After publishing the top 15 Duolingo English Test speaking topics Part 1, we came to realise that most DET takers pay great attention to studying it because Speaking is one of the most difficult skills compared to Reading, Listening, and Writing. As we have been supporting over 20,000 students for taking the Duolingo English Test and PTE Academic (we just launched the PTE Practice Website recently), their low speaking scores just one more time back up our statement. As a result, here we come to the top 15 DET Speaking Topics Part 2, and in this article, we will be concentrating on Speaking Sample.
For your information, the Speaking Sample appears once in the test and contributes to Conversation and Production. On top of that, if you share your DET-certified result with any institutions, they can review your Speaking Sample answer. In other words, DET takers should better pay more attention to this question type, which is truly crucial to help you have the first impression with your dream university.
Similar to our Top 15 common DET Speaking Topics Part 1, we will be sharing one sample question, a sample answer to that question, especially an addition of highlighted vocabulary and explanation for your study. And of course, all questions and sample answers here are available on the DET Practice Website that you can try at any time.
For more similar questions and topics, go to our practice website to practice thousands of practice questions.
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1. Online Shopping
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Question: Describe a good experience of online shopping. When did it happen? What did you buy?
Sample Answer:
I had a great experience with online shopping recently. It happened a few weeks ago when I needed to purchase a new laptop for work. Therefore, I decided to browse some online stores to find the best deals and compare prices.
I started my search on a popular e-commerce website and was impressed by their user-friendly interface, which made it easy for me to find what I was looking for. The website had a wide range of laptops to choose from, and I was able to filter my search results based on my preferred brand, price range, and features. After browsing for a while, I found the perfect laptop that met all my requirements. The product description was detailed and informative, and it even had customer reviews and ratings, which helped me make an informed decision.
Once I decided on the laptop I wanted to buy, the checkout process was smooth and hassle-free. The website accepted multiple payment options, and I was able to complete my purchase within a few minutes. What impressed me the most was the prompt delivery of my order. I received an email notification with the tracking information, and my laptop arrived at my doorstep within a few days. The packaging was sturdy, and the laptop was in excellent condition.
Overall, my experience of online shopping was positive, and I was happy with my purchase. The convenience of shopping from the comfort of my own home, coupled with the ease of finding the right product and the fast delivery, made the entire process smooth and enjoyable.
Highlighted Vocabulary:
Therefore: Consequently; as a result.
A wide range of: A broad variety or selection of options.
Based on: Founded on; derived from; supported by.
Overall: Considering all factors; in general; taking everything into account.
The convenience of: The advantage or benefit of ease and comfort provided by something.
Coupled with: Together with; combined with; in addition to.
2. School Subject
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Question: Describe a subject you didn’t like before but have interest now. When did you study the subject? Why didn’t you like it before?
Sample Answer:
I didn't have any interest in history when I was in high school. It seemed like a boring and irrelevant subject to me at the time. However, my perspective changed when I started learning about the Vietnam War. I first learned about the war through a documentary film and was immediately struck by the complexity of the conflict and the impact it had on both Vietnam and the United States.
The Vietnam War was a highly controversial and divisive conflict that lasted from 1955 to 1975. It was fought between North Vietnam, which was backed by the Soviet Union and China, and South Vietnam, which was backed by the United States and other anti-communist allies. The war resulted in the deaths of millions of people and had a profound impact on the geopolitical landscape of Southeast Asia.
I was particularly interested in learning about the experiences of the soldiers who fought in the war. I read memoirs and watched documentaries about the war, and was struck by the bravery and sacrifices of the soldiers who fought on both sides. I also became interested in the anti-war movement and the social and political changes that occurred as a result of the war.
As I learned more about the Vietnam War, I began to appreciate the importance of understanding history and its impact on the present. I realized that history is not just a dry collection of facts, but a living and evolving story that continues to shape our world today.
In conclusion, my interest in history was sparked by my study of the Vietnam War. This conflict was a defining moment in both Vietnamese and American history, and its impact is still felt today. By learning about the war and its aftermath, I gained a new appreciation for the importance of studying history and understanding how it shapes our world.
Highlighted Vocabulary:
However: Nevertheless; on the other hand; despite that.
The complexity of: The intricacy or difficulty involved in something.
