TUYỂN TẬP 47 BÀI LUẬN ÔN THI THPT QUỐC GIA MÔN TIẾNG ANH

MATERIALS FOR THE GCSE PREPARATION – WRITING SKILLS – ÔN THI THPT QUỐC GIA
1
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite the following sentences using the words given so that it means exactly the same as the first
sentence.
11. It’s a pity I can’t go to the game next Saturday. (wish)
 I _________________________________________
12. Do I have to fill in any forms? (necessary)
 Is _________________________________________
13. I only found out the truth because I heard the two of them talking. (found)
 If I _________________________________________
14. It is necessary that I post this letter tonight. (need)
 I _________________________________________
15. This food is so good that I’m going to have some more. (such)
 This _________________________________________
II. Topic: Do we really need to have a good boss?
Even though job situations can be very different, there are several qualities that all good supervisors
have in common. A good boss treats all her employees fairly. She doesn't single out one employee for better
(or worse) treatment than the others. A poor supervisor has favorites.
Sometimes she'll even use her favorites to spy on other employees. She expects them to tell her what
the others are saying about her. This can cause a lot of bad feelings among employees. A good supervisor
gives clear and understandable directions, She doesn't constantly change her mind about what she wants
employees to do. She also doesn't get angry with an employee who is confused and needs her to explain the
directions again or more fully. Delegating authority well is another quality of a good supervisor. She knows
how to use the skills of her employees to best advantage. A poor supervisor insists on doing everything
herself. She is unwilling to give any authority to others.
A good boss evaluates her employees on a reasonable set of criteria, not on how she feels about them
personally. And she lets the employees know what those criteria are, so they have a fair chance of meeting
them. She gives both praise and criticism in a straightforward manner. She also offers guidance when needed.
A poor supervisor will criticize without giving any suggestions on how to improve. Most importantly, a good
supervisor sets the standards for her employees by her own behavior. She works hard and treats employees

like valuable assets to the company. This promotes good morale among her workers, and this is of great
benefit to her business.
2
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite the following sentences using the words given so that it means exactly the same as the first
sentence.
16. Could you give me some advice? (like)
 I _________________________________________
17. “Please don’t smoke in the house.” she said to us. (to)
 She _________________________________________
18. “Why didn’t you mention the problem before?” I asked them. (had)
 I asked them _________________________________________
19. You are unfit because you don’t do enough exercise. (would)
 If _________________________________________
20. I bought myself some good new clothes. I need them for my new job. ( which)
 I bought _________________________________________
II. Topic: Is a child better brought up in the countryside or in the city?
There are advantages and disadvantages to a childhood in either the country or a city. It's hard to say
which is better. Growing up in the country means a certain amount of isolation. You're in a small town or on
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a farm and not with a lot of people. Even more important, the people you meet every day tend to be just like
you. Most will be the same race as you, have the same background as you, and will have gone to the same
schools as you. In the city, the people you meet are all different. There are different races and different
cultures. You get a more interesting mix.
City people tend to come from a lot of different places and move around a lot. So, there isn't the sense
of community in the city that you have in the country. People in the city can live in the same apartment
building for twenty years and never get to know their neighbors. In the country, everybody knows everybody.
For a child, this means the country is more secure. A child can get lost or hurt in the city and have no one to
turn to. In the country, everyone's a neighbor. People in the country feel connected to each other.

A child growing up in the city has the advantage of a lot of interesting and exciting places to visit. He
or she can go to the zoo, museums, art galleries and concerts. There are a lot of restaurants with different
kinds of food. It's easy to see every new movie that comes out. Children in the country don't have a lot of these
activities nearby.
All in all, I think a childhood in the city is better because it prepares you more for what real life is
like.
3
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite the following sentences using the words given so that it means exactly the same as the first
sentence.
1. People all over the country have helped the poor people in the flood region.
→ The poor people_________________________________________________
2. It’s cold in the morning, so the children go to school in heavy clothes.
→ Because of_________________________________________________
3. David has read a lot of books, however, he cannot find a good solution.
→ Although_________________________________________________
4. It isn't necessary to finish the work today.
→ You don't _____________________________________________________
5. Hai finally managed to get a job
→ Hai finally succeeded____________________________________________
II. Topic: What are the factors to enable a longer life?
With the development of human society, people are living longer now. Many factors interacting
together enable the longer life. There are three most important causes: the quality of food has been greatly
improved; people could have medical services; more and more people realize that regular sports benefit their
health.
The improving quality of our food is the most important factor of the longer life. We could have not
only enough food as we want, but also the healthier food. When we preparing food, we no longer consider the
cost, but pay more attention to the nutritions of the food. With the development of transportation systems,
inland people now could also enjoy seafood and tropical fruit.
Furthermore, governments are paying more and more money on medical establishments. Citizens

could have medical services more easily. Because of the convenient medical service more illnesses could be
detected at an earlier stage. Also, many illnesses that had been considered fatal could be cured today. The
better detection and cures enable people's longer life.
Last but not least important is that people care more for their own health. Every morning you could
see people doing sports outside. More and more people have realized the saying "life is locomotion". Regular
sports build up a strong body. Naturally, people with stronger body could resist more diseases.
To sum up, the development of our society causes the longer life of people. People have better food
and better medical services. And people spend more time on sports to build up stronger bodies. As we could
predict, people are going to live even longer.
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MATERIALS FOR THE GCSE PREPARATION – WRITING SKILLS – ÔN THI THPT QUỐC GIA
4
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite the following sentences using the words given so that it means exactly the same as the first
sentence.
1. Although he had a good salary, he was unhappy in his job.
→ In spite______________________________________________
2. I'm sorry that I didn't finish my homework last night.
→ I wish_________________________________________________
3. Reading scientific books is one of my interests.
→ I'm_______________________________________________________
4. I’ve never seen a girl as beautiful as that girl.
→ That is_________________________________________________
5. I don’t have any hats as cheap as this hat.
→ This hat is_________________________________________________
II. Topic: Do we really need to be good at team-working?
We all work with many different kinds of people. Different co-workers have different personality. To
me, my co-workers should have some important characteristics such as independence, optimism, and
teamwork spirit.
I think a good co-worker must have his own opinions. A co-worker should dare to propose his own

opinions. He should not say the same as others and hide his opinions. Only everyone tries his best to analyze
every aspect of a thing, it can be done best. So independence of thinking is important for a co-worker.
Another important characteristic is optimism. If we have some difficult problems, he must be brave
and should not fear them. He should encourage others to find methods to solve problems. This point is very
important because one’s mood can influence others easily. Once a co-worker shows a little fear of difficulties,
others may become discouraged soon. So a good co-worker should be optimistic.
In addition, teamwork spirit is an important characteristic of a co-worker. Although a co-worker
should be independent to analyze a thing, he should be tolerant to the different people and their ways of
working. He should be willing to dedicate his energy, time and knowledge to reach the goal of whole team.
Independence, optimism and teamwork spirit are important characteristics of a co-worker. If everyone
in a work group has these characteristics, the group can overcome difficulties and reach its goals.
5
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite the following sentences using the words given so that it means exactly the same as the first
sentence.
1. She never seems to succeed, even though she works hard.
→However _________________________________________________
2. A new flu vaccine has been on trial since the beginning of the year.
→They have _________________________________________________
3. Mary knew what the answer was after reading the book.
→By the time _________________________________________________
4. I took little notice of the girl standing at the gate.
→I didn’t _________________________________________________
5. It was easy for us to find the house.
→We had _________________________________________________
II. Topic: Media are said to affect ú different ways. Discuss the matter in a composition.
I think the media pay too much attention to the private lives of famous people. Television, newspapers,
magazines and web sites dig up all kinds of past bad actions. They say that these are true reflections of a
person's character. This may be true if they occurred only a few years before, but some of these are things
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MATERIALS FOR THE GCSE PREPARATION – WRITING SKILLS – ÔN THI THPT QUỐC GIA
people did as teenagers. People in their forties are expected to explain something they did when they were
fifteen. If they killed someone, obviously that's more than a youthful mistake. Usually, though, these incidents
involve experiments with drugs or being reckless in a car. They're not something that the public needs to
know.
The media love to say that the public has a right to know. That's not true. We don't need to know if a
movie star or politician has had an extramarital affair. That is something of concern only to the people
involved. We do need to know if someone we're electing to public office has been involved in shady business
deals, but we don't need to know if he or she defaulted on a loan twenty years ago.
It seems the media dig up these facts without giving thoughtful consideration to what might happen. It
has an effect on the celebrity's family, especially the children. A celebrity's good name and credibility may be
ruined before he or she can prove that rumors are false. If a case goes to court, paying a lawyer can use up
all their money. Even if it doesn't come to that, they may find their career ruined.
When are we, the public, going to make it clear to the media that we're tired of having to watch this
kind of thing on the news? Wouldn't it be better if they would concentrate on more important issues?
6
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite the following sentences using the words given so that it means exactly the same as the first
sentence.
1. These young men became doctors after six years training.
→After these young men _________________________________________________
2. People believe that the Chinese invented paper in 105 A.D.
→Paper _________________________________________________
3. A man I don’t know told me about that.
→I was _________________________________________________
4. It takes six hours to drive from here to London.
→It is _________________________________________________
5. It was the goalkeeper that saved the match for us.
→Had _________________________________________________
II. Topic: Man is the main factor to worsen the Earth.

