I am a teacher and a photographer.

I love listening to music, watching videos and travelling.

This semester, I will help you to be better at speaking skills.

What I like most about this talk is ....

The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

I am an English Studies student and a content creator.

I love to sink myself into my playlist every night and play my favourite video game-IdentityV.

This semester, I will try to be a better version of my alter ego.

Management consulting -> teacher 7math

* She struck that IQ was not the only difference between her best and worst students.

* She believes they can all learn the material if they study hard and long enough.

Teacher -> Psychologist

* to find out who is successful and why

* children and adults from many settings

* not IQ, intelligence, luck, physical health

* Grit - sticking with the dream for the year

* Grit is not a sprint but a marathon

* word hard to make future come true

* she doesn’t have the answer for how to build grit and keep motivation

* she believes it is related to the growth mindset in adversity, the one who is willing to fail and start again

* In other words, we need to be gritty about getting our kids grittier.

B. THE ONE I LOVE MOST

Personally, I kinda impressed with the metaphor about grit is living as a marathon not a sprint. We have to make effort, fight for our future, willing to fail for many time in many years. It is unsual to see the achievements in just a short few days.

When we participate in a sprint, we may not run fast as the marathon, but in the long and struggle path, we will have more time and opportunity to obtain it.

C. THE VOCABULARY

1. stratospheric: /ˌstrætəˈsferɪk/ tầng bình lưu khí quyển, cao

2. ratio: tỷ số /ˈreɪʃiəʊ/

3. decimal: /ˈdesɪml/ phân số thập phân

4. parrallelogram: / ˌpærəˈleləɡræm/: hình bình hành

5. cadet: con út, thanh niên học sĩ quan

6. rookie: lính mới, tân bình

7. perseverance: /ˌpɜːsəˈvɪərəns/ sự kiên nhẫn kiên trì

8. stamina: /ˈstæmɪnə/ sức chịu đựng

I am a student of Can Tho University

My major is English Language

In my future, I hope to become a tour guide because I love exploring new places.

This semester, I will try to enhance my speaking and listening skills

I am a student, and my major is English Language

In the future, I want to become a tour guide because I love exploring new places

This semester, I will try to enhance my listening and speaking skills.

This semester, I am determined to focus on improving my listening and speaking skills as well as expanding my vocabulary to achieve a higher level of fluency and proficiency.

I am a third-year English major student at Can Tho University.

I love listening to music (Gracie Abrams is my recent favorite singer), singing (not good but acceptable), playing games (city building games) and particularly, taking photos of the nature ( i have archived thousand of photos on my phone).

I have always dreamed of being a tour guide since i want to set foot in all the places that i have reposted on titkok :)))

In my perspective, i view challenge as an opportunity for me to grow, to gain more experience, providing me motivation to work harder for my goal.

I am inclined to learn another language after graduating and having mastered all the English skills. I am considering learning French.

That's all about me. Thanks for reading 🫡

My name is Thuy Tien. My hometown is Can Tho city. In future, I hope to be an English teacher because I love English. I also want to enhance my problem solving skill and adapt to diferent students' needs.

In this semester I want to improve my speaking and critical thinking skill

I'm 20 and will be 21 this summer. I am not very a talkative person and kinda into many things by myself like music! books aren't in my liking, I'm more of a movies nerd. That's it!

my name is Ngọc Thắng. I'm a third-year student majoring in English Language at Can Tho University, and I come from Soc Trang. I am passionate about learning English and aspire to become an English teacher in the future. Besides studying, I enjoy traveling and shopping.

My name is Tran. I was born and raised in Vĩnh Thuận District, Kiên Giang Province – a peaceful countryside with beautiful scenery. I enjoy spending my free time doing activities that I love. My favorite hobbies are listening to music and cooking ( honestly speaking, I’m not very good at it :(( . I’m still working on improving my skills in the kitchen)😌

I have a great passion for languages, especially English. Lately, I’ve also been studying Chinese by myself . The reason I chose to learn it is because it has so many unique aspects. For instance, the writing often reflects a story behind each character, which I find fascinating.^^

People often describe me as an introvert, I don’t think that’s entirely true. I’m usually quiet around strangers or those I’m not close to, but when I’m with familiar people, I’m much more talkative and open.😀

I know that my listening and speaking skills are still not strong, so this semester, I will put in extra effort to improve myself. Try hard !!!💪🏻

I am an introvert and I'm also a homebody. I spend most of my time at home doing things I like. One of my favourite activities is watching YouTube. My five favourite channels are Vox, Ruby Granger, Benjiplant, Psych2Go, and Vừng. These channels are both educational and entertaining.

In this course, I will try my best to improve both my speaking and listening skills. Besides, I hope that I can absorb more interesting knowledge from my teacher and classmates.

After leaving her consulting job, Angela Lee Duckworth became a 7th-grade teacher at a New York public school. During her work, she realized the difference between her best and worst students is not only IQ. There is something that goes beyond IQ and affects her students' learning outcomes. To find that she became a psychologist and did much research at different places, including The National Spelling Bee, High schools in Chicago, and others. In the end, she concluded that GRIT is a more significant factor in deciding people's success. According to the speaker, Grit is the combination of passion and perseverance. It is beneficial for us to achieve our long-term goals, which are calculated by years not months or weeks. To build grit, especially for children, she said that we have to develop a growth mindset in terms of learning. Another mentioned important point is how to create a growth mindset. People have to be brave to test their ideas, or rather, to get out of their comfort zones and be willing to fail. The speaker emphasised the importance of failure in the journey to be successful.

Vocabulary:

A very demanding job

calculate grades

Stratospheric (ADJ): extremely high

-> Stratospheric levels of success

From a (motivational) perspective

Motivational (ADJ): making somebody want to do something, especially something that involves hard work and effort

-> A motivational factor/ speech

Advance (V): to help to succeed; develop

-> Studying for new qualifications is one way of advancing your career

learning outcomes

Salespeople

Emerge (V): (of facts, ideas, etc) to become known

-> A clear picture emerges from this complex set of data

Perseverance (N): the quality of continuing to try to achieve a particular aim despite difficulties -> Persevere (V)

-> They show great perseverance in the face of difficulty

long-term goals

to make that future reality

permanent conditions

My name is Tran Minh Thong, I am a student at Can Tho University. I like football, listening to music and have a passion for engines. I hope to improve my listening and speaking skills in the course.

My favorite is taking photos because I want to catch the memory through my camera.

I will try to train my listening and speaking skills. I want to have a good job and a stable life.

My name is Vo Anh Thu and you can call me VAT for short.

I love sightseeing, singing, listening to music, and watching movies. Recently, I have become interested in anatomy, medicine, and martial arts.

I am a student and my major is English Language.

I love making handmade things, listening to music and playing games.

I aim to be a teacher in the future, so I will try my best to develop my skills this semester.

I'm passionate about creativity and enjoy hobbies like playing with clay, which I've been doing since I was 8.

I'm also a big fan of music, especially pop, I love artists like Ariana Grande, SZA, and The Weeknd. My favorite song is Thank u, Next.

When it comes to food, I enjoy exploring flavors and cooking for myself. I love pastries, spicy sauces, and unique textures like crunchy and chewy dishes.

Every morning, I start with stretches, exercise, and a glass of water before school to maintain a balanced lifestyle.

One of my dreams is to visit France to experience its romantic vibe, try authentic croissants, and enjoy hot chocolate near the Eiffel Tower.

I'm looking forward to meeting new people, learning new languages, and sharing great experiences together!

Angela Lee Duckworth is a teacher who pointed out that success depends not only on IQ but also on grit (perseverance and passion for long-term goals). Through her studies in a variety of contexts, such as at West Point Military Academy, the National Spelling Bee, and schools in Chicago. She showed that individuals with more grit often have better ability to overcome challenges and achieve their goals. She also said that a "growth mindset" is a great method for building grit, but we need more research and other measures to develop grit in students.

2) What I like most about this talk is probably that it helps me understand more about a new concept "grit" and the importance of perseverance in life. In fact, when faced with challenges, being able to maintain effort and not give up is an important factor in getting closer to success. Grit is not just about learning from failure, but also about the ability to keep trying despite difficulties. Personally, i think that I can apply it in study and personal relationships as well. The speech inspired me to stay determined in pursuing what I want and believe that effort will lead to worthy results.

3) Vocab:

1.       Parallelogram (n): /ˌpærəˈleləɡræm/ :   flat shape with four straight sides, the opposite sides being the same distance apart at every point and equal to each other

2.       Decimal (n) /ˈdesɪml/:  that is shown as a point followed by the number of tenths, hundredths, etc.

3.       Stamina (n) /ˈstæmɪnə/ the physical or mental strength that enables u to do something difficult for long periods of time.

4.       Grit (n) /ɡrɪt/

*very small pieces of stone or sand.

*the courage and strengthh of mind that makes it possible for sb to continue doing something difficult or unpleasant

5. sprint (v) /sprɪnt/:  to run or swim a short distance very fast.

6. permanent( a) /ˈpɜːmənənt/:  lasting for a long time or for all time in the future; existing all the time.

7. rookie(n)  /ˈrʊki/ : a person who has just started a job or an activity and has very little experience.

My name is Ngoc Tram, I am a third-year student majoring in English at Can Tho University. My hometown is Kien Giang . I really love learning English, I hope to improve related skills such as listening and note-taking skills, communication skills, critical thinking, and vocabulary improvement this semester.

I will try my best to achieve better results, because it will help me have more career opportunities in the future.

My hobbies are watching movies, listening to music, traveling and taking photos. I really like walking, going to the beach and watching the sunset with friends

OPINION RELATED TO THE VIDEO TED talks :

I agree with the idea " growth mindset is a great idea to building grit "

By adopting a growth mindset, individuals not only believe in their potential to improve many skills such as soft skills, communication skills, critical thinking, problem solving, achieving success. , overcome challenges in life.

I agree that a growth mindset helps build courage because it encourages resilience, effort, and perseverance. People with a growth mindset are highly determined, disciplined, and hard-working, making them more likely to overcome failure, not give up, and continue pursuing long-term goals.

* VOCABULARY

Grit : Courage and resolve ( khả năng bền bỉ , sức chịu đựng )

Inverse: Opposite in relation to something else. ( đảo ngược )

Perseverance: Continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties. ( kiên nhẫn )

Intuition: The ability to understand something immediately, without the need for conscious reasoning. ( Trực giác )

Cadet: A young trainee in the armed services or police force. ( lục quân , sĩ quan )

Stamina: The ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort. ( khả năng chịu đựng )

Stratospheric: Extremely high or great.

Significant predictor: An indicator that has a meaningful correlation with an outcome

I enjoy listening to podcasts, especially before going to bed, as they help me relax and recharge after a long day. Podcasts soothe my mind and inspire me with new perspectives and ideas. Besides that, I also love watching movies. On my days off, I can spend hours enjoying different films, which I find both entertaining and refreshing.

In the future, I aspire to become a human resources manager. I’m drawn to the stability of the role and the opportunity it offers to grow by interacting with diverse people. I believe this career aligns well with my passion for communication and building meaningful connections.

This semester, I aim to improve my speaking and listening skills. Of course, I know I’ll need to put in a lot of effort, so I will try my best to develop myself.

Hello! My name is Ngoc Thao, but you can call me Donna. I’m from Ca Mau, a place I’m proud to call home. I have a passion for reading and listening to music, as they allow me to explore new ideas and unwind.

In the short term, my goal is to graduate with outstanding results. This semester, I’m focused on enhancing my English skills, particularly in listening and speaking to communicate more confidently and effectively.

Angela left her management consulting job to teach. She teaches 7th graders.

She realized that IQ does not necessarily distinguish her top students from the weakest ones. Some of her best students didn't have high IQ scores.

Her students could learn if they worked hard and spent more time.

Later, she left teaching to study psychology and found in fields "who succeeds and why?” like the military, academies, spelling bees, teaching, and business.

Grit - passion and perseverance for long-term goals, not intelligence or appearance, were key to success.

Research in Chicago shows that students with grit have more opportunities to succeed.

A growth mindset is the best idea to help students improve their results through effort.

She suggests that kids need to be willing to fail and learn from mistakes to help develop grit.

WHAT I LIKE MOST

I like the idea that a growth mindset is a factor that helps people develop grit. When people have a growth mindset, they are willing to face challenges. They consider failure as part of the learning process and accept that it occurs in life. For example, people with a growth mindset often try new things in their careers and are willing to change jobs if their current one is no longer suitable. On the other hand, people with a fixed mindset always have reasons to avoid change. They are afraid of losing what they already have and are not willing to face hardships. Therefore, I believe that a growth mindset is the best idea to help people develop grit.

VOCABULARY

1. Stratospheric (adj): Extremely high or great, often used metaphorically.

2. Convinced (adj): Completely certain about something.

3. Perspective (n): A particular attitude or way of viewing something.

4. Rookie (n): A person who is new to a particular activity or job.

5. Grit (n): Courage and resolve; strength of character.

6. Perseverance (n): Continued effort to achieve something despite difficulties.

7. Stamina (n): The ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort.

8. Inversely (adv): In a manner that is the opposite or reverse.

9. Permanent (adj): Lasting or intended to last indefinitely.

10. Intuitions (n): The ability to understand something instinctively, without the need for conscious reasoning.

Angela Duckworth’s research shows that grit is a key factor in success. At West Point, cadets with more grit were more likely to finish training, and in the National Spelling Bee, the grittiest kids performed best because they practiced more, not because they were the smartest.

Summary

Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth explains that success isn’t just about talent—it’s about having passion and perseverance, which she calls grit.

Duckworth shows that people who achieve great things are not always the most naturally gifted, but they are the ones who work hard, stay focused on their goals, and don’t give up when things get tough.

Through real-life stories of students, athletes, and professionals, she highlights the importance of practice, determination, and a positive mindset. The book teaches readers that anyone can develop grit and use it to overcome challenges and achieve their dreams.

Here are 9 key vocabulary words and phrases:

1. Grit – Passion and perseverance for long-term goals.

2. Perseverance– The ability to keep going despite challenges or failure.

3. Resilience – The ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

4. Mindset – A person's way of thinking and their attitudes toward challenges.

5. Commitment – A strong dedication to a task or goal.

6. "Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard."

- Meaning: A hardworking person will often outperform someone who is naturally talented but doesn’t put in the effort.

7. "Success is a marathon, not a sprint."

- Meaning: Achieving meaningful goals takes time, patience, and consistent effort, not just quick bursts of energy.

8. "Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow."

- Meaning:View difficulties and obstacles as chances to learn, improve, and become.

9. "Failure is not a permanent condition."

- Meaning: Failing at something doesn’t mean you’re a failure—it’s an opportunity to learn and try again.

Hi, my full name is Thái Bình or you can call me Alice. I was born in February 2 2004, which makes me an Aquarius. I’m 21 years old and currently studying English Major. I’m originally from Rach Gia City but now I’m based in Hau Giang.

People often describe me as a jovial, carefree and an optimistic kind of person but what people don't know is that sometimes I experience bad days, and that's all right. I love reading books as it trades me away from the dull reality, I also interested in watching movies, especially horror movies and anime series.  Moreover, I found myself love to play electric guitar, I am now currently practicing playing notes on the guitar but I believe that if I practice a lot, I will be able to play the electric guitar someday.  

It's been a long time since I’ve been me so hope who read all of this, I just want to say that may your dreams be brave, and your heart be braver.

This is from a quiet girl with stories in her head. To her dreams—and her nightmares.

In her TED Talk titled "Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance," Angela Lee Duckworth explores the concept of grit as a key predictor of success. She defines grit as a combination of passion and perseverance, emphasizing that talent alone is not enough to achieve long-term goals.

Duckworth shares her experiences as a teacher and researcher, highlighting how students who displayed grit were more likely to succeed, regardless of their IQ or background. She discusses her research findings, which suggest that grit can be developed over time through effort and resilience.

Overall, Duckworth's talk encourages listeners to value persistence and passion as essential components of success, inspiring a shift in how we approach achievement and personal growth.

• What I appreciate most about this talk is its discussion of grit. 

In Vietnam, we have an idiom that says, "Diligence in place of intelligence." This highlights the importance of passion and perseverance in achieving long-term goals, as talent alone is often not enough. Success is a marathon, not a sprint, and it requires time, patience, and consistent effort. These may seem like simple words, but they hold great weight and can lead to immediate failure if not taken seriously. In addition, perseverance in the face of challenges is crucial for achieving success. Therefore, we must value persistence and passion as essential components of success, and shift our mindset towards achievement and personal growth.

• The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

1.   Outcome: The way a thing turns out; a consequence.

• Example: "Grit is living life like it's a marathon, not a sprint."

2.  Context: The circumstances that form the setting for an event, statement, or idea.

• Example: "In all those very different contexts, one characteristic emerged as a significant predictor of success."

3.   Ultimate concern: A central, overriding goal or passion in one's life.

• Example: "Grit is about having what some researchers call an 'ultimate concern'."

4.  Inverse: Opposite in relation to something else.

• Example: "Grit is usually unrelated or even inversely related to measures of talent."

5.   Stratospheric: Extremely high or great.

• Example: "In all those very different contexts, one characteristic emerged as a significant predictor of success. And it wasn't social intelligence. It wasn't good looks, physical health, and it wasn't IQ. It was grit."

6.  Stamina: The ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort.

• Example: "Grit is having stamina."

7.    Cadet: A young trainee in the armed services or police force.

• Example: "We tried to predict which cadets would stay in military training and which would drop out."

Angela Lee Duckworth shares her research findings on the importance of grit in achieving success. She defines grit as a combination of passion and perseverance for long-term goals, emphasizing that it often outweighs talent and IQ in determining success. Duckworth argues that talent alone isn't enough, consistent effort over time is the true driver of achievement. She concludes by stressing the need for fostering grit in education and parenting, although she acknowledges that we still have much to learn about how to build it.

2. One thing I agree with her:

I second that Duckworth’s point that perseverance is often more important than talent. Many people with natural abilities fail to reach their potential due to a lack of persistence, while those with determination and resilience often achieve more through sustained effort.

3. Vobcubulary:

■ Grit /ɡrɪt/: Courage and resolve; strength of character

■ Perseverance /ˌpɜːrsəˈvɪrəns/ Continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties.

■ Intuition/ˌɪntuˈɪʃn/: The ability to understand something immediately, without the need for conscious reasoning.

■ Cadet /kəˈdet/: A young trainee in the armed services or police force.

■ Stamina /ˈstæmɪnə/: The ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort.

■ Stratospheric: /ˌstrætəˈsfɪrɪk/ Extremely high or great.

■ Inverse:/ˌɪnˈvɜːrs/ Opposite in relation to something else.

I really enjoy listening to podcasts, especially before going to bed, as they help me relax and recharge after a long day. Podcasts soothe my mind and inspire me with new perspectives and ideas. Besides that, I also love watching movies. On my days off, I can spend hours enjoying different films, which I find both entertaining and refreshing.

In the future, I aspire to become a human resources manager. I’m drawn to the stability of the role and the opportunity it offers to grow by interacting with diverse people. I believe this career aligns well with my passion for communication and building meaningful connections.

This semester, I aim to improve my speaking and listening skills. Of course, I know I’ll need to put in a lot of effort, so I will try my best to develop myself.

I have a great interest in drawing and traveling. I dream that someday, I could travel all over Vietnam on a motorbike, admire and draw all of the beautiful scenery in every place I visit.

In the future, I want to become a teacher. Therefore, this semester, I want to improve my listening and speaking skills as well as expand my vocabulary.

In the future, I want to become better with many good relationships, improve bad points or have a healthier lifestyle. Most importantly, you can achieve the goals you have set for yourself.

Thank you for taking the time to read! Love u 😘

He talked about creativity in our education systems

• we are educated out of creativity instead of into it as expected

  • we stigmatize mistake

  • most kids have lost their capacity, the ability of not being frightened of being wrong, when the become adults

  • “mistakes are the worst you could make”

  • Subjects that are to help us find a “possible” jobs are prioritized in school such as Math, Physics, etc. On the other hand, subjects related to natural talents such as dancing, singing are not preferred. Children get told "Don't do music, you're not going to be a musician; don't do art, you won't be an artist."

• He believes our only hope for the future is to adopt a new conception of human ecology, one in which we start to reconstitute our conception of the richness of human capacity

• The only way we'll do it is by seeing our creative capacities for the richness they are and seeing our children for the hope that they are. And our task is to educate their whole being, so they can see the future

What do I agree with?

I am convinced by the idea of children losing their capacities for creativity as they get to be adults. In fact, our education system, and even or our society, considers mistake to be awful, a form of failure, which no one want to face in their life. We label success as a form of reward. Teachers, parents give credits for kids that perform well in school, obviously, less mistake equal to more presents and compliments. This sense of reward is instilled it their heads since a very young age. Frankly, there is nothing wrong with being happy and proud of our kids to be great at anything that we want. However, it is the way that we treat them when they fail to do it, which is somehow strict and toxic. As they grow up, the capacity for creativity is gone as they are frightened of being wrong. It is not necessarily meant to be a seriously wrong action. In contrast, they are not comfortable with doing something out of their “safe zone”, which is created as a coping mechanism to please their parents, their teachers, and adapt to others’ expectations. That being in their “comfort zone” and not having the courage to step out and break the boundaries is the opposite to being creative.

Vocabulary

1. Pin someone to the wall

Pronunciation: /pɪn ˈsʌmwʌn tə ðə wɔːl/
Definition: To forcefully confront or hold someone accountable, often in a physical or metaphorical sense.
Example: The journalist's tough questions pinned the politician to the wall during the interview.

2. Play out

Pronunciation: /pleɪ aʊt/
Definition: To happen or unfold over time.
Example: The drama played out exactly as we had predicted.

3. Vested

Pronunciation: /ˈvɛstɪd/
Definition: Fully guaranteed or legally secured; having a personal stake in something.
Example: She has a vested interest in the success of the company.

4. Grasp

Pronunciation: /ɡrɑːsp/
Definition: To understand something completely; to take hold of something tightly.
Example: He struggled to grasp the concept of quantum mechanics.

5. To be on parade

Pronunciation: /tə bi ɒn pəˈreɪd/
Definition: To be displayed or shown publicly for others to see.
Example: The latest designs were on parade at the fashion show.

6. Capacity

Pronunciation: /kəˈpæsɪti/
Definition: The ability to hold or contain something; the ability to do something.
Example: The hall has a seating capacity of 500 people.

7. Exceptional

Pronunciation: /ɪkˈsɛpʃənl/
Definition: Unusually good or outstanding.
Example: She has shown exceptional talent in mathematics.

8. Contention

Pronunciation: /kənˈtɛnʃən/
Definition: Disagreement or argument; a point of view or claim in a debate.
Example: It’s his contention that climate change can be reversed with immediate action.

9. Squander

Pronunciation: /ˈskwɒndə/
Definition: To waste something (especially time or money) in a reckless or foolish way.
Example: They squandered their inheritance on luxury cars and parties.

10. Ruthlessly

Pronunciation: /ˈruːθləsli/
Definition: Without pity or compassion; in a determined and harsh way.
Example: The company ruthlessly cut jobs to save money.

11. Stigmatize

Pronunciation: /ˈstɪɡmətaɪz/
Definition: To treat someone or something as being unworthy or disgraceful.
Example: Mental illness is often unfairly stigmatized in society.

12. Seamless

Pronunciation: /ˈsiːmləs/
Definition: Smooth and without interruptions or flaws.
Example: The app provides a seamless user experience.

13. Grow out of something

Pronunciation: /ɡrəʊ aʊt ɒv ˈsʌmθɪŋ/
Definition: To stop doing something as one matures; to develop from something.
Example: He grew out of his fear of the dark as he got older.

19. Hierarchy

Pronunciation: /ˈhaɪərɑːki/
Definition: A system in which people or things are ranked according to their importance.
Example: The organization has a strict hierarchy of command.

20. Predicate

Pronunciation: /ˈprɛdɪkɪt/
Definition: To base something on a particular idea or fact.
Example: The theory is predicated on years of extensive research.

21. Steer away

Pronunciation: /stɪə(r) əˈweɪ/
Definition: To avoid something or guide someone away from something.
Example: Parents often steer their children away from bad influences.

26. Benignly

Pronunciation: /bɪˈnaɪnli/
Definition: In a kind, gentle, or harmless way.
Example: She benignly smiled at the children playing.

27. Engulf in

Pronunciation: /ɪnˈɡʌlf ɪn/
Definition: To completely surround or cover something.
Example: The city was engulfed in thick smoke after the fire.

In my free time, I like watching movies, listening to music, playing games and chatting with people.

In the future, I want to become an English teacher because I want to share knowledge with everyone.

This semester, I want to improve my listening and speaking skills and other necessary skills.

These are some basic details about me. Thank you for reading!

My favorite activities are listening to music, reading horror stories, and making things by hand. I feel that these activities heal my soul and help me release negative emotions.

I know that my English still has many mistakes. Hopefully, with my effort, I can improve my English skills and gain good knowledge and a good job in the future.

Thanks for your attention!

I'm Bao Tran, my home town is Kien Giang and currently i'm studying English Language at CTU.

I want to become a tour guide in the future because i like going to many places and meeting many people.

I want to improve my English speaking and listening skills in this semester and i will try to do it.

Those are some of things i wanted to say, thanks for reading. Have a nice day!!!

I agree with the idea life is a marathon, not a sprint because life is a marathon so in a race you can be slow or you can be quick and the result at the end is the thing that decides your victory or your failure. So don't think that you aren't good like others forever, it's just you aren't good like others at that time, it doesn't mean you will be a loser for the whole of your life, if you are slow in the race that means you are regaining strength, you have to be grit, have to be perseverance and don't give up your race. I believe that you can get over your competitor at the other time of the race.

My full name is Tran Huu Nghia and I'm studying English Studies at the College of Rural Development—Can Tho University. I was born and grew up in Co Do district of Can Tho city—a peaceful countryside. But now, there has been a change. I live in Phung Hiep District, Hau Giang Province—a convenient place to facilitate learning. I have been trying to adapt to this new environment. When I have free time, I often watch comedy series and TV shows to create a positive atmosphere for myself and relax to refresh to be a funny person.

I'm Bao Tran and my home town is Kien Giang. Currently i'm studying English language at CTU.

I want to become a tour guide in the future because i like going to many places and meeting many people.

I want to improve my English speaking and listening skills in this semester and i will ty do it.

You can call me a chill girl because i always like to sleep. Between a nap and going out, i will prioritize sleep. I't great!

Those are some of the things i wanted to say, thanks for reading. Have a nice day!!!!

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Thing I interested the most about the video is that when she said about the change school should've changed through out the long-term time of decade that it should be more as a place of understanding and psychological comprehend destination. The teacher is the one should make this diffrent by letting the child to learn how they should be interacted with fails. "In other words, we need to be gritty. about getting our kids grittier."

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New vocabulary I learned in this video:

Ethos - Đặc tính (hoặc Tập quán đạo đức)

Refinement - Sự tinh tế (hoặc Sự cải thiện, Trau chuốt)

Folkways - Phong tục dân gian

Practices - Thực hành

Beliefs - Niềm tin

The most impressive thing to me of this video is that IQ is not the decisive factor to be successful. It requires a person to be resilient, resourceful, and most importantly the ability to stay focused on a ultimate goal while also separate it into smaller and achievable goals.

Grit – A combination of passion and perseverance for long-term goals.

Perseverance – Continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties or delay in achieving success.

Passion – A strong feeling of enthusiasm or excitement for something.

Resilience – The ability to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.

Talent – A natural ability or skill.

Effort – The exertion of physical or mental energy.

Success – The accomplishment of an aim or purpose.

Vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

• Grit – A combination of passion and perseverance for long-term goals.

• Perseverance – Continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties or delay in achieving success.

• Passion – A strong feeling of enthusiasm or excitement for something.

• Resilience – The ability to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.

• Talent – A natural ability or skill.

• Effort – The exertion of physical or mental energy.

• Success – The accomplishment of an

aim or purpose.

• Main Idea: Success isn’t just about talent; it’s about grit – a mix of passion and perseverance over the long term.

• Duckworth shares her experience as a teacher, noticing that some of her smartest students didn’t perform as well as others who worked harder.

• What is Grit?

  • Grit is sticking with your goals, even when things get tough.

  • It’s about long-term effort and passion rather than short-term motivation.

• Key Findings:

  • Grit is a better predictor of success than IQ, family income, or good looks.

  • In studies, students with higher grit were more likely to graduate, and adults with grit achieved their long-term goals more often.

• How Do You Build Grit?

  • She doesn’t have a perfect answer yet! But she suggests:

    • Developing a “growth mindset” (believing your abilities can improve with effort).

    • Encouraging kids and ourselves to learn from failure.

• Takeaway: Talent counts, but grit matters more for success. Keep working toward your goals, and don’t be afraid of challenges.

What do i agree with?

I do agree with the idea that "Grit is living life like it's a marathon, not a sprint." To me, it means success isn’t about quick wins or short bursts of energy; it’s about staying consistent and putting in effort over the long term. Life throws challenges at us, and sometimes it feels easier to give up when things don’t go our way. But if we think of it like a marathon, we understand that pacing ourselves, staying focused, and pushing through tough moments are what really matter. It’s not about being the fastest but about staying in the race, learning, and growing along the way.

Vocabs

1. Perseverance /ˌpɜːrsəˈvɪərəns/: continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition.

   Example: "Grit is passion and perseverance for very long-term goals."

   Vietnamese: Sự kiên trì

2. Stamina /ˈstæmɪnə/: the ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort.

   Example: "Grit is having stamina."

   Vietnamese: Sức chịu đựng

3. Marathon /ˈmærəˌθɑːn/: a long-distance running race, metaphorically used to describe a long-lasting or difficult task or operation.

   Example: "Grit is living life like it's a marathon, not a sprint."

   Vietnamese: Cuộc chạy đua marathon

4. Cadet /kəˈdɛt/: a young trainee in the armed services or police force.

   Example: "We went to West Point Military Academy. We tried to predict which cadets would stay in military training and which would drop out."

   Vietnamese: Học viên sĩ quan

5. Inversely /ɪnˈvɜːrsli/: in the opposite manner, position, or order.

   Example: "In fact, in our data, grit is usually unrelated or even inversely related to measures of talent."

   Vietnamese: Ngược lại

6. Mindset /ˈmaɪndˌsɛt/: the established set of attitudes held by someone.

   Example: "So far, the best idea I've heard about building grit in kids is something called 'growth mindset.'"