Resulted in: Led to; caused; produced as an outcome.
A profound impact: A significant or deep effect or influence.
Interested in: Having a desire for or curiosity about something.
A result of: Arising from; caused by; due to.
The importance of: The significance or value of something.
In conclusion: To sum up; as a final point; to finish discussing the topic.
3. Internet
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Question: Describe a time you looked for information from the internet. What pieces of information did you search? Why did you look for it on the internet?
Sample Answer:
A few months ago, I needed to find a new laptop as my old one was no longer performing as efficiently as I needed it to for my work. I decided to look for information on the internet to help me make an informed decision about what type of laptop to purchase.
At first, I searched for the latest laptop models available in the market, and I found several websites that listed the most popular and highly recommended models. I also looked for information on the latest technological developments, such as processors and graphics cards, to ensure that I was purchasing a laptop that would meet my needs. Next, I started to look for information on the specifications of different models, including the screen size, weight, storage capacity, and battery life. I knew that these were important factors to consider since I would be using my laptop for several hours a day and needed one that was both lightweight and had a long battery life.
I also wanted to find out about the pricing and any deals or discounts available for different models. I searched for deals on various websites and found some great discounts on the latest laptop models. I was able to compare prices from different retailers and choose the one that offered the best value for my money. Another critical factor for me was finding out about the warranty options available, as well as the technical support provided by the manufacturer. I researched different manufacturers and read reviews from customers who had previously purchased their laptops. I found out which manufacturers offered the best warranties and technical support and chose a laptop from a manufacturer with a strong reputation for customer service.
I looked for this information on the internet because it was the easiest and most convenient way to research and compare different laptop models. The internet offered me a wealth of resources and opinions from people who had already gone through the same process. I was able to read product reviews, compare prices, and view detailed specifications of each laptop model, all from the comfort of my home.
Overall, I found the information I needed on the internet, and it helped me make an informed decision about the type of laptop I wanted to purchase. The internet proved to be an invaluable resource for me, and I was able to save time and money by researching and purchasing my laptop online.
Highlighted Vocabulary:
No longer: Not anymore; not at the present time.
At first: Initially; in the beginning; at the outset.
Searched for: Looked for; sought after; attempted to find.
A wealth of: A large amount or abundance of something; a plethora.
From the comfort of: In a comfortable location or environment; without having to leave a comfortable space.
Overall: In general; considering everything; taking all factors into account.
4. Artificial Intelligence
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Question: Describe a product or application which is based on artificial intelligence. What is it used for? How is it used?
Sample Answer:
One of the most notable applications of artificial intelligence (AI) is in the field of virtual assistants. One such product is the Amazon Echo, which is powered by Alexa, an AI assistant. The Amazon Echo is a smart speaker that responds to voice commands and can be used to play music, answer questions, set alarms and reminders, and control smart home devices. Alexa, the AI assistant, is the technology that powers the Amazon Echo and enables it to understand and respond to voice commands.
Alexa is designed to be a virtual assistant that can help users with a variety of tasks. For example, users can ask Alexa to play music from a particular artist or genre, set a timer for cooking, or ask for the weather forecast. Additionally, Alexa can control smart home devices, such as thermostats, lights, and security cameras, allowing users to manage their home with voice commands.
The Amazon Echo and Alexa use a variety of AI techniques to understand and respond to voice commands. For example, they use natural language processing (NLP) to interpret spoken language, machine learning to improve their understanding of users' speech patterns over time, and speech synthesis to provide spoken responses. To use the Amazon Echo and Alexa, users simply need to set up the device and connect it to a Wi-Fi network. Once connected, they can use voice commands to interact with Alexa and control the device's features.
In summary, the Amazon Echo and Alexa demonstrate the potential of AI to create innovative products that can simplify and enhance our daily lives.
Highlighted Vocabulary:
A variety of: Many different types or forms of something; a diverse assortment.
Additionally: In addition; furthermore; also; moreover.
Interact with: To communicate or engage with someone or something; to have a mutual influence or effect through communication or contact.
5. Lifestyle
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Question: Describe a healthy lifestyle you know. How do you know about it? Why is it healthy?