People have been living on the Earth for thousands of years. Human activity influences the Earth.
Some people believe that the Earth is being harmed by human activity. Others feel that human activity makes
the Earth a better place to live. In my opinion, the earth is being damaged by human activity. There are many
statements supporting my opinion.
Human activity has damaged natural environment and almost exhausted natural resources. Modern
industry needs more and more resources, including minerals, fuels and water. So we confront of the serious
problems such as the lack of fuels and water. Ecological balance is damaged because factories occupy many
places where animals and plants live. More and more buildings are constructed and forests become less and
less. If we cannot recognize these problems and solve them soon, we would finally lose the environment
suitable for our living.
Another serious problem is "the green-house effect." Human activity decreases forests and increases
the usage of fuels so that the gas of carbon dioxide is output more and more and there are not enough plants
to absorb it. The green-house effect is more obvious and more sensible these years. Due to the effect, icebergs
in the south polar and north polar melt and the sea level becomes higher than before. I am worried about the
cities nearby the sea and hope scientists find an effective method to eliminate the green-house effect.
Although we have advanced machines and our life seems more comfortable than before, we have less
chances to approach natures and less spaces to act. The cities become bigger and if we want to have a picnic
with our friends, we have to drive a long distance to find a natural place. In fact, the spaces of human activity
are being damaged by the skyscrapers and factories.
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From the above statements, we can conclude that human activity brings the Earth many damages.
Fortunately people have recognized the point and I believe that the Earth will become a better place to live
with our ceaseless efforts.
7
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. I simply fail to understand some of my friends’ attitudes to work.
→ I have some friends _________________________________________

2. He didn't study his lessons very carefully, so he gets bad marks now.
→ If he _________________________________________
3. Although Judy was severely disabled, she took part in many sports
→ Despite _________________________________________
4. The film was so interesting that I couldn’t go to bed.
→ It was such _________________________________________
5. “Why didn’t you go to the club last night?” the girl said to Jim.
→ The girl asked _________________________________________
II. Topic: Human are said to greatly benefit from destroying their environment. Do you really think so?
The quality of human life has improved greatly over the past few centuries, but Earth is being harmed
more and more by human activity. As we develop our technology, we demand more from our planet.
Eventually, this will harm people as well.
Our planet gives us everything we need, but natural resources are not endless. Strip mining devastates
whole regions, leaving bare and useless ground. Deforestation removes old growth trees that can't be
replaced. Too much fishing may harm fish populations to the point where they can't recover. We are too
careless in taking what we want without giving anything back.
There are more people than ever, living longer than ever. So is it any surprise that many areas suffer
from too much development? Anyone living in or near a city has experienced "urban sprawl." There is a new
shopping area on every corner and new houses, townhouses and apartments everywhere. Traffic gets worse
and worse because planners can't keep up with growth.
Keeping up with human demand is hard enough. Environmental concerns come in last. With growth
comes pollution. Companies and communities dump waste into water. Landfills are full of trash. Emissions
from factories pollute the air. Barrels of industrial waste and worse, radioactive waste, have no safe place to
go. If we're not careful, we can harm our planet beyond repair.
People need to respect the Earth and try to preserve it. If we don't, what kind of future will we have?
8
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite the following sentences using the words given so that it means exactly the same as the first
sentence.
1. He drove so badly that he kept having accidents. (A)

 He was _________________________________________
2. Jim does not intend to give up his hobby.(INTENTION)
 Jim has _________________________________________
3. You didn’t come home early so the house was broken into and things were stolen. (WOULD)
 Had you _________________________________________
4. How much are your shoes? (PRICE)
 What is _________________________________________?
5. I’d prefer you not to drink tea at night.(RATHER)
 I’d rather _________________________________________
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II. Topic: Saving energy is saving our earning.
When faced with the decision of saving your money for some time in the future or enjoying your money
when you earn it, quite a few would claim to enjoy their money, but others, in contrast, deem to save their
money as the premier choice and that is also my point. This quite different view is based on the every possible
reason.
For most reason for saving the money for future use is when you need a lot of money to deal with
some emergent things that happen to you, you should not worry about the fund or lend some money
everywhere at that time. For example, two years ago, I spend my summer holiday in a famous scenery pot,
after a wonderful trip of the first day, I lost my wallet unconsciously, then I took out some money in the bank
to finish the trip. If you did not have some deposit, you can imagine how embarrassed you are.
Second, I have finished my college study, and I am going to go abroad to get a master degree to
enhance the ability to face the challenge in the society. Plenty of money is very important to me, so I have to
save all the money that I economized for future use.
Third, the economy condition of my family is not so good that I decide to earn enough money to buy a
big house for my deeply loving parents.
This is arbitrary to judge saving money for future use according only to the excuse I mentioned in the
above paragraph. But I do not deny that enjoying the life is also important to everyone because of brief life.
That is to say, I will enjoy my money if I deposit enough.
9

PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite the following sentences using the words given so that it means exactly the same as the first
sentence.
1. Mary is so young that she can’t join our club. (TOO)
 Mary is _________________________________________
2. The owners of the restaurants are usually very rich.(WHO)
 The people _________________________________________
3. It was easy for us to get tickets for the concert. (NO)
 We had _________________________________________
4. They think the burglar got in through the bathroom. (THOUGHT)
 The burglar _________________________________________
5. George failed the final exam because he was lazy.(BECAUSE OF)
 Because of _________________________________________
II. Topic: Your thing to do in free time. Watching TV.
Do you like watching TV? Do you watch it regularly? If a living performance is available what, do
you think, will you choose, watching TV or attending the performance? But if I were you I will prefer the
latter.
Watching TV is boring and exhaustive. Just sitting before the grey box will make you sleepy. You
cannot feel the atmosphere in the auditorium which makes the audiences feel refreshed and excited. You can
appreciate all the programs through your own eyes not though the square glass screen.
There are many other audiences as well as you sitting there and watching the performance which
makes you feel accompanied. And you can communicate with others about what you have just seen or
thought. This gives you an opportunity to express your opinion. And you know you are not alone then.
Going to see the performance out of your house is also good to your body. For you may have a walk
after the activity even go to a good bar and find something to drink. You can also see some friends after the
show. Though I am not very sure about others I will commonly do such things after a concert. It makes me
feel great.
So, to take part in a living show is my favorite choice. Instead of watching TV I would like to have
some performance publically. It is better than the program in TV I think.
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10
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. The keepers feed the lions at 3 pm every day.
→ The lions _________________________________________
2. We got lost because we didn't have a map.
→ If we _________________________________________
3. I would prefer you to deliver the sofa on Friday.
→ I would rather_________________________________________
4. The bridge was so low that the bus couldn't go under it.
→ It was _________________________________________
5. That was a silly thing to say.
→ What _________________________________________
II. Topic: Airlines have changed the ways we travel. Do you think so?
An airplane is a form of transportation that has changed people's lives. Thanks to the plane, our lives
are now faster, more exciting, and more convenient that before.
You cannot deny that a plane is fast. For example, the Concorde flies at supersonic speed. A
businessman can leave Paris at 11 a.m. in the morning and arrive in New York at 8 a.m. the same morning in
time for a day's work. Many business people in Europe will fly to London for a noon meeting and then return
home to Rome or Madrid for dinner.
It is always exciting to take a plane trip. When you take a trip by plane, you know that you might cross
many time zones, many oceans, and many countries. When you get off the plane, you could be in a place that
speaks a different language. A plane is like a magician's trick. You get in a box and you come out somewhere
totally different.
Nothing can beat the convenience of a plane. In the old days, it might take you days to do what the
plane can do it an hour. Boats, for example, only leave on certain days of the week and take a long time to get
to their destination. Planes give you the option to leave several times a day and get you to your destination
quickly.