   Vietnamese: Tư duy

7. Persevere /ˌpɜːrsəˈvɪər/: to continue in a course of action even in the face of difficulty or with little or no prospect of success.

   Example: "They're much more likely to persevere when they fail."

   Vietnamese: Kiên trì

8. Intuition /ˌɪntuˈɪʃn/: the ability to understand something immediately, without the need for conscious reasoning.

   Example: "We need to take our best ideas, our strongest intuitions, and we need to test them."

   Vietnamese: Trực giác

9. Follow through /ˈfɑːloʊ θruː/: to continue an action or task to its conclusion.

   Example: "There are many talented individuals who simply do not follow through on their commitments."

   Vietnamese: Hoàn thành

10. Commitment /kəˈmɪtmənt/: the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause or activity.

    Example: "There are many talented individuals who simply do not follow through on their commitments."

    Vietnamese: Cam kết

+ Teaching (seventh-grade math) in New York City public school.

+ Realized that IQ wasn’t the only difference between her best and worst students.

+ Conclusion that she needs to understand students from a motivational and psychological perspective.

+ Affirmed that students need much more than high IQ scores (learning quickly and easily) to be successful.

- She left the classroom:

+ Became a psychologist.

+ Studying kids and adults in all kinds of super challenging settings to find out the answer to the question of who will be successful and why.

+ Conclusion: Grit (passion and perseverance for long-term goals) is a characteristic that emerged as a significant predictor of success.

- She started studying grit in Chicago public school:

+ Grittier kids were significantly more likely to graduate.

+ She did not know how to be grit but she knew that talent is usually unrelated or even inversely unrelated to measures of talent.

+ She has heard that building grit in kids is called “growth mindset” by Carol Dweck.

- “Growth mindset”:

+ The ability to learn is not fixed but changes with the effort.

+ Children will persevere more when they know failure is not a permanent condition by learning how their brain changes and grows in response to challenges.

+ Parents need to be gritty about getting their kids grittier.

- Angela Lee Duckworth left a demanding management consulting job to teach math to seventh graders in New York City public schools -> she realized that IQ was not the only difference between her best and my worst students.

- After years of teaching, she concluded that motivation and perseverance are crucial for learning, beyond just intelligence.

- Leaving the classroom, she went to graduate school to become a psychologist. She and her research team went to West Point Military Academy -> study success across various fields, like military training, spelling bees, and tough teaching jobs.

- Their research revealed that “grit - passion and perseverance for very long-term goals” is the key predictor of success, not IQ or talent.

- Grit is living life like it's a marathon, not a sprint.

- Studies in Chicago public schools found that grittier students were more likely to graduate, even when accounting for factors like family income and test scores. 

- Grit is usually unrelated or even inversely related to measures of talent.

- Growth mindset is a great idea for building grit.

- Angela Lee Duckworth emphasizes the need for further research and experimentation to understand and develop grit in students. 

- A gritty approach is needed to achieve the goal of cultivating grit in children.

• What I like most about this talk:

- What I like most about this talk is Angela Lee Duckworth's discovery of GRIT. This has offered a new perspective on the traditional way people evaluate a person's abilities. For a long time, most people have relied on IQ as the primary measure of competence. However, her research and conclusions have shown that IQ is merely a subjective factor and not entirely definitive. No one is born at the finish line; everyone needs to work hard and persevere in improving themselves daily to achieve long-term goals and become better. Therefore, although someone's IQ might be higher than others' IQ, if others have a growth mindset and grit, they can potentially reach the same level over time.

• The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

1.       Grit /ɡrɪt/ (n): Courage and resolve; strength of character.

          Ex: "Grit is passion and perseverance for very long-term goals."

2.       Intuition /ˌɪntjuˈɪʃn/ (n): The ability to understand something immediately, without the need for conscious reasoning.

          Ex: "We need to take our best ideas, our strongest intuitions, and we need to test them."

3.       Cadet /kəˈdet/ (n): A young trainee in the armed services or police force.

          Ex: "We tried to predict which cadets would stay in military training and which would drop out."

4.       Spelling bee /ˈspelɪŋ biː/ (n): A competition in which contestants are asked to spell a broad selection of words.

          Ex: "We tried to predict which children would advance farthest in the National Spelling Bee."

5.       Stamina /ˈstæmɪnə/ (n): The ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort.

          Ex: "Grit is having stamina."

6.       Stratospheric /ˌstrætəˈsferɪk/ (adj): Extremely high or great.

          Ex: "In all those very different contexts, one characteristic emerged as a significant predictor of success. And it wasn't social intelligence. It wasn't good looks, physical health, and it wasn't IQ. It was grit."

7.       Inverse /ˌɪnˈvɜːs/ (adj): Opposite in relation to something else.

          Ex: "Grit is usually unrelated or even inversely related to measures of talent."

8.       Fixed mindset /ˌfɪkst ˈmaɪndset/ (n): The belief that abilities are static and unchangeable.

          Ex: "Individuals with a fixed mindset believe that their talents and abilities are simply fixed traits."

9.       Growth mindset /ˌɡrəʊθ ˈmaɪndset/ (n): The belief that abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work.

          Ex: "We need to be gritty about getting our kids grittier."

10.      Significant predictor /sɪɡˈnɪfɪkənt prɪˈdɪktə(r)/ (n): An indicator that has a meaningful correlation with an outcome.

          Ex: "In all those very different contexts, one characteristic emerged as a significant predictor of success."

11.      Ultimate concern /ˈʌltɪmət kənˈsɜːn/ (n): A central, overriding goal or passion in one's life.

          Ex: "Grit is about having what some researchers call an 'ultimate concern'."

12.      Marathon /ˈmærəθən/ (n): A long-distance running race, metaphorically used to describe a long and arduous task or activity.

          Ex: "Grit is living life like it's a marathon, not a sprint."

• Summary :

• Current education does not fully meet the needs of students.

• Sir Ken Robinson argues that education should help students develop their creative potential.

• The current education system focuses too much on theoretical subjects like math and science, while neglecting creative arts.

• Creativity is a crucial part of every student’s development.

• Intelligence is not fixed; it can evolve and change over time.

• Education needs to create an environment that allows students to freely explore and develop their unique abilities.

• When students feel encouraged and are assessed properly, they can express and develop their creativity wonderfully.

• We need to change our perception of education to better align with the needs and abilities of students.

• The education system must adjust to not only prepare students for exams but also help them become creative and independent thinkers.

• Education should not just be about transmitting knowledge, but about discovering and developing students’ potential.

• Vocabulary :

• 1. Predicated - Based on something. (Verb, past participle)

  2. Industrialism - A system of society or economy based on industry. (Noun)

  3. Hierarchy - A system of organization where people or things are ranked according to status or authority. (Noun)

  4. Benignly - In a kind or harmless way. (Adverb)

  5. Stigmatized - Marked with disgrace or shame. (Verb, past participle)

  6. Engulfed - Surrounded or covered completely. (Verb, past participle)

  7. Inflation - The increase in prices or the value of something. (Noun)

  8. Dynamic - Constantly changing or developing. (Adjective)

  9. Multitasking - The ability to perform multiple tasks at the same time. (Noun)

  10. Corpus Callosum - A bundle of nerve fibers connecting the two halves of the brain. (Noun)

  11. Kinesthetically - In a way related to physical movement and the sensation of the body. (Adverb)

  12. Choreographer - A person who designs and directs dance performances. (Noun)

  13. Ballet - A highly technical form of dance with a strong focus on precise movements and performances. (Noun)

  14. Fidgeting - Moving restlessly, especially due to nervousness or impatience. (Verb, gerund)

  15. Disrupting - Interrupting or disturbing the normal functioning of something. (Verb, present participle)

  16. Concentration - The ability to focus one’s attention or mental effort. (Noun)

  17. Interactive - Involving communication or action between people or things. (Adjective)

  18. Epiphany - A sudden realization or insight. (Noun)

  19. Learning Disorder - A condition that affects the ability to acquire or process information effectively. (Noun, compound noun)

  20. Soloist - A person who performs alone in a music or dance performance. (Noun)

In the video, the speaker emphasises the importance of creativity in education, particularly for children. He said that taking a chance and not being frightened of being wrong is common among children.

When children become adults, this ability will disappear because they fear being wrong. However, he mentions that people will never come up with anything original or new without being willing to be wrong. According to the speaker, education assesses a person's ability mostly based on academic ability. It forces people to study useful subjects for work rather than things they love doing. And this isn't very accurate. Academic ability is dominant because it seems like the main purpose of education is preparing for university or becoming a professor at university. This idea makes brilliant, creative people think they are not good enough once they cannot meet the education criteria.

Sir Ken Robinson also lists three important factors related to Intelligence. Firstly, Intelligence is diverse because it depends on our own experience around the world. We feel and evaluate things differently based on sound, movement,..etc. Secondly, intelligence is dynamic. Finally, intelligence is distinct. The speaker mentions that imagination is a gift of humans. The education system has made it disappear because it has minded our minds, or rather because it forces us to follow the same path. If we want our children to maintain their creativity, we have to rethink the main purpose and principles of education.

Vocabulary:

1. Extraordinary (adj) /ɪkˈstrɔːdnri/: not normal or ordinary; greater or better than usual

• The film tells the extraordinary story of two people struggling to survive in the Arctic.

• An extraordinary achievement

2. Play out = happens:

• Their love affair was played out against the backdrop of war.

3. Blood rushes to somebody’s face/cheeks: used to say that someone’s face becomes red because they feel embarrassed

   • I felt the blood rush to my face as I heard my name.

4. Vested interest (N) /ˌvestɪd ˈɪntrəst/: (in something) a personal reason for wanting something to happen, especially because you get some advantage from it

• They have a vested interest in keeping the club as exclusive as possible

5. unpredictability (N) /ˌʌnprɪˌdɪktəˈbɪləti/: the quality something has when it is impossible to know in advance that it will happen or what it will be like

• The unpredictability of the English weather

6. Nonetheless (adv): despite this fact

• The problems are not serious. Nonetheless, we shall need to tackle them soon.

7. exceptional (adv) /ɪkˈsepʃənl/ = outstanding

• At the age of five he showed exceptional talent as a musician.

8. Contention (N): /kənˈtenʃn/: contention (that…) a belief or an opinion that you express, especially in an argument

• It is our client's contention that the fire was an accident.

9. Squander (v) /ˈskwɒndə(r)/: (on somebody/something) to waste money, time, etc. in a stupid or careless way

• He squandered all his money on gambling.

10. Ruthlessly (adv) /ˈruːθləsli/: in a hard and cruel way; in a determined way, without caring if you hurt other people

• I have to be ruthlessly honest with you.

11. Crammed (adj) /kræmd/: very full of people or things:

• We had the place crammed full of agents in T-shirts: "James Robinson IS Joseph!

12. A national education system

13. Educate people out of creative capacities

14. Passionately (adv) /ˈpæʃ.ən.ət.li/: in a way that shows that you have strong feelings of enthusiasm for something or belief in something

• She believes passionately in education and hard work.

15. Grow into: to gradually develop into a particular type of person or thing over a period of time

• He’s grown into a handsome young man.

16. Grow out of: to stop doing something as you become older

• Most children suck their thumbs but they grow out of it.

17. Be predicated on something: If an idea or argument is predicated on something, it depends on the existence or truth of this thing:

• The sales forecast is predicated on the assumption that the economy will grow by four per cent.

18. Rooted in something (adj) /ˈruːtɪd/: developing from or being strongly influenced by something

• His problems are deeply rooted in his childhood experiences.

19. Steer (V)/stɪə(r)/ steer something + adv./prep. to take control of a situation and influence how it develops

• He managed to steer the conversation away from his divorce.

20. Benignly (adv): /bɪˈnaɪnli/: in a kind and gentle way; in a way that does not hurt anybody

• He smiled benignly.

21. protracted (adj) /prəˈtræktɪasting: longer than expected or longer than usual = prolonged

• protracted delays/disputes/negotiations

22. stigmatize (V) /ˈstɪɡmətaɪz/: to describe or consider somebody/something in a way that unfairly suggests that they are bad or do not deserve respect

• And the consequence is that many highly talented, brilliant, creative people think they're not, because the thing they were good at at school wasn't valued, or was stigmatized.

23. transformational (adj) /ˌtrænsfəˈmeɪʃənl/:

    connected with a complete change in somebody/something, especially a positive change

• a transformational moment in the country's history

24. Academic inflation: the increasing requirement of higher degrees for certain jobs, even when a higher degree is not necessary to perform those jobs.

25. Radically (adv): /ˈrædɪkli/: in a way that relates to the most basic and important parts of something; in a complete and detailed way

• Attitudes have changed radically.

26. Esthetically (adv) /iːsˈθetɪkli/: in a way that is connected with beauty and art and the understanding of beautiful things

• The film is technically and aesthetically brilliant.

- Education takes us into a future we cannot fully grasp.

- We have a responsibility to educate the next generation, and creativity is as important as literacy.

- Children are not afraid of being wrong but most of them lose this capacity as they grow up.

- If we are not willing to be wrong, we will never create anything truly original.

- National education systems that treat mistakes as the worst thing limited people's creative capacities.

 - We begin educating children by focusing on their intellect, with little regard for other aspects.

- The current education system is based on the concept of academic ability to meet the needs of industrialization.

- We gradually lose our childhood dreams, and academic ability is regarded as the standard of intelligence, so creative people think they are not good at school.

- The process of academic inflation has gradually rendered degrees less valuable.

- The human imagination is a precious gift and we need to use it more wisely by educating children in a more holistic way.  

I am an English Studies student and a content creator.

I love to sink myself into my playlist every night and play my favourite video game-IdentityV.

This semester, I will try to be a better version of my alter ego

I am a student of Can Tho University

My major is English Language

In my future, I hope to become a tour guide because I love exploring new places.

This semester, I will try to enhance my speaking and listening skills

When Angela moved from a demanding management consulting job to teaching seventh-grade math in New York City, she noticed that IQ was not the only factor that determined student success. Some students with lower IQs did well, while some students with higher IQs struggled. This observation led her to explore the importance of motivational and psychological factors in education.

After years of teaching, Angela pursued a degree in psychology to study what predicted success in challenging environments. From military academies to schools, it has been shown that grit—a combination of passion and perseverance toward long-term goals—is a more important predictor of success than IQ, social intelligence, or physical fitness.

In studies, such as those conducted in Chicago public schools, students who are more persistent are more likely to graduate, regardless of socioeconomic factors or academic achievement. Despite this significance, knowledge about how to foster grit is limited. One promising approach is to cultivate a “growth mindset,” which emphasizes the belief that ability can be improved through effort, encouraging resilience in the face of failure.

Ultimately, the challenge lies in testing and refining methods for instilling grit in students, applying a persistent and experimental approach to improving education.

II. https://voca.ro/16y2Z33Fkpla

What I like most about this talk is the emphasis on patience as a key factor in success. It show that, in addition to intelligence (IQ), factors such as persistence and long-term passion, also known as grit, play a crucial role in achieving goals.

III.

The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

1. Grit: very small pieces of stone or sand

2. Perseverance: the quality of continuing to try to achieve a particular aim despite difficulties

3. Stamina: The ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort

4. Growth mindset: The belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed with effort and learning.

5. Commitments : A pledge or promise to do something.

6. Decimal: based on or counted in tens or tenths

7. Cadet: a young person who is training to become an officer in the police or armed forces

8. Long-term goals: Objectives that take a significant amount of time to achieve.

Mr. Robinson talked about the education concern that creativity is also as important as reading and writing skills.

It should be taken into account.

We won't create any original if we are not prepared to be wrong.

There is a common order of subjects all around the world: maths, language, humanities, and art (at the bottom)

The output of all schools is to train students to become professors, but it is just a form of life not the highest point.

The order was born for 2 reasons:

1. The subjects that are useful for work will be at the top.

2. Academic ability that has been designed in universities' image

=> Many people who have abilities don't get respect in school.

Intelligence

- diverse

- dynamic

- distinct

Our mission is to support and educate fully the young.

B. The thing I don’t agree

Mr. Robinson is the one who has sense of humour, so I felt really relax when watching his performance. However, there is one joke example I don’t give my agreement about “Frank send this!” in the drama about the gifts of magi because, sometimes, creativity should be exploit in the suitable situation. In that case, the drama is related to religion, and it requires the respect.

C. Vocabulary

frankly: adv: thẳng thắn mà nói

progressively: adv: dần tăng lên

halve: v: chia đều chia đôi

raft: số lượng lớn, cái bè gỗ

- Creativity is as important as literacy, but current education systems often suppress it.

- Three main themes are discussed: The extraordinary creativity evident in people, the unpredictability of the future, and the innovative capacities of children.

- Education systems worldwide follow a hierarchy of subjects -> undervalued arts and creativity.

- Education is designed for industrialism -> focusing on producing academic success (useful subjects) rather than nurturing diverse talents (art, dance,…).

- It is to be difficult to predict children’s future.

- Intelligence is not limited to academics -> it is diverse (visual, kinesthetic) and dynamic.

- Gillian Lynne’s story is an example that illustrates how nurturing creativity can lead to extraordinary success (she became a famous choreographer).

- Education must evolve to nurture the full range of human capacities and prepare children to face and shape the future.

• What I like most about this talk:

- What I like most about this talk is the author's perspective on the issue of an education system that only focuses on academic subjects and ignores personal creativity through skills like singing and dancing. In reality, many schools emphasise mainly subjects like Math and Physics, while considering arts, music, or physical education as non-essential. This approach has led to an imbalance and, in some cases, limited students' natural talents. Therefore, education should change its focus and recognize the importance of personal skills that can reflect an individual's personality and talents. By doing so, it would not only support students in exploring their creative potential but also foster a more balanced and comprehensive development of both academic and personal growth.

• The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

1.       Predicate /ˈpredɪkeɪt/ (v): Based on something.

          Ex: "Our education system is predicated on the idea of academic ability."

2.       Hierarchy /ˈhaɪərɑːki/ (n): A system, especially in a society or an organization, in which people are organized into different levels of importance from highest to lowest.

          Ex: "There's a hierarchy within the arts."

3.       Benignly /bɪˈnaɪnli/ (adv): In a kind or harmless way.

          Ex: "You were probably steered benignly away from things at school when you were a kid, things you liked, on the grounds you would never get a job doing that."

4.       Stigmatize /ˈstɪɡmətaɪz/ (v): Marked with disgrace or shame.

          Ex: "We stigmatize mistakes."

5.       Engulf /ɪnˈɡʌlf/ (v): Surrounded or covered completely.

          Ex: "The whole world is engulfed in a revolution."

6.       Corpus Callosum /ˌkɔː.pəs kəˈləʊ.səm/ (n): A wide strip of nerve fibres that connects the two halves of the brain.

          Ex: "By the way, there's a shaft of nerves that joins the two halves of the brain, called the corpus callosum."

7.       Kinesthetically (Kinetically) /kɪˈnet.ɪ.kəl.i/ (adv): In a way related to physical movement and the sensation of the body.

          Ex: "We think visually, we think in sound, we think kinesthetically."

8.       Choreographer /ˌkɒr.iˈɒɡ.rə.fər/ (n): A person who is skilled at combining movements into dances to be performed.

          Ex: "She's a choreographer, and everybody knows her work."

9.       Fidget /ˈfɪdʒ.ɪt/ (v): Moving restlessly, especially due to nervousness or impatience.

          Ex: "Because the moment that people are alone, even for a few seconds, they become anxious, they panic, they fidget, they reach for a device."

10.      Epiphany /ɪˈpɪf.ən.i/ (n): A sudden realization or insight.

          Ex: "I'm doing a new book at the moment called "Epiphany," which is based on a series of interviews with people about how they discovered their talent."

11.      Learning disorder /ˈlɜː.nɪŋ dɪˈsɔː.dər/ (n): A condition that affects the ability to acquire or process information effectively.

          Ex: "We think Gillian has a learning disorder."

12.      Soloist /ˈsəʊ.ləʊ.ɪst/ (n): A musician who performs a solo.

          Ex: "She became a soloist."

13.      Squander /ˈskwɒn.dər/ (v): To waste money or supplies, or to waste opportunities by not using them to your advantage .

          Ex: "All kids have tremendous talents, and we squander them, pretty ruthlessly."

14.       Disembodied /ˌdɪs.ɪmˈbɒd.id/ (adj): Seeming not to have a body or not to be connected to a body.

           Ex: "They're disembodied, you know, in a kind of literal way."

- Four years ago, the talks weren't put online - Sir Ken Robinson’s talk was one of the first TED talks to be uploaded online -> leading to over 4 million downloads in just a few years -> people interested in such content.

- The two crises: environmental and human resources.

- We waste human talent through education systems -> fail to nurture individual potential -> many people never discover their true talents; unaware of or disconnected from their abilities.

- The current education system: dislocates people from their natural talents, linear approach from kindergarten to college, industrial models -> moving from those -> to agricultural models, focuses on nurturing individual potential, and creates conditions for growth.

- Passion is very important -> people who thrive in life are those who do what they love and excel at it.

- Reforming education is not enough ->  revolution -> personalize education and move away from standardized, industrial models -> schools should adopt an organic approach -> nurture creativity, individual growth, and passion.

- Creativity and diversity are essential to human flourishing.

- Teachers are central to the educational revolution.

- Technology can play a transformative role -> enabling personalized learning and providing access to resources that were previously unavailable.

- Technology combine with the extraordinary talents of teachers -> an opportunity to revolutionize education.

- Governments, educators, parents, and society should embrace a new model of education -> celebrates and cultivates human potential.

• What I like most about this talk:

- What I like most about this talk is the quote: "We have to recognize that human flourishing is not a mechanical process; it's an organic process." Human development cannot be achieved through mechanical processes like those in industrial systems, which limit creativity and growth. Instead, human development is a natural and flexible process that requires a suitable environment for individuals to fully realize their potential. Each individual has different talents and passions, so they need various ways to grow. Therefore, in the education system, instead of only focusing on academic subjects for their careers after graduation, it is essential to create opportunities for students to explore and nurture their talents.

• The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

1.       Elaborate /ɪˈlæbərət/ (adj): Very complicated and detailed; carefully prepared and organized.

          Ex: “This whole event has been an elaborate build-up to me doing another one for you, so here it is.”

2.       Authentic /ɔːˈθentɪk/ (adj): True and accurate.

          Ex: “It would be foolish to abandon this, because it speaks to my most authentic self.”

3.       Tyranny /ˈtɪrəni/ (n): Unfair or cruel use of power or authority.

          Ex: “The great problem for reform or transformation is the tyranny of common sense.”

4.       Disenthrall /ˌdɪsɪnˈθrɔːl/ (v): To liberate.

          Ex: “We must disenthrall ourselves, and then we shall save our country.”

5.       Hypnotize /ˈhɪpnətaɪz/ (v): To interest somebody so much that they can think of nothing else.

          Ex: “But our minds are still hypnotized by them, and we have to disenthrall ourselves of some of them. Now, doing this is easier said than done.”

6.       Utilitarian /ˌjuːtɪlɪˈteəriən/ (adj): Based on or supporting the ideas of utilitarianism.

          Ex: “Jeremy Bentham, the great utilitarian philosopher, once spiked this argument.”

7.       Enthrall /ɪnˈθrɔːl/ (v): If something enthrals you, it is so interesting, beautiful, etc. that you give it all your attention.

          Ex: “That there are ideas that all of us are enthralled to, which we simply take for granted as the natural order of things, the way things are.”

8.       Linear /ˈlɪniə(r)/ (adj): Of or in lines.

          Ex: “That life is not linear; it's organic.”

9.       Symbiotically /ˌsɪmbaɪˈɒtɪkli/ (adv): By depending on each other and getting benefits from each other through living or working closely together.

          Ex: “We create our lives symbiotically as we explore our talents in relation to the circumstances they help to create for us.”

10.      Pinnacle /ˈpɪnəkl/ (n): The most important or successful part of something.

          Ex: “The pinnacle for education is getting you to college.”

11.      Conformity /kənˈfɔːməti/ (n): Behaviour or actions that follow the accepted rules of society.

          Ex: “We have to go from what is essentially an industrial model of education, a manufacturing model, which is based on linearity and conformity and batching people.”

12.      Resonate /ˈrezəneɪt/ (v): To make a deep, clear sound that continues for a long time.

          Ex: “If you're doing something that doesn't resonate with your spirit, five minutes feels like an hour.”

13.      Aptitude /ˈæptɪtjuːd/ (n): Natural ability or skill at doing something.

          Ex: “People have very different aptitudes.”

14.      Flourish /ˈflʌrɪʃ/ (v): To develop quickly and become successful or common.

           Ex: “We have to recognize that human flourishing is not a mechanical process; it's an organic process.”

15.      Reconstitute /ˌriːˈkɒnstɪtjuːt/ (v): To form an organization or a group again in a different way.

           Ex: “At the heart of the challenge is to reconstitute our sense of ability and of intelligence. This linearity thing is a problem.”

16.       Deplete /dɪˈpliːt/ (v): To be reduced by a large amount.

           Ex: “We have sold ourselves into a fast-food model of education, and it's impoverishing our spirit and our energies as much as fast food is depleting our physical bodies.”

- What truly makes people healthy and happy throughout life -> a survey of millennials -> wealth (80%) and fame (50%).

- The Harvard Study of Adult Development – the longest study of adult life that's ever been done. study of adult life that's ever been done -> followed two distinct groups of men: Harvard College sophomores (many of whom served in World War II) and boys from Boston’s poorest neighbourhoods (chosen for their challenging family and living conditions).

- Participants were interviewed and given medical exams and home visits in their youth. Over the years, researchers collected data through questionnaires, blood tests, brain scans, interviews with families, and even videotaped discussions. Wives and children were eventually included.

- About 60 participants, now in their 90s, are still alive, and the study has extended to include over 2,000 of their children.

- The clearest message from this study: good relationships keep us happier and healthier.

- Three big lessons about relationships: social connections are happier, healthier, and live longer than those who are isolated; it’s not about the number of friends or being in a relationship, but about the quality of those connections; good relationships don't just protect our bodies, they protect our brains -> helped buffer people from the emotional toll of physical pain in old age and protect memory.

- Relationships are messy, complicated, and require lifelong effort.

- The good life is built with good relationships - not wealth, fame, or achievements.

• What I like most about this talk:

- What I like most about this talk is the idea that "it's not just the number of friends you have, and it's not whether or not you're in a committed relationship, but it is the quality of your close relationships that matters." This is absolutely true. In life, individuals have different personalities and perspectives, so it is crucial to cultivate relationships where there is genuine compatibility and connection, rather than conflict or jealousy. In reality, we may have many acquaintances, but true friends are few, if any. Therefore, it is important to be selective when forming relationships. Those who truly bring a sense of trust, sincerity, and comfort will significantly enhance our mood and contribute to a more positive and fulfilling life.

• The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

1.       Millennial /mɪˈleniəl/ (n): A person who was born between the early 1980s and the late 1990s.

          Ex: “There was a recent survey of millennials asking them what their most important life goals were, and over 80 percent said that a major life goal for them was to get rich.”

2.       Sophomore /ˈsɒfəmɔː(r)/ (n): A student in the second year of a course of study at a college or university.

          Ex: “The first group started in the study when they were sophomores at Harvard College.”

3.       Schizophrenia /ˌskɪtsəˈfriːniə/ (n): A serious mental illness in which someone cannot understand what is real and what is imaginary.

          Ex: “They became factory workers and lawyers and bricklayers and doctors, one President of the United States. Some developed alcoholism. A few developed schizophrenia.”

4.       Hindsight /ˈhaɪndsaɪt/ (n): The ability to understand an event or situation only after it has happened.

          Ex: “Most of what we know about human life we know from asking people to remember the past, and as we know, hindsight is anything but 20/20.”

5.       Octogenarian /ˌɒktədʒəˈneəriən/ (n): A person between 80 and 89 years old.

          Ex: “Some of our octogenarian couples could bicker with each other day in and day out, but as long as they felt that they could really count on the other when the going got tough, those arguments didn't take a toll on their memories.”

6.       Buffer /ˈbʌfə(r)/ (n): A thing or person that reduces a shock or protects somebody/something against difficulties.

          Ex: “He didn't try to invent a buffer between me and reality.”

7.       Tend /tend/ (v): To care for somebody/something.

          Ex: “Relationships are messy and they're complicated and the hard work of tending to family and friends, it's not sexy or glamorous.”

8.       Feud /fjuːd/ (n): An angry and bitter argument between two people or groups of people that continues over a long period of time.

          Ex: “It might be something as simple as replacing screen time with people time or livening up a stale relationship by doing something new together, long walks or date nights, or reaching out to that family member who you haven't spoken to in years, because those all-too-common family feuds take a terrible toll on the people who hold the grudges.”

9.       Bicker /ˈbɪkə(r)/ (v): To argue about things that are not important.

          Ex: “Some of our octogenarian couples could bicker with each other day in and day out, but as long as they felt that they could really count on the other when the going got tough, those arguments didn't take a toll on their memories.”

10.      Heartburning /ˈhɑːtˌbɜːnɪŋ/ (n): Intense feelings of jealousy, resentment, or emotional distress.

          Ex: “There isn't time, so brief is life, for bickerings, apologies, heartburnings, callings to account. There is only time for loving, and but an instant, so to speak, for that.”

11.      Grudge /ɡrʌdʒ/ (n): A feeling of anger or dislike towards somebody because of something bad they have done to you in the past.

           Ex: “It might be something as simple as replacing screen time with people time or livening up a stale relationship by doing something new together, long walks or date nights, or reaching out to that family member who you haven't spoken to in years, because those all-too-common family feuds take a terrible toll on the people who hold the grudges.”

12.      Hindsight is anything but 20/20 (idiom): Looking back on past events does not always provide clear or accurate understanding.

           Ex: “Most of what we know about human life we know from asking people to remember the past, and as we know, hindsight is anything but 20/20.”

13.      The slings  and arrows of getting old (idiom): The difficulties and challenges of old age.

           Ex: “Close relationships seem to buffer us from some of the slings and arrows of getting old.”

14.      As old as the hills (idiom): Refer to something that has existed for a very long time.

           Ex: “Close relationships are good for our health and well-being, this is wisdom that's as old as the hills.”

15.      An instant, so to speak (idiom): A very brief moment, metaphorically speaking or a moment that is fleeting, as it were.

