Download Cultural Differences in Communication: A Dialogue on Etiquette and Social Norms and more Cheat Sheet Legal English in PDF only on Docsity!
Cue card 1
Trân: Hi Tom! Can you tell me a little about your family? Quân: Of course! My family has five members. There’s my dad, John—he’s a mechanic—and my mom, Doris, who works as a nurse. Then there’s me, Tom, I’m 7 years old. I have a younger sister, Miriam, who’s 6, and we also have a baby brother, Kevin. He’s only 9 months old. Trân: Wow, a baby in the family must be a lot of fun! Quân: Yeah! But he is always crying in the midnight so it's kinda noisy. Trân: ______, I can imagine! What about your relatives? Do you have a big extended family? Quân: Not too big, but I have grandparent, an uncle, and a cousin.About my grandfather and grandmother first, they always give us candy when come to look after us. Next about my cousin, he is fun to play with. And about the uncle, i don't really know about him. Trân: That sounds nice. And do you have any pets? Quân: Yes, we do! We have two parrots—they’re super chatty and always repeat what we say. And we also have some goldfish. I love watching them swim around. Trân: ________________ (câu kết) Quân: ________________ (câu kết)
1. Do you spend a lot of time with your family?
Trân: Yes, I do spend lots of time with my family, I usually go back home at the
weekend. After a hard working week, having a warm and cozy dinner with my family is
nothing more satisfying.
2. What do you like to do together as a family?
Well, my family and I enjoy spending time together doing simple but meaningful
activities. For example, we often have family meals where we share stories about our
day. Sometimes, we watch movies or play board games, which always end with a lot of
laughter.
3. Do you get along well with your family?
Yes, I would say I get along quite well with my family. Of course, like every family, we
have our disagreements sometimes, but we always try to solve them calmly. We
respect each other's opinions and support one another in difficult times.
4. Who are you closest to in your family?
I’m closest to my mom. They understand me very well, and I feel comfortable sharing
my thoughts and feelings with them. We spend a lot of time talking, and they always
give me great advice when I need it.
5. Which are more important to you: your family or your friends?
That’s a tough question because both are important to me in different ways. My family
has always been my foundation—they’re the ones who support me unconditionally. On
the other hand, my friends are like my chosen family, and they bring joy and fun to my
life.
Cue card 2 Trân: I’ve been thinking about leadership lately. What traits do you think make someone a great leader, beyond just giving orders? Quân: I think confidence is key, but it shouldn’t come off as arrogance (kiêu ngạo). A leader needs to make decisions confidently but also stay humble, admitting when they’re wrong. Trân: That’s true. I also feel like communication is super important. A leader has to be able to explain things clearly and listen to their team, right? Quân: Definitely. A leader who listens makes the team feel valued. And when unexpected challenges come up, a good leader stays calm and adjusts (điều chỉnh) plans when needed. Trân: That makes sense. And when things get tough and motivation drops, how should a leader handle that? Quân: Empathy (sự đồng cảm) is key here. A good leader notices when the team is struggling and offers support. Staying positive and focusing on solutions helps too. Trân: Do you think these traits are natural, or can they be developed? Quân: It’s a bit of both. Some people may naturally have some traits, but most can be developed with practice and self-awareness. The best leaders are always learning and improving. Trân: That’s a great way to look at it. It means anyone can be a great leader if they put in the effort!
6. How would you describe yourself?
Honestly speaking, I find myself rather unapproachable as it’s very difficult for me to
make new friends. I would prefer to stay at home and immerse myself in a real
page-turner rather than to go out and engage in an outdoor activity. That’s why I just
have a few friends who share the same interest in reading books.
7. Do you enjoy meeting new people?
I'm on my way to becoming a more confident person. It’s always interesting to learn
about different backgrounds and hear new stories. Plus, it’s a great way to expand my
social circle and gain new perspectives.