Although other forms of transportation may be more comfortable, none has changed the way we do
business and live our lives more than the plane. Thanks to the speed, excitement, and convenience of the
planes, our lives are richer.
11
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. Mr. Holton only operated because he knew the rumour was malignant
→ Mr. Holton wouldn't_________________________________________
2. All that stood between John and a gold medal was Jim's greater speed
→ But for _________________________________________
3. Immediately after their arrival, things went wrong.
→ No sooner_________________________________________
4. He was so tired that he fell asleep before the end of the film
→ He was too_________________________________________
5. Hearing that an earthquake had occurred was a great shock to us.
→ We were _________________________________________
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II. Topic: Discuss the role of teachers in one’s life
Most of us can learn how to do something simple on our own with just a set of instructions. However,
to learn about something more complex, it's always best to have a teacher. Teachers bring with them varied
and useful backgrounds. They've been trained to teach individuals in different ways depending on their style.
For instance, some students learn better by discussing a topic. Others learn more by writing about it.
Teachers can help students learn in the way that's best for each student. A textbook or a manual can only give
you one way of learning something. Plus they're only as helpful as your ability to understand them. A good
teacher can
adapt her teaching to your needs.
Teachers help you focus on what you're learning. If you're learning something by yourself, it's easy to
become distracted and go on to other activities. Teachers keep your attention on the subject. They also

approach a subject logically, taking it one step at a time. On your own, it's tempting to skip parts of the
learning process you think you don't need. That can hinder your ability to really understand the subject.
Learning a subject on your own is a very narrow way of learning. You can only use the information
you get from the textbook. With a teacher, you get the information in the written materials as well as the
teacher's own knowledge of the topic. Teachers can also provide extra materials to broaden the scope of what
you're learning.
There's nothing wrong with studying on your own, and a learner can always benefit from some quiet
study. For the best possible learning, though, a good teacher is the biggest help you can have.
12
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. The decorators have finished our first floor.
→
We have _________________________________________
2. Her hobby is one thing that she does not intend to give up.
→
She has _________________________________________
3. That is the best meal I have ever eaten.
→
I have never _________________________________________
4. Home computers used to be much more expensive.
→
Home computers aren’t_________________________________________
5. It was a mistake of mine to park outside the police station.
→
I shouldn’t_________________________________________
II. Topic: Good neighbors are as good as relatives. What do you think about this?
Neighbors are the people who live near us, and their behavior influence our daily life. Good
neighbors can make us feel comfortable and give us many help, and everyone will benefit from a good

relationship among neighbors. In my point of view, these are three conspicuous aspects of the qualities of a
good neighbors.
One of the most important characteristic of good neighbors is that they have a good living habit and
are friendly to others. A person with bad habit will affect your daily life. For example, children are most
likely to be influenced by bad neighbors and carry on bad habits. On the other hand, being friendly is also an
important nature of good neighbors. If neighbors are unfriendly, they are hard to approach and difficult to
get along with.
Another important aspect of good neighbors is that they should be willing to help others. In our daily
life, emergency situations may happen, and we may encounter difficulties which cannot be resolved by
ourselves. At this time, the quickest help we can get is probably from our neighbors. To some degree,
neighbors are as important as relatives to us, because they could provide the immediate help. In the same
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way, a neighbor who likes to help others will get help in return. Help each others can form a friendly and
harmonious relationship among the neighbors.
All in all, a good neighbor is someone who have a good living habit, is friendly and is willing to help
others. Taking into account of all these factors, we may reach the conclusion that a good relationship among
neighbors need the maintenance from us.
13
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. She knows a lot more about it than I do.
→ I don't know _________________________________________
2. Let's go abroad for our holiday this year.
→ Why _________________________________________
3. During dinner, the phone rang.
→ While I _________________________________________
4. Your hair needs cutting.
→ It's time you _________________________________________

5. If you run a lot, you'll become healthy.
→ The _________________________________________
II. Topic: Classes are really good for ones who attend? Discuss your opinion about this matter.
Nowadays, it becomes a heatedly debated topic whether a student should be required to attend classes
or not. Some people hold the opinion that the university students should be required to go to classes.
However, others have a negative attitude. If I were forced to agree with one of the two positions, I would
stand behind the latter. My Arguments for this point are listed as follows. I agree with the statement that going
to classes should be optional for university students without reservation since I believe a student is supposed
to attend those classes he or she is interested in.
Naturally, interest is the mother of study. When attracted by a wonderful class, you will attend it
unforcedly and immediately. Nevertheless, not all classes are so popular in reality and no one has interest in
every class. Consequently, you should select the classes you like to attend for a higher efficiency of studying.
It can be given a good example, in current universities, many excellent students almost have the record of
skipping some boring and undesirable classes.
Another reason that can be seen by everyone is that it contributes to build a university student's ability
of learning by himself or herself. Obviously, by choosing good and meaningful classes, giving up those
undesirable, or studying these classes you cannot attend somehow by yourself, you will learn how to
distribute your study time and acquire the capability of learning by yourself, which is tremendously important
to modern university students. Many celebrities, such as Bill Gates, have such powerful ability by not
attending some classes when they were in university.
Admittedly, being required to attend classes has advantages of disciplining the student, however,
considering most university students can discipline themselves on their own, I believe it is sagacious to agree
with that going to classes should be optional for college or university students.
14
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. They regret ever doing business with him.
→ They wish _________________________________________
2. We didn’t finish the work because of his carelessness.

→ If _________________________________________
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3. If you followed my advice, you’d be successful.
→ Were _________________________________________
4. He left without saying a single word, which is very impolite.
→. It was impolite _________________________________________
5. Working for this travel agency will not be possible without a good command of English.
→ Unless _________________________________________
II. Topic: Cooking for yourself is not only good for your health but also your pleasure. Do you agree with
this?
In the modern life now, more and more people prefer to eat at food stands or restaurants. They think
that will save time so that they can have enough time to do their jobs. But I still prefer to prepare and eat food
at home.
There several reasons. First of all, you can save money if you eat at home. In general, to get profit, the
restaurants ask for more money on the same food you cook at home. That is the waste of money. To save
money, you may prefer to prepare you food at home with less money.
The second, usually, the food in the restaurants is not what you are expecting. you may dislike the way
the restaurant cook the same dishes as you do at home. For example, the other day, I asked for potato in a
restaurant. After the first bite, I thought it was so awful. My mom never cooked such potato for me! The bad
lunch even destroyed my mood in that day.
The third, if you prepare food by yourself, you will have a happy mood when you eat it, regardless of
the real savor of the food. It goes a saying well "labor brings happiness". In addition, you can change your
method of cooking considering your taste on that day. The reasons above may can answer why I prefer to eat
food at home. Cooking even has become my hobby now. Come back and have your delicious food, I'm sure
you will like it!
15
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.

