
activities like socializing, playing games, and participating in physical exercise were
more common among the youth. Both age groups spent the most time watching TV.

Passive activities were more common among older people, with watching TV taking
the lead, consuming 4.5 hours of their day. The youth also favored TV, but to a lesser
extent, with 2.4 hours spent daily. At 1 hour, reading was the second most common
activity for the seniors while young people spent 12 minutes on it. Seniors also
devoted more time to reading and relaxation, with an average of 36 minutes,
compared to just 6 minutes for the youth.

Active activities, on the other hand, were more popular among teenagers. Computer
use was the second most common activity for this group, with 1.1 hours, double the
half-hour daily average for older individuals. Similarly, the 15-to-19-year-olds
allocated 0.6 hours to sports every day, triple the older group. Socializing and
communicating showed smaller differences, with 0.7-0.8 hours by both age brackets.
Nevertheless, the younger group spent slightly more time on this activity.

It is true that manufacturing and using cars contribute to the destruction of the
environment, yet they are getting increasingly more popular. I believe this is caused
by benefits for car users and manufacturers and the solution lies with the government
and its people.

The trend can be attributed to several reasons. For individuals, commuting by cars to
work is convenient as people do not have to worry about the weather getting too warm
or cold outside. Moreover, there are now many models of affordable cars suitable for
people with average income, prompting even more people to consider purchasing one.
As for manufacturers, making more cars means more profits, which not only include
the car sales but also other accompanying services such as cleaning, maintenance, and
so on. These immediate benefits are often enough to make people forget about the
negative environmental impact that car industry’s activities have by letting off an
enormous amount of greenhouse gas emissions, contributing directly to global
warming.
There are certain measures to be taken in order to tackle this issue. Firstly, authorities
should introduce stringent legislation around car producing and the acceptable
associated carbon footprint, with strict penalties including hefty fines and force of
operation shutdown. In addition, there should be more awareness raising campaigns in
the community informing the public about how a seemingly harmless car trip can
contribute to exacerbate the environment’s deterioration and encouraging the use of
public transport or taking green transportation means namely walking and cycling.
Holistically addressing this problem calls for actions from the government and the
cooperation of civilians.

In conclusion, the convenience and increasing affordability of cars as well as their

potential of making profits has resulted in more cars being manufactured and used,
further polluting the environment through related activities. I maintain that by working
together, governments and ordinary citizens can successfully deal with this problem
and mitigate the damages.

38 minutes

~~~

(Bùi Thành Việt)

The increasing popularity of cars, despite their well-documented environmental

impact, is a multifaceted issue that can be attributed to several factors. To mitigate this
problem, a combination of regulatory, technological, and behavioural changes is
essential.

The growing popularity of cars can be attributed to several compelling reasons.

Firstly, the convenience they offer is unparalleled. Cars allow for swift, personalized
travel, particularly in areas where public transport infrastructure is underdeveloped or
non-existent. Secondly, cars provide a sense of independence and flexibility, allowing
individuals to travel on their own schedule without the constraints of public transport
timetables. Finally, in many societies, car ownership is seen as a status symbol,
especially in emerging economies like Vietnam or Thailand, where most households
only rely on bikes or motorbikes for transportation.
Addressing the increasing car usage requires a set of solutions. To counteract the
convenience factor, there is a need to enhance public transportation systems.
Investments in efficient, reliable, and extensive public transit can provide a viable
alternative to cars, directly reducing car emissions. Addressing the need for
independence, promoting car-sharing services can offer a similar level of flexibility
while reducing the number of vehicles on the road. Lastly, to change the perception
of cars as status symbols, governments and organizations should initiate awareness
campaigns promoting the prestige of sustainable living. Providing incentives for
purchasing electric vehicles and developing a convenient charging infrastructure can
also make EVs a more attractive and feasible option for consumers.

In conclusion, while the popularity of cars is on the rise due to their convenience,
independence, and status symbol, controlling their environmental damage requires
multiple approaches. This includes promoting EVs, improving public transportation,
and encouraging behavioral change.

Task 1: The diagram shows the small-scale production of smoked fish

THÀNH

The picture illustrates the process by which smoked fish is produced on a small scale.

Overall, there are eight stages involved, starting with fish being caught and ending
with trucks delivering the final product to distribution points.

Fish are first caught from river or ocean, and they are skinned and deboned. Next, they
are left in a pot with salt and water for 30 minutes. The pot is subsequently cooked
under medium fire for 5 minutes, which allows for evaporation and the fish become
salty. Salty fish can then be taken out of the pot, ready to be further processed.

The fifth step is when these fish are placed inside a vat covered by a wooden lid to
undergo smoking, which lasts for half an hour. The next step involves colouring with
the fish injected with agents making them yellow. Once this has been completed, the
smoke fish is packaged and moved to wholesales or retailers.