           Ex: “There is only time for loving, and but an instant, so to speak, for that.”

16.     Take a heavy toll (on somebody/something) (idiom): To have a bad effect on somebody/something; to cause a lot of damage, deaths, pain, etc.

           Ex: “Some of our octogenarian couples could bicker with each other day in and day out, but as long as they felt that they could really count on the other when the going got tough, those arguments didn't take a toll on their memories.”

17.      Count on somebody/ something (phrasal verb): To trust somebody to do something or to be sure that something will happen.

           Ex: “The people in relationships where they feel they really can't count on the other one, those are the people who experience earlier memory decline.”

One idea I strongly agree with from Angela Lee Duckworth is that grit—passion and perseverance—is more important than talent in achieving success. The reason is that talent alone cannot guarantee consistent effort or resilience in the face of challenges. Success often requires a long-term commitment, where persistence and a growth mindset enable individuals to overcome obstacles and continuously improve. For example, many successful people, like athletes or entrepreneurs, didn’t start as the most talented but achieved greatness through relentless effort and determination. This aligns with the belief that hard work can outweigh natural ability.

Some useful Vocabulary and Idioms that I learned from the video:

Vocabulary:

1. Grit

→ Courage and resolve; strength of character.

2. Growth mindset

→ The belief that abilities can be developed through hard work and effort.

3. Intrinsic motivation

→ A drive to perform an activity for its inherent satisfaction.

E.g.: Intrinsic motivation often leads to better results.

Idioms:

1. "When the going gets tough, the tough get going"

→ Strong people work harder when faced with difficulties.

2. "Burn the midnight oil"

→ To work late into the night.

3. "Put your nose to the grindstone"

→ To work hard and diligently.

4. "Stay the course"

→ To persevere even in difficult situations.

One idea I strongly agree with from Sir Ken Robinson is that schools prioritize academic subjects over creativity, often neglecting the arts. The reason is that this hierarchy limits students’ potential by undervaluing talents in areas like music, dance, or theater. Many students are naturally gifted in creative disciplines, but the focus on standardized tests and traditional academic success discourages them from pursuing their passions. I believe every talent deserves equal recognition, as creativity is essential for innovation and solving real-world problems. Encouraging the arts would help foster well-rounded individuals and unleash more potential in society.

Some useful Vocabulary and Idioms I learned in this video:

Vocabulary:

1. Hierarchy

→ A system in which things are ranked one above the other based on importance.

2. Stigmatize

→ To treat something as undesirable or shameful.

3. Divergent thinking

→ The ability to think in multiple directions or generate many ideas.

4. Conformity

→ Behavior that follows established norms or standards.

5. Standardization

→ The process of making things uniform or consistent.

6. Innate

→ Existing naturally or from birth.

7. Suppression

→ The act of preventing or restraining something.

Idioms:

1. “Think outside the box”

→ To think creatively or unconventionally.

2. “Hit the nail on the head”

→ To describe or address something precisely.

3. “Break the mold”

→ To do something in a new or innovative way.

4. “Breathe new life into”

→ To revitalize or renew something.

5. “A blessing in disguise”

→ Something that seems bad but turns out to be beneficial.

In the talk, Sir Ken Robinson mentions human resources is another severe crisis that humans are going through. This, according to him, happens because people do not know their talents. He mentions that there are 2 types of people, including people who endure life and people who enjoy life because they love what they do.

The education system is a major cause leading to the first type because it dislocates people from their talents. It is not easy to find someone's talent even though it is natural. If we do not put people in the right circumstances where they can utilize their talents, we are unlikely to find someone's talent. Because of this, the speaker concludes that what we need in education is a revolution not evolution.

Our current education system, according to him, prevents people from acknowledging their real talents as we follow the same path. The speaker considers the education system as a model of fast food because both destroy people in familiar ways, making people have the physical and mental energy for things they love.

To tackle this issue, Sir Ken Robinson suggests that we have to build our education system based on the principles of agriculture. We have to recognize that talent can be built or shown through different circumstances and we cannot predict it. This is similar to the tree that farmers plant. Sometimes, it is not easy to predict what the plant will become because it is based on the particular condition and environment. The education system cannot know clearly what a person is good at if it keeps forcing people to follow the same path.

There is a need to customize education to meet people's real demands so that they thrive and nurture their talents. We have to tackle this issue not only because of our future but mainly because of children's future.

VOCABULARY:

1. Hunger (for something) (N) /ˈhʌŋɡə(r)/ a strong desire for something

• She has an insatiable hunger for knowledge.

2. Poor in something: having very small amounts of something

   • a country poor in natural resources

3. Makes very poor use of our talents

4. Endure (V) /ɪnˈdjʊə(r)/: to experience and deal with something painful or unpleasant without giving up = bear (v)

• endure doing something: He can't endure being defeated.

• endure to do something: He can't endure to be defeated.

5. Authentic (adj) /ɔːˈθentɪk/: known to be real and what somebody claims it is and not a copy

• I don't know if the painting is authentic.

6. Dislocate (v) = disrupt /ˈdɪsləkeɪt/: to stop a system, plan etc. from working or continuing in the normal way

7. Reform (V) /rɪˈfɔːm/: to improve a system, an organization, a law, etc. by making changes to its

• proposals to reform the social security system

8. Revolution (N) /ˌrevəˈluːʃn/: (in something) a great change in conditions, ways of working, beliefs, etc. that affects large numbers of people

• a cultural/social/scientific, etc. revolution

9. Suppress (V) /səˈpres/: to prevent something from being published or made known

• The police were accused of suppressing vital evidence.

10. Enthral (v) /ɪnˈθrɔːl/: if something enthrals you, it is so interesting, beautiful, etc. that you give it all your attention

• They were enthralled with the play.

11. Take somebody/something for granted: to be so used to somebody/something that you do not recognize their true value any more and do not show that you are grateful

• Her husband was always there and she just took him for granted.

  12. Hypnotized (v) /ˈhɪpnətaɪz/: to interest somebody so much that they can think of nothing else

• be hypnotized (by something) He was hypnotized by her beauty.

13. Impoverish (v) /ɪmˈpɒvərɪʃ/: to make something worse in quality

    • Intensive cultivation has impoverished the soil.

• to make somebody poor

• These changes are likely to impoverish single-parent families even further.

14. Resonate (v) /ˈrezəneɪt/: resonate (with somebody/something) to remind somebody of something; to be similar to what somebody thinks or believes

• These issues resonated with the voters.

3. Vocabulary

   • Grit : the courage and strength of mind that makes it possible for somebody to continue doing something difficult or unpleasant

   • Stratospheric : extremely high

   • Emerge : to move out of or away from something and become possible to see

   • Stamina : the physical or mental strength that enables you to do something difficult for long periods of time

   • Juniors : a young person below a particular age, rather than an adult

   • Gritty : showing the courage and strength of mind to continue doing something difficult or unpleasant

   • Commitment : a promise to do something or to behave in a particular way; a promise to support somebody/something; the fact of committing yourself

   • Permanent : ​lasting for a long time or for all time in the future; existing all the time

   • Intuition : the ability to know something by using your feelings rather than considering the facts

   • 
     

The video "Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance" features psychologist Angela Duckworth discussing her research on the importance of grit for success. Grit is defined as a combination of passion and perseverance for long-term goals. Duckworth contends that talent alone is insufficient to attain success; rather, consistent effort, resilience, and dedication are required. She provides examples from a variety of disciplines, including education, business, and sports, to demonstrate how those with grit are more likely to achieve their goals despite obstacles. Duckworth emphasizes the value of creating grit in both individuals and organizations, arguing that it can be cultivated through practice, a growth mindset, and a willingness to work through challenges.

Vocabulary

stratospheric  adjective

/ˌstrætəˈsferɪk/ 

• (specialist) in the layer of the earth's atmosphere between about 10 and 50 kilometres above the surface of the earth

· stratospheric clouds/ozone

• (informal) extremely high

· stratospheric levels of success

cadet  noun

/kəˈdet/  

• a young person who is training to become an officer in the police or armed forces

· The military academy trains up to 2 000 officer cadets each year.

rookie  noun

/ˈrʊki/ 

• (especially North American English) a person who has just started a job or an activity and has very little experience

· The transition from rookie to fighter pilot starts with selection day.

• (North American English) a member of a sports team in his or her first full year of playing that sport

· Derek Jeter was voted American League Rookie of the Year in 1996.

work ethic   noun

/ˈwɜːk eθɪk/ 

• a person's attitude to work, especially the idea that hard work is a good habit and should be rewarded

· They have a very strong work ethic.

· She has a poor work ethic (= does not work hard).

intuition  noun

/ˌɪntjuˈɪʃn/ 

• [uncountable] the ability to know something by using your feelings rather than considering the facts

· Intuition told her that he had spoken the truth.

• [countable] intuition (that…) an idea or a strong feeling that something is true although you cannot explain why

· I had an intuition that something awful was about to happen.

Opinion

I agree with Angela Duckworth’s opinion that talent alone is not enough to achieve success; instead, sustained effort, resilience, and dedication are key. In life, challenges and failures are unavoidable. Talent may get someone through the first phases of a task, but tenacity and resilience are what allow people to push through challenges. People who are willing to invest time and effort into improving their skills, learning from mistakes, and adapting are more likely to succeed in the long run than those who rely solely on talent without regular hard work. Many successful people in a variety of professions, including sports, business, and entertainment, emphasize the value of hard work, perseverance, and a strong work ethic over intrinsic skill. Cristiano Ronaldo once said, "Talent without hard work is nothing.".

- Stress is a natural response of the body to challenges or being overwhelmed.

- It is not just an emotion but a complex physical reaction that spreads throughout the body.

- Stress can be beneficial (short-term) -> helping the body respond to emergencies. However, chronic stress (long-term) -> can change the brain and damage organs and cells in the body.

- The adrenal gland releases the stress hormones like cortisol, epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, and norepinephrine:

   + Adrenaline makes the heart beat faster and raises blood pressure, leading to hypertension over time.

   + Cortisol damages the endothelium (inner lining of blood vessels), triggering atherosclerosis and cholesterol plaque build-up.

-> Increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

- Stress activates the autonomic nervous system -> disrupting the brain-gut connection.

- Disturbs rhythmic contractions in the gut -> leading to irritable bowel syndrome and heartburn.

- Changes the composition and function of gut bacteria -> negatively impacting overall health.

- Cortisol increases appetite, prompting cravings for energy-dense and carb-heavy foods -> high levels of cortisol can cause the formation of those extra calories as visceral or deep belly fat -> increasing the risk of heart disease and insulin resistance.

- Initially, stress hormones help the body fight invaders and heal injuries. However, chronic stress can dampen function of some immune cells -> making you more susceptible to infections and slowing the healing process.

- Chronic stress shortens telomeres -> when telomeres become too short, a cell can no longer divide and it dies -> reducing the length of life.

- Stress causes acne, hair loss, sexual dysfunction, headaches, muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and irritability.

- Stressful situations are inevitable, but your response to them determines your health.

• What I like most about this talk:

- What I like most about this talk is how our approach to stress determines whether it impacts our health negatively or positively. In life, we often face various problems that cause stress, such as financial issues, work, study, family, and relationships. Chronic stress can make us feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and physically unwell. Personally, I often experience stress because of academic pressure, so I deeply understand how it feels. However, if we view stress as a temporary challenge and strive to overcome it, it can not only lead to a better state of health but also bring us success. On the other hand, if we perceive stress as an insurmountable obstacle and fail to control it effectively, it can cause negative consequences, such as reduced life expectancy, serious health conditions, and internal dysfunctions. Sometimes, working under stress can be productive because it fosters our will. In short, how we perceive and respond to stress plays a crucial role in shaping its impact on our lives.

• The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

1.       Activate /ˈæktɪveɪt/ (v): To make something such as a device or chemical process start working.

          Ex: “The burglar alarm is activated by movement.”

2.      Trigger /ˈtrɪɡə(r)/ (v): To make something happen suddenly.

          Ex: “Nuts can trigger off a violent allergic reaction.”

3.       Replenish /rɪˈplenɪʃ/ (v): To make something full again by replacing what has been used.

          Ex: “It tells your body to replenish your energy stores with energy dense foods and carbs, causing you to crave comfort foods.”

4.       Contraction /kənˈtrækʃn/ (n): The process of becoming smaller.

          Ex: “Physical stress caused by expansion and contraction can damage components within the computer.”

5.       Resistant /rɪˈzɪstənt/ (adj): Not affected by something; able to resist something.

          Ex: “Mosquitoes are becoming resistant to insecticides.”

6.       Susceptible /səˈseptəbl/ (adj): Very likely to be influenced, harmed or affected by something.

          Ex: “Chronic stress can dampen function of some immune cells, make you more susceptible to infections, and slow the rate you heal.”

7.       Atherosclerosis /ˌæθ.ə.rəʊ.skləˈrəʊ.sɪs/ (n): A medical condition in which the arteries become narrowed and hardened due to a buildup of plaque on their inner walls.

          Ex: “High blood pressure starting at mid-life can cause severe atherosclerosis in later life.”

 8.      Endothelium /ˌen.dəʊˈθiː.li.əm/ (n): The thin layer of cells that cover the inside walls of the blood vessels, heart and some other body parts.

          Ex: “Cortisol can also cause the endothelium, or inner lining of blood vessels, to not function normally.”

 9.      Autonomic nervous system /ˌɔːtənɒmɪk ˈnɜːvəs sɪstəm/ (n): The part of your nervous system that controls processes that are unconscious, for example the process of your heart beating.

          Ex: “When your brain senses stress, it activates your autonomic nervous system.”

10.     Visceral /ˈvɪsərəl/ (adj): Resulting from strong feelings rather than careful thought.

          Ex: “High levels of cortisol can also cause you to put on those extra calories as visceral or deep belly fat.”

11.      Telomere /ˈtiː.lə.mɪər/ (n): A structure at the end of a chromosome that protects it.

          Ex: “This view has greater credibility now that biological age can be measured 'scientifically' by, for example, telomere length.”

12.      Plaque /plɑːk/ (n): A soft substance that forms on teeth and encourages the growth of harmful bacteria.

          Ex: “Scientists now know that this is an early step in triggering the process of atherosclerosis or cholesterol plaque build up in your arteries.”

13.     Artery /ˈɑːtəri/ (n): Any of the tubes that carry blood from the heart to other parts of the body.

          Ex: “Scientists now know that this is an early step in triggering the process of atherosclerosis or cholesterol plaque build up in your arteries.”

14.     Cytokine /ˈsaɪ.tə.kaɪn/ (n): A small protein produced by cells in the nervous and immune systems that affects what happens between cells.

          Ex: “It is an organ that actively releases hormones and immune system chemicals called cytokines that can increase your risk of developing chronic diseases, such as heart disease and insulin resistance.”

 15.     Dampen /ˈdæmpən/ (v): To make something such as a feeling or a reaction less strong.

          Ex: “Chronic stress can dampen function of some immune cells, make you more susceptible to infections, and slow the rate you heal.”

16.      Curb /kɜːb/ (v): To control or limit something, especially something bad.

          Ex: “You may have to curb your chronic stress.”

17.      Dysfunction /dɪsˈfʌŋkʃn/ (n): The fact of a part of the body not working as it should.  

          Ex: “Chronic stress has even more ways it can sabotage your health, including acne, hair loss, sexual dysfunction, headaches, muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and irritability.”

18.      Insurmountable /ˌɪnsəˈmaʊntəbl/ (adj): (especially of a problem or a difficulty) so great that it cannot be dealt with successfully.

          Ex: “If you can view those situations as challenges you can control and master, rather than as threats that are insurmountable, you will perform better in the short run and stay healthy in the long run.”

In her TED Talk, Angela Duckworth emphasizes the importance of grit—a combination of passion and perseverance—in achieving long-term success. She argues that success is less about innate talent and more about the ability to stay committed to a goal over time, pushing through challenges and setbacks. Duckworth's research shows that grit, rather than intelligence or natural ability, is a stronger predictor of success in various fields. She also suggests that grit can be cultivated through practice and resilience, highlighting that sustained effort is more crucial than occasional bursts of brilliance in achieving lasting accomplishments.

New vocab to me

Intrinsic – Something that is inherent or essential to a person or thing, often relating to motivations or rewards that come from within, rather than external sources.

Endurance – The ability to endure an unpleasant or difficult process or situation without giving up

Grit – A combination of passion and perseverance for long-term goals. It is the ability to continue working toward a goal despite challenges or setbacks

Perseverance – The persistence in doin despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.

The things that I agree with Angela Duckworth

I agree with Angela Duckworth’s TED Talk on the importance of grit in achieving long-term success. Her argument that perseverance and passion are more critical than innate talent resonates strongly with me, as success often comes from consistent effort rather than natural ability. The idea that grit can be developed is empowering, as it suggests that anyone can cultivate resilience through practice and determination. Duckworth’s emphasis on learning from failure and pushing through challenges aligns with the notion that setbacks are opportunities for growth, not signs to quit. Ultimately, I agree that success is more about sustained effort over time than fleeting bursts of brilliance, and that passion fuels perseverance, helping individuals stay committed even in the face of difficulties.

In his TED Talk, Sir Ken Robinson argues that the current education system stifles creativity by prioritizing academic subjects like math and science over the arts and creative pursuits. He suggests that schools are designed to prepare students for standardized tests and the workforce, rather than fostering innovation and independent thinking. Robinson emphasizes that creativity is as important as literacy and should be treated with equal importance in education. He advocates for an education system that nurtures the diverse talents and abilities of students, allowing them to explore and develop their creative potential without the constraints of traditional academic structures.

New vocab to me

Conformity – The act of following established rules, norms, or standards, often at the expense of individuality or creativity.

Standardization – The process of making something uniform or consistent, typically in education or testing, often to measure students against a fixed set of criteria

Revolutionize – To completely change or transform something, often in a dramatic or disruptive way.

Holistic – An approach that looks at the whole system or individual, considering all aspects, rather than focusing on isolated parts.

Egalitarian – A belief in or principle of equality, often used in the context of social or educational systems that treat all individuals equally.

The things I agree with Sir Ken Robinson

I agree with Sir Ken Robinson's arguments in his TED Talk that creativity should be treated as equally important as literacy in education. The current education system, which often focuses on standardized testing and rigid academic structures, stifles creativity and fails to nurture diverse talents. I believe that education should embrace a more inclusive approach, valuing different types of intelligence and encouraging students to explore their unique strengths. Robinson’s call for an educational revolution is essential, as it’s crucial to cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and adaptability in students to prepare them for the future. Overall, I support the idea that a more dynamic and creative education system is needed to truly empower students and unlock their full potential.

2. I agree with Ken Robinson that is subjects such as art, music and physical education are often overlooked, even though they are areas that can nurture creativity. Ken Robinson pointed important problem in the current education system. I agree that many education systems, especially in developing countries, tend to emphasize economic subjects, while overlooking areas such as art, music or sports - which are areas that can nurture creativity, imagination and emotions.

   I believe that education needs to be more balanced, not only focusing on academic knowledge but also creating space for students to develop soft skills, creativity and artistic appreciation. The world increasingly demands diverse skills, and creativity isn't just limited to the arts – it's also key to problem-solving, innovation and adapting to change.

3. Vocabulary

   • Frankincense /ˈfræŋkɪnsens/ : ​a substance that is burnt to give a pleasant smell, especially during religious ceremonies

   • sequence /ˈsiːkwəns/ : a set of events, actions, numbers, etc. which have a particular order and which lead to a particular result

   • conference /ˈkɒnfərəns/ : a large official meeting, usually lasting for a few days, at which people with the same work or interests come together to discuss their views

   • expertise /ˌekspɜːˈtiːz/ : expert knowledge or skill in a particular subject, activity or job

   • nonetheless /ˌnʌnðəˈles/ : despite this fact

   • squander /ˈskwɒndə(r)/ : to waste money, time, etc. in a stupid or careless way

   • stigmatize /ˈstɪɡmətaɪz/ : to describe or consider somebody/something in a way that unfairly suggests that they are bad or do not deserve respect

   • seamless /ˈsiːmləs/ : with no spaces or breaks between one part and the next

   • hierarchy /ˈhaɪərɑːki/ : a system, especially in a society or an organization, in which people are organized into different levels of importance from highest to lowest

   • progressively /prəˈɡresɪvli/: steadily and continuously

   • disembodied /ˌdɪsɪmˈbɒdid/ : coming from a person or place that cannot be seen or identified

   • residential /ˌrezɪˈdenʃl/ : ) suitable for living in; consisting of houses rather than factories or offices

   • discotheque /ˈdɪskətek/ : a club where people dance to recorded pop music

   • revolution /ˌrevəˈluːʃn/ : an attempt, by a large number of people, to change the government of a country, especially by violent action

   • disciplinary /ˌdɪsəˈplɪnəri/, : connected with the punishment of people who break rules

   • corpus /ˈkɔːpəs/ : a collection of written or spoken texts

   • disorder /dɪsˈɔːdə(r)/ : ) a condition or illness that causes problems with the way part of the body or brain works

   • reconstitute  /ˌriːˈkɒnstɪtjuːt/ : to form an organization or a group again in a different way

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Thing I interested the most about this video is : Success is not just based on innate talent, but largely comes from the combination of passion and perseverance.The meaning of this sentence is that success doesn't just depend on a person's natural abilities or talent, but primarily comes from the combination of passion (a strong love or commitment to a goal) and perseverance (the persistence to keep going despite difficulties). In other words, maintaining effort and continuing to strive is much more important than just relying on innate talent.

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New vocab :

-Conscientiousness: sự tận tâm

-Tenacity: sự bền bỉ

-Metacognition : siêu nhận thức

-Pernicious : độc hại

-Effortful: nổ lực

-Inequity: bất bình đẳng

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Some idioms

. A long shot

- A very unlikely chance of success.

. Stick to your guns

- To remain firm in your beliefs or decisions, despite opposition.

Sir Ken Robinson discussed the importance of creativity in education. He highlighted three main themes: human creativity, the diversity of intelligence, and the uncertainty of the future. Intelligence is highly diverse, dynamic, and unique, and the true creative potential of children is extraordinary. However, education often prioritizes outdated systems from the industrial era. As a result, many talented, creative, and exceptional individuals think they are not, because what they excel at is neither valued nor appreciated in school, and sometimes even ridiculed. He illustrated his arguments through real-life stories. Robinson criticized the global hierarchy in education, where the arts are undervalued, while subjects like mathematics and language dominate.

II. https://voca.ro/116YyvUgnCvV

Ken Robinson says that "Kids will take a chance. If they don't know, they'll have a go." I do not agree with this because children, even when curious, have natural fears. They might hesitate when facing new situations or when they feel something is dangerous. Also, children often ask adults for advice before trying something new. This shows that they do not always act without hesitation but look for guidance to feel safe.

III. Vocabulary

1. Unpredictability(n)

   /ˌʌnprɪˌdɪktəˈbɪləti/: the quality something has when it is impossible to know in advance that it will happen or what it will be like

2. squander(v) /ˈskwɒndə(r)/: squander something (on somebody/something) to waste money, time, etc. in a stupid or careless way

3. frankincense(n)/ˈfræŋkɪnsens/: a substance that is burnt to give a pleasant smell, especially during religious ceremonies

4. stigmatize(v)/ˈstɪɡmətaɪz/: stigmatize somebody/something to describe or consider somebody/something in a way that unfairly suggests that they are bad or do not deserve respect

5. hierarchy(n)/ˈhaɪərɑːki/: a system, especially in a society or an organization, in which people are organized into different levels of importance from highest to lowest

6. disembodied(adj)/ˌdɪsɪmˈbɒdid/: coming from a person or place that cannot be seen or identified

7. engulf(v)/ɪnˈɡʌlf/: to surround or to cover somebody/something completely

I. SUMMARY

In her TED Talk "GRIT: The Power of Passion and Perseverance," Angela Duckworth explores how grit—defined as a combination of passion and perseverance—plays a more significant role in success than talent or intelligence. Drawing from her research, she emphasizes that consistent effort over time is key to achieving long-term goals. Duckworth also highlights that cultivating a growth mindset helps individuals build grit, enabling them to overcome challenges and continue working toward their ambitions.

II. AGREEMENT PARAGRAPH

I agree with Angela Duckworth's idea that effort counts twice as much as talent. Talent may provide an initial advantage, but without consistent effort, it cannot guarantee success. Hard work allows individuals to refine their skills, build experience, and overcome challenges over time. Moreover, embracing a growth mindset—believing that abilities can be developed—encourages perseverance and resilience. This approach helps people stay motivated and push through difficulties, rather than giving up when they encounter obstacles. Ultimately, effort ensures steady progress and long-term achievement, making it a more reliable predictor of success than talent alone.

III. VOCABULARY AND IDIOMS

1. Grit – The passion and perseverance to achieve long-term goals.

2. Growth mindset – The belief that abilities can be developed through effort and learning.

3. Resilience – The ability to recover from difficulties or setbacks.

4. Stick to it – To remain committed to a task or goal, even when it's challenging.

5. Burning passion – An intense enthusiasm or desire for something.

6. Rome wasn’t built in a day – Success takes time and effort.

7. No pain, no gain – Hard work and sacrifice are necessary for success.

I. SUMMARY

In his TED Talk "Do Schools Kill Creativity?" Ken Robinson critiques the traditional education system for suppressing creativity. He argues that schools prioritize academic achievements over the arts and individuality, leading students to fear mistakes and conform to rigid standards. Robinson emphasizes the need to rethink education, encouraging creativity and nurturing diverse talents to prepare students for an ever-changing future.

II. AGREEMENT PARAGRAPH

I agree with Ken Robinson’s idea that education systems overly emphasize standardization, which limits creativity. Standardized tests and rigid curricula often focus on memorization rather than critical thinking and problem-solving. This discourages students from exploring their unique abilities and taking risks in creative fields. Moreover, by undervaluing subjects like art, music, and dance, schools fail to recognize the diverse potential of students. In today’s rapidly evolving world, fostering creativity is essential for innovation, adaptability, and addressing global challenges.

III. VOCABULARY AND IDIOMS

1. Standardization – The process of making things conform to a fixed standard.

2. Rigid – Inflexible, strict, or unable to change.

3. Conformity – Compliance with rules, standards, or societal norms.

4. Stifle – To suppress or hinder something.

5. Nurture – To encourage the growth or development of something.

6. Outside the box – Thinking creatively or unconventionally.

7. Break the mold – To do something differently or uniquely.

8. Foster creativity – To encourage and develop creative abilities.

Angela Duckworth explains that success does not rely entirely on innate talent but is a combination of passion and perseverance – known as “grit.” Through her research, she found that those who remain committed to their long-term goals and do not give up in the face of challenges are the ones who achieve sustainable success. She also highlights the role of having a growth mindset in building perseverance, emphasizing that failure is an opportunity to learn and improve.

One point in the speech that I agree with :

I agree with the viewpoint that perseverance and consistent effort (grit) play a more crucial role than innate talent in achieving success. Long-term success requires the ability to overcome challenges and maintain passion.

Some vocabulary and idioms that I learned from the talk:

Vocabulary:

1. Tenacity - The quality of being persistent and determined, a stronger form of perseverance.

2. Resilience - The ability to recover quickly from difficulties or adapt to challenges.

3. Metacognition - Awareness and understanding of one’s own thought processes, enabling self-regulation and improvement.

4. Intrinsic motivation - Internal drive, the motivation that comes from within rather than external rewards.

5. Deliberate practice - Intentional and focused practice aimed at improving weaknesses instead of simply repeating skills.

Idioms:

1. No pain, no gain - Success requires effort and hard work.

2. When the going gets tough, the tough get going - Strong people take action when faced with difficulties.

3. Rome wasn’t built in a day - Great achievements take time and perseverance.

4. Fall down seven times, stand up eight - Never give up, no matter how many times you fail.

5. Practice makes perfect - Consistent and focused pra

ctice leads to mastery.

The current education system, rooted in 19th-century industrial needs, prioritizes academic ability and subjects deemed practical for employment, often undervaluing creative talents. This rigid approach stigmatizes gifted individuals whose strengths lie outside conventional academics. As more people graduate globally, degrees lose their value due to academic inflation, emphasizing the need for a new understanding of intelligence. Intelligence, according to the text, is diverse, dynamic, and distinct. It encompasses various ways of thinking—visual, auditory, and kinesthetic—and thrives on the interaction of different disciplines. The story of Gillian Lynne, a choreographer initially mislabeled as having a learning disorder, illustrates the importance of recognizing unique talents. Instead of being medicated, she was directed toward dance, where she flourished and achieved global success. The narrative underscores the need to move beyond traditional education models, fostering creativity and individuality in an era of rapid technological and demographic changes.

1. Key words and phrasal verbs

   1. Hierarchy: A system of ranking or organizing things based on importance or status.

   2. Industrialism: A social or economic system built on manufacturing industries.

   3. Academic Inflation: The devaluation of academic qualifications due to the increasing number of graduates.

   4. Stigmatized: Labeled or perceived negatively by society.

   5. Learning Disorder: A condition that affects the ability to learn in a typical manner

   6. Come into being: To begin to exist or appear.

      • The education system came into being in the 19th century.

   7. Steer away: To guide or direct away from something.

      • Students were often steered away from arts in favor of practical subjects.

   8. Carry on: To continue doing something.

      • Graduates often carry on their studies to higher levels.

   9. Give up: To stop doing or pursuing something.

      • She didn’t give up despite the challenges.

   10. Move beyond: To surpass or progress past something.

       • It’s time to move beyond traditional education systems.

   11. Turn on: To activate or start something, like a device.

       • The doctor turned on the radio to observe Gillian’s reaction.

   12. Stand and watch: To remain still and observe.

       • The mother stood and watched her daughter dancing.

   13. Turn to: To rely on or seek help from something or someone.

       • She turned to dance as a way to express herself.

   14. Sit on: To remain seated or delay action.

       • She was told to sit on her hands to stay still.

   15. Take to: To develop a liking for or skill in something.

       • Gillian took to dance naturally.

   16. Go on: To continue or proceed.

       • She went on to have a successful career.

   17. Come out of: To emerge or result from something.

       • Great creativity can come out of diverse intelligence.

   18. Miss out on: To fail to experience or benefit from something.

       1. Many students miss out on opportunities due to stigmatization.

2. Discussion

One idea in the text that could be contested is the notion that "degrees aren't worth anything" due to academic inflation. While it's true that the value of a degree has diminished somewhat in a competitive job market, this statement oversimplifies the situation. Degrees still hold significant value in many fields, serving as a foundational qualification for employment, higher studies, or specialized certifications.