1. “Why don’t you put better lock on the door, Barbara”? said John
=> John suggested_________________________________________
2. Although his both legs were broken in the crash, he managed to get out of the car before it exploded.
=> Despite his_________________________________________
3. I haven’t eaten this kind of food before.
=> This is the first_________________________________________
5. The architect has drawn plans for an extension to the house.
=> Plans_________________________________________
5. It isn’t necessary for you to finish by Saturday
=> You_________________________________________
II. Topic: Living in city or countryside makes differences to anyone. What do you think about this?
I grew up in a small town and then moved to a big city, so I have experienced the good and bad sides
of both. I never thought that I would like living in a big city, but I was wrong. After ten years of living in one,
I can't imagine ever living in a small town again.
Small towns and big cities both have some problems in terms of transportation. In a small town, you
have to own a car to ensure a comfortable living. You can't get around without one because there isn't any
kind of public transportation. Big cities generally have heavy traffic and expensive parking, but there you
have a choice of taking public transportation. It's not free, but it's often cheaper than driving when you
consider gas and time. Especially if you don't have a car, you're better off in the city.
I love the excitement of big cities. Small towns have a slow pace. Large cities mean you have to adapt
to a variety of situations, like finding a new route to work or trying a new restaurant. I enjoy that challenge
very much. Another pan of the excitement of city living is the variety of cultural activities available. There is a
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wide assortment of theatre, music and dance performances available in big cities. These things are rare in
small ones.
The final thing I like about large cities is the diversity of the people. The United States is made up of
people of different races, religions, abilities, and interests. However, you seldom find such a variety of people
in a smaller town. I think that living in an area where everyone was just like me would quickly become
boring.

Of course, security is a concern, and that's one area where small towns are superior to big cities. Still,
I would rather be a bit more cautious and live in a large city than to feel secure but bored.
16
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. “ How many survivors are there?”, asked the journalist.
=> The journalist wanted to know_________________________________________
2. It was such rotten meat that it had to be thrown away.
=> The meat was_________________________________________
3. It is essential that Professor Van Helsing is met at the airport
=> Professor Van Helsing_________________________________________
4. You can’t visit the USA unless you have a visa.
=> If you_________________________________________
5. “ Can I borrow your typewriter, Janet”? asked Peter.
=> Peter asked if_________________________________________
II. Topic: What would you like to change about your hometown?
If I could change one important thing about my hometown, it would be air pollution problem, and I
will give the following reasons to explain why I want to solve the problem.
The first and most important reason is that I hope that my hometown can become a beautiful city. As
an old industrial city, my hometown has made a great deal of contribution for the country’s economic
development. At a result, the natural environment of the city has been badly damaged. The forest has
disappeared; the mountains have become bald, and the most awful thing is that the air quality becomes worse
and worse. People seldom see the blue sky during most time of year.
Another reason why I want to change my hometown’s air pollution situation is that the city’s
development needs clean and tidy environment to attract investors. Nowadays people have come to know that
the city’s environment, which is so called “software facility of the city”, plays an important role in the city’s
future. For example, due to the fact that the environment of the city is very poor, many local students who
pursue their study out of the city would rather find themselves a job in other cities than coming back to their
hometown after they graduated.

In addition, nowadays people have paid more and more attention to their health. If air pollution
problem cannot be solved as quickly as possible, people’s requirement for a healthy body will never be
realized.
In my mind, changing air pollution will apparently be my first choice if I can change one important
thing about my hometown. Fortunately people in my hometown are gradually aware of the serious problem.
17
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. She started working as a secretary five years ago.
=> She has_________________________________________
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2. She knows a lot more about it than I do.
=> I don’t know_________________________________________
3. My French friend finds driving on the left difficult
=> My French friend isn’t_________________________________________
4. They think the owner of the house is abroad.
=> The owner_________________________________________
5. We didn’t go on holiday because we did not have enough money
=> If we_________________________________________
II. Topic: What do you think of the changes in life?
Everything in the universe is in constant change. And everything needs continual improvement if the
ever changing and increasing demands of humankind are to be met. If I am ever given the chance to change
one important thing about my home town, it would be internet service. Needless to say that nothing generally
revolutionized the way we live as internet in the past decade. Thus, an improvement in this vital service would
mean an even more, unheard betterment to the people in my home town.
It is said that information is power. True saying indeed! I can envision how everything in my home
town could improve dramatically if the internet service in it were made free, fast and staying out there like
electricity, telephone or water all the time. One thing, a fast free and reliable internet service could improve

in my home town is the way people work. If there is a this said service people in my home town must not
necessarily commute to a far place to do their job. This in turn would mean less traffic jams, spacious work
place, more time for family and recreation and so on.
The way people learn would be another important thing that a fast, free and reliable internet service
could better in my home town. People will have the chance to go through tremendous and different
information resources in a very small amount of time. They, apparently will also take less time to share it.
This assures a more fulfilled life for my home town people.
Since its advent, internet touched every part of our life. It in a dazzling way improved the way we do
business, learn and communicate. A change in internet service implies good way of living for everyone in my
home town.
18
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. The children couldn’t go swimming because the sea was rough.
=> The sea was too_________________________________________
2. The mechanic serviced my car last week
=> I_________________________________________
3. I’m always nervous when I travel by air.
=> Travelling_________________________________________
4. He couldn’t afford to buy the car,
=> The car_________________________________________
5. “Why don’t you put your luggage under the seat?” he asked
=> He suggested_________________________________________
II. Topic: Factories in residential areas produce both positive and negative effects to people’s lives. Do you
agree or disagree?
If a large factory is going to be built near your community, is it good or bad? It’s a quite difficult
question to answer. Because there are many aspects to take into your consideration - the advantages and the
disadvantages. Let’s talk about that.
First, a large factory, especially a large chemical factory is quite harmful to our environment when it

is built near our community. It will affect our daily life a lot. All the chemical factories will produce a lot of
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waste and most of the wastes are harmful to the environment, including poisonous gas and liquid. Some of
them cannot be entirely broken down. If they are released into the air or the river, it will affect our health.
And also the factory may produce a lot of noise. The environment we want to live in is a quiet and peaceful
one, so the noise will be quite boring. And yes, noise also affects our health.
Still one thing, a factory can be very dangerous. Because a fire or a explosion may break out in the
factory. If it’s very near our home, it’s quite dangerous.
But in other hand, a factory may be a good news to us. It can provide more jobs for us, especially for
the young people in our community. Since the factory is near, it’s so convenient to go to work, and the factory
will get more chances to our area. It will help to develop our area. So if the factory can bring us a lot of
chances, we will agree to build one. But the most important things are:
1. Build the factory in a safe distance from our community, not too near.
2. Make sure that the factory can deal with the waste properly. Do not release the poisonous gas into the air,
and not release the waste water into the river nearby.
3. Make sure the security guard in the factory works very well.
19
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. Although he had a good salary, he was unhappy in his job.
In spite of_________________________________________
2. I’m sorry I missed your birthday party
I wish_________________________________________
3. They haven’t cleaned the streets this week.
The streets_________________________________________
4. Apples are usually cheaper than oranges.
Apples are not_________________________________________
5. I advice you to put your money in the bank.