Sample Answer:
One healthy lifestyle that I know of is the Mediterranean diet. I have learned about this lifestyle from various sources, including books, articles, and health experts. The Mediterranean diet is a way of eating that is based on the traditional dietary patterns of people who live in countries that border the Mediterranean Sea, such as Greece, Italy, and Spain.
The Mediterranean diet emphasizes whole, minimally processed foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. It also includes moderate amounts of dairy, fish, and poultry, and limited amounts of red meat and sweets. Olive oil is the primary source of fat in this diet, and it is used in place of butter and other types of oil.
The Mediterranean diet is considered to be healthy for several reasons. First, it is rich in nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which are important for overall health and well-being. Second, it is low in saturated fat and high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help to reduce the risk of heart disease and other chronic health conditions. Third, it includes a variety of foods that are high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help to reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases such as cancer.
In addition to the foods that are included in the Mediterranean diet, this lifestyle also emphasizes the importance of regular physical activity, social connections, and stress reduction. These factors are all important for maintaining overall health and well-being.
Overall, the Mediterranean diet is a healthy lifestyle that is based on whole, minimally processed foods and emphasizes the importance of regular physical activity, social connections, and stress reduction. By adopting this lifestyle, individuals can improve their overall health and reduce their risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Highlighted Vocabulary:
Mediterranean diet: A dietary pattern characterized by high consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and olive oil, with moderate intake of fish and poultry, and low consumption of red meat and dairy products.
Patterns of: The regular or recurring ways in which something occurs or is done.
Moderate amounts of: A reasonable or balanced quantity of something, neither too much nor too little.
Limited amounts of: Restricted or small quantities of something, not exceeding a certain level.
The primary source of: The main or principal origin or cause of something.
The risk of: The possibility or likelihood of experiencing harm or negative consequences.
Chronic health conditions: Long-lasting or persistent medical conditions that may require ongoing management or treatment.
A variety of: A diverse range or assortment of different types or forms of something.
Inflammation: The body's response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, swelling, pain, and sometimes heat.
Chronic diseases: Long-term medical conditions that typically progress slowly and may require ongoing management or treatment, often leading to significant health complications.
In addition to: As well as; besides; also.
Overall: Considering all aspects; in general; taking everything into account.
The importance of: The significance or value of something.
6. Science
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Question: Describe an area of science that interests you. How did you learn about it? Why are you interested in it?
Sample Answer:
I have always been deeply interested in the field of astrophysics. From the time I was young, I was captivated by the stars, the planets, and the mysteries of the universe. As I got older, I began to study astrophysics more formally, through college courses, independent reading, and conversations with experts in the field.
What draws me to astrophysics is the sheer scale and complexity of the phenomena being studied. The universe is vast beyond comprehension, and astrophysics seeks to understand everything from the smallest subatomic particles to the largest superclusters of galaxies. I find it awe-inspiring that we can use telescopes and other instruments to observe and measure distant objects and events that occurred billions of years ago, and that we can use mathematics and computer modeling to make sense of the data we collect.
One area of astrophysics that particularly fascinates me is the search for exoplanets - planets that exist outside of our own solar system. The discovery of exoplanets has exploded in recent years, and we now know of thousands of such planets in our galaxy alone. I am intrigued by the possibility of finding other habitable worlds and even other civilizations in the universe, and by the insights that this search could provide into the origins and nature of life itself.
Another area of astrophysics that interests me is the study of black holes, which are among the most mysterious and extreme objects in the universe. These objects are so massive and dense that their gravity warps the fabric of space and time itself, making them incredibly difficult to study directly. However, by observing the behavior of matter and radiation around black holes, we can learn about the nature of space, time, and gravity on a fundamental level.
Overall, the field of astrophysics holds immense fascination for me, and I am excited to continue learning more about this endlessly intriguing area of science. Whether studying the origins of the universe, the behavior of black holes, or the search for other worlds, astrophysics offers a window into the workings of the cosmos and the deepest mysteries of nature.
Highlighted Vocabulary:
Captivated by: To be deeply fascinated or enthralled by something.
Got older: Aging; advanced in age.
Beyond comprehension: Impossible to understand fully or grasp completely.
Subatomic particles: Extremely small particles that are constituents of atoms, such as protons, neutrons, and electrons.