Moreover, education offers benefits beyond employability, such as critical thinking, personal development, and exposure to diverse perspectives. The idea may also undermine the effort and financial investment of students pursuing higher education. Instead of dismissing degrees outright, the focus should shift toward reforming education systems to better align with modern workforce demands, emphasizing skills like creativity, adaptability, and practical knowledge alongside academic qualifications. While the academic system does need restructuring, claiming that degrees "aren't worth anything" overlooks the broader value of education.

In his TED Talk, Sir Ken Robinson argues that the current education system often suppresses creativity by focusing too much on traditional subjects like mathematics and science, while neglecting the arts and creative thinking. He stresses that creativity is just as important as literacy and should be treated with equal respect. Robinson calls for an education system that nurtures diverse talents and fosters creative thinking in students.

An idea in the talk I agree with :

One point I strongly agree with is Robinson's statement that "creativity is as important as literacy in education." Many educational systems prioritize standardized testing and academic subjects, overlooking the importance of creativity. This misses an opportunity to help students develop the innovative thinking skills necessary for success in the modern world.

Some new words and idioms that I learned from the talk :

1. Hierarchy – A system in which things are ranked according to importance or status.

2. Divergent thinking – The ability to think creatively and generate multiple solutions to a problem.

3. Stigmatize – To treat something or someone as socially unacceptable or disgraceful.

4. Prolific – Producing a large amount of work or results.

5. Compulsory – Required by law or rule; mandatory.

Idioms :

1. Kill two birds with one stone – To acomplish two tasks with a single effort.

2. Think outside the box – To think creatively, not confined by traditional ideas or boundaries.

3. Break the mold – To do something in a new or innovative way, breaking from tradition.

4. A blank slate – A fresh start, with no pre-existing ideas or limitations.

5. The tip of the iceberg – A small, visible part of a much larger issue or problem.

Mr. Ken Robinson indicated that when we were children, we had our creativity, but as we get older, we lose our creativity gradually. He said one of the reasons leading to this is the standardized education system (traditional education system). He showed that schools care more about science subjects than art subjects and took the example of a girl who was her teacher considered to have a learning disorder, but she became a famous ballet dancer in the future. So the education system needs to focus on diverse talents, not just academic subjects.

In this TED Talk titled "Do Schools Kill Creativity?", Sir Ken Robinson argues that the current education system stifles creativity and does not adequately prepare students for the future. He emphasizes the importance of fostering creativity in education and highlights several key points:

1.    Creativity vs Intelligence: Robinson asserts that creativity is as important as literacy and should be treated with the same status in education. He believes that schools often prioritize standardized testing and academic achievement over creative thinking.

2.    The Hierarchy of Subjects: He discusses how the education system tends to place a higher value on subjects like mathematics and science, while the arts are often marginalize. This hierarchy can discourage students from pursuing their creative interests.

3.    Fear of Making Mistakes: Robinson points out that the fear of making mistakes is detrimental to creativity. In a system that penalizes errors, students may become hesitant to take risks or think outside the box.

4.    Diversity of Talents: He emphasizes that every child has unique talents and abilities, and education should cater to this diversity rather than conforming to a one-size-fits-all approach.

5.    Reimagining Education: Robinson calls for a transformation in the education system to prioritize creativity, encouraging schools to create environments where students can explore their interests and develop their creative potential.

6.    Real-World Relevance: He argues that education should prepare students for the complexities of the modern world, which requires innovative thinking and adaptability.

Robinson's talk is widely regarded as one of the most inspiring discussions on the topic of creativity in education, and it has sparked many conversations about how schools can better support the creative development of students.

• The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

1. Conformity – The behavior of following established rules or norms, often in a way that shows little individuality.

2. Suppress – To put an end to something by force or authority, often referring to feelings or actions.

3. Creative capacity – The ability to produce original and imaginative ideas or works.

4. Curriculum – The subjects and content taught in an educational program or course.

5. Engagement – The act of being involved, interested, or committed to a particular activity, subject, or process.

6. Reform – To make changes to something, usually for improvement or to correct problems.

7. Stigma – A mark of disgrace or shame that is associated with a particular quality, circumstance, or group.

8. Interdisciplinary – Involving two or more academic disciplines or fields of study, combining their methods or ideas.

9. Dichotomy – A division or contrast between two things that are represented as being entirely different or opposite.

10. Conventional – Based on or following traditional methods, ideas, or practices that are considered normal or standard.

11. Inhibiting – Preventing something from happening or progressing; restricting or holding back.

12. Inherent – Existing as a permanent, essential, or characteristic part of something.

13. Non-conformity – The refusal or failure to follow established rules, conventions, or norms.

14. Evolutionary – Related to or involving gradual development or change over time.

15. Aesthetic – Pertaining to beauty, artistic qualities, or the appreciation of art and design.

16. Pedagogy – The method and practice of teaching, especially in the context of education theory.

17. Monolithic – Describing something that is large, uniform, and rigid, often without diversity or flexibility.

    
    

• Idioms & Expressions

1. Thinking outside the box – To think in a creative or unconventional way, beyond traditional ideas or solutions.

2. In the long run – Over an extended period of time; considering the future impact or outcome of a situation.

3. Fall through the cracks – To be overlooked or neglected, often due to being minor or unimportant in the broader context.

4. A fish out of water – A person who feels uncomfortable or out of place in a particular situation.

5. Break the mold – To do something in a new and innovative way, challenging established patterns or traditions.

6. Lose one's touch – To lose the skill or ability to do something well, often after a period of success or expertise.

7. Burn out – To become extremely tired or exhausted from overworking or doing something to the point of mental or physical collapse.

In this TED Talk titled "Bring on the Learning Revolution!", Sir Ken Robinson builds on his previous discussions about education and creativity, advocating for a fundamental transformation in how we approach learning. Robinson argues that the current education system is outdated and not suited to the needs of today's learners. He calls for a revolution in education that prioritizes personalized learning and creativity. He emphasizes the importance of tailoring education to individual students' needs, interests, and strengths. Robinson believes that when students are engaged and passionate about what they are learning, they are more likely to succeed. Robinson reiterates that creativity is essential for success in the modern world. He advocates for an educational system that nurtures creative thinking and problem-solving skills, rather than merely focusing on rote memorization and standardized testing. He highlights the importance of collaboration among educators, parents, and communities in fostering a supportive learning environment. Robinson believes that learning should be a shared responsibility and that communities should play an active role in education. Robinson discusses the need for education to be relevant on a global scale, preparing students to navigate and contribute to an interconnected world. He emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness and adaptability. He encourages educators and policy makers to embrace change and innovation in education, moving away from traditional models that may no longer serve students effectively. Robinson concludes with a passionate call to action, urging educators, parents, and leaders to advocate for a learning revolution that prioritizes creativity, engagement, and the unique potential of every learner. Overall, Robinson's talk is a compelling argument for rethinking education to create a more dynamic, inclusive, and effective learning environment that prepares students for the challenges of the future.

• The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

  1. Revolution – A significant and often sudden change or shift in ideas, systems, or practices that transforms society or an area of life.

  2. Legacy – Something handed down from the past, particularly traditions, values, or achievements that have lasting influence.

  3. Adaptation – The process of changing to suit new conditions or environments.

  4. Divergent – Describing things that move or develop in different directions, often referring to thinking or problem-solving that goes beyond conventional approaches.

  5. Empathy – The ability to understand and share the feelings or experiences of others.

  6. Collaboration – Working together with others to achieve a common goal or outcome.

  7. Autonomy – The ability to make one’s own decisions and have control over one’s actions, often related to independence.

  8. Convergence – The process or state of coming together or meeting at a common point, often used in the context of ideas or technologies merging.

  9. Framework – A structure or system that provides a foundation for understanding, organizing, or supporting a complex idea or process.

  10. Inclusion – The practice of including everyone and ensuring that all people, regardless of differences, are valued and treated equally.

  11. Reinvent – To change something in a fundamental way, often with the goal of improving or modernizing it.

  12. Catalyst – A person or event that causes a significant change or acceleration of change.

  13. Disrupt – To interrupt or change something in a way that challenges the status quo or traditional practices.

  14. Holistic – Approaching something as a whole, rather than breaking it down into parts, often considering all aspects of a system or situation.

  15. Paradigm – A model or pattern of something, especially one that represents a typical example or standard in a particular field.

  16. Futuristic – Relating to or looking toward the future, often in an innovative or advanced way.

  17. Transformative – Causing a major change or shift, often in a positive or meaningful direction.

  18. Exponential – Increasing at a rapidly accelerating rate, often used to describe growth or development that becomes faster and more impactful over time.

  19. Empowerment – Giving individuals or groups the power, confidence, or means to take control of their own lives or situations.

  20. Dehumanizing – Treating people as if they lack human qualities, reducing them to mere objects or numbers.

  
  

• Idioms & Expressions:

  1. The writing on the wall – A sign or warning of something bad that is about to happen, especially indicating an inevitable change.

  2. Change is the only constant – The idea that change is inevitable and always occurring, and adapting to it is necessary for growth.

  3. Hit the nail on the head – To describe something accurately or to say exactly the right thing.

  4. The tide is turning – A shift or change is occurring, especially in attitudes or trends, indicating a movement toward a new direction.

  5. A game-changer – Something or someone that radically changes or improves the way things are done, often making a big impact.

  6. Back to the drawing board – To start over or rethink a plan or approach after it has been found ineffective or unsuccessful.

  7. At the forefront – To be in a leading position or ahead of others in terms of progress, innovation, or influence.

  8. Bite the bullet – To endure or face something difficult or unpleasant, usually because it is necessary.

  
  

According to Sir Ken Robinson’s view, the contemporary education system does not factor in creativity at all and instead fosters standardization. Education in this conventional sense encapsulates learning sciences and languages while placing minimal to no emphasis on the learning of the arts and other related creative disciplines. Robinson explains that educationally frustration should never be the case because creativity is as essential as literacy. The fear of making mistakes kills different forms of expression, while serving students obedience in a carefully constructed educational hierarchy makes it difficult for one to harness or even notice creativity in oneself. Robinson advocates for a better education system, one in which students are motivated to pursue their wants and creativity is embraced. That a change, which would foster greater flexibility and creativity within students to think for themselves, in how children are educated, would be best for children in the future.

Vocabulary

1. grasp /ɡrɑːsp/ verb

​

• grasp somebody/something to take a strong hold of somebody/somethingsynonym grip

· He grasped my hand and shook it warmly.

​

• to understand something completely

  
  

2. hierarchy /ˈhaɪərɑːki/ noun

   
   

• [countable, uncountable] a system, especially in a society or an organization, in which people are organized into different levels of importance from highest to lowest

· the social/political hierarchy

• [countable + singular or plural verb] the group of people in control of a large organization or institution

· It was on orders from the party hierarchy that she dropped the investigation.

• [countable] (formal) a system that ideas or beliefs can be arranged into according to their importance

· a hierarchy of needs

3. predicate /ˈpredɪkeɪt/ verb

• [usually passive] predicate something on/upon something to base something on a particular belief, idea or principle

· Democracy is predicated upon the rule of law.

• predicate that… | predicate something to state that something is true

· The article predicates that the market collapse was caused by weakness of the dollar.

4. benign /bɪˈnaɪn/ adjective

• (formal) (of people) kind and gentle; not hurting anybody

· You would never have guessed his intentions from the benign expression on his face.

• not causing damage or harm

· The industry's environmental impact is relatively benign, even positive.

• (medical) (of tumours growing in the body) not dangerous or likely to cause death

· She is recovering after surgery to remove a benign tumour.

5. engulf /ɪnˈɡʌlf/ verb

• engulf somebody/something to surround or to cover somebody/something completely

· He was engulfed by a crowd of reporters.

• engulf somebody/something to affect somebody/something very strongly

· Fear engulfed her.

6. protracted /prəˈtræktɪd/ adjective

• lasting longer than expected or longer than usual synonym prolonged

· protracted delays/disputes/negotiations

7. stigmatize /ˈstɪɡmətaɪz/ verb

• stigmatize somebody/something to describe or consider somebody/something in a way that unfairly suggests that they are bad or do not deserve respect

  
  

8. inflation /ɪnˈfleɪʃn/ noun

• a fall in the value of money and a general increase in prices; the rate at which this happens

· the fight against rising inflation

• (disapproving) a general rise in the level of something that is awarded

· the gross inflation of executive salaries

Opinion

In his TED talk, Sir Ken Robinson states, “If you are not willing to be wrong, you will never come up with anything original.” I believe in this because in life, there are lessons learned, there are challenges faced and there are opportunities to learn from your mistakes. And that's what growth is.

To begin with, mistakes pave the way for learning. Whenever we make an error, there’s always an opportunity to learn and a chance to gain much-needed experience which will only enhance the quality of work that we offer. Post-it notes and many other inventions came from failures. If we do not embrace the idea of failing, then realizing our dreams will be hard.

Secondly, the acceptance of making mistakes as part of a greater goal gives rise to innovation. For there to be creativity of any form including ideas, they must seek to do things and approach them differently. Although there is a tendency to think outside the box, the excessive fear of failure also hinders the scope of potential thinking, mistakes can produce new ways of thinking as entrepreneurs like Steve Jobs and Elon Musk have shown.

Also, there is the idea of resilience that is built in through the broader sense of making mistakes. Failing in something should not push one back entirely, rather it teaches them to adapt, learn and grow stronger and more determined, which is key. It's about doing things time and again to build emotional fortitude.

To sum it up, mistakes, if used rightly serve as the best source of motivation. They teach you lessons, give you ways to think outside the box, and ultimately help you grow. That is how creative potential is unlocked.

Ken Robinson argues that the current education system limits creativity by focusing too heavily on academic subjects like math, science, and language, while undervaluing the arts and creative disciplines. He suggests that this hierarchy of subjects leads to a narrow view of intelligence and stifles creative potential in students. Robinson explains that schools often penalize mistakes, fostering a fear of failure that discourages innovative thinking. He advocates for a shift in education that embraces creativity, supports students' unique talents, and encourages a broader definition of intelligence.

2.One thing I agree with him:

I second that creativity is as important as literacy Robinson highlights that creativity should be valued equally to subjects like math or language. This is true because fostering creativity helps develop problem-solving, innovation, and adaptability, skills critical in today’s world.

3.Vocubulary:

■ Sequel /ˈsiːkwəl/

▪︎ (to something) a book, film, play, etc. that continues the story of an earlier one

▪︎ sequel (to something) something that happens after an earlier event or as a result of an earlier event

Ex:

-> a sequel to the hit movie ‘Gladiator’

-> There was an interesting sequel to these events later in the year.

■ Engulf /ɪnˈɡʌlf/

▪︎ engulf somebody/something to surround or to cover somebody/something completely

▪︎ engulf somebody/something to affect somebody/something very strongly

Ex:

-> He was engulfed by a crowd of reporters.

-> Fear engulfed her.

■ Open-heart surgery /ˌəʊpən hɑːrt ˈsɜːrdʒəri/ a medical operation on the heart, during which the patient’s blood is kept flowing by a machine

■ Contemporary /kənˈtempəreri/ ▪︎belonging to the same time

▪︎belonging to the present time

Ex:

-> We have no contemporary account of the battle (= written near the time that it happened).

-> Contemporary society/culture

■ Commodity /kəˈmɑːdəti/

▪︎(economics) a product or a raw material that can be bought and sold

▪︎(formal) a thing that is useful or has a useful quality

Ex:

-> Rice, flour and other basic commodities

-> Water is a precious commodity that is often taken for granted in the West.

+ Consult /kənˈsʌlt/ (V) to discuss something with someone to get their permission for something, or to help you make a decision.

-Example: Before making any big decisions, it's important to consult a financial advisor.

+ Struck: /strʌk/ (V) Past tense of "strike"; to hit or affect someone or something forcefully.

-Example: The clock struck twelve as the party ended.

+Stratospheric /strætəˈsfɪrɪk/ (Adj) Extremely high, relating to the stratosphere.

- Example: His ambitions are stratospheric, aiming for nothing less than world-changing innovation.

+ Ratio: /ˈreɪʃiəʊ/ (N) The quantitative relation between two amounts showing the number of times one value is contained within the other.

- Example: The ratio of students to teachers in this school is 20 to 1.

+ Decimal: /ˈdesɪml/ (Adj/N) Relating to or denoting a system of numbers and arithmetic based on the number ten.

- Example: Convert the fraction 1/2 into a decimal for easier calculation.

+ Military/ˈmɪlətri/ (Adj/N) Relating to or characteristic of soldiers or armed forces.

- Example: After graduating, he decided to pursue a career in the military.

+ Cadet:  /kəˈdet/ (N) A young trainee in the armed services or police force.

- Example: The cadet was undergoing rigorous training at the academy.

+Grit:  /ɡrɪt/ (N) Courage and resolve; strength of character.

- Example: She showed incredible grit by continuing her studies despite many obstacles.

+Stick with:/stɪk wɪð/ (Phrasal Verb)  To continue with something or someone.

-Example: I think we should stick with the original plan for the project.

+ Solid: /ˈsɒlɪd/ (Adj) Firm and stable in shape; not liquid or fluid.

- Example: The table is made of solid wood, ensuring durability.

+ Inversely: /ɪnˈvɜːsli/ (Adv) In the opposite manner, direction, or order.

-Example: Price and demand are often inversely related in economic theory.

+ Permanent: /ˈpɜːmənənt/ (Adj) Lasting or intended to last or remain unchanged indefinitely.

- Example: He has a permanent position at the company now.

+ Rookie:/ˈrʊki/ (N) A person who is new to an organization or activity.

- Example: As a rookie, she was eager to learn and improve her skills.

- Kelly McGonigal – a health psychologist confesses that she has been teaching for over 10 years that stress is harmful because it can lead to health issues. However, a recent study changed her perspective.

- The study showed that over eight years, 182,000 premature deaths in the U.S. were caused not by stress itself but by the belief that stress is harmful.

- Changing the way we think about stress can alter our body’s physical stress response, making it less harmful.

- In a study conducted at Harvard University, participants were trained to view their physical stress responses (increased heart rate, faster breathing) as helpful instead of harmful -> they feel less anxious, more confident, and perform better under stress -> their cardiovascular health improved -> their blood vessels stayed relaxed.

- Oxytocin - the cuddle hormone is a neuro-hormone released during stress that helps improve social instincts and encourages people to seek support -> promoting physical contact, enhancing empathy, and fostering a desire to help others.

- Oxytocin also has protective effects on the cardiovascular system -> reduces inflammation, keeps blood vessels relaxed during stress, and promotes heart cell regeneration after stress-related damage.

- A study that tracked 1,000 adults found that those who spent time caring for others did not experience the same negative health effects from stress as those who didn’t engage in caring behaviors -> caring for others effectively reduced the harmful effects of stress, and decreased the risk of death from stress.

- Stress is something that can’t be avoided -> changing the way we think about stress -> seeing it as a challenge we can overcome -> making our stress response healthier.

- Social connections and supporting others during stressful times play a significant role in resilience -> helping the body recover from stress more quickly and reducing the damage to health.

- Trust ourselves to handle stress and focus on what brings meaning to our life.

- By changing our mindset and fostering social support, we can mitigate the harmful effects of stress and even turn it into a source of strength.

• What I like most about this talk:

- What I like most about this talk is the idea that "the best way to make decisions is to go after what creates meaning in your life and then trust yourself to handle the stress that follows." In reality, many people often find themselves torn between choosing something they truly desire, which may come with challenges, and choosing something safer but less exciting. We need to trust ourselves and confidently make decisions that are suitable for us. The obstacles that seem like barriers at first can become opportunities for growth if we can manage and overcome them effectively. Similarly, stress is an unavoidable challenge in life, but as Kelly McGonigal mentioned, if we change our perspective and view it as a "friend", it can not only bring mental benefits but also physical ones. So, we shouldn’t hesitate to choose what gives our lives meaning, embrace opportunities, and experience new things because they will make our lives happier and more fulfilling.

• The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

1.       Moderate /ˈmɒd.ər.ət/ (adj): Neither small nor large in size, amount, degree, or strength.

          Ex: “How about a moderate amount of stress?”

2.       Prematurely /ˌpreməˈtʃʊəli/ (adv): Before the normal or expected time.

          Ex: “Now the researchers estimated that over the eight years they were tracking deaths, 182,000 Americans died prematurely, not from stress, but from the belief that stress is bad for you.”

3.       Intervention /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ (n): Action taken to improve or help a situation.

          Ex: “Calls for government intervention to save the steel industry.”

4.       Harass /ˈhærəs/, /həˈræs/ (v): To annoy or worry somebody by putting pressure on them or saying or doing unpleasant things to them.

          Ex: “He has complained of being harassed by the police.”

5.       Demoralize /dɪˈmɒrəlaɪz/ (v): To make somebody lose confidence or hope. Ex: “The world depression further demoralized the labour movement.”

6.       Crave /kreɪv/ (v): To have a very strong desire for something.

          Ex: “Oxytocin makes you crave physical contact with your friends and family.”

7.        Increment /ˈɪŋ.krə.mənt/ (n): One of a series of increases.

          Ex: “I want you all to count backwards from 996 in increments of seven.”

8.      Pituitary gland /pɪˈtʃuː.ɪ.tər.i ˌɡlænd/ (n): A small organ at the base of the brain that controls the growth and activity of the body by producing hormones.

          Ex: “Your pituitary gland pumps this stuff out as part of the stress response.”

9.       Prime /praɪm/ (v): To tell someone something that will prepare them for a particular situation.

          Ex: “It primes you to do things that strengthen close relationships.”

10.     Anti-inflammatory /ˌænti ɪnˈflæmətri/ (adj): (of a drug) used to reduce inflammation.

          Inflammation /ˌɪnfləˈmeɪʃn/ (n): A condition in which a part of the body becomes red, painful and swollen (= larger than normal) because of infection or injury.

          Ex: “It's a natural anti-inflammatory.”

11.      Regenerate /rɪˈdʒenəreɪt/ (v): To make an area, institution, etc. develop and grow strong again.

          Ex: “The money will be used to regenerate the commercial heart of the town.”

12.      Freak /friːk/ (someone) out (phrasal verb): To become or cause someone to become extremely emotional.

          Ex: “He freaked out when he heard he'd got the job.”

Ken Robinson talked about how important creativity is in education. It is as important as literacy and should be taken seriously. He pointed out that children are creative and they aren’t afraid to make mistakes, but as they get older, they start to fear mistakes. He also said that today’s education system doesn’t encourage creativity and often ignores the potential in children because it focuses too much on training people for specific jobs. He said that the current education system is outdated, built for industrial work, and doesn’t support creativity. He shared examples of how children’s natural creativity is suppressed as they grow older. Robinson suggested that we need to rethink education to focus more on creativity since intelligence is diverse. He told the story of Gillian Lynne, a choreographer who was misunderstood, showing how the education system fails to recognize talents outside of traditional subjects. The speech ended with a call to value creativity in education for the sake of children’s potential and the future of society.

II. Opinion

I completely agree that creativity is very important and should be valued in education. Creativity helps students develop flexible thinking and allows them to discover and express their hidden talents. When creativity is encouraged, students learn not only how to solve problems but also how to see the world in new ways. In today’s fast-changing world, creativity is essential for the younger generation to adapt and find solutions to problems. Therefore, I believe that if education values and supports creativity, we can help create individuals who are not only knowledgeable but also capable of innovation and making a positive impact on society.

III. Vocabulary:

1. Extraordianry /ɪkˈstrɔːdnri/ (adj):

unexpected, surprising or strange

ex: The president took the extraordinary step of apologizing publicly for his behaviour!

2. Tremendous /trəˈmendəs/ (adj):

very great

ex: A tremendous amount of work has gone into the project.

3. Squander /ˈskwɒndə(r)/ (v):

squander something (on somebody/something) to waste money, time, etc. in a stupid or careless way

ex: He squandered all his money on gambling.

4. Contention /kənˈtenʃn/ (n):

[uncountable] anger between people who disagree

ex: One area of contention is the availability of nursery care.

5. Literacy /ˈlɪtərəsi/ (n):

[uncountable] the ability to read and write

ex: There is a campaign to promote adult literacy.

6. Nativity /nəˈtɪvəti/ (n):

[singular] the birth of Jesus Christ, celebrated by Christians at Christmas

Ex: Every year, our church sets up a nativity scene to celebrate Christmas, with figurines representing the birth of Jesus.

7. Sequel /ˈsiːkwəl/ (n):

sequel (to something) a book, film, play, etc. that continues the story of an earlier one

ex: a sequel to the hit movie ‘Gladiator’

8. Frankincense /ˈfræŋkɪnsens/ (n):

[uncountable] a substance that is burnt to give a pleasant smell, especially during religious ceremonies

ex: During the Christmas service, the priest burned frankincense as part of the ritual to symbolize prayers rising to heaven.

9. Myrrh /mɜː(r)/ (n):

[uncountable] a sticky substance with a sweet smell that comes from trees and is used to make perfume and incense

ex: Myrrh has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its healing properties, especially as an ingredient in ointments and creams.

10. Stigmatize /ˈstɪɡmətaɪz/ (v):

[usually passive] (formal) ​stigmatize somebody/something to describe or consider somebody/something in a way that unfairly suggests that they are bad or do not deserve respect

ex: It is unfair to stigmatize someone for making a mistake; everyone learns from their errors.

11. Disembodied /ˌdɪsɪmˈbɒdid/ (adj):

[usually before noun] (of sounds) coming from a person or place that cannot be seen or identified

ex: The voice on the phone seemed disembodied, as if it was coming from nowhere, making the conversation feel strange.

12. Discotheque /ˈdɪskətek/ (n):

a club where people dance to recorded pop music

ex: They spent the evening dancing at the discotheque, enjoying the music and the vibrant atmosphere.

13. Protracted /prəˈtræktɪd/ (adj):

(formal) lasting longer than expected or longer than usual

ex: The meeting was protracted, lasting several hours longer than expected.

14. Demography /dɪˈmɒɡrəfi/ (n)

[uncountable] the changing number of births, deaths, diseases, etc. in a community over a period of time; the scientific study of these changes

ex: Studying demography helps researchers understand population trends, such as birth rates, death rates, and migration patterns.

15. Compartment /kəmˈpɑːtmənt/ (n):

one of the separate sections that something such as a piece of furniture or equipment has for keeping things in

ex: The train had several compartments, each with comfortable seats for passengers.

Extraordinary evidence of human creativity

Everybody interest in education, because education can take us to this future we can’t grasp

Children have capacities of innovation

A girl hardly pay attention except the drawing lesson

• If you’re not prepared for being wrong, you will not come with anything original

• When kids grew up, they become scared of being wrong we are educating people out of their creativity

• On the top of subject’s hierarchy are mathematic and language

• Art and music have a higher statues compared to dance and drama

• Public education around the world was to produce university professors

• Education came into being to meet the needs of industrialism

• The degrees are not that worth anymore--”I have a degree mean I have a job, if I don’t have job that is because I don’t want one”

• Now kid with degrees are often heading home to carry on playing video game.

What I like most about this talk is the view of Ken upon the hierarchy of subject in the world where education focus on some only some aspect of human's potentials. that is obviously an ineffective technique due to it neglect all of innovations. they treated people with bad performance in mathematics and literature, but dance or draw as learning disorder. as would-be faculty member, I found this kind of useful for me, because it provides me ways to deal with my student's behaviors better. especially, those struggling with concentration.

The vocabulary I learnt from this talk include:

• Ephemeral - Lasting for a very short time.

• Eloquent - Fluent or persuasive in speaking or writing.

• Resilient - Able to recover quickly from difficulties; tough.

• Impeccable - In accordance with the highest standards; faultless.

• Meticulous - Showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise.

• Pragmatic - Dealing with things sensibly and realistically.

• Alleviate - To make something less severe.

• Candid - Truthful and straightforward; frank.

• Ambiguous - Open to more than one interpretation; not having one obvious meaning.

• Magnanimous - Generous or forgiving, especially toward a rival or less powerful person.

- Johanna Blakley argues that social media has the potential to break down traditional gender stereotypes and outdated assumptions about gender roles -> social media's ability to connect people based on shared interests rather than rigid demographic categories.

- Traditional media relies on demographics (age, gender, income) to segment audiences -> distorted assumptions about people's preferences.

- Social media allows individuals to redefine themselves, connect freely -> escape demographic categories.

- Women dominate social media in every age group, and spend more time on these platforms than men.

- Social media enables the formation of communities based on shared passions and values -> knowing someone likes a specific TV show provides deeper insights than knowing their age or gender.

- Traditional media companies struggle to adapt. Their models are based on demographics -> no longer accurately represent audiences.

- Advertisers now observe online behaviours, such as likes and interests, to gather more meaningful data about users.

- Future media will likely focus on online preferences rather than demographic labels.

- Entertainment has a profound impact on political beliefs, health, and culture.

- Understanding how people amuse themselves provides critical insights into society and human behavior.

- The social media in the future: A media landscape free from stereotypes about gender and other demographic traits; a more inclusive and meaningful representation of people based on shared values and interests rather than predefined categories -> more reflective of genuine human connections and interests, transforming how people understand themselves and others.

• What I like most about this talk:

- What I like most about this talk is the breaking of outdated assumptions in traditional media and the positive impacts of social media. Traditional media relies on rigid demographic categories, which often lead to oversimplified stereotypes about gender, age, and preferences of people. In contrast, social media enables individuals to connect based on shared interests and values, fostering inclusive communities that are better than outdated labels. In the future, the development of social media has the potential to bring us many benefits and help us escape from distorted reflections created by traditional media.

• The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

1.       Assumption /əˈsʌmpʃn/ (n): A belief or feeling that something is true or that something will happen, although there is no proof.

          Ex: “I'm going to argue today that the social media applications that we all know and love, or love to hate, are actually going to help free us from some of the absurd assumptions that we have as a society about gender.”

2.       Dismantle /dɪsˈmæntl/ (v): To take apart a machine or structure so that it is in separate pieces.

          Ex: “I think that social media is actually going to help us dismantle some of the silly and demeaning stereotypes that we see in media and advertising about gender.”

3.        Distorted /dɪˈstɔːtɪd/ (adj): Pulled out of shape so that it looks strange; made to sound strange.

          Ex: “If you hadn't noticed, our media climate generally provides a very distorted mirror of our lives and of our gender, and I think that's going to change.”