You’d_________________________________________
II. Topic: Parents are said to influence their children many different way. What do you think about this?
Parents influence greatly their children for a lifetime. I think people are molded by two factors, family
and the society that they are in. From birth, humans are influenced by the surrounding people for their
characteristics. Parents take a big role in bringing up children, which affects their lives for a long time.
In early infanthood, babies are looking to moms and dads to learn basic manners to be accepted in
society. Some of these manners include not running around in restaurants or hitting other kids. As they grow
up, they learn more from parents about social etiquette, which makes them more suitable to live in society.
Children tend to look to their parents for role models knowingly or unknowingly.
Besides, parents can also affect children's study habits. Children of doctors, lawyers, investment
bankers, and other professionals see their mothers and fathers work a lot of time, reading books, and
punching keyboards, even at home. They are showing their children how to study by their own behavior.
However, parents can also be a bad example for their kids. It is difficult for children who have abusive
parents to lead a normal childhood and is possible that they may become similar to their abusive parents
when they grow up. In this sense, the parents' negative role in shaping the children's personality cannot be
emphasized more.
In conclusion, parents are the best teachers for their children. They leave big marks on their
children's lives and are therefore more influential teachers than any others they may have in their lives.
20
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
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1. That restaurant is so dirty that no one wants to eat there.
It is such_________________________________________
2. I’ll pick the children up if you like.
Would you_________________________________________
3. He objected to the fact that his secretary came to work late
He was annoyed_________________________________________

4. Tom is the most industrious pupil.
No other pupil_________________________________________
5. She isn’t accustomed to life in London
She’s not used to_________________________________________
II. Topic: Which is more important, knowledge from books or experiences from life?
We gain our knowledge about the world and our life from two sources: from experience and from
books. These two resources are both important, but which of them is more important?
Knowledge from books forms a very important part of our knowledge structure. In schools and
colleges, we learn knowledge which is fundamental to our future career. We learn knowledge from books in
order to make our contributions to this society in the future. A student learns mathematic equations and other
scientific knowledge and become a scientist or engineer. We will be illiterate and ignorant without learning
knowledge from books. Moreover, we acquire knowledge about life and the world by reading books,
magazines and newspapers. This is also very important as we cannot experience everything all by ourselves.
Therefore books are a very important source of knowledge.
On the other hand, we can't learn everything from a book. “Experience is the best teacher” is an old
cliché, but I agree with it. The most important, and sometimes the hardest, lessons we learn in life come from
our participation in situations. We learn how to get along with others or how to have self-respect from our
experience, not from books. We cannot learn emotional feelings, such as love and care, through books; they
come from our real life experience. Knowledge from experience is also a very important supplement to
knowledge from books.
Needless to say both learning sources, books and experience, are very important to us. But in my
opinion knowledge from experience is more important, because without knowledge from experience, it is
impossible to get a real understanding of knowledge from books, and how to apply this knowledge to real
world situations.
21
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. “Don’t forget to phone the office,” she told him.
She reminded_________________________________________

2. I’m afraid I haven’t got time to listen to you.
I wish_________________________________________
3. The police has just released John.
John_________________________________________
4. I couldn’t hear them because they were speaking too softly
They were speaking_________________________________________
5. We spent 5 hours getting to London.
It took_________________________________________
II. Topic: why do people want to go on university education?
People study in college or university for many different reasons. I think the most important reason is
to gain more knowledge and learn more skills. Of course, there are also many other reasons that people study
in college such as to get more friends, and increase one's self-confidence.
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These days, most jobs require people who are educated and have good job skills. Therefore, the
people who want a good job have to study hard and at least graduate with a high education. Furthermore, as
technology advances all over the world, more and more education is required of people.
Some people who study in college or university want to make more friends and increase their
interpersonal skills. They enjoy their lives in university or college and tend to socialize a lot. They can meet
more people who have the similar interests with themselves. They can go to university after school and make
more friends who they trust.
The people who graduate from college seem more confident in our community. These people are more
respected by society. Many people want to be respected and to be important by family, friends, their bosses,
and others in their lives. They find that most of them can confidently talk and do their jobs as they are more
educated. Therefore, most people want to get the confidence through the university or college study. In
today's society, people need more knowledge and skills to be adapted. The university and college study is a
good way to achieve this.
22
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as

the provided one.
1. I get to work in 20 minutes.
It _________________________________________
2. It is necessary that this work be finished by Monday.
This work_________________________________________
3. It’s a pity I didn’t take my doctor’s advice.
I wish_________________________________________
4. The bread is so tale we can’t eat it.
The bread isn’t_________________________________________
5. Who does this bag belong to?
Whose_________________________________________
II. Topic: Is university education the best choice for all of us?
In China, more and more people try their best to attend college or university. What are the reasons
that make people long for it?
First of all, in my opinion, the most important reason is to gain competence to live a better life in the
future. Competition of our days has become more and more drastic, and even a very simple job or low
position will attract hundreds of candidates to apply for it. Only those who have a good education and
general knowledge can gain better work. So, we should attend college or university for better competence.
Second, attending college or university can change our life. For example, to myself, I am a student
from countryside. I am one of the few people who can attend college or university. Most of those who have not
studied in college or university go to work early in a small factory in a small town or on a farm in their
hometown. Just because I have taken higher education, I can get better chances to study or work in the
capital of our country where a lot of people want to go to. Why? Good education gives me chances to change
my life.
The third reason for attending a college is to increase knowledge. Study is a so interesting thing that it makes
our life rich and colorful. It expands our eyesight by informing us with lots of new things what we cannot gain
from our common life or experience. On the other hand, by attending college or university, you can learn the
knowledge or skill necessary for your future work.
People attend college or university for various reasons. Some may attend for new experiences, and
others may think about other things. What I have mentioned is just very few of them.

23
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
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I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. My boyfriend is very short-tempered.
My boyfriend loses_________________________________________
2. You can use it as long as you like, and it won’t wear out.
No matter_________________________________________
3. If the work is finished by lunchtime you can go home.
Get_________________________________________
4. How have you been getting on with your enquiries?
How much_________________________________________?
5. I gave Ted the massage, but he already knew about it
I needn’t_________________________________________
II. Topic: In Vietnam, a university diploma seems to guarantee one’s social status. What are your points of
view about this?
Why do people need to attend colleges or universities? Different people have different answers to this
question. I believe that the three most common reasons are to prepare for a career, to have new experiences,
and to increase their knowledge of themselves and the world around them.
Career preparation is becoming more and more important to young people. For many, this is the
primary reason to go to college. They know that the job market is competitive. At college, they can learn new
skill for careers with a lot of opportunities. This means careers, such as information technology, that are
expected to need a large workforce in the coming years.
Also, students go to colleges and universities to have new experiences. This often means having the
opportunity to meet people different from those in their hometowns. For most students, going to college is the
first time they've been away from home by themselves. In addition, this is the first time they've bad to make
decisions on their own. Making these decisions increases their knowledge of themselves.
Besides looking for self-knowledge, people also attend a university or college to expand their

knowledge in subjects they find interesting. For many, this will he their last chance for a long time to learn
about something that doesn't relate to their career.
I would recommend that people not be so focused on a career. They should go to college to have new
experiences and learn about themselves and the world they live in.
24
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. The trains couldn’t run because of the snow.
The snow_________________________________________
2. I didn’t arrived in time to see him.
I wasn’t early_________________________________________
3. I’m sorry I was rude to you yesterday.
I apologize_________________________________________
4. She didn’t hurry, so she missed the train.
If_________________________________________
5. Barbara is the best tennis-player in the club.
No one_________________________________________
II. TOPIC: Write a letter to a pen-pal to talk about a person who has great influence on you.
……………………., March 26
th
, 2015
Dear Linda,
I am sorry for not writing to you for so long, but you know we are all busy with preparing for the
coming GCSE. I am writing today to tell you about my greatest ever idol who has great influence on me.
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Everyone has his variety of acquaintances, friends, relatives, teachers, or partners among whom one
may have the one that creates greatest ever impression on him. For me, I must say that my life would not have
been as good as it is today if I did not meet Mr. Jimmy. It happened to me when I was a lower secondary