Awe-inspiring: Evoking a sense of wonder, reverence, or admiration.
Make sense of: To understand or interpret something; to find meaning or coherence in.
Exploded in: Rapidly expanded or increased in quantity, intensity, or significance.
Study of black holes: Research or investigation into the characteristics, behavior, and effects of black holes in astrophysics.
Fabric of space and time: The conceptual framework that describes the interwoven structure of the dimensions of space and time in the theory of general relativity.
The nature of: The fundamental characteristics or essence of something.
Holds immense fascination: Provokes great interest, intrigue, or curiosity on a profound level.
A window into: Provides insight or access to understanding something deeper or more complex.
7. History
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Question: Describe a historical building you have visited. What did it look like? What did you learn there?
Sample Answer:
One historical building that I have visited and found particularly fascinating is the Tower of London. The Tower is a historic castle located in the heart of London and was originally built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror as a royal palace and fortress. It has since been used as a prison, armory, treasury, and menagerie.
The Tower of London is a large, imposing structure with a complex network of walls, gates, and towers. The walls are made of stone and are several feet thick, with battlements at the top for archers to defend the castle. There are also several iconic structures within the Tower, including the White Tower, which was the original keep and central stronghold of the castle.
During my visit to the Tower of London, I learned about the rich history of the castle and its significance in the development of English society and culture. I was able to explore the various sections of the castle, including the armory and the Royal Mint, which contains a collection of historic coins and medals.
One of the highlights of the visit was the chance to see the Crown Jewels, which are housed in the Tower's Jewel House. The Crown Jewels are a dazzling collection of ceremonial objects, including crowns, scepters, and swords, that are used during important royal ceremonies such as coronations.
Overall, visiting the Tower of London was an incredible experience, and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in British history and culture. The castle's rich history, stunning architecture, and fascinating exhibits make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting London
Highlighted Vocabulary:
Imposing structure: A grand or impressive architectural design or framework.
Made of: Composed of; constructed from.
The development of: The process of growth, advancement, or progress in something.
The various sections of: Different parts or divisions of something.
A collection of: A gathering or assembly of items, objects, or entities.
Housed in: Located within; contained or accommodated in a particular place or building.
A dazzling collection: An impressive or stunning assortment of items that capture attention due to their brilliance or excellence.
Overall: Considering all aspects; in general; taking everything into account.
Rich history: A past characterized by significant events, cultural heritage, or noteworthy achievements.
Must-see destination: A place that is highly recommended or essential to visit due to its outstanding attractions, beauty, or cultural significance.
8. Advertisement
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Question: Describe an impressive advertisement you remember well. When and where did you see it? What were the contents of the advertisements?
Sample Answer:
One advertisement that has stuck with me over the years is the "Dumb Ways to Die" campaign by Metro Trains, a public transportation system in Melbourne, Australia. The campaign was launched in 2012 as a way to raise awareness about train safety and prevent accidents.
I first saw the advertisement on YouTube, but it quickly gained widespread attention and was shared on social media and television channels around the world. The advertisement featured a catchy song with lyrics that described various dumb ways to die, such as "set fire to your hair" and "sell both your kidneys on the internet". The lyrics were accompanied by adorable and humorous animations of cartoon characters committing these foolish acts, which were designed to grab the viewer's attention and make them laugh.
As the advertisement progressed, the ton shifted to a more serious message about the dangers of reckless behavior around trains. The lyrics and animations became more serious, with characters getting hit by trains or falling onto tracks. The final message was a call to action to "be safe around trains" and avoid becoming another dumb way to die.
What made the advertisement so impressive was its clever use of humor and catchy tune to capture the viewer's attention and deliver a serious message about train safety. It was a bold and creative approach to a serious issue that had a lasting impact on public awareness and behavior.
The "Dumb Ways to Die" campaign was a huge success, winning numerous advertising awards and even inspiring a mobile game based on the characters in the advertisement. It is a testament to the power of creative advertising to influence behavior and make a positive impact on society.
Highlighted Vocabulary:
Stuck with me: Remained in my memory; made a lasting impression on me.
Raise awareness: To increase understanding or knowledge about a particular issue or cause.
Grab the viewer’s attention: Capture the interest or focus of the audience.