4.       Restrictive /rɪˈstrɪktɪv/ (adj): Preventing people from doing what they want.

          Ex: “They come up with these very restrictive labels to define us.”

5.       Presumption /prɪˈzʌmpʃn/ (n): Something that is thought to be true or likely.

          Ex: “There is a general presumption that the doctor knows best.”

6.       Aggregate /ˈæɡ.rɪ.ɡeɪt/ (v): To combine into a single group or total.

          Ex: “They aggregate around the things they love, the things that they like, and if you think about it, shared interests and values are a far more powerful aggregator of human beings than demographic categories.”

7.        Ascertain /ˌæs.əˈteɪn/ (v): To discover something.

          Ex: “The future entertainment media that we're going to see is going to be very data-driven, and it's going to be based on the information that we ascertain from taste communities online, where women are really driving the action.”

8.        Absurd /əbˈsɜːd/ (adj): Extremely silly; not logical and sensible.

          Ex: “Of course it's not true, what an absurd idea.”

9.        Stereotype /ˈsteriətaɪp/ (n): A fixed idea or image that many people have of a particular type of person or thing, but which is often not true in reality and may cause hurt and offence.

          Ex: “He doesn't conform to the usual stereotype of the businessman with a dark suit and briefcase.”

10.     Connect the dots (idiom): To understand the relationships between different facts or events so that you fully understand a situation.

          Ex: “Let me connect the dots.”

11.     Take over (something) (phrasal verb): To get control of something, or to do something instead of someone else.

          Ex: “If the case is that social media is dominating old media and women are dominating social media, then does that mean that women are going to take over global media?”

Angela Lee Duckworth tolds that about their journey from the classroom to becoming a psychologist, driven by the observation that academic success hinges on more than just IQ. Their research, conducted across diverse settings, consistently pointed to grit as a key predictor of success. Grit is about endurance and sticking to your future despite challenges, much like running a marathon. Studies in Chicago public schools further solidified this finding, demonstrating that grittier students were more likely to graduate, regardless of background. However, she acknowledges the critical gap in our understanding: how to cultivate grit in children. While talent is often unrelated or even inversely correlated with grit, the concept of growth mindset, which emphasizes the malleability of the brain, offers a promising avenue.

I agree with her that by emphasizing that abilities can be developed through effort and practice, we can help individuals cultivate a belief in their own potential and persevere in the face of challenges.

Vocabulary:

1.Cadet /kəˈdet/ (n): a young person who is training to become an officer in the police or armed forces.

2.Rookie /ˈrʊki/ (n): a person who has just started a job or an activity and has very little experience.

3.Drop out: to no longer take part in or be part of something.

4.Intuition /ˌɪntjuˈɪʃn/ (n): the ability to know something by using your feelings rather than considering the facts.

5. Stratospheric /ˌstrætəˈsferɪk/ (adj): extremely high.

6. Sprint /sprɪnt/ (v): to run or swim a short distance very fast.

7. Stamina /ˈstæmɪnə/ (n): the physical or mental strength that enables you to do something difficult for long periods of time.

8. Day in, day out (idiom): every day for a long period of time.

9. Decimal/ˈdesɪml/ ( adj) : ​based on or counted in tens or tenths.

10. Parallelogram/ˌpærəˈleləɡræm/ (n): a flat shape with four straight sides, the opposite sides being the same distance apart at every point and equal to each other.

Ken Robinson argues that current education systems stifle creativity by prioritizing academic subjects like math and language over the arts, and by focusing on standardized tests and university entrance. He contends that this approach limits students' potential, as it fails to recognize and nurture diverse forms of intelligence, including creativity, which is crucial for success in an unpredictable future. Robinson emphasizes the importance of embracing mistakes and encouraging risk-taking, as these are essential for innovation. He highlights the need to reimagine education, focusing on the whole child and fostering a love of learning that goes beyond academic achievement. He believes that by nurturing creativity and embracing diverse talents, we can equip children with the skills and resilience they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

I agree with him that children are naturally curious and eager to learn. However, the pressure to conform and achieve academic success can stifle this innate curiosity. Allowing children the space to explore their interests, experiment, and make mistakes is crucial for fostering creativity and a love of learning.

Vocabulary

1.Hierarchy /ˈhaɪərɑːki/ (n) : a system, especially in a society or an organization, in which people are organized into different levels of importance from highest to lowest.

2.Stigmatize/ˈstɪɡmətaɪz/ (v): to describe or consider somebody/something in a way that unfairly suggests that they are bad or do not deserve respect.

3.Protracted /prəˈtræktɪd/ (adj):lasting longer than expected or longer than usual.

4.Inflation/ɪnˈfleɪʃn/(n): a fall in the value of money and a general increase in prices; the rate at which this happens.

5.Tremendous/trəˈmendəs/(adj): very great

6.Squander/ˈskwɒndə(r)/(v): to waste money, time, etc. in a stupid or careless way.

7.Frankincense/ˈfræŋkɪnsens/(n): a substance that is burnt to give a pleasant smell, especially during religious

ceremonies.

8.Disembodied/ˌdɪsɪmˈbɒdid/(adj): ​(of sounds) coming from a person or place that cannot be seen or identified.

9.Enguft /ɪnˈɡʌlf/ (v): to surround or to cover somebody/something completely

10.Beneath/bɪˈniːθ/(pre): in or to a lower position than somebody/something; under somebody/something.

11.Fidget/ˈfɪdʒɪt/ (v):  to keep moving your body, your hands or your feet because you are nervous, bored, excited, etc.

12.Disturbing /dɪˈstɜːbɪŋ/(adj): making you feel anxious and upset or shocked.

SUMARY

In this ted talk video, she elaborated on her new approach to stress

• Firstly, she show a study conducted on the US, observing 30.000 adults in 8 years. The study indicated that individuals having experienced a lot of stress the previous year has the 43 percent increased risk of dying. However, people who did not believe that stress is harmful to their health, despite undergoing a lot of stress too, has the lowest risk of dying.

• Another one is Changing our perspective on stress could affect our body's respond to stress. If we perceive our physical responds such as pounding heart, sweating, breathing faster, etc. positively that our body is energizing to better prepare us for the task, this would help us navigating through it more easily and effectively.

• Furthermore, She has changed her goals as a health psychologist from helping her patients avoid stress to supporting them to be better at stress.

• It was also shown that reaching out for help and socializing was proven to make our stress respond healthier and help you recover faster from stress as hormone Oxytocin is released during the process. This hormone also strengthen your heart, which is so amazing.

• Finally, Another study has also indicated that people spending time helping others during stress has no related increase of dying.

  
  

WHAT DO I AGREE WTIH?

The most relatable idea in this ted talk is that changing your perspective on stress can make you healthier. Entering university indeed brings about new experiences along with stress. For the past 2 years, I have been dealing with a lot of burn out moment during my learning process. I realized that not directly addressing the issue also put me under a lot more pressure. Therefore, I have decided to work on it. I practiced accepting that stress was a normal part of human life, and I was not alone, many people were struggling with it everyday. I did research on the internet and figured out that dealing with stress could help me build resilience, which was an important key to success. Additionally, successfully solving my problem could improve my problem-solving skill. Having understood these benefits, I felt motivated and inspired to keep trying and I eventually worked it out. Now, whenever I am stressed out, I just perceive it as a process of upgrading my system, and if done successfully, I would get a brand new "me", a more advanced version with new features for better coping with upcoming challenges. In other words, with my new view of stress, it is no longer an obstacle on my way.

VOCABULARIES

1. cardiovascular disease (noun) /ˌkɑːr.di.oʊˈvæs.kjə.lɚ dɪˈziːz/: Diseases that affect the heart and blood vessels.

   • Example: Chronic stress is often linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

   • Vietnamese: bệnh tim mạch

2. prematurely (adverb) /ˌpriː.məˈtʃʊr.li/: Happening before the expected or natural time.

   • Example: Many people worry that stress will make them die prematurely.

   • Vietnamese: sớm, trước thời hạn

3. homicide (noun) /ˈhɑː.mə.saɪd/: The act of killing another person, either intentionally or unintentionally.

   • Example: Stress is not as deadly as homicide but can still pose significant risks.

   • Vietnamese: hành vi giết người

4. freak someone out (phrasal verb) /friːk sʌmˈwʌn aʊt/: To make someone feel extremely surprised, upset, or scared.

   • Example: The idea of public speaking can freak many people out.

   • Vietnamese: làm ai đó hoảng sợ

5. impromptu (adjective) /ɪmˈprɑːmp.tuː/: Done without being planned or rehearsed.

   • Example: She gave an impromptu speech about stress management.

   • Vietnamese: ứng khẩu, không chuẩn bị trước

6. panel (noun) /ˈpæn.əl/: A group of people gathered to discuss or decide on a particular topic.

   • Example: A panel of psychologists shared their insights on stress during the conference.

   • Vietnamese: nhóm chuyên gia, hội đồng

7. sufficiently (adverb) /səˈfɪʃ.ənt.li/: To an adequate degree or extent.

   • Example: The participants were not sufficiently informed about the study.

   • Vietnamese: đủ, đầy đủ

8. demoralized (adjective) /dɪˈmɔːr.ə.laɪzd/: Having lost confidence, hope, or morale.

   • Example: People can feel demoralized when they believe stress is harming them.

   • Vietnamese: nản lòng, mất tinh thần

9. unbeknownst (adverb) /ˌʌn.bɪˈnoʊnst/: Without the knowledge of someone.

   • Example: Unbeknownst to many, stress can have positive effects if managed properly.

   • Vietnamese: không được biết đến

10. harass (verb) /həˈræs/ or /ˈher.əs/: To disturb or irritate someone repeatedly.

    • Example: Stress can feel like a constant presence harassing your thoughts.

    • Vietnamese: quấy rối, làm phiền

11. pound (verb) /paʊnd/: To strike repeatedly with force.

    • Example: Her heart was pounding during the stressful presentation.

    • Vietnamese: đập mạnh

Angela Duckworth emphasizes that grit—a combination of passion and perseverance—is a main factor in achievement. She highlights that just being talented is not enough; sustained effort over time plays a much more significant role. The insights from her research, including studies of students, military cadets, and professionals, show that gritty individuals consistently outperform their peers, even when talent is equal. She concludes by advocating for fostering grit in ourselves and others, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a growth mindset to persist through challenges.

Vocabulary:

1. Grit

   A combination of passion and perseverance for long-term goals.

2. Perseverance

   Steady persistence in a course of action, especially in spite of difficulties or obstacles.

3. Resilience

   The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties or setbacks; toughness.

4. Adversity

   A difficult or unpleasant situation or condition.

5. Predominantly

   Mainly; for the most part.

   Idiom:

   1. "Living life like it’s a marathon, not a sprint"

      Meaning: To approach life with endurance and long-term focus rather than rushing through things.

2. "Rome wasn’t built in a day"

Meaning: Great things take time and require sustained effort.

My reflection:

I agree that persistence is a more significant factor in success than talent. While natural ability can provide an initial advantage, persistence is what drives consistent effort, resilience, and long-term growth. Those who are persistent continue to push forward despite challenges, failures, and setbacks, allowing them to improve and refine their skills over time. In contrast, talent alone can remain stagnant or underdeveloped without dedication and hard work. Success is often achieved not by those who start with the most talent, but by those who are willing to keep going, learn from their mistakes, and adapt to new challenges.

In her TED Talk, "Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance," Angela Duckworth delves into the idea of grit as a critical factor in achieving success. She defines grit as the blend of passion and persistence, stressing that talent alone is insufficient for reaching long-term goals.

Drawing from her experiences as a teacher and researcher, Duckworth highlights that students with grit tended to excel, regardless of their intelligence or background. Her research reveals that grit can be cultivated through consistent effort and resilience over time.

Duckworth's talk inspires a rethinking of how we view success, urging individuals to prioritize perseverance and dedication as fundamental elements of personal and professional growth.

Vocabulary:

1. Perseverance

   • Phiên âm: /ˌpɜːrsəˈvɪrəns/

   • Nghĩa: Sự kiên trì, bền bỉ

   • Ví dụ: Her perseverance helped her overcome all challenges.

2. Grit

   • Phiên âm: /ɡrɪt/

   • Nghĩa: Tính can đảm, sự bền bỉ và quyết tâm.

   • Ví dụ: It takes a lot of grit to succeed in tough situations.

3. Intuition

   • Phiên âm: /ˌɪntuˈɪʃn/

   • Nghĩa: Trực giác.

   • Ví dụ: She made the decision based on intuition rather than facts.

4. Stamina

   • Phiên âm: /ˈstæmɪnə/

   • Nghĩa: Sức bền, khả năng chịu đựng.

   • Ví dụ: Running a marathon requires a lot of stamina.

5. Ultimate Concern

   • Phiên âm: /ˈʌltɪmət kənˈsɜːrn/

   • Nghĩa: Mối bận tâm tối thượng, quan trọng nhất.

   • Ví dụ: Her ultimate concern is the well-being of her family.

6. Stratospheric

   • Phiên âm: /ˌstrætəˈsfɪrɪk/

   • Nghĩa: Cao ngất ngưởng, thuộc tầng bình lưu.

   • Ví dụ: The CEO's salary reached stratospheric levels.

Ken Robinson says the traditional education system is outdated and kills creativity. He wants to shift it to personalized, flexible ways of learning that recognize individual talents, curiosity, and creativity. According to Robinson, education should develop one's particular talents and allow children to follow their passion. He puts forth that a learning revolution should ensure lifelong learning and personal growth.

Vocabulary:

1. Conformity

   Compliance with established standards, rules, or laws; following traditional norms without questioning or deviation.

2. Revolution

   A dramatic and far-reaching change in the way something is done, particularly in a system or process.

3. Industrialization

   The process of developing industries on a wide scale, often associated with mass production.

4. Curiosity

   A strong desire to learn or know more about something.

5. Personalized

   Tailored or adapted to the individual’s needs, preferences, or abilities.

   Idiom:

   1. "Break the mold"

      Meaning: To do something in a new or different way, not conforming to the traditional or expected method.

   2. "Thinking outside the box"

   Meaning: To think creatively or unconventionally.

My reflection:

I agree with the idea that people are more engaged and successful when they are passionate about what they are learning because passion fosters motivation, making learning feel meaningful and enjoyable. It encourages curiosity, deeper understanding, and perseverance through challenges. Passion also leads to greater long-term success, as individuals are more likely to persist and explore their interests, leading to personal fulfillment and achievement.

In argues that success is not only determined by talent but also by a combination of "GRIT: The Power of Passion and Perseverance", Angela Duckworth passion and perseverance, which she refers to as grit. Duckworth suggests that talent can get you started, but it is grit – the ability to persist and stay passionate about long-term goals – that ultimately leads to success. That also emphasizes the importance of dedication and effort over innate ability.

- Vocabulary and Idioms:

1. Grit (noun): The combination of passion and perseverance for long-term goals.

2. Passion (noun): A strong feeling of enthusiasm or love for something.

3. Perseverance (noun): The persistence in doing something despite difficulties or delay in achieving success.

4. Talent is overrated: An idiomatic phrase meaning that natural ability alone is not as important as effort and determination.

5. Long-term goal (noun): A goal that requires a long period of time and sustained effort to achieve.

6. Growth mindset (noun): The belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed with effort, learning, and persistence.

7. Success is a marathon, not a sprint: An idiomatic phrase meaning that success takes time and sustained effort, rather than a quick and easy achievement.

- The one I like:

In the TED Talk "Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance," Angela Lee Duckworth emphasizes that perseverance and passion (grit) are key factors in long-term success, more so than innate talent. I completely agree with this perspective because success doesn’t always come from the smartest or most talented people, but from those who continuously strive, persevere through challenges, and keep pushing forward. Perseverance helps us learn from failure and maintain motivation, leading to sustainable progress in any field.

In his TED talk, Sir Ken Robinson argues that the traditional education system stifles creativity by emphasizing standardized testing and focusing primarily on subjects like math, science, and language arts. Robinson believes that schools should nurture creativity just as much as they nurture literacy and numeracy. He advocates for a more personalized and diverse approach to education, where the arts and creative subjects are given equal importance. He stresses that we are all born with creative potential, but it is often suppressed as we are educated in a system that prioritizes conformity and academic achievement over creativity.

- Vocabulary and Idioms:

1. Stifle (verb): To prevent something from developing or being expressed.

2. Nurture (verb): To care for and encourage the growth or development of someone or something.

3. Conformity (noun): The act of matching attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors to group norms or expectations.

4. Creative potential (noun phrase): The inherent ability or talent to create or think innovatively.

5. Standardized testing (noun phrase): A form of testing that is designed to be administered and scored in a consistent, uniform manner.

6. Out of the box (idiom): Thinking creatively and unconventionally.

7. Equal footing (idiom): Being in the same position or condition as others.

8. Suppress (verb): To put an end to, restrain, or hold something back.

- The one I agree with:

In the TED Talk "Do Schools Kill Creativity?" Sir Ken Robinson shared that the traditional education system often values subjects like science and math more than encouraging creativity, which leads to many students not fully developing their creative abilities. I completely agree with this idea because education is not just about giving knowledge but also about nurturing and developing each student's creative potential. When we focus only on basic subjects, we may limit free thinking and creativity, which is something that modern society needs.

The talk "How to Make Stress Your Friend?" by Kelly McGonigal explains how to change our perception of stress and view it as an opportunity rather than a negative factor. She explains that when we change the way we think about stress, our bodies respond more positively, and stress can help us overcome challenges, strengthen social connections, and grow. McGonigal emphasizes that stress is not inherently harmful if we learn how to use it in a healthy way. She also shares scientific research showing that if we embrace stress as a natural part of life rather than avoiding or fearing it, we can reduce its harmful effects.

-  Vocabulary and Phrases:

1. Stress response: the body's reaction to stressful situations.

2. Mindset shift: changing the way one thinks about or perceives an issue.

3. Fight-or-flight response: the body's natural reaction to danger, either by fighting or fleeing.

4. Embrace stress: to accept and become accustomed to stress rather than resisting it.

5. Social support: help or assistance from family, friends, or the community during difficult times.

6. Resilience: the ability to overcome adversity and recover from stress or trauma.

7. Positive stress: stress that can help people grow and cope more effectively with challenges.

8. "Stress is not your enemy": a perspective that views stress in a positive light.

- Agreement:

I completely agree with Kelly McGonigal’s message in “How to Make Stress Your Friend”. She shows us that stress isn’t something we need to avoid, but something we can embrace. When we change our mindset and see stress as a natural part of life, it can actually motivate us and help us grow. Stress doesn’t have to be harmful; it can be a source of energy and resilience if we respond to it in a healthy way. By reaching out for social support and using stress to push ourselves forward, we can turn it into a powerful tool for success. Stress is not our enemy – it’s something we can learn to work with and use to our advantage.

Summary

The talk challenges the traditional view of stress as purely harmful and highlights how our perception of it can drastically affect our health and well-being. The speaker references studies that show:

1. Stress is not inherently dangerous—it's our belief about its impact that determines the outcome. People who see stress as positive have better survival rates than those who consider it harmful.

2. Reframing stress as beneficial transforms our body's response, making it healthier and more supportive during challenges.

3. Stress triggers social bonding through the release of oxytocin, a hormone that motivates us to seek help and support others, while also protecting and healing our heart.

4. Acts of kindness and care for others create resilience, shielding individuals from the harmful effects of stress.

   
   

   Personal Opinion

   This talk offers a powerful shift in understanding stress, showing it can be a tool for growth and connection rather than harm. I’ve personally found that reframing stress as an opportunity makes me more confident and capable during challenges. The idea that stress fosters human connection through oxytocin is especially inspiring, reminding us to seek and give support during tough times.

Words and Phrases

1. Rethink your stress response – Reevaluate how you respond to stress.

2. Chasing meaning – Pursuing meaning (in life).

3. Stress resilience – The ability to withstand stress.

4. The biology of courage – The physiological basis of courage.

5. Social instincts – Natural inclinations to connect socially.

6. Built-in mechanism – An inherent system or process.

7. Seek support – Look for assistance or connection.

8. Transform your experience – Change your perception or experience.

9. Trust yourself to handle life’s challenges – Have confidence in your ability to face challenges.

10. Oxytocin strengthens your heart – The hormone oxytocin fortifies the heart.

In this video, Angela Duckworth shares the concept of "grit" - the combination of passion and perseverance. She believes that "grit" plays a more important role than talent in achieving success.

Duckworth tells a story about when she taught math to 7th graders. She realized that successful students not only had high IQs but also had another factor: "grit".

She defines "grit" as the ability to maintain passion for a goal over a long period of time, overcoming difficulties and failures. Duckworth believes that "grit" can be trained and developed in each person.

Vocabulary:

- Ephemeral (adj): Mang tính tạm thời, chóng tàn.

- Serendipity (n): Việc tình cờ khám phá ra điều gì đó hay ho, hữu ích.

- Petrichor (n): Mùi thơm đặc trưng của đất ẩm sau khi mưa.

- Liminality (n): Trạng thái chuyển tiếp, một khoảnh khắc giữa các giai đoạn, như lúc bình minh hoặc hoàng hôn.

- Onomatopoeia (n): Từ tượng thanh, những từ mô phỏng âm thanh.

- Ethereal (adj): Tinh tế, thanh thoát, như có như không.

- Mnemonic (adj): Thuộc về trí nhớ, giúp ghi nhớ.

In this talk, Ken Robinson argues that the way we currently educate children may be stifling their innate creativity. He emphasizes that creativity is not just a skill, but a core part of human nature. Everyone has different talents and interests, and the education system needs to create conditions for each individual to develop to their fullest potential. In a rapidly changing world, creativity is an important factor in solving complex problems and creating new breakthroughs. But the current education system makes students feel bored and find it difficult to find passion in learning. In addition, he shows that creativity does not only exist in the arts, but is present in every aspect of life.

Vocabulary:

- Pedagogy: Phương pháp sư phạm

- Cognition: Nhận thức

- Divergent thinking: Tư duy phân kỳ (khả năng nghĩ ra nhiều ý tưởng khác nhau cho một vấn đề)

- Convergent thinking: Tư duy hội tụ (khả năng tập trung vào một giải pháp tốt nhất cho một vấn đề)

- Intrinsic motivation: Động lực nội tại

- Extrinsic motivation: Động lực ngoại tại

- Standardization: Chuẩn hóa

- Heterogeneous: Khác biệt

- Homogeneous: Đồng nhất

- Neurodiversity: Sự đa dạng thần kinh (sự khác biệt về cách bộ não hoạt động)

In this video, he calls for a revolution in education, moving from a standardized education system to a more personalized one where each person's natural talents are nurtured and developed. He emphasizes that current schools often "kill" creativity and stifle individual growth. Instead, we need to create a learning environment where children are free to explore, express themselves, and pursue their passions.

Vocabulary:

- Nurture: nuôi dưỡng

- Undermine: làm suy yếu

- Revolution: cuộc cách mạng

- Shift: sự thay đổi

- Flourish: phát triển mạnh

- Poignant: sâu sắc, cảm động

- Fabled: nổi tiếng

- Radical: cấp tiến

At 27, the speaker left a demanding job to teach math to seventh graders in New York City, where they observed that success was not solely linked to IQ. This realization led to studying motivation and psychology, eventually identifying "grit" — passion and perseverance for long-term goals — as a critical predictor of success. Research in various challenging environments, from military academies to schools, confirmed the importance of grit over talent or intelligence. Growth mindset, the belief that abilities can develop with effort, emerged as a promising method to foster grit, but more research is needed. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of perseverance in finding ways to build grit in children.

My opinion

Having a growth mindset is an important factor for success. It means believing that you can improve your skills and abilities through effort and learning. For example, if a student struggles with math but keeps practicing and asking for help, they can eventually get better. Instead of seeing failure as the end, a growth mindset helps you see it as a chance to grow. This attitude encourages hard work and persistence, which are key to achieving goals and overcoming challenges.

The speaker shares their experience moving to America and humorously debunks the idea that Americans don’t understand irony. They criticize the education system for focusing too much on standardized testing and conformity, which limits creativity and curiosity. Using Finland as an example, they advocate for personalized teaching, valuing teachers, and including arts in the curriculum. They emphasize that education is about creating the right conditions for students to thrive. Finally, they call for leadership that inspires creativity and innovation to bring real change to education.

My Opinion

The education system should give students more chances to grow their creativity by offering a wide range of subjects, including arts, humanities, and STEM. Creativity is important for personal growth and helps students discover their unique skills and ideas. Schools can support this by focusing less on standardized tests and more on sparking curiosity, individuality, and innovation. Teachers play a key role in guiding and inspiring students, so supporting them is essential. This approach can make learning more engaging and help students reach their full potential.

Angela Duckworth transitioned from a demanding career in management consulting to teaching math to seventh graders in New York City public schools. Observing her students, she noticed that IQ wasn't the sole determinant of success—grit, or the combination of passion and perseverance, played a significant role. Intrigued, she pursued graduate studies in psychology, researching diverse settings like West Point and the National Spelling Bee to identify what predicts success. Her findings consistently pointed to grit over IQ or talent. Despite its importance, little is known about fostering grit, though concepts like Carol Dweck's "growth mindset" offer promise. Duckworth emphasizes the need for continued research and persistence in cultivating grit in children.

B. IN MY OPINION

I agree with Angela's statement "Grit is passion and perseverance for very long-term goals" because passion and perseverance are key elements that help us overcome challenges and maintain effort over the long journey toward achieving a goal. When we have a big and challenging goal, passion helps keep us motivated, while perseverance ensures we don't give up despite difficulties. These are essential factors for achieving sustainable success in life.

C. THE THINGS I HAVE LEARNED

1. Grit/ɡrɪt/: Passion and perseverance for long-term goals; the ability to continue working towards a goal despite challenges (Sự kiên trì và đam mê đối với các mục tiêu dài hạn).

2. Stamina/ˈstæmɪnə/: The ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort. (Sức bền, khả năng duy trì nỗ lực trong thời gian dài).

3. Growth mindset /ɡroʊθ ˈmaɪndˌsɛt/: The belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through effort and learning. (Tư duy phát triển, niềm tin rằng khả năng và trí tuệ có thể phát triển thông qua nỗ lực và học hỏi).

4. Resilience /rɪˈzɪlɪəns/: The ability to recover quickly from difficulties or adversity (Sự kiên cường, khả năng phục hồi nhanh chóng sau khó khăn hoặc thử thách.)

5. Perseverance/ˌpɜːrsəˈvɪərəns/: Persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success. (Sự kiên trì, bền bỉ trong việc làm gì đó mặc dù gặp khó khăn hoặc chậm trễ).

Kelly McGonigal argues that stress can be a natural response that prepares the body to face challenges. She emphasizes that how we think about stress is important. If we perceive stress as a negative thing, it will cause many health problems. On the contrary, when we see stress as an opportunity for growth, the body will release the hormone oxytocin, which helps reduce stress and increase social connection. She encourages us to seek support from those around us when we feel stressed. Sharing our feelings and receiving empathy will help us overcome difficulties more easily.

Vocabulary:

- Moderate (adj): vừa phải

- Prematurely (adv): sớm

- Freaked someone out (phrasal verb): làm ai đó hoảng sợ

- Impromptu (adv): ngẫu hứng

- Demoralized (adj): mất tinh thần

- Harass (v): quấy rối

- Increment (n): tăng dần

- Interpret (v): giải thích

- Vessels (n): mạch máu

Sir Ken Robinson highlights that creativity should be treated as important as reading and writing in education because it is key to developing students' abilities. He believes that if people are afraid of being wrong, they will never come up with anything new or creative. Besides that he also points out that we cannot know how the world will change in the future, but we still need to prepare students with the skills and knowledge they will need. However, the current education system focuses too much on academic subjects, which might overlook or ignore creative talents. Sir Ken expresses disagreement with the education system for focusing too much on subjects like math and language, while arts like dance and drama are not given enough importance, even though they are crucial for students' overall development. He also shares the story of Gillian Lynne, who was recognized for her dancing talent as a child, even though she was once thought to have learning problems. In the end, we need to change how we see creativity and children's potential, so they are better prepared for an uncertain future.

II/

Personally, I strong agree with the view that creativity should be valued in education. As we know, In a fast-changing world like today, creativity is a key factor that helps students not only adapt but also excel. If we just focus only on traditional subjects like math, literature and language while neglecting creative skills, we will miss many opportunities to unlock students' potential. Creativity not only helps children find new solutions but also develops their ability to think independently and confidently handle problems. The story of Gillian Lynne is a great example of why creativity should be valued in education. When she was young, she was diagnosed with a learning problem, but when her dancing talent was discovered, she became a famous choreographer. This shows that if we only assess students based on academics, we could miss important creative talents. Therefore, education have to focus on developing creativity as an essential skill, just as much as learning to read and write.

III/ New vocabulary:

1.      Ruthlessly (adv)  /ˈruːθləsli/ : in a hard and cruel way; in a determined way, without caring if you hurt other people

2.      Frankincense(n) /ˈfræŋkɪnsens/ : a substance that is burnt to give a pleasant smell, especially during religious ceremonies

3.      Sequence (n) /ˈsiːkwəns/ a set of events, actions, numbers, etc. which have a particular order and which lead to a particular result

4.      Steer (v) /stɪə(r)/ :  to control the direction in which a boat, car, etc. moves

5.       Engulfed(v) /ɪnˈɡʌlf/  to surround or to cover somebody/something completely

6.      Protracted (a) /prəˈtræktɪd/: lasting longer than expected or longer than usual

7.      stigmatized. (v) /ˈstɪɡmətaɪz/:  to describe or consider somebody/something in a way that unfairly suggests that they are bad or do not deserve respect

8.      demography(n) /dɪˈmɒɡrəfi/:  the changing number of births, deaths, diseases, etc. in a community over a period of time; the scientific study of these changes

9.      multimillionaire(n) / ˌmʌltimɪljəˈneə(r)/ a person who has money and possessions worth several million pounds, dollars, etc.

10.  reconstitute(v)  /ˌriːˈkɒnstɪtjuːt/ to form an organization or a group again in a different way

The speaker shares her journey from consulting to teaching math in NYC public schools. She discovered IQ isn’t the key to success; instead, grit—passion and perseverance for long-term goals—matters most. Her research in schools, West Point, and the National Spelling Bee shows grit predicts success better than IQ. Building grit remains a challenge, but fostering a growth mindset, the belief that abilities improve with effort, is a promising start. She calls for more research to help kids develop grit.