student. I remember well that I was a very bad boy at that time. I always got bad marks for school subjects as
well as I got fined daily. My teachers got very disappointed, my parents felt ashamed as I was very often
mentioned as a bad example at school. My classmates found ways to keep away from me. I felt so lonely and
hopeless. Then Mr. Jimmy, my new Maths teacher appeared. After having had a talk with me and my parents,
he agreed to be my private tutor. It was so strange that he did not teach me lessons right away, he made ways
to be my friend instead. He spared time to get to know my difficulties, helped me to gain me confidence, let me
believe in what I could do. Gradually, I realized what to do, how to do. He encouraged me when I felt tired,
lonely or daunted. He gave me belief and strength to stand right on my own feet. Finally, I got to know the
meaning of life.
To tell the truth, I feel so happy to have a great teacher like Mr. Jimmy. I really hope that you will
spare time to let me know about your idols in life. I am looking forward to hearing from you soon.
Love,
Tom.
25
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. I haven’t seen that man here before.
It’s_________________________________________
2. The furniture was so expensive that I didn’t buy it.
The furniture was too_________________________________________
3. The robbers made the bank manager hand over on the money.
The bank manager_________________________________________
4. Tom learned to drive when he was nineteen.
Tom has_________________________________________
5. She had never been so unhappy before.
She was unhappier_________________________________________
II. TOPIC: Write about a sporting event you saw recently.
Last Sunday at our school football field, a friendly football match was held. Our school Female
Students’ Football Team played against the neighboring school’s one.

It was a really nice Sunday morning then. The football field where the match took place was
previously well-decorated. Red flags could be seen along the roads from our school gate passing the school
play-ground to the gym then to the football ground, together with numerous slogans, posters, and of course
pictures of the two teams and individual players. Then came the most important moment of the day when the
two teams entered the field from the changing rooms, following the two headmasters of the two schools, and
the referees. Spectators all burst into applauses to welcome the players. As soon as the game began,
spectators started cheering and shouting for one side or the other. Others sang and danced, some even called
out the players’ names with love and pride. The crowd kept discussing and commentating happily. On the first
half, our team played much better to score two goal to lead the guest. The football field seemed to be filled
with applauses and bravos when the first and then the second goal were scored by the two different home
strikers. The players of the two teams played so well that it made spectators forget the time as the referee
blew his whistle to finish the first half. When the second half came the guest players played much better and
scored a goal. The players still played enthusiastically but no more goal was scored. The match ended with
the winning score of 2-1 for the home team.
It was a very happy weekend day for us all and it was, in my opinion, the best game I have ever
watched. We all agreed that such sporting event brought us closer together, made us feel relaxed and we very
much felt confident and proud of our school.
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26
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. It was so late that nothing could be done.
It was too_________________________________________
2. He left school and then joined the army.
After _________________________________________
3. The leak was repaired by the plumber this morning.
The plumber _________________________________________
4. This flower is very beautiful!

How _________________________________________!
5. Somebody stole his watch yesterday.
His watch _________________________________________
II. TOPIC: Write an essay to discuss the benefits of doing exercise.
Health is considered to be the most valuable thing one possesses. Improving health is always a prior
task in one’s daily routine. And the simplest, cheapest, but the most effective way to better one’s health is
doing regular exercise.
One advantage of doing exercise is to reduce stress. People who exercise are likely to feel more
relaxed, healthier, and of course happier. Doing regular exercise helps the body produce happy chemicals
that make the exercisers reduce the worries about life and work as well as forget the boredom and
unhappiness.
Another benefit exercising brings us is that we will feel more energetic to face and overcome our daily
difficulties. Doing exercise helps us reduce the possibilities of being ill, protects us from some fatal diseases
as heart disease, cancers and diabetes. Regular exercisers are believed to have healthier, happier and longer
lives. The other good thing is that doing exercise helps us feel more self-confident. We know exactly what we
can do or what abilities, talents we have. We will think positively, do confidently, and lead an optimistic life if
we practice exercising regularly. Controlling our weight effectively is another value. Perspiration occurs
when we exercise, which helps our bodies get rid of bad things inside. Fats are burnt during our practicing
exercise, which helps us to keep fit.
To sum up, doing exercise enables people to have good body-buildings, keep fit and brings exercisers
many benefits. Sparing time doing exercise will ensure us a longer, healthier and happier life.
27
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. The last time she had a swim was five years ago.
She hasn't _________________________________________
2. I asked the hotel porter to wake me at 8 o’clock the following morning.
“Please_________________________________________
3. They’ll have to change the date of the meeting again.

The date_________________________________________
4. The garage is going to repair the car for us next week.
We are going _________________________________________
5. The bus take s longer than the train.
PREPARED BY ĐỖ BÌNH – THPT LIỄN SƠN, HUYỆN LẬP THẠCH, TỈNH VĨNH PHÚC TRANG 18/15
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The train_________________________________________
II. TOPIC: Write an essay to discuss the opinion that arts should or shouldn’t be taught in high schools.
There have existed debates whether arts be taught in high schools. People who support the ideals find
it necessary that high school students know as much about arts as possible. In contrast, the protestors think
teaching arts to high school students is really a waste of time and money.
It is generally said by the supporters that studying arts benefits high school students several ways. The
first good thing is that arts help students have background knowledge of not only the nation but the world
cultures and history. Another benefit is that arts equip students with many necessary skills such as; creative
thinking, observing, problem solving, and critical thinking. People who want arts to be taught to high school
students also agree that arts are very fun and interesting to learn. We can say in other words arts are
attractive to any learners. The other advantage of arts is that learning arts help students to build team spirit
and community as art activities can be done in groups. Moreover, arts enable students to socialize and
students become more and more civilized and responsible.
In contrast, protestors believe that there is not enough time for teachers to cover all kinds of subjects
at school. So they should focus on core subjects like Maths, foreign languages and physics, etc. to save time
and money arts should only be elective, not compulsory subjects. Furthermore, students can learn more about
arts via media and arts are then their leisure activities. Additionally, arts, in the protestors’ opinion, should
be taught by parents as they may understand their children’s ability and talents better.
To conclude, there are different opinions that arts should or shouldn’t be taught in high schools. Each
side has reasonable explanations to convince and prove the points of view. For me, we can hardly be civilized
without knowledge of arts. Sooner or later, in my opinion, arts should be taught to students to help them
enrich their knowledge, to discover their talents to better their own lives.
28
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)

I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. John has not had his hair cut for over six months.
It is_________________________________________
2. Maria says she’d like to have been put in a higher class.
Maria wishes_________________________________________
3. Would you like me to finish the work tonight?
I’ll_________________________________________
4. You may get hungry on the train, so take some sandwiches.
In_________________________________________
5. My husband didn’t leave the car keys, so I couldn’t pick him up at the station.
If my husband_________________________________________
II. TOPIC: Write about the causes of the fact that families now are not as close-knit as they were in the
past.
It is widely believed that home is where love dwells and that east or west home is the best. That means
family is so important to any of us that we hardly grow up without the care from family members. It is also
true that the social, economic changes make the traditional family formulas vary. Although different people
have different points of view on the matters, we all agree that families now are not as close-knit as they used
to be. The causes are various, but we can count for the three main points below.
The first cause is that in our modern life we all seem to have so busy lives and dynamic lifestyles.
People now are so busy with working, earning, getting promotions, taking part in social activities, etc. People
are likely to have longer working hours because of their demand of earning more and more. People seem to
be never satisfied with what they have. In families, under the economic pressure, both parents work so they
have less time for themselves as well as for other family members.
PREPARED BY ĐỖ BÌNH – THPT LIỄN SƠN, HUYỆN LẬP THẠCH, TỈNH VĨNH PHÚC TRANG 19/15
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Another cause is that due to the explosion of modern technologies people are more interested in their
online lives than interacting with other family members. It is sometimes thought that people seem to isolate
themselves with their mobile-phones, tablets, personal computers, and other information technological
devices.