Make them laugh: Cause amusement or provoke laughter in others.
Call to action: Encouragement or prompt for others to take specific steps or measures in response to a particular situation or issue.
A lasting impact: A long-term effect or influence that continues over time.
A positive impact: A beneficial effect or influence that contributes to improvement or well-being.
9. Technology
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Question: Describe an important technological product you bought. What was it? How did you use it?
Sample Answer:
The Dell XPS 13 laptop is one of the most important technological products I have ever purchased. It has been a game-changer for me in terms of productivity and portability. Before buying the Dell XPS 13, I was using an older laptop that was slow and cumbersome. This made it difficult to be productive and get things done efficiently. When I saw the Dell XPS 13, I knew it was the laptop for me.
The Dell XPS 13 is a powerful and portable laptop with a sleek design. It has a fast processor and plenty of storage space for all my files and documents. The laptop is also very lightweight, which makes it easy to carry with me wherever I go. I use my laptop primarily for work and personal use. On the work front, I use it to write and edit documents, send emails, and attend virtual meetings. I also use it to create presentations and collaborate with colleagues on various projects. The laptop's fast processor and ample storage space make it easy to complete these tasks quickly and efficiently.
In my personal life, I use my laptop to stay connected with friends and family, browse the internet, and stream movies and TV shows. I also use it to stay organized with various productivity apps, such as calendars and to-do lists. Whether I am traveling or just working from home, my laptop is an essential tool that I rely on every day.
All in all, the Dell XPS 13 has been an incredibly important technological product for me. It has allowed me to work efficiently, stay organized, and stay connected with others no matter where I am. Its long battery life, high-quality screen, and lightweight construction make it the perfect laptop for my needs.
Highlighted Vocabulary:
A game-changer: Something that significantly alters a situation, strategy, or outcome; a revolutionary development.
In terms of: With regard to; concerning; in relation to.
Plenty of: An abundant amount or quantity of something; more than enough.
Collaborate with: To work jointly or cooperatively with others on a project or task.
In my personal life: Referring to one's individual or private experiences, relationships, or activities outside of professional or public spheres.
Rely on: To depend or count on someone or something for support, assistance, or fulfillment of needs.
All in all: Considering everything; taking all factors into account; summarizing the whole situation.
10. Vacation
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Question: Describe an unusual vacation you had. When and where did you go? What did you do there?
Sample Answer:
I had an unusual vacation a few years ago when I decided to go on a solo backpacking trip to Southeast Asia. I had never traveled alone before, so this was a new experience for me. I flew into Bangkok, Thailand and spent a few days exploring the city, trying the local street food, and visiting temples.
After Bangkok, I took a long bus ride to a small town in northern Thailand called Pai. It was a beautiful, peaceful place surrounded by mountains and rice fields. I stayed in a hostel with other backpackers and rented a scooter to explore the area. One day, I hiked up to a nearby waterfall and swam in the clear blue water. It was refreshing and a welcome break from the heat.
From Thailand, I crossed the border into Laos and took a slow boat down the Mekong River to a small village called Muang Ngoi. There were no roads in the village, only footpaths, so I spent my days hiking, reading, and watching the locals go about their daily lives. It was a quiet, peaceful place, and I felt like I was living a completely different life.
After a few days in Muang Ngoi, I took a bus to Luang Prabang, a city in central Laos known for its French colonial architecture and Buddhist temples. I spent a few days there before taking another slow boat down the Mekong River to a small town in northern Thailand called Chiang Khong.
Overall, it was an unusual vacation because I traveled alone and went to places that were off the beaten path. It was a great opportunity to challenge myself, meet new people, and learn about different cultures. I highly recommend solo travel to anyone who is interested in stepping outside of their comfort zone and experiencing something new.
In terms of language learning, I picked up a few basic phrases in Thai and Lao, but since I was traveling alone, I didn't have much opportunity to practice my language skills with locals. However, I did make friends with other travelers from around the world, and we often swapped stories and tips about traveling in different countries. It was a great way to learn about different cultures and ways of life.
Highlighted Vocabulary:
Hiked up: Increased, raised, or elevated, often referring to prices or levels.
Known for: Recognized or famous for; associated with a particular characteristic or quality.
Overall: Considering all aspects; in general; taking everything into account.