~~~

CHAT GPT
The diagram illustrates the process of producing smoked fish on a small scale.

Overall, the procedure comprises eight stages, beginning with the fish being caught
and culminating in their transportation to distribution points.

Initially, fish are caught from a river or the ocean, after which they are skinned and
deboned. They are then immersed in a saltwater solution for 30 minutes before
being cooked over a medium flame for five minutes. This process facilitates
evaporation and ensures the fish absorb the salt. Once this step is completed, the
fish are removed from the pot and prepared for further processing.

In the fifth stage, the fish are placed in a smoking vat covered with a wooden lid,
where they undergo smoking for 30 minutes. Subsequently, they are injected with a
yellow coloring agent to enhance their appearance. Following this, the smoked fish
are packaged and transported to wholesalers and retailers for distribution.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~

Task 2: Governments should spend more money on medical research and less on
researching the environment. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

THÀNH

Some say there should be more government spending on medical research while less
of that is needed for the environment. I disagree with this statement.

Firstly, if governments invest less on environmental projects, the benefits of

discoveries in medical fields may be countered. This is because these fields exist to
find cures for known diseases as well as predicting remedies for looming ones.
However, the weaker emphasis on environmental work means there is a higher chance
of us accidentally further damaging the environment, leading to consequences that
damage our health. In other words, the pace at which new medicines are found can be
exceeded by the rate of people suffering from illness due to living in a deteriorating
environment. Therefore, there is no justifying reason as to why governments should
spend less on the environment.

Furthermore, more funded medical research is not a sustainable solution to deal with
health complications. Although it is true that a greater budget translates to more
machines and equipment for laboratory activities, it can at best produce medicines that
treat illnesses on a superficial level. The root cause of sickness lies in people’s
lifestyle which are factors that even more medical advancements cannot effectively
influence. For example, a smoker who coughs is unlikely to benefit from taking high
quality coughing pills in the long run, unless they make a change in their routine that
gradually does not involve smoking. This goes to show that in order to achieve its
ultimate aim of bettering people’s health, medical research should not receive more
public funding than it already has. Alternatively, more money may be spent on
important supplementary practices such as raising awareness campaigns about the
direct relationship between one’s habit and their well-being.

In conclusion, while funding medical research is beneficial to a certain extent, there is

no need to increase this budget and lower money subsidising environmental research.
If there is a need to increase funding, governments should not ignore activities that
help educate people’s awareness about how to stay healthy through daily routines.

339w

CHAT GPT

Some argue that governments should allocate more funding to medical research while
reducing spending on environmental protection. However, I strongly disagree with
this viewpoint.

Firstly, reducing investment in environmental initiatives could undermine the very

benefits gained from advancements in medical research. The primary purpose of
medical research is to develop treatments for existing diseases and anticipate remedies
for emerging ones. However, if governments neglect environmental protection, the
likelihood of further environmental degradation increases, leading to severe health
consequences. In other words, the rate at which new medicines are developed may be
outpaced by the growing number of people suffering from illnesses caused by
worsening environmental conditions. Therefore, there is no justification for reducing
government expenditure on environmental preservation.