Having different viewpoints is the other cause of course. The generation gaps sometimes cause
misunderstandings or even debates. Information technology also brings opportunities to diverse viewpoints
within family members. Having different opinions pulls people far from one another.
Above all, though changes of traditional families are unavoidable, we are to shorten the gaps among
family members to be as close-knit as possible. Because family life is very important to any individual, each
member must be responsible for bringing all family members closer together.
29
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. “I don’t think John will come”, said Bill
Bill doubted_________________________________________
2. The postman was bitten by our dog.
Our dog_________________________________________
3. We couldn’t drive because of the fog.
The fog prevented_________________________________________
4. Although his leg was broken he managed to get out of the car.
In spite_________________________________________
5. The cake was so hard so I couldn’t cat it.
It was_________________________________________
II. TOPIC: Write to suggest measures governments and individuals can take to reduce the global warming.
It was reported recently by the U.S scientists that the volume of ice on the North Pole is now the
smallest within 36 last years. That is caused by the global warming process. Various other bad things human
beings are now facing are also related to the warming of the Earth climate. The fact is that we are the main
agents who are responsible for the worsening of the nature. So, individuals and governments throughout the
world should co-operate to stop the natural environment worsening process.
Each individual first must be more aware of the need to protect our environment for not only our own
lives but also the next generations. The first easy thing one can do is to save the energy by using less heat and
air-conditioning, using energy-efficient products, or even driving less. Another way is to recycle paper,
plastic, newspaper, glass, etc. When the recycling is practiced, it helps to reduce the carbon dioxide in the

atmosphere. The other thing is to plant more trees because as we know, trees can absorb carbon dioxide and
give off oxygen. The fact is that the mission is not done by one or a group of persons so we should educate the
community and encourage everyone to join hands to recycle and conserve energy.
Countries all over the world, rich or poor, developed, developing or underdeveloped should co-
operate to better the situation. First of all, governments are better to inform their citizens about the global
warming facts and the mishaps that people may face if the process goes on. Then, in order to reduce the
emissions, governments should impose heavier taxes on the produce of greenhouse gas emissions. Factories
and companies that over-emit may not be allowed to operate or even be closed. Moreover, bigger sums of
money must be spent on researches discovering the alternative sources of energy. Additionally, stricter laws
on environmental problems should be passed and enforced to better the surroundings for people to live.
After all, the work to recover the environment and to stop the global warming process cannot be done
overnight or completed by one person or one nation, we, human beings all over the world, must co-act to
share the missions. Though this is the international millennium goals, each individual can do something now
to help to realize man’s purpose.
PREPARED BY ĐỖ BÌNH – THPT LIỄN SƠN, HUYỆN LẬP THẠCH, TỈNH VĨNH PHÚC TRANG 20/15
MATERIALS FOR THE GCSE PREPARATION – WRITING SKILLS – ÔN THI THPT QUỐC GIA
30
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. We didn’t go because it rained.
If it hadn’t_________________________________________
2. I can’t cook as well as my mother does.
My mother_________________________________________
3. I don’t suppose you have change for a pound, do you?
Do you happen_________________________________________
4. He failed to win the race.
He didn’t_________________________________________
5. Mary rang hours and hours ago.
It’s hours_________________________________________

II. TOPIC: Write to describe your all-time favorite movie.
In life, although I have several hobbies, watching movies is the one I am more interested in. I have
watched countless films so far, but BẾN KHÔNG CHỒNG, a product of VFC (Vietnam Film Corporation) in
2001, is the one that has created the biggest impression on me ever since.
The film is set in the time of our war against the American troops in the South to unify the country and
the construction to build a communist country in the North. The ground of the story is in a tranquil poor
farming village in the North. The main characters are Mr. Van, a veteran, a secretary of the village’s
Communist Youth Union named Hanh, the two widows and the villagers. The story happens right inside the
village to the bank of a no-name-river having a namely Khong Chong river five-step-wharf.
After serving in the army Van came back to his village in which there were only old villagers together
with almost widows, girls and very few disabled men. When Van returned, he was appointed head of the
village armed group which consisted of around six armed girls including Hanh – Van’s former sweetheart’s
daughter. Van lived under the same roof with a land-lord widow and her 16 year-old son. Van was then
admired by all the villagers, so he tried his best to meet the residents’ expectations. Though sometimes the
mid-forties man felt lonely, he tried not to do wrong thing especially on sex. Time passed, peace was then
established with the unification declaration, the village was still under the misery of the war unhappiness.
Hanh married to an Army captain, but had no child for long. Debates and conflicts occurred, which made
Hanh left her husband. So disappointed, and hopeless, she entered Van’s hut by a showery night. The two
thirsty unhappy persons met, and then Hanh was pregnant. Unable to live with the villagers’ prejudice, Van
and Hanh left the homeland, and finally Van killed himself by the river wharf Ben Khong Chong.
The scenes in the movie are colorful and interesting, typical for a North Vietnam’s rural village. The
story is touching and rather mournful. The acting of the main characters is excellent as they are all famous
actors and actresses. The film leaves us valuable lessons in life, and helps us know more about the rural life
courtesy. I must say that it is one of the best movies I have ever watched in my life.
31
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. I’m sorry that I didn’t finish my homework last night.
I wish_________________________________________

2. She asked Michael how she liked her new dress.
“How_________________________________________
PREPARED BY ĐỖ BÌNH – THPT LIỄN SƠN, HUYỆN LẬP THẠCH, TỈNH VĨNH PHÚC TRANG 21/15
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3. A train leaves at 8 o’clock every morning.
There is_________________________________________
4. Nobody can deny that she has a beautiful voice.
It_________________________________________
5. I would like you to help me to put the chairs away.
Do you mind_________________________________________
II. TOPIC: Write to discuss the opinion that women make better women than men.
Women for long are said to be more suited for being mothers and housewives. That means the natural
roles of women for many people are child-bearing and home-making only. That is why there exists the
opinion that women make better parents than men.
Naturally, many people agree that women have better intuitive intelligence than men. Women are
better at reading the children’s signals, so they can easily satisfy children’s needs. They also have better
emotional understanding of what the kids are going through. In addition, women have a closer bond with
their children. They create that during the nine months pregnancy and the early period of child rearing. It is
true that on average women spend more time than men on child rearing and care taking. Commonly, men
tend to be out to work a lot and they seem to spend little time with their children. Significantly, breeding
makes the relation between women and their children more close-knit.
On the contrary, there are many single fathers who can totally dedicate their lives to their children.
And, according to some researches, children of single mothers tend to have more chance of crime. It is also
true that no one come to parenthood and immediately knows everything. Learning and practicing can help
fathers perform as well as mothers. Moreover, men and women bring different benefits to their children.
People believe that fathers can teach their children better than mothers in many ways. Commonly, children
regard their fathers as more energetic, strong-willed, and ambitious whereas mothers as more kind-hearted,
sensitive, and emotional.
To sum up, there are different good things women and men can do for their children. It is obvious that
parents who love their children can do their tasks well, and both fathers and mothers give their children good

things to some extent. It will be lucky and far better for a child to be brought up by both good father and
mother. Parents should join hands to give their children good life and education.
32
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. The child will die if nobody sends for a doctor.
Unless_________________________________________
2. He would prefer you to pay him immediately.
He’d rather_________________________________________
3. The water was so cold that the children couldn’t swim in it.
The water was not_________________________________________
4. Somebody repaired her car yesterday.
She_________________________________________
5. You must see the manager tomorrow morning.
You’ve_________________________________________
II. TOPIC: Write about the changes that information technology brings to your life.
We are now living in the Era of the Information technology, and we feel happy to be supported by
modern technologies which make our lives more comfortable and convenient. For me, information technology
brings me so many positive changes though sometimes it does cause some troubles.
It is undeniable that information technology helps bring my family members closer together as we
always keep in touch with help of telephones, internet, and other conveniences. Beside, information
PREPARED BY ĐỖ BÌNH – THPT LIỄN SƠN, HUYỆN LẬP THẠCH, TỈNH VĨNH PHÚC TRANG 22/15
MATERIALS FOR THE GCSE PREPARATION – WRITING SKILLS – ÔN THI THPT QUỐC GIA
technology helps us stay in touch with the world around. Every day, we are well-informed by reading news,
watching videos, browsing websites. We can also learn much about the entire world from our own tables or
even beds. Information technology provides us more choices of how, where, when and what to do things.
Beneficially, we have more chances to earn because there are always numerous jobs available in the IT field
that helps us make money and shop. Moreover, information technology helps us to broaden our knowledge as
we can learn or take various online and offline courses. Socially, we seem to have more and more friends