IDIOMS:

1. Day in, day out: ngày qua ngày

2. Work hard and long enough

3. Stick with your future:

4. Like it's a marathon, not a sprint.

Ken Robinson emphasizes that education needs to value creativity as much as literacy. He points out that the current education system stifles children's creativity, focusing on academic knowledge while neglecting individual potential. Through the story of Gillian Lynne, he illustrates that every child has unique talents that need to be nurtured. He calls for a reform in education to help children face and thrive in an uncertain future.

IDIOMS:

1. "Take a chance"

2. "Out of the box" - Suy nghĩ sáng tạo, khác biệt.

3. "Benign advice" - Lời khuyên tốt bụng nhưng có thể không đúng.

4. "Stigmatize mistakes" - Kỳ thị lỗi lầm, làm cho chúng trở thành tiêu cực.

5. "Mind-blowing" - Cực kỳ ấn tượng, khiến bạn ngạc nhiên.

Kelly McGonigal is a health psychologist who discusses a surprising perspective on stress. She highlights that stress itself isn’t the problem, it’s about our mindset. Research shows that viewing stress as helpful rather than harmful can lead to better health. Stress prepares the body for action, we can improve resilience and performance. McGonigal also emphasizes the power of connection. The hormone oxytocin, released during stress, helps us bond with others and protect our hearts. By embracing stress and leveraging its social and biological benefits, we can transform how we experience it, ultimately making stress work for us rather than against us.

Vocabulary:

1. Resilience

   The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; mental toughness.

2. Oxytocin

   A hormone often associated with social bonding, trust, and stress regulation.

3. Cardiovascular

   Relating to the heart and blood vessels.

4. Intervention

   The act of interfering in a process or situation to bring about change.

5. Empirical

   Based on observation or experience rather than theory or pure logic.

6. Chronic

   Persisting for a long time or constantly recurring, especially regarding an illness or condition.

   My reflection:

   I agree that viewing stress as positive or negative significantly influences physical and mental health. A negative mindset toward stress can increase risks of anxiety, cardiovascular issues, and overwhelming. In contrast, a positive mindset makes stress a tool for growth, enhancing resilience, performance, and even physical recovery. Stress can transform it from a burden to a motivator for success and well-being.

-Example: "The education system often has a hierarchy with mathematics and languages at the top."

2. Benign /bɪˈnaɪn/ (adj): Gentle and kind; not harmful.

-Example: "The teacher's feedback was benign but effective in improving student performance."

3. Engulf /ɪnˈɡʌlf/ (v): To completely surround or cover something.

-Example: "The house was engulfed in flames within minutes."

4. Brilliant /ˈbrɪljənt/ (adj): Extremely intelligent or skillful.

-Example: "He came up with a brilliant idea to solve the problem."

5. Stigmatize /ˈstɪɡmətaɪz/ (v): To treat someone or something unfairly by disapproving or labeling them negatively.

-Example: "Society often stigmatizes those with mental health issues."

6. Demography /dɪˈmɒɡrəfi/ (n): The study of populations, especially in terms of their size, growth, and social structure.

-Example: "The demography of the region indicates a declining birth rate."

7. Frankly /ˈfræŋkli/ (adv): In an honest and direct way.

-Example: "Frankly, I think the system needs to be completely overhauled."

8. Kinesthetically /ˌkɪnəsˈθetɪkli/ (adv): Relating to physical movement or touch as a way of learning.

-Example: "Children often learn kinesthetically by engaging in hands-on activities."

9. Compartment /kəmˈpɑːtmənt/ (n): A separate section or part of something.

-Example: "He placed the books neatly into each compartment of the shelf."

10. Disciplinary /ˈdɪsɪplɪnəri/ (adj): Relating to discipline or enforcement of rules.

-Example: "The school took disciplinary action against the student."

11. Corpus Callosum /ˌkɔːpəs kəˈləʊsəm/ (n): The part of the brain that connects the two hemispheres.

-Example: "The corpus callosum plays a key role in communication between the brain's hemispheres."

12. Raft /rɑːft/ (n): A flat structure made of wood or other materials that floats on water.

-Example: "They used a raft to cross the river."

13. Do open-heart surgery: To perform a surgical procedure on the heart.

-Example: "He specializes in performing open-heart surgery."

14. Epiphany /ɪˈpɪfəni/ (n): A sudden realization or insight.

-Example: "She had an epiphany about her career during the workshop."

15. Learning Disorder /ˈlɜːnɪŋ dɪsˈɔːdə/ (n): A condition that affects the ability to learn in a typical way.

-Example: "Dyslexia is one of the most common learning disorders."

16. Fidget /ˈfɪdʒɪt/ (v): To make small movements, often because of nervousness or boredom.

-Example: "He began to fidget during the long meeting."

17. Disturb /dɪˈstɜːb/ (v): To interrupt or bother someone.

-Example: "Please do not disturb me while I'm working."

-Example: Before making any big decisions, it's important to consult a financial advisor.

+ Struck: /strʌk/ (V) Past tense of "strike"; to hit or affect someone or something forcefully.

-Example: The clock struck twelve as the party ended.

+Stratospheric /strætəˈsfɪrɪk/ (Adj)

Extremely high, relating to the stratosphere.

- Example: His ambitions are stratospheric, aiming for nothing less than world-changing innovation.

+ Ratio: /ˈreɪʃiəʊ/ (N) The quantitative relation between two amounts showing the number of times one value is contained within the other.

- Example: The ratio of students to teachers in this school is 20 to 1.

+ Decimal: /ˈdesɪml/ (Adj/N) Relating to or denoting a system of numbers and arithmetic based on the number ten.

- Example: Convert the fraction 1/2 into a decimal for easier calculation.

+ Military/ˈmɪlətri/ (Adj/N) Relating to or characteristic of soldiers or armed forces.

- Example: After graduating, he decided to pursue a career in the military.

+ Cadet:  /kəˈdet/ (N) A young trainee in the armed services or police force.

- Example: The cadet was undergoing rigorous training at the academy.

+Grit:  /ɡrɪt/ (N) Courage and resolve; strength of character.

- Example: She showed incredible grit by continuing her studies despite many obstacles.

+Stick with:/stɪk wɪð/ (Phrasal Verb)  To continue with something or someone.

-Example: I think we should stick with the original plan for the project.

+ Solid: /ˈsɒlɪd/ (Adj) Firm and stable in shape; not liquid or fluid.

- Example: The table is made of solid wood, ensuring durability.

+ Inversely: /ɪnˈvɜːsli/ (Adv) In the opposite manner, direction, or order.

-Example: Price and demand are often inversely related in economic theory.

+ Permanent: /ˈpɜːmənənt/ (Adj) Lasting or intended to last or remain unchanged indefinitely.

- Example: He has a permanent position at the company now.

+ Rookie:/ˈrʊki/ (N) A person who is new to an organization or activity.

- Example: As a rookie, she was eager to learn and improve her skills.

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Thing I interested the most about this video is : "The current education system suppresses children's creativity." He explains that schools focus too much on academics and neglect the arts, which limits children's opportunities to develop creativity. This emphasis on avoiding mistakes hinders innovation and discourages children from exploring new ideas.

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New vocabs :

1. Creativity (Sáng tạo): Khả năng tạo ra ý tưởng mới, độc đáo.

2. Conformity (Sự tuân thủ): Hành động theo cách giống nhau, thiếu sự khác biệt.

3. Hierarchy (Hệ thống phân cấp): Sắp xếp thứ tự quan trọng giữa các yếu tố.

4. Innovation (Sự đổi mới): Quá trình sáng tạo, cải tiến.

5. Suppress (Kìm hãm): Ngừng hoặc hạn chế sự phát triển.

6. Rigidity (Sự cứng nhắc): Tính không linh hoạt, không thay đổi.

7. Punish (Trừng phạt): Xử phạt vì làm sai.

8. Holistic (Toàn diện): Xem xét mọi yếu tố của vấn đề một cách tổng thể.

In his TED Talk he explains that schools focus too much on subjects like math and science and not enough on creativity and the arts. He says this approach discourages children from being creative and taking risks, which are important for solving problems and coming up with new ideas. Robinson believes that intelligence is not just about academics but includes many different skills. He suggests that schools should support creativity and help students develop their unique talents to succeed in a changing world.

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VOCABULARY

1. Multifaceted : Có nhiều khía cạnh hoặc mặt khác nhau.

2. Suppress : Giữ lại hoặc ngăn chặn một điều gì đó phát triển.

3. Rigid : Không linh hoạt hoặc không thể thay đổi.

4. Evolve : Phát triển dần dần theo thời gian.

5. Individuality: Chất lượng làm cho một người trở nên đặc biệt và khác biệt.

6. Unpredictable : Không thể đoán hoặc dự báo trước.

In "How to Make Stress Your Friend?", Kelly McGonigal explains that stress doesn't have to be harmful if we change how we perceive it. She shares that believing stress can help us grow and cope better with challenges can actually be beneficial for our health. She encourages us to view stress as an important signal and learn to cope with it through social connections and support from others.

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Thing I intersted the most about this video is :

"If you believe stress can be helpful, you can reduce its negative impact." When we believe that stress can make us stronger, the body responds in a more positive way, minimizing the harmful effects of stress and even helping us achieve better outcomes in work or life.

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6 New Words :

1. Resilience: The ability to recover and cope with difficulties or stress.

2. Physiology: The study of the functions and mechanisms of the body.

3. Cortisol: A hormone released during stress, related to the "fight or flight" response.

4. Perception: How we understand and interpret a situation.

5. Social Support: Help and assistance from friends, family, or community when facing difficulties.

6. Psychological: Related to the mind, emotions, and behavior of individuals.

In her TED Talk, Kelly McGonigal explains that stress isn’t always bad and can actually help you if you think about it in a positive way. She says that believing stress is good for you can make you healthier and improve how well you handle challenges. She also talks about how reaching out to friends and family during stressful times can make you feel better and strengthen your relationships. By looking at stress as a chance to grow and learn, you can turn it into something helpful in your life.

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VOCABULARY

• Từ vựng cho trình độ C2 VSTEP (Phiên bản tiếng Việt)

  1. Physiological : Liên quan đến các chức năng bình thường của cơ thể.

  2. Reframe : Thay đổi cách bạn suy nghĩ về một vấn đề để nhìn nhận nó khác đi.

  3. Alleviate : Làm cho điều gì đó bớt nghiêm trọng hoặc đau đớn hơn.

  4. Endorphins : Các hóc môn do não sản xuất giúp bạn cảm thấy vui vẻ và giảm đau.

  5. Proactive : Hành động để giải quyết một vấn đề trước khi nó xảy ra.

In her TED Talk "How to Make Stress Your Friend," Kelly McGonigal discusses how changing our mindset about stress can have a positive impact on our health. She explains that stress itself is not harmful; rather, it’s our negative perception of it that can lead to harmful effects. McGonigal suggests that by viewing stress as a natural response that prepares us to meet challenges, we can harness its energy rather than being overwhelmed by it.

She also emphasizes that social connection plays a critical role in managing stress. Reaching out to others during stressful times can make the body release oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of connection and helps protect the heart. McGonigal concludes by encouraging people to embrace stress as a tool for personal growth, resilience, and connection, rather than something to avoid or fear.

New words

Oxytocin – A hormone released during stress that promotes social bonding and heart health.

Cortisol – A hormone released in response to stress, often associated with negative health effects when levels are too high

Resilience – The ability to recover or bounce back from adversity, stress, or challenges.

Endorphins – Chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood enhancers, often released during exercise or stress.

Vagus nerve – A nerve that helps regulate the body’s response to stress and plays a role in calming the body after stressful events

Idioms

"Fight or flight" – A natural physiological reaction to stress, where the body prepares to either confront or flee from a threat.

"Rise to the challenge" – A way of describing how one can meet challenges head-on and grow from the experience.

"The power of the mind" – Refers to how changing our thoughts and mindset can impact our emotional and physical responses to situations like stress.

The speaker talks about the key ideas of creativity, unpredictability, and supporting children's talents from the conference. They say that education should value creativity as much as literacy because children are naturally creative. However, schools often focus on avoiding mistakes, which can reduce creativity. The speaker explains that the current education system is based on old industrial needs, which give less importance to the arts and different types of intelligence. As a result, many talented people may feel they are not smart. By sharing personal stories, the speaker encourages a change in education to help creativity grow and prepare for a fast-changing world. They believe that education should support all kinds of talents and intelligence.

B. IN MY OPINION

I agree with the statement, "If you're not prepared to be wrong, you'll never come up with anything original," because embracing mistakes as part of the learning process allows us to view problems from various perspectives and generate unique ideas. Without the willingness to make mistakes, we may avoid experimentation or lack the courage to challenge old rules, which ultimately limits our creative potential.

C.VOCABULARY

Disciplinary (/ˌdɪsɪˈplɪnəri/) (adjective): Relating to the enforcement of rules or regulations, or to training or instruction aimed at improving behavior.

Compartment (/kəmˈpɑːtmənt/) (noun): A separate section or space within a larger area, often used for storage or organization.

Stigmatize (/ˈstɪɡməˌtaɪz/) (verb): To treat someone or something unfairly or with strong disapproval, often by labeling them negatively.

Disembodied (/ˌdɪsɪmˈbɒdɪd/) (adjective): Lacking a physical body, or separated from or existing without a body.

Fascinate (/ˈfæsɪˌneɪt/) (verb): To attract and hold the attention of someone deeply or strongly due to interest or charm.

Ruthlessly (/ˈruːθləsli/) (adverb): In a manner that shows no pity or compassion, often showing harsh or severe behavior.

Squander (/ˈskwɒndə/) (verb): To waste something, such as money, time, or resources, in a careless or foolish manner.

Tremendous (/trɪˈmɛndəs/) (adjective): Very great in amount, size, or intensity; extraordinary or immense.

Ken Robinson shares how the popularity of TED Talks has changed over the years and his experience of having one of his talks widely viewed online. He highlights two major crises: the well-known climate crisis and a “human capital crisis,” where many people are not realizing their talents due to social and educational systems. Robinson criticizes the linear and homogeneous model of education and proposes a shift to a more organic and personalized model. He calls for a revolution in education, moving toward a model that is more agricultural in nature and allows for human flourishing.

II. https://voca.ro/1aNVzhPYCDPd

Ken Robinson said "Human communities depend upon a diversity of talent, not a singular conception of ability." I completely agree with the above opinion because each person will have unique abilities that contribute to the development of society. Diversity in talents and knowledge can help society solve many complex problems and promote development in many fields. If we only focus on one type of ability, we will limit the potential and development opportunities of the whole community.

III. Vocabulary

1. utilitarian (adj) /ˌjuːtɪlɪˈteəriən/: designed to be useful and practical rather than attractive

2. tyranny (n) /ˈtɪrəni/: unfair or cruel use of power or authority

3. dogma (n) /ˈdɒɡmə/: a belief or set of beliefs held by a group or organization that others are expected to accept without argument

4. enthral (v) /ɪnˈθrɔːl/: if something enthrals you, it is so interesting, beautiful, etc. that you give it all your attention

5. humiliating (adj) /hjuːˈmɪlieɪtɪŋ/: making somebody feel ashamed or stupid and lose the respect of other people

6. reconstitute ( v) /ˌriːˈkɒnstɪtjuːt/: to form an organization or a group again in a different way

7. aptitude (n) /ˈæptɪtjuːd/: natural ability or skill at doing something

8. dim (adj) /dɪm/: not bright

9. embroider (v) /ɪmˈbrɔɪdə(r)/: to decorate cloth with a pattern of stitches usually using coloured thread

The speaker mentioned 2 main points in the video: her change in attitude towards stress and the unknown benefits of stress. Kelly McGonigal said that as a health psychologist, she used to tell her clients that stress is harmful and stress is our enemy because of its detrimental effects on both our mental and physical health. However, the research outcome changed her mind completely and made her question the real nature of stress. The study shows that people who experience stress but do not consider it harmful are more likely to live longer and reduce the risk of dying. This has a profound impact on her, mindset and attitude toward stress. Kelly started changing her response to stress and found out that it was the best way to overcome it.

She said that instead of considering stress our enemy, we should learn to acknowledge and appreciate the symptoms of stress, such as sweating, heart pounding, etc. 'This is my body helping me with this challenge' is the thought we should have when we experience stress and social anxiety. The change in our response can lead to biological change and make us less nervous, more confident and more courageous. Stress makes us social because of the hormone 'OXYTOCIN'.

Oxytocin works as a thing that makes us crave social relationships and support when we are under pressure. This hormone strengthens our social relationships, enhances empathy, and provides support. The stress hormone can also do wonders for our physical health since it helps protect our heart from stress and our blood vessels stay relaxed. We can also increase our resilience from stress due to Oxytocin.

The speaker mentioned a significant factor when dealing with stress 'chasing meaning is better for your health than trying to avoid discomfort'. Learning to change our mindset and attitude towards the stress response can do wonders for us.

VOCABULARY:

1. Moderate (adj) /ˈmɒdərət/: that is neither very good, large, hot, etc. nor very bad, small, cold, etc.

• Even moderate amounts of the drug can be fatal.

2. Do more harm than good: to be damaging and not helpful

• Getting involved at this stage would do more harm than good.

3. View (v) /vjuː/: to think about somebody/something in a particular way

view somebody/something as something to view something as a threat/an opportunity

• He is widely viewed as a possible leader.

4. Prematurely (adv) /ˌpreməˈtʃʊəli/: before the normal or expected time

• Her hair became prematurely white.

5. Stress (v) /stres/: to become or make somebody become too anxious or tired to be able to relax

stress somebody (out)

• Driving in cities really stresses me (out).

6. Discouraging (adj) /dɪsˈkʌrɪdʒɪŋ/: making you feel less confident or enthusiastic about doing something

• a discouraging experience/response/result

7. Sufficiently (adv) /səˈfɪʃntli/: enough for a particular purpose; as much as you need

• The following day she felt sufficiently well to go to work.

-> Sufficient (adj) /səˈfɪʃnt/: enough for a particular purpose; as much as you need

sufficient to do something

• These reasons are not sufficient to justify the ban.

8. Demoralized (adj)/diˈmɒrəlaɪzd/: having lost confidence or hope

• The workers here seem very demoralized.

9. Harass (v) /ˈhærəs/: to annoy or worry somebody by putting pressure on them or saying or doing unpleasant things to them

be harassed (by somebody)

• He has complained of being harassed by the police.

• She claims she has been sexually harassed at work.

10. Interpret (v) /ɪnˈtɜːprət/: to explain the meaning of something

• The students were asked to interpret the poem.

11. Physical changes

12. Constrict (v) /kənˈstrɪkt/ to become tighter or narrower; to make something tighter or narrower

• a drug that constricts the blood vessels

constrict somebody to limit what somebody is able to do

• Film-makers of the time were constricted by the censors.

13. Blood vessel (n) /ˈblʌd vesl/: any of the tubes through which blood flows through the body

14. Induce (v): /ɪnˈdjuːs/: induce somebody to do something (formal) to persuade or influence somebody to do something

• Nothing would induce me to take the job.

induce something (formal) to cause something

• Hearing loss is often induced by exposure to loud noise.

15. Get rid of somebody/something: to make yourself free of somebody/something that is annoying you or that you do not want; to throw something away

• Try and get rid of your visitors before I get there.

16. Intervention (n) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/: action taken to improve or help a situation

• calls for government intervention to save the steel industry

17. Demonize (v) /ˈdiːmənaɪz/: demonize somebody/something to describe somebody/something in a way that is intended to make other people think of them/it as evil or dangerous

• He was demonized by sections of the press.

18. Redeem (v) /rɪˈdiːm/: to make somebody/something seem less bad

• In an attempt to redeem the situation, Jed offered to help sell tickets.

redeem yourself to do something: to improve the opinion that people have of you, especially after you have done something bad

• He has a chance to redeem himself after last week's mistakes.

19. Underappreciated (adj) /ˌʌndərəˈpriːʃieɪtɪd/: not valued or appreciated highly enough

• Many teachers say they feel underappreciated and overworked.

20. Primes /praɪm/ (v): to prepare somebody for a situation so that they know what to do, especially by giving them special information

prime somebody (with something)

• They had been primed with good advice.

prime somebody (for something) - She was ready and primed for action.

prime somebody to do something

• He had primed his friends to give the journalists as little information as possible.

21. Strengthen close relationships

22. Crave (v) /kreɪv/: to have a very strong desire for something = long for

crave (for) something

• She has always craved excitement.

to crave alcohol/drugs/sweet food/carbohydrates/cigarettes/coffee

crave to do something

• They crave to return to their homeland.

23. Physical contact with your friends and family.

24. Compassionate (adj)/kəmˈpæʃənət/: feeling or showing sympathy for people or animals who are suffering

• Politicians are not usually regarded as warm or compassionate people.

25. Caring (adj) /ˈkeərɪŋ/: kind, helpful and showing that you care about other people

a caring profession (= a job that involves looking after or helping other people).

Stress, a natural physical and emotional response to challenges, can be beneficial in the short term but becomes harmful when chronic, affecting nearly every system in the body. Prolonged stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, leading to cardiovascular issues, digestive problems, immune dysfunction, and even cellular ageing. It can increase risks of heart disease, stroke, obesity, and chronic illnesses, while also causing mental and physical symptoms like fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. However, managing stress by viewing it as a challenge rather than a threat can help improve performance and protect long-term health.

VOCABULARY 

1. Cram (for something) (v) /kræm/: to learn a lot of things in a short time, in preparation for an exam

• He's been cramming for his exams all week.

2. Overwhelm (v) /ˌəʊvəˈwelm/: to be so bad or so great that a person cannot deal with it; to give too much of a thing to a person

• We were overwhelmed by requests for information.

3. Hardwired (adj) /ˌhɑːdˈwaɪəd/: (of a skill, quality or type of behaviour) present as part of who you are and the way your brain is made, not learned from experience

• Anxiety is a hardwired response that everyone experiences.

4. Activate (v) /ˈæktɪveɪt/: to make something such as a device or chemical process start working

• The burglar alarm is activated by movement.

5. Bloodstream (n) /ˈblʌdstriːm/: the blood flowing through the body

• They injected the drug directly into her bloodstream.

6. Trigger (v) /ˈtrɪɡə(r)/: trigger something (off) to make something happen suddenly

• Nuts can trigger a violent allergic reaction.

7. Stroke (n) /strəʊk/:  a sudden serious illness when a blood vessel (= tube) in the brain bursts (= breaks open) or is blocked, which can cause death or the loss of the ability to move or to speak clearly

• to have/suffer a stroke

8. Sense (v) /sens/: to become aware of something even though you cannot see it, hear it, etc.

 sense something

• Sensing danger, they started to run.

9. Autonomic nervous system (n) /ˌɔːtənɒmɪk ˈnɜːvəs sɪstəm/: the part of your nervous system that controls unconscious processes, for example, the process of your heart beating

10. Disturb (v) /dɪˈstɜːb/: ​ disturb somebody/something to interrupt somebody when they are trying to work, sleep, etc.

• I'm sorry to disturb you, but can I talk to you for a moment?

11. Irritable (adj) /ˈɪrɪtəbl/; getting annoyed easily; showing your anger

• She waved him away with an irritable gesture.

12. Irritable bowel syndrome (n) /ˌɪrɪtəbl ˈbaʊəl sɪndrəʊm/

    a condition of the bowels that causes pain and diarrhoea or constipation, often caused by stress or worry

13. Waistline (n) /ˈweɪstlaɪn/: ​the amount that a person measures around the middle part of their body, used to talk about how fat or thin they are

• All this butter and cream won’t do much for my waistline

 14. Appetite (n)/ˈæpɪtaɪt/:  physical desire for food

• He suffered from headaches and loss of appetite.

15. Replenish (v) /rɪˈplenɪʃ/: ​replenish something (with something) to make something full again by replacing what has been used

• to replenish food and water supplies

16. Crave (v) /kreɪv/: to have a very strong desire for something

 crave (for) something

• She has always craved excitement.

17. Comfort food (n) /ˈkʌmfət fuːd/: ​food that makes you feel better, often because it contains a lot of sugar, or because it reminds you of home

• As the days get colder, we long for comfort food—homemade cakes and chocolate biscuits.

18. Invader (n) /ɪnˈveɪdə(r)/: ​an army or a country that enters another country by force in order to take control of it; a soldier fighting in such an army

• The white blood cells attack cells infected with an invader.

19. Dampen (v) /ˈdæmpən/: dampen something to make something such as a feeling or a reaction less strong

• None of the setbacks could dampen his enthusiasm for the project.

20. Susceptible(adj) /səˈseptəbl/: susceptible (to something) very likely to be influenced, harmed or affected by something

• He's highly susceptible to flattery.

21. Curb (v) /kɜːb/: ​curb something to control or limit something, especially something bad

• He needs to learn to curb his temper.

22. Sabotage (v)/ˈsæbətɑːʒ/: to prevent something from being successful or being achieved, especially deliberately

• Protesters failed to sabotage the peace talks.

23. Insurmountable (adj) /ˌɪnsəˈmaʊntəbl/

​(of difficulties, problems, etc.) that cannot be dealt with successfully

• The age barrier appeared insurmountable.

In her TED Talk "How to Make Stress Your Friend", Kelly McGonigal presents the idea that stress, when viewed in a different light, can be helpful rather than harmful. She suggests that stress is a natural response that can improve our performance and even help us connect with others. McGonigal emphasizes that changing our mindset about stress—from seeing it as a negative force to recognizing it as an ally—can lead to better outcomes, both physically and mentally. By viewing stress as a sign that we care about something important, we can use it to fuel our motivation and resilience rather than feeling overwhelmed by it.

AGREEMENT PARAGRAPH

One idea I particularly agree with is that embracing stress as a motivator can enhance our ability to cope with challenges. When we see stress as a normal and helpful response, we become more empowered to handle difficult situations. Rather than viewing stress as a threat, perceiving it as a signal that we are engaged and motivated allows us to tap into the energy it provides. This shift in perspective can make us more resilient and better equipped to face stressful situations with confidence and determination.

VOCABULARY AND IDIOMS:

1. Resilience – the ability to recover from difficulties or adapt to challenges.

2. Mindset – the mental attitude or approach toward something.

3. Fight-or-flight response – the physiological reaction to a perceived harmful event or threat, preparing the body to either fight or escape.

4. A blessing in disguise – something that seems negative at first but turns out to be beneficial.

5. Embrace – to accept or adopt something willingly, often with enthusiasm.

6. Stress-buffering – the process of reducing or managing the harmful effects of stress.

7. Under pressure – being in a stressful or demanding situation.

Kelly McGonigal, a psychologist, talked about changing how we think about stress. She realized that for many years, she had been teaching people that stress is bad for their health, but now she believes this idea might cause more harm than good. McGonigal shared a study that followed 30,000 adults for eight years. The study found that only people who believed stress was harmful had a higher risk of dying. On the other hand, people who had a lot of stress but didn’t think it was harmful had the lowest risk of dying. She also talked about a hormone called oxytocin, which is released when we’re stressed. Oxytocin helps protect the heart and makes people want to connect with others. In the end, she said that the bad effects of stress aren’t unavoidable. What matters more is how we think about stress and how we deal with it, which can change how we experience it.

II. https://voca.ro/1ilOsIB1nDTL

Kelly McGonigal says, "When you choose to view your stress response as helpful, you create the biology of courage." I agree with this idea because the way we view stress can affect the way we deal with it. Viewing stress as a positive thing can help us prepare and respond to challenges and feel more confident and courageous when facing them. Instead of being afraid and anxious, we can use the energy from stress to focus and solve problems more effectively. This not only improves our mental health but also helps us develop a stronger and more resilient

spirit in life.

III. Vocabulary

1. moderate(adj) /ˈmɒdərət/: that is neither very good, large, hot, etc. nor very bad, small, cold, etc.

2. cardiovascular(adj)/ˌkɑːdiəʊˈvæskjələ(r)/: relating to the heart and the blood vessels (= the tubes that carry blood around the body)

3. homicide(n)/ˈhɒmɪsaɪd/: the act of killing another person, especially when it is a crime

4. demoralized(adj)/dɪˈmɒrəlaɪzd/; having lost confidence or hope

5. increment(n)/ˈɪŋkrəmənt/: a regular increase in the amount of money that somebody is paid for their job

6. vessel(n)/ˈvesl/: a tube that carries blood through the body of a person or an animal, or liquid through the parts of a plant

Kelly McGonigal is a health psychologist. She shares how her perspective on stress has changed. While she used to believe that stress was harmful, research shows that it is the belief that stress is harmful, not the stress itself, that increases health risks. One study found that people who experienced high levels of stress but viewed it positively had the lowest mortality rates.

Reframing stress as something helpful can lead to healthier physical responses, such as relaxed blood vessels and improved cardiovascular health. Stress also stimulates the release of oxytocin, a hormone that strengthens social bonds and helps the body heal.

She encourages people to embrace stress as a source of strength and connection, pursue meaningful experiences, and believe in their ability to overcome challenges. With the right mindset, stress can increase resilience and improve our health.

II. Opinion

In my opinion, Kelly McGonigal has shared a completely new perspective on stress. Positively perceived stress can reduce mortality and improve cardiovascular health. It is impressive that she emphasizes the role of stress in promoting social bonds through oxytocin – the “love hormone”. Instead of making us feel isolated, stress encourages people to connect, share and support each other. She has conveyed a powerful message: If stress is viewed positively, it can become a source of strength that helps us connect and find value in life.

III. Vocabulary:

1. Cardiovascular /ˌkɑːdiəʊˈvæskjələ(r)/ (adj):
   Relating to the heart and blood vessels.
   Ex: Cardiovascular exercise is important for maintaining heart health.

2. Estimate /ˈestɪmeɪt/ (v):
   To make an approximate calculation or judgment.
   Ex: They estimated the cost of the project to be around $10,000.

3. Prematurely /ˌpreməˈtʃʊəli/ (adv):
   Before the expected or usual time.
   Ex: He was born prematurely and had to stay in the hospital for several weeks.

4. Homicide /ˈhɒmɪsaɪd/ (n):
   The killing of one person by another.
   Ex: The police are investigating the case as a potential homicide.

5. Impromptu /ɪmˈprɒmptjuː/ (adj):
   Done without preparation or planning.
   Ex: She gave an impromptu speech at the meeting.