Moreover, increasing funding for medical research is not a sustainable approach to

addressing health issues. While a larger budget may enhance laboratory resources and
technological advancements, medical breakthroughs alone cannot effectively tackle
the root causes of illness. Many health problems stem from lifestyle choices, which
cannot be resolved solely through medical interventions. For example, a smoker
experiencing chronic coughing will not achieve long-term relief simply by using high-
quality cough medicine unless they make a conscious effort to quit smoking. This
highlights the need for a more holistic approach, in which government funding is
directed not only toward medical research but also toward preventive measures such
as public health campaigns. These initiatives can raise awareness about the direct
correlation between lifestyle habits and overall well-being, ultimately reducing the
burden on healthcare systems.
In conclusion, while medical research is undoubtedly valuable, increasing its funding
at the expense of environmental protection is neither justified nor effective. If
additional financial resources are available, governments should prioritize initiatives
that promote public awareness and preventive healthcare strategies rather than
focusing solely on medical advancements.

296w

The bar graph compares global mobile phone sales of five brands in 2009, 2011 and
2013. The figures are in millions of units.

Overall, sales of LG and ZTE phones witnessed a downward trend, while the opposite
can be seen for the remaining brands. Nokia sold the most products initially, but it was
eventually surpassed by Samsung.

Samsung, Apple and ZTE’s sales grew during the 4-year period, albeit with varying
rates. In 2009, there were more than 250 million Samsung phones sold which nearly
doubled to about 450 million after 4 years, making Samsung the company with the
largest sales. Sales of Apple cell phones followed a similar yet to a lesser extent.
Starting from nearly 30 million, its figure jumped fivefold to 150 million in 2013.
Finally, ZTE saw a marginal increase over the years, rising to nearly 60 million units.

By contrast, both Nokia and LG’s sales fell during the period shown. Although Nokia
was leading in sales in 2009 and 2011, it plummeted to only a half of its initial value
by 2013. LG sales slightly decreased by 50 million to approximately 75 million units
at the end of the period.

194 words
30 minutes

~~~

(Bùi Thành Việt)

The bar chart compares how the global revenues of the top five phone brands varied
across three different years: 2009, 2011, and 2013.

Overall, there were significant declines in LG and Nokia’s sales figures while
Samsung and Apple experienced rapid sales growth. Furthermore, Nokia held the
highest figures in 2009 but was surpassed by Samsung in 2013.

Among the brands that experienced increases in sales volumes, Samsung

demonstrated the most significant growth, soaring from approximately $150 million to
$450 million, surpassing all other rates. Apple also exhibited growth, albeit with
lower figures, increasing from $25 million in 2009 to $150 million in 2013.
Meanwhile, ZTE’s sales rose from $50 million in 2009 to about $52 million in 2011
and maintained stability through 2013.

Conversely, Nokia and LG experienced substantial declines in their sales volumes. In

2009, Nokia reported sales of approximately $425 million, which was the highest
figure for that year. However, this peak was short-lived, as Nokia’s sales figures had
halved to only $250 million by 2013. LG witnessed a decline of a similar extent,
decreasing by nearly half from its initial figure of nearly $130 million in 2009.

~~~

(ChatGPT)

The bar chart illustrates how the global revenues of the top five phone brands
fluctuated across three years: 2009, 2011, and 2013.

Significant declines were observed in LG and Nokia’s sales figures, whereas Samsung
and Apple experienced rapid growth. Additionally, while Nokia recorded the highest
revenue in 2009, it was overtaken by Samsung in 2013.
Among the brands that saw an increase in sales, Samsung exhibited the most
remarkable growth, soaring from approximately $150 million to $450 million—
outpacing all other brands. Apple also demonstrated a steady rise, with revenue
climbing from $25 million in 2009 to $150 million in 2013. Meanwhile, ZTE’s sales
increased marginally from $50 million in 2009 to about $52 million in 2011 and then
remained stable through 2013.

In contrast, Nokia and LG experienced substantial declines in revenue. In 2009, Nokia

generated around $425 million—the highest figure that year. However, this peak was
short-lived, as its sales plummeted to just $250 million by 2013. LG faced a similar
downturn, with revenue nearly halving from an initial $130 million in 2009.

The plans illustrate how a school library will change after 5 years.