both at home and overseas, we can also share opinions, date with the help of information technology.
On the other hand, modern technology can also make us more isolated when we are absorbed in
technological devices. We sometimes feel annoyed by bad and poisonous information, images, or websites.
We are also afraid of losing confidential documents and files. Seriously, spywares are now so popular that
they make us very much worried and we have to spend more to protect our technological products.
Good or bad, I really think I am lucky enough to live in this information age. I cannot imagine my life
without the help of information technology. The most important thing I need to do is to take full advantages of
the information technology to better my life and try hard to reduce the bad effects that may bring to my life.
33
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. There was never any answer when we rang.
Every_________________________________________
2. That’s an insulting name to use for him.
Don’t call_________________________________________
3. John asked if it was the blue one or the green she wanted.
Which_________________________________________
4. She liked Paris very little, and Rome less.
She thought Rome_________________________________________
5. I can meet you if you arrive before eleven.
So_________________________________________
II. TOPIC: Write to describe your life in the 20 years’ time.
It is obvious that no one knows for sure what his tomorrow will be like, but he can make guesses. For
me, it is likely that my 20 years’ time life will be very different from what it is now.
Take work first for example, I think I will get a good job which I very much want to do. There is a
tendency that I will start up my own business then. I may invest in stock market and make a great fortune. I
will at that time be satisfied with what I earn, and never worry about financial matters.
Studying will change, too. In 20 years’ time, it is likely that I will take various professional courses,
and I tend to have several MA or PhD degrees in some different fields such as economy, education, and

culture. I will probably enroll in different courses to get higher and higher diplomas.
For lifestyle, I hope I will have balanced diets, live healthily and actively. I may get married to the one
I love and we plan to have one or two kids. I will spend as much time for my family as possible. We will travel
to different countries in the world on our yearly holiday of course. We will also afford weekly or monthly trips
to beauty spots throughout the country.
In the future, I will live in a big house with modernly-equipped living rooms, bedrooms, kitchen,
toilets and an open air space garden in front of a four-car garage. As I love animals very much, I will raise
some pets in my house including some different kinds of dogs, cats, parrots, doves, and others.
Transportation means are also my concern. I will then own some most fashionable hybrid luxurious
cars to use in different occasions. I will travel by air whenever travelling in distances.
In my dream, I am likely to keep in touch with all high school and university friends. There will always
be available most up-to-date means of communications for me to have good relationships with relatives,
friends, colleagues, partners, or even acquaintances.
PREPARED BY ĐỖ BÌNH – THPT LIỄN SƠN, HUYỆN LẬP THẠCH, TỈNH VĨNH PHÚC TRANG 23/15
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Naturally, the future is not ours to see, but we have rights lo lead our own life, to shape our thinking,
to build up our future. As I am an optimistic and dynamic man, I will try my best to realize my dreams to
make our wishes become true someday.
34
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. They will catch all the prisoners again by tonight.
All the prisoners_________________________________________
2. I’ve warned you not go to near that dog.
I’ve warned you about_________________________________________
3. No, please don’t tell him.
I’d rather_________________________________________
4. Why don’t ask her yourself?
I suggest_________________________________________

5. An up-to-date visa is necessary for Andorra.
You’ll_________________________________________
II. TOPIC: Write a letter to pen-pal to talk about your family rules.
……………, September 21
st
, 2014
Dear Jim,
I am writing to talk about my family rules. It is an interesting topic, isn’t it? It may br obvious that
every family has its own rules. Mine has a few, apart from the traditional ones, especially for this school year
as I am in the final year.
First, I am not allowed to watch much TV, except when there is a good or very interesting film or an
academic game show, or when I have finished all my homework and exercises. And hardly do my parents let
me stay up so late at night.
Next, my parents rarely permit me to go out with friends without necessary reasons for example
birthdays or funerals.
Besides, I have to take the balanced diets to keep fit for my coming examinations. And one more thing
I have to keep up is talking on the phone. That is why I have to set a limit to my using of the phone.
Furthermore, I don’t have to do much housework though we share that all together.
Do you think I have a lot of rules to abide? Or I have no rights or freedom to do what I want or like?
Tell me about your family rules, will you? It is much fun to hear about then.
Write to me as soon as you can. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best wishes,
Mai
35
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. “ Why don’t you put better lock on the door, Barbara”? said John
=> John suggested_________________________________________
2. Although his both legs were broken in the crash, he managed to get out of the car before it exploded.

=> Despite his_________________________________________
3. I haven’t eaten this kind of food before.
=> This is the first_________________________________________
4. The architect has drawn plans for an extension to the house.
=> Plans_________________________________________
5. It isn’t necessary for you to finish by Saturday
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=> You_________________________________________
II. TOPIC: Write a letter to pen-pal to talk about your family.
……………, September 26
th
, 2014
Dear Michael,
I am writing to talk about my family as requested in your last letter.
There are four members in my family; my parents, my elder brother and I. My dad is now at his forty-
five and my mom is two years younger. My elder brother is twenty-two of age. My dad is a teacher at a local
high school, and he has to work nearly weekdays. Very often he has extra classes on weekends, sometimes he
has evening classes. My mom is a farmer and she has to work hard in the fields nearly daily from early
morning till dark. My elder brother is now a final year university student, so he has very little time to be at
home with other family members. Although my parents are very busy, they try hard to spare as much time to
take care of their children as possible.
My mom is a really caring woman who is always the first to get up to prepare for other family
members things to start a new day, and the last to go to bed to make sure that everything is under control. My
dad is always willing to join hands to make us a nice house and a happy home. My brother and I love helping
my parents in all sort of work whenever we have chance.
In my family, members care as much for others as possible to make a close-knit family. We are
admired so much by the neighboring residents. Whenever problems come up, we discuss the matters all
together frankly to find out solutions quickly. We also share all happiness and worries, so we all feel happy,
safe and secure at home just as the saying we love “Home is where love dwells and thrives”.

As you know, I am now in my final secondary year, preparing for the coming examinations with so
much pressure. Therefore, all members in my family encourage and give me the best to help me realize my
dreams.
That is some about my family, and I would very much like to hear about yours in turn. I hope you will
share with me your family life. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Yours sincerely,
Lan
36
PHẦN TỰ LUẬN: (2 điểm)
I. Rewrite each of the following sentences in such a way that the original meaning is exactly the same as
the provided one.
1. “ How many survivors are there?”, asked the journalist.
=> The journalist wanted to know_________________________________________
2. It was such rotten meat that it had to be thrown away.
=> The meat was_________________________________________
3. It is essential that Profesor Van Helsing is met at the airport
=> Profesor Van Helsing_________________________________________
4. You can’t visit the USA unless you have a visa.
=> If you_________________________________________
5. “ Can I borrow your typewriter, Janet”? asked Peter.
=> Peter asked if_________________________________________
II. TOPIC: Write about the formal school education system in Vietnam.
The current formal school education system in Vietnam, as we all know, consists of three levels; pre-
school, primary and secondary educations. Secondary education is divided into lower and upper stage. Now,
in some provinces especially in cities, there are two parallel school systems in pre-school, primary or even
secondary education; state and private schools. Tuition fees are different very much from state to private
schools. In both systems, the academic year, from early September to late May, is divided into two semesters
consisting of four to five months each.
PREPARED BY ĐỖ BÌNH – THPT LIỄN SƠN, HUYỆN LẬP THẠCH, TỈNH VĨNH PHÚC TRANG 25/15