6. Panel /ˈpænl/ (n):
   A group of people chosen to give advice or make decisions.
   Ex: The panel of judges will select the winner of the competition.

7. Sufficiently /səˈfɪʃntli/ (adv):
   In an adequate amount or degree.
   Ex: The evidence was sufficiently strong to support his argument.

8. Demoralize /dɪˈmɒrəlaɪz/ (v):
   To make someone lose confidence or hope.
   Ex: The team's defeat in the final match demoralized them.

9. Unbeknownst /ˌʌnbɪˈnəʊn/ (adv):
   Without the knowledge of someone.
   Ex: Unbeknownst to her, he had arranged a surprise for her birthday.

10. Increment / /ˈɪŋkrəmənt/ (n):
    A small increase or addition.
    Ex: There was a small increment in the price of gas last week.

11. Vessel /ˈvesl/ (n):
    A container for holding liquids or a ship.
    Ex: The ship is a large vessel that can carry hundreds of passengers.

12. Constrict /kənˈstrɪkt/ (v):
    To make something narrower or tighter.
    Ex: Cold weather can constrict blood vessels, leading to higher blood pressure.

13. Stress-induced /stres ɪnˈdjuːs/ (adj):
    Caused or triggered by stress.
    Ex: Stress-induced anxiety can affect both mental and physical health.

14. Intervention /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ (n):
    The act of intervening to help or change the course of an event.
    Ex: The doctor suggested an intervention to help manage his condition.

15. Demonize /ˈdiːmənaɪz/ (v):
    To portray someone or something as wicked or harmful.
    Ex: The media often demonizes certain groups without understanding their perspective.

16. Redeem /rɪˈdiːm/ (v):
    To improve or make something better, often after a mistake.
    Ex: He worked hard to redeem himself after his earlier errors.

17. Oxytocin /ˌɑːk.sɪˈtoʊ.sɪn/ (n):
    A hormone involved in childbirth and social bonding.
    Ex: Oxytocin is often released during hugging, promoting feelings of connection.

18. Instinct /ˈɪnstɪŋkt/ (n):
    A natural or inherent behavior or ability.
    Ex: The mother’s instinct was to protect her child from danger.

19. Crave /kreɪv/ (v):
    To have a strong desire for something.
    Ex: After the long hike, he craved a cold drink.

20. Snort /snɔːt/ (v):
    To make a sound through the nose, often as a sign of amusement or irritation.
    Ex: She snorted with laughter at the funny joke.

21. Pituitary /pɪˈtjuːɪtəri/ (adj):
    Relating to the pituitary gland, which produces hormones.
    Ex: The pituitary gland controls important bodily functions such as growth.

22. Anti-inflammatory /ˌænti ɪnˈflæmətri/ (adj):
    Reducing or preventing inflammation in the body.
    Ex: The doctor recommended anti-inflammatory medication for her arthritis.

23. Receptor /rɪˈseptə(r)/ (n):
    A protein molecule in cells that binds to specific substances like hormones.
    Ex: These receptors in the brain help regulate mood and stress.

24. Resilience /rɪˈzɪliəns/ (n):
    The ability to recover from difficult conditions or setbacks.
    Ex: His resilience in overcoming challenges made him a role model for others.

25. Inevitable /ɪnˈevɪtəbl/ (adj):
    Certain to happen and unable to be avoided.
    Ex: Given the current circumstances, failure seemed inevitable.

1 idea that I agree with the speaker:

I agree with the idea that our perception of stress determines its impact. When I view stress as a chance to grow, like during a presentation, it motivates me to do better. This mindset helps me manage stress positively instead of feeling overwhelmed, showing that how we think about stress truly matters.

https://voca.ro/1lKm9GQ4U0DQ

Some useful vocabulary and idioms that I learned from the talk:

Vocabulary

1. Perception – the way something is understood or interpreted.

E.g., Your perception of stress influences its impact on your health.

2. Resilience – the ability to recover from difficulties.

E.g., Stress can help you build resilience when you face challenges.

3. Oxytocin – a hormone linked to social bonding and trust.

E.g., Oxytocin is released during stress, encouraging connection.

4. Mortality – the state of being subject to death.

E.g., Viewing stress negatively can increase mortality rates.

5. Adversity – difficulties or misfortune.

E.g., Stress often arises during times of adversity.

Idioms

1. A blessing in disguise – something that seems bad but turns out to be good.

E.g., Stress can be a blessing in disguise when it motivates you to grow.

2. Turn lemons into lemonade – to make the best out of a bad situation.

E.g., By changing your mindset, you can turn stress into lemonade.

3. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger – challenges can lead to personal growth.

E.g., Facing stress with a positive attitude reinforces the idea that what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.

4. Reach out – to ask for help or offer support.

E.g., During stressful times, don’t hesitate to reach out to friends.

5. In the same boat – in the same difficult situation as others.

E.g., Remember that everyone is in the same boat when dealing with stress.

Idea I Agree With:

I strongly agree with Waldinger’s idea that strong relationships are the key to happiness and health. The talk highlights that close, meaningful connections with others bring emotional security and help protect us from stress. This resonates with me because, in my own life, I’ve noticed how spending time with family or close friends lifts my mood and gives me a sense of comfort, even during difficult times.

For instance, when I’m overwhelmed by work or personal challenges, having someone to talk to—someone who truly listens—helps me feel supported and more capable of handling the situation. These connections don’t just bring happiness; they also provide a sense of belonging and stability, which are essential for overall well-being.

This idea reminds me to invest time and effort into nurturing my relationships, as they’re the most valuable aspect of a fulfilling life. It’s not about how many people I know but about maintaining strong bonds with the people who genuinely care about me.

Some useful vocabulary and idioms I learned from the talk:

Vocabulary

1. Isolation – the state of being separated from others.

E.g., Prolonged isolation can harm both mental and physical health.

2. Companionship – a feeling of fellowship or friendship.

E.g., Companionship with loved ones enhances life satisfaction.

3. Bond – a close connection or relationship between people.

E.g., Strong bonds with others lead to greater happiness.

4. Nurture – to care for and encourage the growth of something.

E.g., It’s important to nurture meaningful relationships.

5. Enrichment – the process of improving or enhancing the quality of something.

E.g., Positive relationships contribute to life enrichment.

Idioms

1. Two peas in a pod – two people who are very similar and get along well.

E.g., Close friends are often like two peas in a pod.

2. The ties that bind – the shared experiences or values that connect people.

E.g., Family traditions are part of the ties that bind us together.

3. Lean on someone – to rely on someone for support.

E.g., During tough times, it’s important to have people you can lean on.

4. Build bridges – to create strong, positive relationships.

E.g., Making an effort to build bridges with others leads to stronger connections.

5. Keep someone at arm’s length – to avoid being too close to someone.

E.g., Avoid keeping everyone at arm’s length if you want meaningful relationships.

2. Public death record /ˈpʌb.lɪk dɛθ ˈrek.ɔːd/ (n): hồ sơ tử vong công khai (official record of a person’s death, accessible to the public).
Ví dụ: Public death records are often used in genealogical research.

3. Homicide /ˈhɒm.ɪ.saɪd/ (n): hành động giết người ( the act of killing another person).
Ví dụ: The police are investigating the case as a potential homicide.

4. Freak someone out /friːk ˈsʌm.wʌn aʊt/ (v): làm ai đó hoảng sợ hoặc khó chịu ( to make someone feel very scared or uncomfortable).
Ví dụ: That horror movie really freaked me out!

5. Laboratory /ləˈbɒr.ə.tɔːr.i/ (n): phòng thí nghiệm (a place where scientific experiments are conducted).
Ví dụ: The experiments were conducted in a high-tech laboratory.

6. Impromptu /ɪmˈprɒmp.tʃuː/ (adj): ứng khẩu, không chuẩn bị trước ( done without preparation).
Ví dụ: His impromptu speech impressed everyone at the event.

7. Increment /ˈɪŋ.krə.mənt/ (n): sự gia tăng nhỏ (a small increase or addition).
Ví dụ: The company gives an annual increment in employees’ salaries.

8. Blood vessel /ˈblʌd ˌves.əl/ (n): mạch máu ( a tube that carries blood through the body).
Ví dụ: Exercise improves blood flow and strengthens blood vessels.

9. Constrict /kənˈstrɪkt/ (v): co lại, bóp nghẹt ( to make something narrower or tighter).
Ví dụ: Cold temperatures can constrict blood vessels.

10. Chronic /ˈkrɒn.ɪk/ (adj): mãn tính, kéo dài ( lasting for a long time or constantly recurring).
Ví dụ: She suffers from chronic back pain.

11. Cardiovascular /ˌkɑː.di.əʊˈvæs.kjə.lər/ (adj): thuộc về tim mạch ( relating to the heart and blood vessels).
Ví dụ: Regular exercise is essential for cardiovascular health.

12. Intervention /ˌɪn.təˈven.ʃən/ (n): sự can thiệp ( the act of becoming involved to improve a situation).
Ví dụ: Early intervention can prevent the problem from worsening.

13. Oxytocin /ˌɒk.siˈtəʊ.sɪn/ (n): hormone oxytocin ( a hormone associated with social bonding and trust).
Ví dụ: Oxytocin plays an important role in social bonding and trust.

14. Hype /haɪp/ (n): sự thổi phồng, cường điệu ( exaggerated publicity or promotion).
Ví dụ: The movie didn’t live up to all the hype.

15. Neuro-hormone /ˈnjʊə.rəʊ ˈhɔː.məʊn/ (n): thần kinh-hormone ( a hormone that acts on the nervous system).
Ví dụ: Oxytocin is considered a neuro-hormone due to its effects on the brain.

16. Fine-tunes /ˌfaɪnˈtjuːnz/ (v): điều chỉnh một cách tinh tế (to make small adjustments for better performance).
Ví dụ: The musician fine-tunes his guitar before every performance.

17. Pituitary gland /pɪˈtjuː.ɪ.tər.i ˌɡlænd/ (n): tuyến yên ( a small gland in the brain that controls growth and other hormones).
Ví dụ: The pituitary gland controls various hormonal functions in the body.

18. Adrenaline /əˈdren.ə.lɪn/ (n): hormone adrenaline (a hormone that increases energy in response to stress).
Ví dụ: Adrenaline helps the body respond quickly in stressful situations.

19. Anti-inflammatory /ˌæn.ti.ɪnˈflæm.ə.tər.i/ (adj): chống viêm (reducing swelling and inflammation).
Ví dụ: This cream has an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin.

20. Resilience /rɪˈzɪl.i.əns/ (n): khả năng phục hồi, kiên cường (the ability to recover quickly from difficulties).
Ví dụ: Her resilience helped her overcome many challenges in life.

21. Inevitable /ɪˈnev.ɪ.tə.bəl/ (adj): không thể tránh khỏi (certain to happen, unavoidable).
Ví dụ: Some stress in life is inevitable, but learning to manage it is key.

• the way we think about stress can affect our lives

Kelly confessed that she spent 10 years telling people stress is harmful. The key point of this situation, based on recent research, is that how we think about stress affects our body. She wants to change people's minds. Stress can actually be helpful when relaxing the blood vessels if we think in a positive way so that thinking positively when getting stressed can be healthier. To build resilience through stress and its energy. Oxytocin hoocmon is related to human connection and helps us recover better after stress. To seek for care or to care others is good for our lives.

B. OPINION

https://voca.ro/171S5W24i0qu

C. VOCABULARY

1. freak out: làm phát hoảng

2. constrict: thắt lại chronic: kinh niên

3. cardiovascular: liên quan đến tim mạch

4. pituitary gland: tuyến yên

• good relationships make our lives better

Mr Robert showed us how to set up a goal for our lives and how to get a happy healthy life by investigating men and their wives for the whole life.

Good relationships keep us healthier and happier. The one who has good social connections will live longer and happier than the opposite.

Moreover, the qualities of relationships are more important than the number of them.

B. OPINION

https://voca.ro/1aXY5M8HArLJ

I completely agree with the statement " Good relationships are related to a good life" Because when we live a life, there are many struggles and difficulties appearing when we are young till we are old. To be alone in a long path is a struggle and has many adversities.

To have a relationship is to have support in our whole life, to have a place where we can share our stories.

Also, it helps us have more opportunities to expand our knowledge, fix our mistakes, to heal our lack of love and emotion.

The one who lacks of relationship to deep in society, to live a boring and struggling life. As Mr Robert mentioned, they will live shorter, and get more sick than the one who has good relationships.

We should build good relationships when we are young so that we can classify and recognize the good quality of relationships that can help us increase our quality together.

C. VOCABULARY:

1. millennial: triệu phú

2. lean in: dựa vào

3. hindsight: sự nhìn nhận đã qua

4. downright (adv): thật sự, hoàn toàn

5. unfold: diễn ra, mở

6. exceedingly: vô cùng, rất

Jon Jandai had a journey from a simple life in a small village in Thailand to a complex, stressful life in Bangkok city, and then back to a simple lifestyle. They emphasize that life can be easy when focusing on basic demands such as food, housing, clothing, and medicine. Rejecting societal pressures and materialism, he advocates for self-reliance, saving seeds, and fostering community connections. Through this shift, he also found freedom, happiness, and fulfillment, creating a sustainable lifestyle and a learning center to share this philosophy with others.

B. OPINION

https://voca.ro/1g3rlhKULAgd

One important thing I disagree with Jon Jandai is the destruction caused by university learning, particularly architecture and engineering. We can't deny the integral role of these majors in our society because of their positive effects. Firstly, they both directly influence the culture of a country.

They are not only creating new works but also improving the quality.

Moreover, engineers are responsible for human safety because they always investigate and create safe techniques to apply in our lives.

In conclusion, architecture and engineering are important, and we can not deny their benefits.

C. VOCABULARY

1. chase: theo đuổi

2. pursue: theo

3. faculty: chuyên ngành

4. harvest: thu hoạch

5. weave: dệt, đan

6. leftover: còn sót lại, thừa

Hii As everyone knows, my name is My Huyen but you can still call me Xavia - a special name that my friends often call me. I am a third-year student majoring in English Studies at Can Tho University. I was born in Vinh Long where my mother called the dragon's navel and I was quite skeptical about that. Honestly, I have a lot of hobbies to mention and now I will mention a few highlights such as cooking with my mother, eating delicious food, going for a walk when I feel down, watching cartoons. , listen to music and more.

In the future, I want to become better with many good relationships, improve bad points or have a healthier lifestyle. Most importantly, you can achieve the goals you have set for yourself.

Thank you for taking the time to read! Love u 😘

Technology takes us to the places that we don't want to go. They change who we.

People are afraid of conversations because they can not control and fix them, so they raise boundaries together.

Technology comforts human emotions and demands, and we also depend on it. We actually expect more from technology than each other.

The one who can not be lonely will seek for illusion on social network.

From usual conversations, we can learn from others and can understand ourselves.

So, we should carefully consider this controversial issue for a better future.

B. OPINION

https://voca.ro/13qUTDRCkRqy

I completely agree with the idea of Mrs. Sherry that the way we feel lonely in society leads us to technology which has been created to pretend empathy.

From my perspective, there is a huge distance between my past and present because of technological development. I used to spend all day with my friends to talk about something or to join some activities, but everything goes opposite when I approached my first device, a mobile phone.

Looking confident and extrovert on social media platforms, I have a converse personality in reality, and it causes many struggles for me in conversations and catching opportunities.

As she mentioned before, it's time for us to talk, and it's time for us to recognize the real value of conversation while we keep using technological devices.

And this is my own opinion, thank you for listening and reading.

C. VOCABULARY

1. device: thiết bị

2. disturbing: phiền hà, lo ngại

3. revery: mơ màng, vô thực

4. lament: than thở

5. adolescent: thanh niên

6. wistfully: buồn bã, u sầu

Tshering Tobgay talked about a promise to maintain the carbon neutrality of his country, and its special among the polluted world with neutral or negative carbon maintaining.

Bhutan government (King) provides:

• free education

• free health care

• free medical treatments

• good constitution

• free electricity for farmers

Good living conditions with negative carbon are based on the environments that we impact.

• green and clean energies

• more than 65% of forest cover

Climate change affects directly our lives, causes disasters, and melts ice.

B. OPINION

https://voca.ro/1aKQ5LhabFCQ

The thing I completely agree with Mr Tshering Tobgay is that we are wearing different clothes, coming from different countries, and possessing different cultures, but we are living in the same world.

As Mr Tshering mentioned, his beloved country hasn't done bad things to Mother Nature, but it still got many disasters from the beyond of world.

It does mean we should consider carefully every action because it will impact the whole global area. Sometimes, a plastic bag we throw into a ditch may cause a flood in a city.

Human actions affect directly our future fate and generations so we should raise up our awareness from now on to maintain the beauty of our Earth.

C. VOCABULARY

1. thrive: phát triển

2. easier to say than to done: nói dễ hơn làm

3. undermine: làm suy yếu thoái hóa

4. pristine: hoang sơ, hoang vu

5. constitution: hiến pháp

6. impose: đặt ra

7. impeach: luận tội

Mr. Ken Robinson argues that our current education system needs a major change to help kids be more creative and learn in ways that suit them best. He explains that schools today focus too much on standardization, which means making everyone learn the same way. Robinson believes this approach limits kids' potential and doesn't let them explore their unique talents. He suggests that education should be personalized, meaning it should be designed to fit each student's strengths and interests. He also gives some examples and stories to show how a more flexible and tailored education system could help kids succeed and thrive.

Part B: OPINION

https://voca.ro/1ed6o6ZmSV5f

I agree with Sir Ken Robinson's idea that the education system should be more personalized. When schools focus too much on making every student learn in the same way, it can limit their creativity and individual strengths. By allowing students to explore their unique talents and interests, we can help them become more engaged and motivated in their learning. This approach can also help students develop important skills like critical thinking and problem-solving. When education is tailored to each student's needs, they are more likely to succeed and feel fulfilled. I believe that a more flexible and personalized education system can better prepare students for the challenges and opportunities they will face in the future.

Part C: VOCABULARY

1. Overhaul (n): đại tu, sửa chữa lớn

2. Standardization (n): tiêu chuẩn hóa

3. Conformity (n): sự tuân thủ, sự tuân theo

4. Nurture (v): nuôi dưỡng

5. Personalized (adj): cá nhân hóa

6. Dynamic (adj): năng động, động lực

7. Innovation (n): sự đổi mới, sự cách tân

Ms. Sharon Horesh Bergquist explains how stress impacts our physical and mental health. Stress triggers a cascade of reactions in the body, including the release of hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which prepare us for a "fight or flight" response. While short-term stress can be beneficial, chronic stress can lead to various health problems, such as weakened immune function, digestive issues, and cardiovascular diseases. Bergquist emphasizes the importance of managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and a balanced lifestyle to maintain overall well-being. The video provides a clear understanding of how stress affects the body and offers practical tips for coping with it effectively.

Part B: OPINION

https://voca.ro/12uL9694nvt4

I agree with the idea presented in the video that managing stress is crucial for maintaining good health. Chronic stress can have serious negative effects on both our physical and mental well-being. It can weaken our immune system, making us more susceptible to illnesses, and contribute to conditions like heart disease and digestive problems. By learning and practicing stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, exercise, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, we can reduce the harmful impact of stress on our bodies. Incorporating these practices into our daily routine can help us build resilience and improve our overall quality of life. It's important to recognize the signs of stress and take proactive steps to address it before it leads to more significant health issues.

Part C: VOCABULARY

1. Cascade (n): chuỗi phản ứng

2. Cortisol (n): cortisol (một loại hormone)

3. Adrenaline (n): adrenaline (một loại hormone)

4. Cardiovascular (adj): thuộc về tim mạch

5. Immune (adj): miễn dịch

6. Resilience (n): khả năng phục hồi

7. Mindfulness (n): chánh niệm

Johanna Blakley discusses how social media is challenging traditional gender roles and stereotypes. She explains that, unlike traditional media, social media platforms allow people to express themselves more freely and authentically. This shift gives rise to a more diverse range of voices and identities, breaking down the rigid gender norms that have long been enforced by mainstream media. Blakley presents data showing that social media users often prioritize interests and hobbies over gender categories, leading to a more inclusive and less gendered online environment. She suggests that this trend could significantly impact how society views and understands gender in the future.

Part B: OPINION

https://voca.ro/16jEsACr93B4

I agree with Johanna Blakley's perspective that social media is contributing to the breakdown of traditional gender roles. Social media platforms provide a space where individuals can express their true selves without the constraints of societal expectations. This freedom encourages a more diverse representation of gender identities, allowing people to connect based on shared interests rather than gender categories. By moving away from rigid gender norms, we can create a more inclusive and accepting society. Additionally, as more people engage with diverse perspectives online, they become more open-minded and empathetic toward different gender identities. This shift has the potential to reduce discrimination and promote equality. Overall, social media's role in challenging and reshaping gender norms is a positive step towards a more inclusive and understanding world.

Part C: Vocabulary

1. Stereotypes (n): khuôn mẫu

2. Authentically (adv): một cách chân thực

3. Rigid (adj): cứng nhắc

4. Inclusive (adj): bao hàm, bao gồm

5. Enforced (v): áp đặt, cưỡng chế

6. Prioritize (v): ưu tiên

7. Constraints (n): ràng buộc, giới hạn

• journey to protect the beauty of nature

The video is about the efforts of 2 girls who want to make Bali “green and clean” by reducing and banning plastic trash in the "Bye-bye plastic bag" campaign. They told their fantastic and struggling adventure to obtain the environmental mission and got many valuable lessons from it.

Moreover, they also recognize that kids can do things and make something happen. They just got 25% of the world's population, but they are 100% of the world's future.

B. OPINION

https://voca.ro/1h1QDKqv1EIJ

I do not agree with the idea that plastic bag has no use and we do not need them. In the beginning, when the plastic bag was born, the inventors wanted to replace the conventional way we wrap foods with leaves because it can be reused so many times and we can clean it easily. For illustration, my grandmother used 1 plastic for her whole life then she gave it to my mother and me. We love to use it when we go to the market to buy things.

The primary point is located in people's awareness of the way they use plastic products in their usual lives. In conclusion, plastic bags or plastic products have done nothing bad, but the one who made them become terrible was us.

C. VOCABULARY

1. think outside the box: tư duy sáng tạo

2. paradise: thiên đường, ốc đảo

3. immigration: di cư, di dân

4. commitment: cam kết, hứa hẹn

5. hard to walk your talk: nói dễ hơn làm

6. reuseable: có thể tái sử dụng

7. declare: tuyên bố, thông báo

8. agenda: hội nghị, chương trình, nghị sự

• To change your posture is to change your life

Body languages really affect communication and interaction

+ We expand whenever we feel powerful

+ We close ourselves when we fear or have sadness

Finding the answer to the question “Do our bodies change our minds?”

• Through several research studies, she found that changing positions could change our minds.

She shared her own story as an inspiration

• just do it till you get it

• It can be a fake, but a fake will become reality.

• to change your posture is to change your life

• tiny tweaks can lead to big change

B. OPINION

https://voca.ro/1meOcTGnHqbM

In my perspective, I really like the mindset of Ms Amy Cuddy that she dared to change her fate and wanted to change others' minds. We were born and are growing up with a variety of personalities.

Some of them may be good or not, and the point is never to give up on your fate, never give up on your destiny.

If there was anything contributing to your weaknesses, you could change it from little to bigger, day by day, till you get it.

In our society, we tend to avoid doing something dynamic because we are afraid of risks, and we also tend to accept it as a significant part of ourselves.

C. VOCABULARY

1. tiny tweaks: những thay đổi nhỏ

2. ego: bản ngã, cái tôi

3. out-of-body exp: trải nghiệm từ ngoài thể xác

4. paralyze: tê liệt, đơ người ra

5. advistor: cố vấn

6. impostor: kẻ mạo danh

7. configure: cấu hình, định dạng

8. 
   

Psychologist Susan David discusses the way we approach emotions impacts our lives, including actions, careers, relationships, health, and happiness. She challenges the cultural emphasis on positivity, advocating for emotional agility instead. David shares personal stories and strategies to help us embrace our emotions, fostering resilience and thriving in complex conditions.

B. OPINION

https://vocaroo.com/1n8uIL7L3v6j

I agree with Susan David's idea that embracing our emotions, rather than suppressing them, leads to greater resilience and well-being. Her approach encourages authenticity and emotional agility in a world that often values positivity over emotional truth. By acknowledging and processing our emotions, we can make more informed decisions, build stronger relationships, and lead healthier lives. This perspective aligns with the growing body of research supporting the benefits of emotional intelligence and mindfulness.

C. VOCABULARY

1. Agility - nhanh nhẹn, uyển chuyển

2. Resilience - Sức phục hồi, sự bền bỉ

3. Authenticit - Chân thật

4. Complexity - Phức tạp

5. Emotional - Tình cảm, cảm xúc

6. Positivity -Tích cực

7. Denial - Từ chối

In this video, Bill Gates announced the risks of lack of preparation if there is an epidemic.

He showed many estimations about the before-epidemic research with horrible numbers.

He compared the good way to prepare to the way we prepare for war.

Good preparation:

• Health system

• Medical corps

• Pair medical & Military

• Run germ game

• Research and development

In short, an advanced preparation will be better for the future farsight.

B. OPINION

https://voca.ro/19FVOHHwhE09

In my perspective, I really like the vision of Mr. Bill Gates for the preparation. Not only for the next epidemic but for many other aspects, we should spend more time concerned and considering the future rather than just letting it go.

In fact, the cost to deal with an issue is more expensive than the one we prepared for it. For example, every day, If you care about your health and consume good products in your body, you won't have to pay much money for hospitals and medicine in a far distance.

So, after watching his talk, I finally recognized a valuable lesson that I should have prepared for any situation because it is not easy to expect.

C. VOCABULARY

1. barrel: thùng

2. hunker: co người

3. deterrent: ngăn chặn, răn đe

4. eradication: tận diệt, diệt trừ

5. diagnostics: chẩn đoán

6. orchhestrating: tổ chức, sắp đặt

7. epidemmiologists nhà dịch tể học

Bill Gates discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic will shape the near future. He talks about the challenges of reducing virus transmission, the importance of wearing masks and avoiding high-risk indoor environments. Gates also updates on promising vaccine candidates and the role of the Gates Foundation in ensuring global access to vaccines. He emphasizes the need for leadership and realistic communication from authorities, and the ethical implications of the pandemic. Gates believes that the pandemic presents an opportunity to create a better world for all.

B. OPINION

https://vocaroo.com/1iYSacZMjnH9

I agree with Gates' idea that investing in global health systems is crucial. Strengthening health systems worldwide can help detect, respond to, and prevent future outbreaks more effectively. This investment not only saves lives but also promotes global health equity and justice.

Health, Education, and Human beings are three important aspects we must concern about and pay more attention to because they play a paramount role in the present and far future destiny of our world.

C. VOCABULARY

1. Transmission - Truyền đạt

2. Asymptomatic - Không triệu chứng

3. Therapeutics - Điều trị

4. Equity - Bình đẳng

5. Prospects - Khả năng

6. Ethical - Đạo đức

7. Philanthropists - Nhà từ thiện

in this video she explains how stress can be beneficial if we change our mindset. Instead of seeing stress as harmful, viewing it as a helpful response improves health and performance. She shares research showing that believing stress is positive reduces its negative effects. McGonigal also highlights how stress increases oxytocin, which encourages connection and resilience. The key takeaway: reframe stress as a tool for growth rather than a threat. 💡

Part B: In my opinion

Kelly McGonigal’s perspective that changing our mindset about stress can make it healthier is insightful and empowering. By viewing stress as a positive response rather than a harmful one, we can transform it into a source of motivation and resilience. Research supports that believing stress is helpful reduces its negative effects on the body, making us more adaptable in challenging situations. For example, in exams or public speaking, stress can enhance focus and performance if we embrace it instead of fearing it. This perspective is valuable because it shifts stress from being a burden to a tool for growth and success.

Part C: vocabulary

some of new words i have learned from this talk include:

• Insightful – (adj.) showing deep understanding or knowledge

• Empowering – (adj.) giving confidence or control over a situation

• Resilience – (n.) the ability to recover quickly from difficulties

• Transform – (v.) to change completely in a positive way

• Adaptable – (adj.) able to adjust to new conditions

• Enhance – (v.) to improve or increase something

• Embrace – (v.) to accept or support willingly

• Burden – (n.) something difficult or heavy to deal with

• Tool for growth – (phrase) something that helps in personal development

Kelly, a health psychologist, initially believed that stress was inherently harmful to health. A study showed that people who perceived stress as harmful were more likely to die prematurely, while those who didn't view stress as negative had the lowest mortality rates. This led the speaker to investigate how changing one's mindset about stress could impact health.Then, she discusses how our perception of stress can influence our physiological response. Viewing stress as a challenge can lead to a healthier stress response, with relaxed blood vessels and a more positive cardiovascular profile. The talk then explores the social aspect of stress. The stress hormone oxytocin promotes social connection, which is crucial for stress resilience. Helping others and seeking support can release oxytocin, leading to better stress management and improved cardiovascular health. Finally, she concludes that stress can be an opportunity for growth and connection. By viewing stress as a challenge and embracing social support, we can build resilience and live healthier lives.

I agree with Kelly because the idea that our perception of stress plays a crucial role in its impact on our health is particularly insightful. By reframing our thoughts and viewing stress as a challenge, we can activate our body's natural resilience mechanisms. Furthermore, the emphasis on social connection and support as a key factor in mitigating the negative effects of stress resonates strongly.

Vocabulary

1.    Cardiovascular /ˌkɑːdiəʊˈvæskjələ(r)/(adj): relating to the heart and the blood vessels (= the tubes that carry blood around the body)

2.    Demoralize /dɪˈmɒrəlaɪz/ (v): to make somebody lose confidence or hope

3.    Regenerate /rɪˈdʒenəreɪt/ (v):  to make an area, institution, etc. develop and grow strong again.

4.    Inevitable /ɪnˈevɪtəbl/ (adj): that you cannot avoid or prevent

5.    Prematurely /ˌpreməˈtʃʊəli/ (adv): before the normal or expected time

6.    Pituitary gland /pɪˈtjuːɪtəri/: a small organ at the base of the brain that produces hormones that influence growth and sexual development

7.    Adrenaline /əˈdrenəlɪn/ (n): a substance produced in the body when you are excited, afraid or angry. It makes the heart beat faster and increases your energy and ability to move quickly.