Overall, changes will be made to all rooms and areas except for the larger bookshelves
and the meeting room. These changes ensure that the library will cater more to
students’ need for individual learning.

Currently, there are two bookshelves in the school library, which are close to the
library office and desks for computers. On the other side are situated a class room,
meeting room and borrowing/returning room. In the centre of the library, four desks
are arranged for student use.

In the next 5 years, it is expected that notable changes will be made. The smaller
bookshelves and desks for student laptops will be changed into desks for student
laptops. The library at the corner will be turned into a conference room. On the side of
the wall, the classroom has been changed into a studio. The room for returns and
borrowing will be split into two separate rooms. Adjacent to it, the meeting remains
virtually unchained.

171 words
25 minutes

~~~

(Bùi Thành Việt)

The picture illustrates the changes made to a school library over a span of five years.

Overall, the upper section of the library has remained unchanged, while notable
updates have taken place in other areas, including the rearrangement of rooms and the
introduction of new study facilities.

Regarding the left-hand side, there used to be 3 rooms adjacent to each other,
namely a classroom, a meeting, and a borrowing and returning desk. Now, while the
meeting room was kept, the classroom has been demolished, making way for a studio.
The single room for book borrowing and returning has been converted into 2 separate
rooms, with the borrowing desk remaining in its original area. The returning desk, to
the right of it, has been given a new, but smaller room.

Looking at the central area, there used to be 2 bookshelves located at the top and the
bottom of the library. The one at the top remains; however, the other one has been
removed to make space for student laptops’ stations. The private studying area is
located in the middle of the room, replacing the large communal desks.

Finally, the right-hand side of the floor has been changed completely. The desks for
computers are now for students’ laptops. The library office has been removed, making
space for a new conference room.

~~~

(ChatGPT)

The diagram illustrates modifications made to a school library over a five-year period.

While the upper section of the library has remained unchanged, several significant
updates have been implemented, including the rearrangement of rooms and the
addition of new study facilities.
On the left-hand side, three adjacent rooms previously existed: a classroom, a meeting
room, and a combined borrowing and returning desk. The meeting room has been
retained, but the classroom has been removed to accommodate a new studio.
Meanwhile, the single book borrowing and returning area has been split into two
separate rooms. The borrowing desk remains in its original position, while the
returning desk has been relocated to a smaller room on the right.

In the central area, two bookshelves were initially positioned at the top and bottom of
the library. The upper bookshelf remains, but the lower one has been removed to
create space for student laptop stations. Additionally, the communal study desks in the
middle have been replaced with a designated private study area.

The right-hand side has undergone the most extensive changes. The former computer
desks are now repurposed for students' laptops, and the library office has been
removed to make way for a new conference room.

~~~
The given diagram illustrates how plastic bottles are recycled.

Overall, there are nine steps in the procedure for recycling plastic bottles, forming 3
stages: collecting, processing, and producing.

Initially, used plastic bottles are thrown into dedicated bins for recycling, before they
are collected by trucks and delivered to a recycling center. There, the bottles are sorted
based on criteria such as size, shapes and weight.

The next step involves compressing sorted bottles into condense blocks of plastics,
which are subsequently crushed into much smaller pieces. These are then washed
before going through a specialised machine to be turned into plastic pellets. Once
there are enough pellets, they are heated to make raw material.

The raw material is used to produce a wide range of products using plastics including
clothes and boxes to be sold. After these products are used and thrown away, the cycle
restarts.

145 words
25 minutes
~~~~~

(Bùi Thành Việt)

The diagram illustrates how plastic bottles are recycled.

Overall, the process consists of nine distinct steps, which can be divided into two main
stages: collecting and processing plastic bottles. In the course of this process, plastics
undergo several transformations, eventually becoming usable products.

The collection stage involves three main steps. Initially, individuals dispose of their
used plastics in garbage bins, which are then transported by trucks to a recycling
center. At this facility, the waste is sorted manually, and items suitable for recycling
will subsequently be processed.