Interested in: Having a curiosity or desire for something; being keen on or attracted to a particular subject or activity.
Stepping outside of their comfort zone: Pushing oneself beyond familiar or comfortable boundaries; taking risks or trying new experiences that may be challenging or unfamiliar.
11. Law
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Question: Describe a good law in your country. How did you first learn about it? Who does the law affect?
Sample Answer:
I believe that the Law on Environmental Protection in Vietnam is an important law that reflects the country's commitment to sustainable development and environmental conservation. I first learned about this law during my studies in environmental science and have since become familiar with its provisions and implementation.
The Law on Environmental Protection sets out clear guidelines and standards for protecting the environment, managing natural resources, and promoting sustainable development in Vietnam. It aims to prevent and control pollution, preserve biodiversity and natural ecosystems, and ensure the sustainable use of natural resources. The law also recognizes the importance of public participation and education in promoting environmental awareness and responsibility.
I think the Law on Environmental Protection is particularly important in Vietnam because of the country's rapid economic growth and urbanization, which have contributed to environmental degradation and public health issues. By establishing clear regulations and standards, the law has helped to reduce pollution and mitigate environmental risks. It has also facilitated the development of clean and renewable energy sources and encouraged the adoption of sustainable practices in industry and agriculture.
As an individual, I try to do my part in protecting the environment by following environmental regulations and practicing sustainable habits. For example, I reduce my use of plastic and other disposable products, recycle and properly dispose of waste, and use public transportation or bike whenever possible to reduce my carbon footprint.
Overall, I believe that the Law on Environmental Protection is a positive example of how government regulation can promote sustainable development and protect the environment and public health. It is an important law that affects all citizens and businesses in Vietnam and serves as a model for other countries seeking to balance economic growth with environmental protection. I hope that the implementation of this law continues to be strengthened and improved over time.
Highlighted Vocabulary:
Sustainable development: A development approach that aims to meet present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, often integrating economic, social, and environmental considerations.
Familiar with: Having knowledge or experience of something; being acquainted or accustomed to something.
Standards for: Guidelines or criteria established to ensure quality, consistency, or performance in a particular context.
The sustainable use of: The responsible management and utilization of resources in a way that preserves them for future generations while minimizing negative impacts on the environment.
The importance of: The significance or value attributed to something; the recognition of its relevance or necessity.
Because of: Due to; as a result of; on account of.
The development of: The process of growth, progress, or evolution in a particular area or aspect.
The adoption of: The act of accepting or implementing something, such as a policy, practice, or idea.
For example: Used to introduce a specific instance or illustration that supports or clarifies a preceding statement.
Overall: Considering all aspects; in general; taking everything into account.
A positive example of: An instance or case that serves as a demonstration or illustration of something beneficial or commendable.
A model for: Something that serves as a pattern or example to be emulated or followed, often due to its effectiveness or success.
12. Public Facility
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Question: Describe a new public facility, such as a road, a park, or a shopping center, which improves your local area. What is the facility? How does it improve your local area?
Sample Answer:
A new public facility that has significantly improved my local area is a community park. The park is situated in a previously undeveloped area of our town, and it has become a hub for community activities and events. The park features several amenities, including a playground, sports fields, walking paths, and a picnic area, which has made it an excellent place for families and individuals to engage in physical activities and spend time outdoors.
The park has had several positive impacts on our local area. Firstly, it has improved the quality of life for residents by providing a safe and accessible place for outdoor activities. Before the park was developed, there were very few places in our community where residents could engage in outdoor activities. The park has changed this and has become a popular spot for families to bring their children to play and enjoy the outdoors.
Secondly, the park has improved the aesthetics of the community. Before the park was built, the area was an undeveloped space that was not well maintained. The park has transformed the area and has created a beautiful green space that is well-manicured and maintained. The park has also become a popular spot for local photographers to take family photos, adding to the park's appeal and popularity.
Lastly, the park has brought the community together. The park has become a venue for community events, including music concerts, outdoor movie nights, and festivals, which have attracted residents from all parts of the community. The park has become a place for people to connect with each other, build relationships, and foster a sense of community.