8.    Intervention /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ (n): action taken to improve or help a situation

9.    Impromptu /ɪmˈprɒmptjuː/ (adv): without preparation or planning

10. Harass /ˈhærəs/ (v): to annoy or worry somebody by putting pressure on them or saying or doing unpleasant things to them

11. Interpret /ɪnˈtɜːprət/ (v): to explain the meaning of something

12. Vessels /ˈvesl/ (n): a tube that carries blood through the body of a person or an animal, or liquid through the parts of a plant

13. Nudge /nʌdʒ/(v):  to push somebody gently, especially with your elbow, in order to get their attention

14. Receptors /rɪˈseptə(r)/(n): a sense organ or nerve ending in the body that reacts to changes such as heat or cold and makes the body react in a particular way

- Sherry Turkle reflects on her evolving perspective on technology -> from early enthusiasm to growing concern.

- Initially, she believed the internet could help people explore identity and improve real-life relationships.

- Over time, she observed that mobile devices and social media changed how people interact -> making them more distracted and less engaged in real conversations.

- People prefer controlled digital interactions (texts, emails, posts) over face-to-face communication -> leading to the "Goldilocks effect".

- Many prioritize connection over conversation -> reducing the depth of relationships and self-reflection.

- Technology creates an illusion of companionship without the demands of real relationships.

- A lack of solitude leads to dependency on technology for self-validation.

- Over-reliance on digital communication contributes to loneliness, rather than solving it.

- Sherry Turkle suggests reclaiming real-life interactions by valuing solitude, creating tech-free spaces, and prioritizing deep conversations.

- She encourages thoughtful, self-aware technology use to enhance, rather than replace meaningful human connections.

• What I like most about this talk:

- What I like most about this talk is Sherry Turkle’s opinion “That robot can't empathize. It doesn't face death. It doesn't know life.” No matter how advanced, robots lack true empathy because they don’t experience life as humans do. Empathy arises from personal experiences, emotions, and the ability to understand and share another person's feelings. However, robots don’t go through real human experiences like happiness, sorrow, or loss. Also, they don’t face death, which is a crucial part of human existence. Without these experiences, robots can only simulate empathy through programmed responses, but they can never truly feel or understand what it means to be human. Therefore, the connection between humans is more meaningful than that with robots.

• The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

1.       Paradox /ˈpærədɒks/ (n): A situation or statement that seems impossible or is difficult to understand because it contains two opposite facts or characteristics.

          Ex: It's a curious paradox that drinking a lot of water can often make you feel thirsty.

2.       Lament /ləˈment/ (adj): To express sadness and feeling sorry about something.

          Ex: My grandmother, as usual, lamented the decline in moral standards in today's society.

3.       Fidget /ˈfɪdʒɪt/ (v): To keep moving your body, your hands or your feet because you are nervous, bored, excited, etc.

          Ex: Children can't sit still for long without fidgeting.

4.       Gratifying /ˈɡrætɪˌfaɪɪŋ/ (adj): Providing satisfaction or pleasure.

          Ex: It was gratifying to see all the hard work pay off.

5.       Solitude /ˈsɒlətjuːd/ (n): The state of being alone, often by choice, to reflect or rest.

          Ex: He enjoyed the solitude of the forest, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

6.       Optimize /ˈɒptɪmaɪz/ (v): To make something as good as possible.

          Ex: We need to optimize our use of the existing technology.

7.       Smitten /ˈsmɪtn/ (adj): Deeply in love or infatuated with someone or something.

          Ex: He was smitten by her beauty the moment they met.

8.       Caught off guard /kɔːt ɒf ɡɑːrd/ (phrasal verb): To be surprised or unprepared for something.

          Ex: She was caught off guard when the news broke about the surprise party.

9.       Cavalry /ˈkævəlri/ (n): A military unit mounted on horses, historically used for fast, mobile combat.

          Ex: The cavalry arrived just in time to rescue the soldiers.

10.      Reverie/ Revery (uncommon) /ˈrɛvəri/ (n): A state of daydreaming or being lost in thought.

          Ex: She snapped out of her reverie when her phone rang.

11.      Sacred /ˈseɪ.krɪd/ (adj): Considered too important to be changed.

          Ex: His daily routine is absolutely sacred to him.

12.     Bedrock /ˈbedrɒk/ (n): The main principles on which something is based.

          Ex: Some people believe that the family is the bedrock of society.

13.      Regime /reɪˈʒiːm/ (n): A method or system of organizing or managing something.

          Ex: Our tax regime is one of the most favourable in Europe.

14.     Discrete /dɪˈskriːt/ (adj): Clearly separate or different in shape or form.

          Ex: These small companies now have their own discrete identity.

- As a child in the countryside, Jon Jandai felt life was easy and joyful.

- Influenced by media and society, he believed he was poor and needed to pursue success in Bangkok.

- In Bangkok, he was unhappy -> working hard (at least 8 hours/day) but could only afford a bowl of noodles or fried rice; living in poor, cramped, and hot conditions; studying at university but felt discouraged because the knowledge seemed meaningless, mostly focusing on destroying nature.

- A simple life -> In the countryside, people worked only 2 months a year (planting and harvesting) and had plenty of free time >< In modern life, people worked tirelessly but lost their freedom and happiness.

- He decided to return to his village to practice natural farming -> working only 2 months a year and 15 minutes a day but had enough food for six family members, with a surplus to sell.

- Jon Jandai built his own home -> using simple techniques (just 2 hours/day for 3 months) >< his former classmates, who spent 30 years paying off a house loan.

- He used to believe that dressing well was necessary to look attractive but realized expensive clothes didn’t change his true self.

- He learned to heal himself -> using water, soil, and basic knowledge -> illnesses are signals for people to reflect on their lifestyles.

- Jon Jandai founded a place “Pun Pun” to save seeds and a learning center in Chiang Mai.

- The four basic needs (food, shelter, clothing, and medicine) should be easily accessible.

- Choosing a simple and free life -> without worrying about others’ opinions; believing that everyone has a choice: to live easily or to struggle unnecessarily.

• What I like most about this talk:

- What I like most about this talk is “The choice to be easy or to be hard, it depends on you.” Life is easy or hard depending on how we perceive and face it. By managing our time effectively, embracing challenges with a positive attitude, and focusing on the core things, we can reduce pressure and enjoy life more easily. Besides, staying calm, simplifying decisions, and appreciating what we have will help us feel more fulfilled. Ultimately, our perspective shapes our life experiences. If we consider life as complicated, it will be more burdensome; but if we choose to live simply, everything becomes easier.

• The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

1.       Faculty /ˈfæklti/ (n): A department or group of related departments in a college or university.

          Ex: The Faculty of Law.

2.      Contemplate /ˈkɒntəmpleɪt/ (v): To think carefully about and accept the possibility of something happening.

          Ex: The thought of war is too awful to contemplate.

3.      Surplus /ˈsɜːpləs/ (n): An amount that is extra or more than you need.

          Ex: The world is now producing large food surpluses.

 4.     Conventional /kənˈvenʃənl/ (adj): Traditional and ordinary.

          Ex: She's very conventional in her views.

5.       Sufficient /səˈfɪʃnt/ (adj): Enough for a particular purpose; as much as you need.

          Ex: One dose should be sufficient.

6.    Hold onto / /həʊldˈɒntə/ (phrasal verb): To keep or maintain something, especially during difficult times.

          Ex: Hold on to your dreams and never let them go.

Sir Ken Robinson argues that the global education system is outdated and designed for an industrial-era model, which prioritizes standardization over individual creativity. He calls for a radical transformation what he terms a "learning revolution" where education is tailored to individuals rather than forcing everyone to conform to a rigid structure. His core message is that education should focus on organic growth helping students discover their unique abilities rather than treating learning as a mechanical process.

2.One thing I agree with him:

I agree with Robinson’s belief that people perform best when they are passionate about what they are learning. When students are engaged in subjects they love, they are more motivated, creative, and successful. Personalized learning can help unlock each student’s potential instead of forcing them into a system that may not suit their strengths.

3.Vocabulary:

- Elaborate (adj) /ɪˈlæbəreɪt/:

■ [intransitive, transitive] to explain or describe something in a more detailed way

ex: He said he was resigning but did not elaborate on his reasons.

-Utilitarian (adj) /ˌjuːtɪlɪˈteəriən/:

■ designed to be useful and practical rather than attractive

ex: Her clothes were utilitarian, unlike the elaborate dresses the other girls were wearing.

■(philosophy) based on or supporting the ideas of utilitarianism

-Dislocate (v) /ˈdɪsləkeɪt/:

■ dislocate something to put a bone out of its normal position in a joint

ex: He dislocated his shoulder in the accident.

■ dislocate something to stop a system, plan etc. from working or continuing in the normal way

-> synonym: disrupt

-Linearity (n) /ˌlɪniˈærəti/:

■ the fact that something consists of or is arranged in lines

ex: the linearity of the building design

■ the fact that something goes from one thing to another in a single series of stages

ex: She abandoned the linearity of the conventional novel.

■(mathematics) the fact that something can be represented by a straight line on a graph

-Pinnacle (n) /ˈpɪnəkl/:

■ pinnacle of something the most important or successful part of something

ex: the pinnacle of her career

■ a small pointed stone decoration built on the roof of a building

ex: We could just make out the pinnacles of the cathedral in the distance.

-Tremendously ( adv) /trəˈmendəsli/:

■ to a very great degree

ex: tremendously exciting

■ extremely well

ex: This area of research has progressed tremendously in the past few years.

-Disenthrall (v) /ˌdɪsɪnˈθrɔl/

■to free from bondage

-> synonyms: free, release, liberate, let out

- Bali produces 680 cubic meters of plastic waste daily (about a 14-story building). 

- Less than 5% of plastic bags are recycled -> most end up in the ocean, burned, or littered. 

- Melati and Isabel Wijsen focused on plastic bags as a realistic target for kids and started the “Bye Bye Plastic Bags” movement. 

- They formed a volunteer team with local and international students -> launching a petition, giving educational presentations, and organizing beach clean-ups. 

- Promoting alternative bags (net bags, recycled newspaper bags, organic bags). 

- Initially, they failed to convince the government -> aiming for 1 million petition signatures -> collecting signatures at Bali’s airport. 

- Lessons: Change requires teamwork; Think outside the box; Persistence is key; Champions at all levels (students, business leaders, celebrities) are essential. 

- The governor of Bali agreed to meet Melati and Isabel Wijsen -> He signed a commitment to make Bali plastic bag-free by 2018. 

- Expanding their campaign “One Island / One Voice”, encouraging businesses to go plastic-free. 

- They emphasize that kids can create real change without needing a business plan or hidden agendas -> “Kids may be only 25% of the world’s population, but we are 100% of the future.”

• What I like most about this talk:

- What I like most about this talk is “Change requires teamwork. You cannot do it all by yourself.” People often say “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” The important things (change) cannot be done well on our own, so we need collaboration and support from others. Teamwork not only helps us achieve our goals more effectively but also brings emotional benefits such as trust, connection, and shared motivation. Moreover, working as a team allows us to learn from different perspectives, develop problem-solving skills, and inspire one another. This helps us overcome challenges and achieve success more easily.

• The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

1.       Petition /pəˈtɪʃn/ (n): A written document signed by a large number of people that asks somebody in a position of authority to do or change something.

          Ex: Councillors were presented with a petition calling for more money to be spent on policing the area.

2.       Authorization /ˌɔːθəraɪˈzeɪʃn/ (n): A document that gives somebody official permission to do something.

          Ex: She had to sign an authorization to stop the payment.

3.       Escort /ɪˈskɔːt/ (v): To go with a person or vehicle, especially to make certain that he/she/it leaves or arrives safely.

          Ex: Security guards escorted the intruders from the building.

 4.     Suffocate /ˈsʌfəkeɪt/ (v): To prevent something or someone from improving or developing in a positive way.

          Ex: We wanted to stop those plastic bags from wrapping and suffocating our beautiful home.

5.       Boundless /ˈbaʊndləs/ (adj): Without limits; seeming to have no end.

          Ex: Kids have a boundless energy and a motivation to be the change the world needs.

6.       Think outside the box (idiom): To think imaginatively using new ideas instead of traditional or expected ideas.

          Ex: We had to think outside the box to collect one million signatures.  

7.       Go for it (idiom): To do anything you have to in order to get something.

          Ex: "I'm thinking of applying for that job." "Go for it!”

8.       End up (phrasal verb): To finally be in a particular place or situation.

          Ex: They're travelling across Europe by train and are planning to end up in Moscow.

9.       Get on board (phrasal verb): Gain support.

          Ex: We struggled to get the government on board.

10.      Knock on doors (phrasal verb): Seek support or ask for help.

          Ex: After several days knocking on doors and just being kids on a mission, we finally got to the commercial manager of Bali airports.

11.      Bring in (phrasal verb): Introduce.

          Ex: We need to bring in reusable bags instead of plastic ones.

12.      Follow through (phrasal verb): Complete a commitment.

           Ex: We followed through with our promise to make Bali plastic-free.

Angela Lee Duckworth tolds that about their journey from the classroom to becoming a psychologist, driven by the observation that academic success hinges on more than just IQ. Their research, conducted across diverse settings, consistently pointed to grit as a key predictor of success. Grit is about endurance and sticking to your future despite challenges, much like running a marathon. Studies in Chicago public schools further solidified this finding, demonstrating that grittier students were more likely to graduate, regardless of background. However, she acknowledges the critical gap in our understanding: how to cultivate grit in children. While talent is often unrelated or even inversely correlated with grit, the concept of growth mindset, which emphasizes the malleability of the brain, offers a promising avenue.

I agree with her that by emphasizing that abilities can be developed through effort and practice, we can help individuals cultivate a belief in their own potential and persevere in the face of challenges.

Vocabulary:

1.Cadet /kəˈdet/ (n): a young person who is training to become an officer in the police or armed forces.

2.Rookie /ˈrʊki/ (n): a person who has just started a job or an activity and has very little experience.

3.Drop out: to no longer take part in or be part of something.

4.Intuition /ˌɪntjuˈɪʃn/ (n): the ability to know something by using your feelings rather than considering the facts.

5. Stratospheric /ˌstrætəˈsferɪk/ (adj): extremely high.

6. Sprint /sprɪnt/ (v): to run or swim a short distance very fast.

7. Stamina /ˈstæmɪnə/ (n): the physical or mental strength that enables you to do something difficult for long periods of time.

8. Day in, day out (idiom): every day for a long period of time.

9. Decimal/ˈdesɪml/ ( adj) : ​based on or counted in tens or tenths.

10. Parallelogram/ˌpærəˈleləɡræm/ (n): a flat shape with four straight sides, the opposite sides being the same distance apart at every point and equal to each other.

In this talk, Ken Robinson argues that the way we currently educate children may be stifling their innate creativity. He emphasizes that creativity is not just a skill, but a core part of human nature. Everyone has different talents and interests, and the education system needs to create conditions for each individual to develop to their fullest potential. In a rapidly changing world, creativity is an important factor in solving complex problems and creating new breakthroughs. But the current education system makes students feel bored and find it difficult to find passion in learning. In addition, he shows that creativity does not only exist in the arts, but is present in every aspect of life.

Vocabulary:

- Pedagogy: Phương pháp sư phạm

- Cognition: Nhận thức

- Divergent thinking: Tư duy phân kỳ (khả năng nghĩ ra nhiều ý tưởng khác nhau cho một vấn đề)

- Convergent thinking: Tư duy hội tụ (khả năng tập trung vào một giải pháp tốt nhất cho một vấn đề)

- Intrinsic motivation: Động lực nội tại

- Extrinsic motivation: Động lực ngoại tại

- Standardization: Chuẩn hóa

- Heterogeneous: Khác biệt

- Homogeneous: Đồng nhất

- Neurodiversity: Sự đa dạng thần kinh (sự khác biệt về cách bộ não hoạt động)

Kelly McGonigal is a health psychologist. She shares how her perspective on stress has changed. While she used to believe that stress was harmful, research shows that it is the belief that stress is harmful, not the stress itself, that increases health risks. One study found that people who experienced high levels of stress but viewed it positively had the lowest mortality rates. Reframing stress as something helpful can lead to healthier physical responses, such as relaxed blood vessels and improved cardiovascular health. Stress also stimulates the release of oxytocin, a hormone that strengthens social bonds and helps the body heal. She encourages people to embrace stress as a source of strength and connection, pursue meaningful experiences, and believe in their ability to overcome challenges. With the right mindset, stress can increase resilience and improve our health

II. Vocabulary:

1.       Cardiovascular /ˌkɑːdiəʊˈvæskjələ(r)/ (adj): Relating to the heart and blood vessels.

2.       Estimate /ˈestɪmeɪt/ (v): To make an approximate calculation or judgment.

3.       Prematurely /ˌpreməˈtʃʊəli/ (adv): Before the expected or usual time.

4.       Homicide /ˈhɒmɪsaɪd/ (n):The killing of one person by another.

5.       Impromptu /ɪmˈprɒmptjuː/ (adj): Done without preparation or planning.

6.       Panel /ˈpænl/ (n): A group of people chosen to give advice or make decisions.

7.       Sufficiently /səˈfɪʃntli/ (adv): In an adequate amount or degree.

8.       Demoralize /dɪˈmɒrəlaɪz/ (v): To make someone lose confidence or hope.

9.       Unbeknownst /ˌʌnbɪˈnəʊn/ (adv): Without the knowledge of someone.

10.   Increment / /ˈɪŋkrəmənt/ (n): A small increase or addition.

11.   Vessel /ˈvesl/ (n): A container for holding liquids or a ship.

12.   Constrict /kənˈstrɪkt/ (v): To make something narrower or tighter.

13.   Stress-induced /stres ɪnˈdjuːs/ (adj): Caused or triggered by stress.

14.   Intervention /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ (n): The act of intervening to help or change the course of an event.

- The future global catastrophe is likely a pandemic (an infectious virus), not a nuclear war. 

- The world has very little pandemic preparedness.

- The Ebola outbreak:

  + There was no effective system to handle the outbreak.

  + Lack of a group of epidemiologists ready to consider diseases and assess the situation.

  + Case reports were very slow and inaccurate.

  + Medical teams were unprepared.

  + No research was done on potential treatments (using survivor plasma).

- The next pandemic could be far more devastating -> a virus could be airborne and spread rapidly; bioterrorism.

- Modern tools, rapid vaccine and drug development with new technologies -> building an effective response system.

- Military-style preparation for epidemics:

  + Building a strong healthcare system (especially in poor countries).

  + Establishing a medical reserve corps.

  + Collaborating with the military.

  + Conducting epidemic simulations (germ games) regularly.

- Investing in preparedness -> preventing mass deaths, improving global health systems, and ensuring readiness for the next epidemic.

• What I like most about this talk:

- What I like most about this talk is “The failure to prepare could allow the next epidemic to be dramatically more devastating than Ebola.” It is critical for global preparedness in handling infectious diseases. The Ebola outbreak was somewhat contained because of factors such as the virus’s transmission limitation and the significant efforts of healthcare systems. However, future epidemics may be more severe. A highly infectious virus that spreads through the air or has a long development period quickly reaching urban areas and extending worldwide. Without a proper system in place, millions of people could be lost. Therefore, it is necessary to prevent catastrophic consequences by investing in healthcare systems, research, and preventive measures (vaccines, medicines,…).

• The vocabulary I learned from this talk include:

1.       Contagious /kənˈteɪdʒəs/ (adj): A contagious disease spreads by close contact between people.

          Ex: The flu is highly contagious, so you should stay at home to avoid spreading it to others.

2.       Catastrophe /kəˈtæstrəfi/ (n): A sudden and severe disaster or failure.

          Ex: The earthquake was a catastrophe, destroying thousands of homes.

3.       Infectious /ɪnˈfekʃəs/ (adj): An infectious disease can be passed easily from one person to another, especially through air or water.

          Ex: Flu is highly infectious.

 4.      Nuclear deterrent /ˌnjuːkliə dɪˈterənt/ (n): A nuclear weapon or weapons system that is intended to stop an enemy from attacking.

          Ex: They stressed the need for an independent nuclear deterrent.

5.       Orchestrate /ˈɔːkɪstreɪt/ (v): To organize a complicated plan or event very carefully or secretly.

          Ex: The group is accused of orchestrating violence at demonstrations.

6.       Deploy /dɪˈplɔɪ/ (v): To arrange and use resources or personnel for a specific purpose.

          Ex: The government deployed medical teams to assist in the affected areas.  

7.       Simulation /ˌsɪmjuˈleɪʃn/ (n): The act of pretending that something is real when it is not.

          Ex: Pilots train using flight simulations before flying a real aircraft.

8.       Missile /ˈmɪsaɪl/ (n): A weapon that is sent through the air and that explodes when it hits the thing that it is aimed at.

          Ex: Nuclear missiles.

9.       Microbe /ˈmaɪkrəʊb/ (n): An extremely small living thing that you can only see under a microscope and that may cause disease.

          Ex: Some microbes are beneficial to human health, while others can cause serious diseases.

10.      Literally /ˈlɪtərəli/ (adv): Used to emphasize the truth of something that may seem surprising.

          Ex: There are things that would literally make things a thousand times worse.

11.      Bedridden /ˈbedrɪdn/ (adj): Having to stay in bed all the time because you are sick, injured or old.

           Ex: After the accident, she was bedridden for months.

12.     Bioterrorism /ˌbaɪ.əʊˈterərɪzəm/ (n): The use of biological agents (such as viruses or bacteria) as weapons.

          Ex: Governments fear that bioterrorism could be used to spread deadly diseases.

13.      Pathogen /ˈpæθədʒən/ (n): A thing that causes disease.

           Ex: The spread of pathogens by insects.

14.      Hoad /hɔːd/ (v): To collect large amounts of something and keep it for yourself, often in a secret place.

           Ex: People hoarded food and supplies during the pandemic.

15.      Turnaround /ˈtɜːnəraʊnd/ (n): The amount of time taken for something to happen after a vehicle, an instruction, or an order for goods arrives at a place.

           Ex: Turnaround time for each order is, on average, four days.

16.      Hunker /ˈhʌŋkə(r)/ down (phrasal verb): To prepare yourself to stay somewhere, keep an opinion, etc. for a long time.

          Ex: During the hurricane, the family hunkered down in their basement.

17.      Get going  (phrasal verb): To start doing something quickly.

           Ex: We need to get going on preparing for the next epidemic.

18.      Move in (phrasal verb): To enter a situation to take control or assist.

           Ex: Doctors moved in quickly to contain the disease.

19.      Come out of something (phrasal verb): If something comes out of a process or event, it is one of the results.

           Ex: One lesson that came out of the pandemic is the need for preparedness.

Ken Robinson argues that schools unintentionally suppress children's creativity. He explains that children are naturally curious and creative, but the education system teaches them to fear mistakes, which limits their ability to think freely. Schools prioritize subjects like math and science while giving less importance to the arts, music, and creative activities. As a result, many students lose confidence in their creative abilities over time. Robinson believes that education should encourage both knowledge and creativity, helping students develop their unique talents. He calls for a more flexible and diverse education system that values different ways of thinking and learning.

Vocabulary

1. Creativity: Sự sáng tạo

2. Education system: Hệ thống giáo dục

3. Mistakes: Sai lầm

4. Innovation: Sự đổi mới

5. Intelligence: Trí thông minh

6. Hierarchy: Hệ thống cấp bậc

7. Talent: Tài năng

8. Standardized: Chuẩn hóa

9. Curriculum: Chương trình học

10. Divergent thinking: Tư duy phân kỳ (tư duy sáng tạo, đa chiều)

Agree

I agree that the education system does not encourage students to take risks and try new ideas.

In traditional education, students are often evaluated based on grades and right or wrong answers. This makes them afraid of making mistakes and afraid to try creative ideas. Meanwhile, creativity requires experimentation and accepting failure as part of the learning process.

If schools allow students to freely explore, ask questions, and experiment without fear of judgment, they will develop more flexible thinking. This will help students not only excel in academics but also know how to solve problems and adapt to changes in the future.

The speaker emphasizes that persistence and hard work are crucial for success. Through her research, she finds that grit (passion and perseverance) for long-term goals is a significant predictor of success. Her studies show that grit outperforms factors like IQ, social intelligence, looks, and physical health. She notes that grittier students are more likely to graduate and highlights the concept of a "growth mindset" by Carol Dweck, which promotes perseverance through belief in learning and effort. She calls for more research on how to cultivate grit and urges educators and parents to focus on developing this quality in children.

Vocabulary and idioms:

1.  Demanding: requiring much effort or attention

2.  Stamina: the ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort

3.  Commitment: the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause or activity

4.  Perseverance: persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success

Robert Waldinger, the director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, shares insights from an 80+ year study on happiness. The study followed the lives of two groups of men—Harvard graduates and boys from underprivileged backgrounds—tracking their health, careers, relationships, and overall well-being.

Key Findings:

1. Strong Relationships Lead to a Happier, Healthier Life

   • People with close, supportive relationships (friends, family, community) tend to be happier and live longer.

   • Social connections protect mental and physical health, while loneliness can be as harmful as smoking or alcoholism.

2. Quality Matters More Than Quantity

   • It's not about the number of friends but the depth of connection. Conflict-filled relationships are damaging, whereas warm, trusting relationships bring long-term happiness.

3. Good Relationships Protect the Brain

   • Those in strong, secure relationships retain better cognitive function as they age. Feeling emotionally safe with someone helps prevent memory decline.

4. Money and Fame Don’t Bring Lasting Happiness

   • Many chase wealth and success, but long-term fulfillment comes from meaningful relationships, not external achievements.

5. It’s Never Too Late to Strengthen Relationships

   • No matter your age or situation, investing in relationships can improve happiness and health.

WHAT DO I AGREE WITH FROM THE TALK?

The idea that the quality of our close relationships matters deeply resonated with me. After years of searching for genuine friendships, it dawned on me that quality outweighs quantity. Back in secondary school, being part of a large friend group took a toll on my health—I struggled to fit in and enjoy the fun. I was constantly overwhelmed by the fear of not being accepted and felt confused. Additionally, many of those friendships weren’t truly genuine. People gathered together simply to avoid feeling alone and lost, yet they would talk behind each other's backs, making it a toxic relationship.

Entering high school, finding new friends completely changed my perspective. This time, my circle was much smaller—just 3 or 4 people—but they truly considered me a friend. I could text them at any time and talk about anything without the fear of being judged. Since then, I have felt both physically and mentally healthier because I feel genuinely connected and seen.

VOCABULATIES

1. Millennials (noun) /mɪˈlɛn.i.əlz/: Individuals reaching young adulthood around the year 2000; typically born between 1981 and 1996.

   • Example: Many millennials prioritize work-life balance over traditional career paths.

   • Vietnamese: Thế hệ thiên niên kỷ

2. Sophomore (noun) /ˈsɒf.ə.mɔːr/: A student in their second year of high school or college.

   • Example: As a sophomore, she began to focus more on her major subjects.

   • Vietnamese: Sinh viên năm thứ hai

3. Disadvantaged (adjective) /ˌdɪs.ədˈvɑːn.tɪdʒd/: Lacking in basic resources or conditions believed to be necessary for an equal position in society.

   • Example: The program aims to support disadvantaged children in urban areas.

   • Vietnamese: Thiệt thòi

4. Distracted (adjective) /dɪˈstræk.tɪd/: Unable to concentrate because one's mind is preoccupied.

   • Example: He was distracted by the noise outside during the meeting.

   • Vietnamese: Phân tâm

5. Alcoholism (noun) /ˈæl.kə.hɒl.ɪ.zəm/: An addiction to the consumption of alcoholic beverages or the mental illness and compulsive behavior resulting from alcohol dependency.

   • Example: Alcoholism can lead to severe health complications if not addressed.

   • Vietnamese: Chứng nghiện rượu

6. Toxic (adjective) /ˈtɒk.sɪk/: Poisonous; in relationships, refers to behaviors that are harmful or destructive.

   • Example: They decided to end their toxic relationship for the sake of their well-being.

   • Vietnamese: Độc hại

7. Conflict (noun) /ˈkɒn.flɪkt/: A serious disagreement or argument, typically a protracted one.

   • Example: The conflict between the two departments hindered project progress.

   • Vietnamese: Xung đột

8. Grudge (noun) /ɡrʌdʒ/: A persistent feeling of ill will or resentment resulting from a past insult or injury.

   • Example: She held a grudge against him for years after their disagreement.

   • Vietnamese: Hận thù

9. Feud (noun) /fjuːd/: A prolonged and bitter quarrel or dispute.

   • Example: The feud between the two families lasted for generations.

   • Vietnamese: Mối thù hận

10. Screen time (noun) /skriːn taɪm/: The amount of time spent using devices with screens such as computers, televisions, or smartphones.

    • Example: Parents are concerned about their children's excessive screen time.

    • Vietnamese: Thời gian sử dụng thiết bị điện tử

In this video "How to Make Stress Your Friend," psychologist Kelly McGonigal explains that stress itself is not harmful our belief about stress determines its impact. Research shows that people who view stress as a positive response, rather than a threat, experience fewer negative health effects. Additionally, helping others when stressed can improve well-being and even increase longevity. By changing our mindset, we can transform stress from an enemy into an ally, using it to enhance performance, build connections, and improve our overall health.

2.One thing I agree with her:

I agree that our mindset about stress shapes its impact on us. When we see stress as a challenge rather than a threat, we can use it to our advantage whether by staying focused, strengthening relationships, or building resilience. This shift in perspective can make a real difference in how we experience difficult situations.

3.Vocabulary:

-oxytocin (n) /ˌɑːk.sɪˈtoʊ.sɪn/:

■ a hormone that helps with labour (= the process of pushing out a baby) and helps women and female mammals to produce milk

- Cardiovascular (adj) /ˌkɑːdiəʊˈvæskjələ(r)/

■ relating to the heart and the blood vessels (= the tubes that carry blood around the body)

- Epidemiology (n) /ˌepɪˌdiːmiˈɒlədʒi/

■ the scientific study of the spread and control of diseases

-Compassion (n) /kəmˈpæʃn/:

■ ​compassion (for somebody) a strong feeling of sympathy for people or animals who are suffering and a desire to help them

-> She was known as a hard woman with no compassion, no emotion.

- Adversity (n) /ədˈvɜːsəti/

■ a difficult or unpleasant situation

-> He overcame many personal adversities.