In the next stage, the reusable plastics are first compressed into cube-shaped blocks.
They are then crushed by a machine into smaller pieces, which are also cleaned to
remove any contaminants. Following the cleaning process, the plastic pieces are fed
into a machine that converts them into small plastic pellets. These pellets are finally
heated to produce the essential raw materials for manufacturing finished plastic
products like bottles, containers, shirts, and carry bags.

~~~

(ChatGPT)

The given diagram illustrates the recycling process of plastic bottles.

The process consists of nine distinct steps, which can be categorized into two main
stages: collection and processing. Throughout this cycle, plastic waste undergoes
several transformations before being repurposed into usable products.

The collection stage comprises three key steps. First, individuals dispose of used
plastic bottles in designated bins. These are then transported by trucks to a recycling
facility, where workers manually sort the waste. Only plastics deemed suitable for
recycling proceed to the next stage.

During processing, the selected plastics are initially compressed into cube-shaped
blocks. These blocks are subsequently crushed into smaller fragments, which undergo
thorough cleaning to eliminate contaminants. The cleaned plastic pieces are then
processed into small pellets using specialized machinery. These pellets are heated to
create raw materials for manufacturing new plastic products, such as bottles,
containers, shirts, and carry bags.

Should change jobs -> themselves: new environment - out of comfort zone - more
growth; company: have a chance to replace incompetent employees - work quality &
productivity high; society: many ppl like that - competitive labour market - companies
innovate constantly, many business activities - boost overall economy

Should not change jobs -> stick to 1 job = symbol for loyalty, dedication, dignity ->
especially true in Asian countries: settling down with 1 steady job

I believe change jobs but only at certain points in our careers or for unexpected
reasons -> contribute to a company for as long as possible

Whereas some people say changing jobs is beneficial for individuals, the company
they work for and the society they live in, others believe it is not a wise thing to do so.
Though both viewpoints have merits, I am in favour of the former.

Proponents of the idea of changing one’s job argue that it is advantageous on many
different levels. For the individuals themselves, this opens a window of opportunity to
go out of their comfort zone and learn new skills in a new environment with new
colleagues, which challenges them to push past their limits and grow further as a
worker and a person. Such an act also benefits companies as it allows them to replace
incompetent employees with better, more efficient ones to enhance work productivity.
Finally, when the labour market gets competitive with many people working hard to
improve to avoid getting replaced at work and thus potentially being rendered
unemployed, the working capabilities of the community as a whole improves, which
in turn boosts local economy.

On the other hand, those who oppose the idea of changing jobs contend that sticking
to one job is a sign of loyalty, dedication, and dignity. This is especially true in Asian
cultures, where unwavering long-term commitment is highly valued in the society.
Vietnam exemplifies this, having a traditional belief that it is best to settle down with
a steady job no matter how monotonous it may be or even if it offers limited career
opportunities. This mindset likely stems from the fact that past generations had to
carry the financial burden of having to take care of a large family with limited income
through economic votalities, so they would prefer financial stability for ease of
planning.

Nonetheless, I would maintain that changing jobs has more benefits if done correctly.
People should only change jobs at certain stages in their career, when they have
reached a higher level. To be able to make the right timing, one needs to carefully
track their own progress with honesty and consistency to determine the right time to
switch places for optimal results. Other than that, an employee of any level should try
to stay and contribute to their company for as hard and as long as they can.

In conclusion, whether to change jobs or not is not a right or wrong situation, but a
matter of preference. Personally, I would say that changing jobs the proper way is
desirable and it is good for many parties involved.

~~~~~

(Bùi Thành Việt)

There are those who oppose changing jobs, while others see it as advantageous for the
individual, the company, and society as a whole. Both sides have valid arguments, but
I believe switching jobs is more beneficial.

People’s reluctance to switch jobs can be attributed to various factors. Firstly, they
may be concerned about how employers, who typically value long-term dedication,
might perceive them as irresponsible, unreliable, and disloyal. Changing jobs, to them,
may also carry risks of temporary unemployment and financial instability. Secondly,
job transitions may entail stress and anxiety as individuals strive to fit in socially and
adapt to new learning curves. During this adjustment phase, people may experience
uncertainty and even imposter syndrome.

