Part 1 (Introduction)

1. How many languages can you speak?
"I speak two languages fluently — English and Vietnamese. I also know some basic phrases in French, but I'm not fluent in it yet."

2. Is it important to learn a foreign language?
"Yes, I believe learning a foreign language is very important. It not only helps in communicating with people from different cultures but also enhances one’s cognitive abilities, such as improving memory and problem-solving skills. Additionally, being bilingual or multilingual can open up more career opportunities."

3. How did you learn English?
"I started learning English in school as a child and continued practicing it through language classes, reading books, and watching movies. Speaking with native speakers and traveling also played a big role in improving my communication skills."

4. What difficulties did you face while learning a new language?
"The biggest challenge was mastering pronunciation and understanding idiomatic expressions. Sometimes, the structure and vocabulary of English are quite different from my native language, which made it hard to speak naturally. However, consistent practice and exposure to the language helped me overcome those obstacles."

5. How can language influence communication?
"Language plays a crucial role in how we communicate. It not only conveys information but also reflects culture and emotion. The way something is said can change the tone and meaning of a message. For instance, humor and sarcasm often rely on how a language is used, and this can be lost in translation or misinterpreted by non-native speakers."

Part 2 (Long Turn)

Describe a situation when you had to use a foreign language. You should say:

• Where you were
• Who you were with
• What you talked about And explain how you felt about using this foreign language.

Response:

"I remember using French when I traveled to Paris last year. Although my French is quite basic, I had to use it several times to ask for directions, order food, and interact with locals in shops and restaurants.

One memorable situation was when I went to a small bakery, and the shopkeeper didn't speak English. I had to recall all the phrases I knew to ask about the types of bread they had, their prices, and then order some croissants and pastries. I was traveling alone at the time, so I had no one to help me out.

Using French in this situation made me a bit nervous at first, but also excited. It felt satisfying to communicate in a different language and be understood. It was also a great learning experience because I was able to practice my speaking skills in real-life scenarios."

Part 3 (Discussion)

1. How has technology influenced language learning?
"Technology has had a significant impact on language learning. Nowadays, there are many language apps, online courses, and interactive platforms that make learning a new language more accessible and engaging. Social media and video platforms allow learners to connect with native speakers and practice conversation. Technology also provides a more flexible way to learn, with resources available anytime and anywhere."

2. What are some ways to improve communication skills in a foreign language?
"To improve communication skills in a foreign language, it’s important to practice speaking regularly, ideally with native speakers. Listening to podcasts, watching movies, and reading books in the target language can help improve vocabulary and pronunciation. Also, joining language exchange communities or online forums can provide opportunities for real-life practice and feedback. Consistency and immersion are key to developing fluency."

3. Do you think learning a language is easier for children or adults? Why?
"In general, it is believed that children learn languages more easily because they have a natural ability to pick up new sounds and structures, and their brains are more adaptable to acquiring languages. However, adults can also learn languages effectively, especially because they have better discipline and motivation. While adults may find it harder to learn pronunciation like a native, they often have a clearer understanding of grammar and language rules."

Key Vocabulary and Pronunciation