In conclusion, the community park has significantly improved my local area by providing a safe and accessible space for outdoor activities, improving the aesthetics of the community, and bringing the community together. The park has become a place where people can come together, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with each other, creating a stronger and more vibrant community.
Highlighted Vocabulary:
Physical activities: Any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that requires energy expenditure, including exercise, sports, and recreational activities.
Firstly: Used to introduce the first point or argument in a sequence or list.
The quality of: The standard or level of excellence or superiority possessed by something.
Engage in: Participate in or become involved in a particular activity or process.
A popular spot for: A location frequently visited or favored by many people for a specific purpose or activity.
Secondly: Used to introduce the second point or argument in a sequence or list.
Lastly: Finally; used to introduce the final point or argument in a sequence or list.
Foster a sense of: Cultivate or promote a feeling or perception of something, often with the intention of encouraging its development or enhancement.
In conclusion: To sum up; as a final point; used to introduce the final remarks or summary of an argument or presentation.
13. Workplace
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Question: Describe a time when you visited a friend or family member at their workplace. Who did you visit? Why did you visit this person’s workplace?
Sample Answer:
I remember visiting my friend Maria at her workplace a few years ago. Maria works as a graphic designer at an advertising agency, and I had always been curious about what her job entailed. One day, she invited me to visit her office and see what her day-to-day work was like.
When I arrived at the office, Maria gave me a quick tour of the workspace. The office was filled with creative energy, with people working on their computers and sketching designs on whiteboards. I could see that Maria was in her element, surrounded by fellow designers who shared her passion for creativity and design. After the tour, Maria introduced me to some of her colleagues, who were all very friendly and welcoming. They explained to me how they work collaboratively on projects and how they use software such as Adobe Creative Suite to create designs for clients. They also showed me some of the projects they were currently working on, which included everything from print ads to digital banners.
Before leaving the office, Maria showed me some of the perks of working at the agency. They had a lounge area with a foosball table and comfortable couches, as well as a well-stocked kitchen with free snacks and drinks. Maria also told me about the agency's culture of creativity and innovation, which encourages employees to share ideas and collaborate on projects. It was clear to me that the agency valued its employees and worked hard to create a positive and inspiring work environment.
Overall, it was a fascinating experience to see behind the scenes of a graphic design agency. I gained a new appreciation for the work that goes into creating visually appealing and effective marketing materials. And it was great to see Maria doing what she loves and excelling in her career. As I said goodbye to Maria and her colleagues, I felt grateful for the opportunity to learn more about their work and to see how a successful agency operates.
Highlighted Vocabulary:
Day-to-day work: The tasks, responsibilities, and activities that are regularly performed as part of one's job or routine.
Overall: Considering all aspects; in general; taking everything into account.
The scenes of: Referring to the settings or locations where particular events or actions take place.
14. Geography
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Question: Describe the geography of the country where you currently live. How does the geography of the country affect its people and its culture?
Sample Answer:
I live in Vietnam, a country in Southeast Asia, which is a hot and humid region. Specifically, my country is filled with mountainous areas, with a couple of flat surfaces scattered from the north to the south.
In detail, Vietnam has many mountain ranges in the northern part, with the highest peak reaching over 3000 meters in height. Furthermore, another large mountain range runs along the spine of the country, along with several plateaus. In contrast, there are a few plains located near the ocean and the large rivers.
When it comes to how the geography of Vietnam affects its people, there are a myriad of effects. First of all, most people tend to choose the plains or plateaus to settle down since they provide ample living space and resources. On the other hand, the mountainous areas are home to specific ethnic minorities who adapt to the conditions of such places.
In terms of culture, people living in different areas possess unique cultural aspects. If they live in the mountains, they are usually less developed since those places are remote. The closer to the sea, the more modern life becomes. However, minorities have many fascinating cultural points such as terraced fields, raising elephants, or weekend markets that are worth checking out.
To put everything in a nutshell, my country has a pretty mountainous terrain with some plateaus and plains. Those geographical creatures affect the population of the areas, along with diversifying the cultural aspect of residents throughout the country.
Highlighted Vocabulary:
Specifically: With precise detail; in a clear and detailed manner.
A couple of: Two; a small number of; a pair of.
In detail: Thoroughly; with careful attention to all aspects; covering every aspect thoroughly.