However, I lean more towards the perspective that job changes are hugely beneficial.
On a personal level, once employees acclimate to a new work environment, they have
the chance to expand their skill sets, broaden their social connections, and become
more adaptable and versatile. For companies, employees who make transitions to new
workplaces or careers often bring valuable knowledge and skills from their previous
roles. This infusion of fresh perspective can spark creativity and innovative problem-
solving within the organization. Finally, on a societal level, a dynamic job market with
frequent transitions can encourage healthy competition, potentially leading to higher
salaries and improved employee benefits as companies compete to retain top talent.

In conclusion, even though some people express concerns like financial insecurity and
increased stress about job changes, I strongly believe that the benefits, such as new
skills and networks for individuals, fresh perspective and energy for companies, and
the promotion of healthy competition for societies, hold greater significance.

~~~

(ChatGPT)
Some oppose changing jobs, while others see it as beneficial for individuals,
companies, and society. Both perspectives have merit, but I believe job transitions
offer greater advantages.

People’s reluctance to switch jobs stems from several concerns. Firstly, frequent job
changes may create a negative impression, as employers often value loyalty and long-
term commitment. This can lead to perceptions of irresponsibility and unreliability.
Secondly, transitioning to a new job carries risks, such as temporary unemployment
and financial instability. Additionally, adapting to a new work environment can be
stressful, as individuals must navigate social integration and steep learning curves,
sometimes leading to feelings of uncertainty or imposter syndrome.

However, I maintain that changing jobs is highly beneficial. On a personal level,

transitioning to a new role allows individuals to expand their skill sets, build broader
networks, and become more adaptable. For companies, employees with diverse work
experiences bring fresh perspectives and innovative problem-solving approaches. This
cross-pollination of ideas can drive creativity and efficiency. At a societal level, a
dynamic job market fosters competition, encouraging companies to offer better
salaries and benefits to attract and retain top talent.

In conclusion, while concerns about job transitions are valid, the advantages -
including personal growth, corporate innovation, and a more competitive labor market
- far outweigh the drawbacks.
The pie chart lists six types of employment status for Anthropology graduates at a
university after their undergraduate course. The table compares salaries of
anthropologists with 5 years of experience across three types of employment.

Overall, the most notable proportion of graduates found full-time work right after
graduation. Anthropologists after working for 5 years generally earned more in
government sectors.

Among the destinations for Anthropology graduates, full-time working positions took
the lead, accounting for more than half the total. Part-time posts were second most
common, standing at 15%. The figure for students staying unemployed was slightly
lower, with more than a tenth of the total graduates falling into this category. The
percentages for those who pursued full-time postgraduate study or with unknown data
both registered at 8 percent. Finally, graduates doing part-time work and postgraduate
study comprised the least significant figure at only 5%.

In terms of salaries for Anthropologist having worked for 5 years, government sector
generally paid the most with 50% of workers earn more than 100000 dollars. By
contrast, private companies offered much lower pay rate, as more than a third of
anthorpologists with such experience making 500000 to 74999 dollars. The allocation
of pay for freelance consultants are the same for the 75000 to 99999 dollars and 10000
and over dollars ranges, fixed at 40%.

(Bùi Thành Việt)

The pie chart illustrates the pursuits of anthropology graduates from a specific
university, while the table compares the salaries of these anthropologies five years
into their careers.

Overall, the majority of surveyed students engaged in full-time jobs, followed by part-
time work. Government positions are the most financially rewarding while private
company employment offers lower financial gains.

Anthropology graduates holding full-time positions comprise the largest proportion,

totaling a significant 52%, which is more than triple the second most common choice,