8. Do you get excited by new challenges?
Trân: Absolutely! Patience is key. I’d add that a great teacher is also empathetic. They can put themselves in their students' shoes and really understand how they feel. It’s more than just teaching the material; they understand the emotional side too. Quân: I agree, and I’d also say that great teachers need to be enthusiastic. When they love their subject. It makes students more interested and willing to dive in (dành 100% công sức vào điều gì đó). Trân: That’s a good one! Enthusiasm can really lift the classroom atmosphere. And I think communication skills are essential too. They need to explain concepts clearly and listen to students’ questions attentively. Quân: Yes! And I’d add that the best teachers are also dedicated (tận tâm). They’re committed to their students’ success, often going above and beyond to make sure everyone is learning and growing. Trân: Exactly! Dedication shows students that their teacher genuinely cares. When students feel that, it can motivate them to work harder. Quân: So true. So, to sum it up: patience, empathy, flexibility, creativity, enthusiasm, communication skills, and dedication. Those are the hallmarks of a truly great teacher. Trân: I couldn’t agree more! If every teacher had these traits, I think students would feel a lot more supported and excited about learning.
Cue card 5
Trân: Hello! How can I help you today? Quân: Hey! I’m in Room 102, and I actually have a complaint. Trân: Oh, I’m sorry to hear that! What seems to be the problem? Quân: Well, the room is really noisy. It’s right next to the elevator, and I couldn’t get any sleep last night because of it. Trân: I’m so sorry about that! Unfortunately, we’re fully booked today, so there aren’t any other rooms available at the moment. But if you’d like, you can take a seat, and I’ll let the manager know you’d like to speak with him. Quân: That would be great, thank you. (A few minutes later) Quân: Is there a room available now? Trân: Yes, actually, Room 303 just became available! Would you like me to reserve it for you? Quân: Yes, please. That would be perfect.
Trân: Wonderful. You’ll be able to change rooms any time after 2 p.m. Quân: Thank you very much for your help!
- What influences people’s choice of hotels? Several factors can influence a person’s choice of hotel. For example, location is often a priority —people prefer hotels close to tourist attractions, business areas, or transportation. Price is another key factor, as travelers usually have a budget. Amenities like free Wi-Fi, breakfast, or a swimming pool also play a role.
- Why do some people not like staying in hotels? Some people dislike staying in hotels because they find them impersonal or uncomfortable compared to being at home. For instance, the atmosphere can sometimes feel too formal, or the room might lack a personal touch. Others may be concerned about cleanliness or noise from other guests.
- Do you think staying in a luxury hotel is a waste of money? It depends on the Quânnd their priorities. For some, staying in a luxury hotel is worth the cost because it provides exceptional comfort, service, and unique experiences. However, for budget- conscious travelers or those who prefer to explore rather than relax in their accommodation, it might feel unnecessary to spend so much.
- Do the hotel ratings of people influence their choice? Yes, hotel ratings have a big influence on people’s decisions. Many travelers rely on reviews and star ratings from websites to determine if a hotel is clean, comfortable, and provides good service. Positive reviews can boost a hotel’s reputation, while negative feedback might drive potential guests away.
- When people are traveling away from home, what choices do they have for places to stay? What kinds of hotels does Vietnam have? When traveling, people have a variety of options for accommodations. Apart from hotels, they can stay in hostels, guesthouses, or vacation rentals. Vietnam has a wide range of hotels to suit different budgets and preferences. There are luxury resorts offering world-class facilities. Mid- range and budget hotels are popular in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, catering to both tourists and business travelers providing an unforgettable experience.
Cue card 6
Quân (Jackie Molland): Hello! I’d like to check in. My name is Jackie Molland, and I have a reservation. Trân: Welcome, Ms. Molland! I see your reservation here. May I have your ID card, please? Quân: Of course. Here you go. Also, is there a restaurant in the hotel?