Furthermore: In addition; moreover; also; indicating something further or additional.
In contrast: Showing the differences between two or more things; indicating a notable difference or divergence.
When it comes to: Regarding; concerning; in relation to; used to introduce a topic or subject.
A myriad of: A countless or extremely large number or variety of something.
First of all: Firstly; to begin with; used to introduce the initial point or aspect of a discussion.
On the other hand: Conversely; in contrast; indicating an alternative or opposing perspective.
In terms of: With regard to; concerning; in relation to; used to introduce a specific aspect or perspective.
However: Nevertheless; on the other hand; despite that; introducing a contrast or exception to a preceding statement.
To put everything in a nutshell: To summarize concisely; to express something in a brief and clear manner.
Along with: Together with; in addition to; accompanying; used to indicate that something is included with or accompanies something else.
15. Information
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Question: Information comes from many sources, including the people around us, the media, and even our own thoughts. How do you decide which information is most important to focus on? Describe a time when you filtered out some sources of information to give other sources full attention. Include details and examples in your answer.
Sample Answer:
When it comes to information, there are a plethora of sources for us to look at, such as other people, the media, or even our thoughts. However, there are several ways to filter them in order to get what we need.
First and foremost, we need to pay attention to the information we are looking for. If it is a general question, we can inquire about it from other people or figure it out by ourselves. On the contrary, if the question is technical or academic, we should focus on more knowledgeable and reliable sources such as books or academic articles.
Furthermore, we have to pay attention to the credibility of the sources to help us filter what is useful. Even though we can ask people about one problem, it is better to ask someone with deep knowledge and experience regarding that aspect like teachers or professors. If we ask random people, we might receive incorrect information.
In terms of my experience, the most prominent one has to be the time when I carried out a school project in literature. In spite of the approachable topic, I looked for information in newspapers and national television regarding the numbers and asked my teachers for some guidance. It was pretty challenging, but worth the effort.
All in all, information is abundant nowadays, and we can access them easily. Nonetheless, we have to consider the type of information and how reliable the sources are to help us locate the exact thing we require.
Highlighted Vocabulary:
When it comes to: Regarding; concerning; in reference to; used to introduce a topic or subject.
A plethora of: An abundance or large quantity of something; a multitude; an excessive amount.
However: Nevertheless; nonetheless; on the other hand; despite that; introducing a contrast or exception to a preceding statement.
First and foremost: Primarily; above all else; indicating the most important or fundamental aspect.
On the contrary: In contrast; conversely; indicating an opposite or differing perspective.
Furthermore: Moreover; in addition; also; indicating something further or additional.
Even though: Despite the fact that; although; introducing a concession or contrast to a preceding statement.
In terms of: With regard to; concerning; regarding; in relation to; used to introduce a specific aspect or perspective.
Carried out: Completed; performed; executed; conducted; accomplished; put into action.
In spite of: Despite; notwithstanding; regardless of; used to introduce something that contrasts with or contradicts a preceding statement or situation.
All in all: Considering everything; overall; taking all factors into account; summarizing the entire situation.
Nonetheless: However; nevertheless; notwithstanding; in spite of that; introducing a concession or contrast to a preceding statement.
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From April 02 2024, the Duolingo English Test just updated new grading elements for Open Response question types including Speaking Sample. In the details, the new grading elements for Speaking questions types are as follows:
Content: style, development, and relevance;
Discourse coherence: clarity, cohesion, and progression of ideas;
Lexis (vocabulary): lexical diversity, Lexical Sophistication, Choice of words, and formation of words;
Grammar: grammatical complexity, grammatical accuracy, and spelling;
Fluency: speed, natural use of pauses, and reliance on filler words, and repetition;
Acoustic features: pronunciation, pace.
If you practice on the DET Practice Website, after submitting your answers, instantly detailed feedback will be provided based on the above grading aspects for your study. For example, after submitting your practice answer to a Speaking Sample question, you receive the following feedback. We evaluate your practice answers based on the same grading aspects as Duolingo English Test including Coherence, Fluency, Lexis (Lexical Sophistication and Lexical Diversity, Choice of words), Grammar (Grammatical Accuracy, Gammatical Complexity, and Spelling), Content, and Acoustic features. Review this video sample feedback for details.
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