part-time employment, selected by 15% of the surveyed students. Meanwhile, 8% of
graduates opt for post-graduate studies, and 5% are simultaneously engaged in work
and higher education. 12% of students currently find themselves without employment,
and no data are available for the remaining 8%.

Five years into their careers, government positions and freelance consulting roles offer
the most attractive salaries. In government sectors, 50% earn $100,000 or more, while
another 30% fall in the $75,000-$99,999 bracket. Among freelance consultants, 40%
earn over $100,000 and another 40% fall within the $75,000 range, leaving only 20%
earning less than $75,000. In contrast, private companies offer less appealing
compensation, with 45% earning less than $75,000 and only 30% crossing the
$100,000 threshold.

(Version 1)

Nowadays, there is a growing consensus that the best action for mitigating
environmental damage is to raise the price of fossil fuels. While I understand the
rationale behind this argument, I would contend that increasing fuel prices may not be
a holistic enough solution.
It is without doubt that increasing fuel prices can contribute to environmental
protection. Firstly, price hikes can motivate people and businesses to explore more
economical options. As fuel prices soar, daily commuters, for instance, might opt for
public transportation instead of their private vehicles to save money on gasoline.
Similarly, manufacturers may potentially transition from fossil-fueled machinery to
more cost-effective options, such as machines powered by solar energy. Raising fuel
prices, therefore, has the potential to reduce carbon emissions and improve overall air
quality.

Nonetheless, I would contend that increasing fuel prices may present certain
limitations. For individuals, the higher costs of fuel may result in higher expenses for
other essential services, such as electricity, which could place a heavier financial
burden on lower-income people. Manufacturers may also face challenges, as elevated
fuel costs can lead to reduced production outputs and profit margins. On the societal
level, imposing higher fuel prices may have little impact on pollution from non-
manufacturing activities, such as livestock and poultry farming. In my opinion,
subsidizing the transition to green energy and sustainable agriculture would be a more
holistic approach to ensuring a greener future without hurting lower-income
individuals or industries.

In conclusion, considering the limitations for individuals, manufacturers, and

societies, I believe raising fuel prices may not be the most comprehensive solution to
tackle environmental problems, and there are more effective approaches to consider.

(Version 2)

There is an ongoing debate about the most effective way to address environmental
damage, with some advocating for higher fuel prices. I completely disagree with this
solution.

On the individual level, as fuel costs are often intertwined with transportation
expenses, putting a higher price on fuel can raise the costs of essential services. This,
in turn, may place a greater financial burden on low-income families who already
allocate a significant portion of their income to necessities. From a societal
perspective, higher fuel prices may fall short of mitigating pollution from non-
manufacturing activities. For instance, farming and raising livestock release
substantial amounts of greenhouse gases that do not originate from fuels. Increasing
fuel prices, therefore, may not comprehensively address the multifaceted nature of the
pollution problem.

I would further argue that there are more effective ways to reduce environmental
problems without imposing further financial burdens. Firstly for individuals,
governments can promote greener transportation and discourage private vehicle use
through initiatives like carpooling. SImilarly, instead of raising the price of fuels for
manufacturers, increasing green technologies’ affordability and accessibility can be a
more practical solution for both manufacturing and non-manufacturing industries.
Governments could also promote sustainable and eco-friendly business practices
through tax incentives or regulations. Compared to raising fuel prices, which may
even be counter-productive, these solutions may have more comprehensive, long-term
impacts on environmental protection.

In conclusion, I would contend that increasing fuel costs is not the most holistic
approach to mitigating environmental problems. Other methods, such as promoting
cleaner technologies or more sustainable practices, appear more efficient.

~~~~~~

It is often argued that promoting urban residency is the best way to address traffic
issues. While I understand the rationale behind this argument, I would contend that
relying solely on city living may not be a holistic enough solution to transportation
problems.

Many people endorse urban living as an ideal means to alleviate traffic problems,
justifiably so. Firstly, businesses, educational institutions, and various recreational
activities are often located in cities. Living there, residents would no longer need to
take long commutes, significantly reducing traffic. Additionally, urban areas typically
have more advanced, convenient, and accessible public transportation systems. The
residents living in Tokyo or Seoul, for example, can easily travel via extensive
subway networks, reducing reliance on private cars and traffic congestion.

However, promoting city life to reduce traffic issues may do more harm than good.
Many cities, whether less developed Bangkok or more advanced like Tokyo or Seoul,
already struggle with overpopulation and inadequate public transportation. Further
urbanization, therefore, may exacerbate these problems, potentially lowering
residents’ quality of life.

Finally, instead of urban living, I would suggest promoting migration to suburban

areas to address traffic issues. For suburban regions, this approach could bring more
job opportunities, education, and recreational activity to rural regions, reducing the
need for long commutes to big cities. For urban regions, encouraging suburban
migration can create a more balanced population distribution, alleviating citi traffic
strain. In my opinion, this strategy is more sustainable as it fosters development in
both urban and rural areas rather than focusing solely on cites.

In conclusion, I believe that encouraging people to embrace an urban lifestyle is not

the optimal approach to addressing traffic and transportation problems, as it can
detrimentally affect the quality of life and transportation there. A more sustainable
solution, in my opinion, is to encourage migration to suburban areas.
Many jobs today require specialized skills or niche expertise. However, most schools
continue to emphasize academic subjects such as history and social studies. In my opinion,
while this educational approach has certain drawbacks, its advantages far outweigh them.

Admittedly, prioritizing academic subjects can have disadvantages. One major drawback is
the lack of practical experience required in certain job markets. Without hands-on training,
students may struggle with job readiness when transitioning from the classroom to the
workforce. For instance, in engineering, graduates without practical exposure may find
themselves unprepared for essential tasks such as operating machinery, which could
negatively affect their job performance.

However, I would argue that these drawbacks primarily affect technical fields such as
engineering and electrical work, which are often associated with lower-income prospects. In
contrast, careers that hold greater prestige in society tend to place a high value on the
foundational knowledge gained through academic subjects. This is evident in professions
such as politics and law, where a deep understanding of history and social dynamics is
indispensable.

Emphasizing academic disciplines like history and social studies, in my view, yields more
significant benefits. History provides learners with valuable insights into a nation's evolution,
fostering patriotism by strengthening their connection to their cultural heritage. Likewise,
social studies cultivate cultural awareness, empathy, and a global perspective. This
foundation contributes to students’ holistic development, equipping them with the critical
thinking and interpersonal skills necessary to navigate an increasingly interconnected world.

In conclusion, although an academic-focused curriculum may raise concerns about

employability, I believe the broader benefits, such as enhanced cultural awareness and
empathy, hold greater importance. Ultimately, schools should prioritize shaping well-rounded
and responsible citizens rather than solely preparing students for specific careers, and the
inclusion of history and social studies in education plays a crucial role in achieving this goal.

300 words

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

WRITING TASK 2 TOPICS

Topic 1: Technology
The use of social media is replacing face-to-face interaction among many people in
society. Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

Topic 2: Government Spending

As housing is a basic need for people, the government should provide free housing for
everyone who cannot afford it. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Topic 3: Social Issues

The best way to solve the traffic and transportation problem is to encourage people to
live in cities rather than suburbs and countryside. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?

Topic 4: Work
Large companies should pay higher salaries to CEOs and executives compared to
other workers. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Topic 5: Education
Many students find it difficult to focus or pay attention at schools nowadays. What are
the reasons for this? What can be done to solve this problem?

Topic 6: Leisure
It has become easier and more affordable for people to visit other countries. Is it a
positive or negative development?

Topic 7: Health
More and more people are becoming seriously overweight. Some people say that the
price increase of fattening foods will solve this problem. To what extent do you agree
or disagree?

Topic 8: Art & Culture

Historical objects should be brought back to their country of origin. To what extent do
you agree or disagree?

Topic 9: Economics
Some people think the increasing business and cultural contact between countries
brings many positive effects. Others say it causes the loss of national identities.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Topic 10: Environment

The best way to solve the world‘s environmental problem is to increase the price of
fuel. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Topic 11: Sports

Some people think that it is a waste of money for countries to host big sporting events
like the world cup, and that the money would be better spent on other things.
However, others think that hosting large sporting events has a clear, positive impact
on a country. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Topic 12: Difficult questions

Some scientists think that there are intelligent life forms on other planets and
messages should be sent to contact them. Others think it is a bad idea and could be
dangerous. Discuss both views and give your opinion.