Cue card 8
Quân: Hi, I just checked in, but I’ve noticed a few problems with my room. Could you help me, please? Trân: Of course, Mr. Andrews. I’m here to assist you. May I know what the issues are? Quân: First of all, the Wi-Fi isn’t working in my room. I tried connecting, but it keeps saying “connection failed.” Trân: I’m sorry about that. Let me check the Wi-Fi system for your room. In the meantime, you can try reconnecting using this password: "ThisSubjectSuck." If the issue persists, I’ll send someone from our IT team to fix it. Quân: Alright. Another thing—I noticed the air conditioner is making a lot of noise. It’s quite disturbing. Trân: I apologize for the inconvenience. I’ll inform our maintenance team right away, and they’ll resolve it as soon as possible. Quân: Thanks. One last thing—does the hotel have a gym? I didn’t see any signs for it. Trân: Yes, we do. The gym is located on the second floor and is open 24/7. It’s free for all guests. Quân: Perfect. Here’s my credit card for the room charges. Trân: Thank you. I’ve also confirmed your reservation for three nights. Your check-out date is Friday. Is there anything else I can assist you with? Quân: No, that’s everything. Thank you for your help! Trân: You’re welcome, Mr. Andrews. I hope everything gets sorted quickly, and I wish you a pleasant stay with us.
- Do you think customers’ complaints will improve product or services? Yes, I think customer complaints can improve products and services if businesses take them seriously. Feedback helps companies identify weaknesses and make necessary changes. For example, if many customers complain about slow service, the company might train staff better or hire more employees. Listening to complaints shows customers that their opinions matter, which can also build trust.
- What things do people often complain about in your country? In my country, people often complain about issues like poor customer service, delays in public transportation, or the high cost of certain goods. For example, it’s common to hear complaints about internet speed not matching what was promised by the provider.
- What product or services do people in your country like to complain about? People in my country frequently complain about services like internet and mobile networks because they don’t always meet their expectations.
- What is the best way to make a complaint? The best way to make a complaint is to remain calm and polite while clearly explaining the issue. First, contact the company’s customer service through phone, email, or social media. Be specific about the problem and, if possible, provide evidence like receipts or photos. It’s also a good idea to suggest a solution, like a refund or replacement. This approach increases the chances of resolving the issue quickly and effectively.
Cue card 9
Trân: Hey! I’m planning to check out the museum here. Can you give me some tips on getting there? Quân: Sure! It’s pretty easy to reach. If you’re coming from downtown, you can take the bus number 12 or the tram – both stop just a block away from the museum. Or if you prefer, it’s a 20-minute walk from the city center. Trân: Great, thanks! Do you know the opening hours? Quân: It’s open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day except Mondays when they’re closed. Trân: Good to know. And do you happen to know if there’s an entry fee? Quân: Yeah, tickets are around $15 for adults, but they offer discounts for students and kids. If you’re planning to visit often, they also have an annual pass that’s a pretty good deal. Trân: Nice! So, what kind of exhibits are there? Quân: There’s a bit of everything! They’ve got an amazing art collection, some local history exhibits, and interactive science displays. There’s also a section with rotating exhibits, so there’s always something new to see. Trân: Sounds awesome! Do they have a café or anything? Quân: Yes, they have a little café with coffee, tea, and fresh juices. It’s a nice spot to relax, and you can even sit outside if the weather’s good. Trân: Perfect, that sounds ideal. Thanks for all the info!
Yes, I think my hometown is a great place to live. It has a balanced lifestyle with both modern facilities and a close connection to nature. There are good schools, healthcare facilities, and plenty of markets for shopping. The transportation system is also convenient, so it’s easy to get around. Overall, it’s a place where you can enjoy a balanced and comfortable lifestyle.
- How has your hometown changed over the past few years? My hometown has changed a lot over the past few years. For example, there are more modern buildings and shopping centers now, which have made it more convenient for people. Roads have been improved, and there’s better public transportation.
- What’s the most interesting part of your town/village? The most interesting thing in my hometown – QN city is its beauty that nature has provided for. Our city is one of the most attracted traveling spot that tourist usually pay attention to. That’s also the things I proud of my hometown.
- What kind of jobs do the people in your town/village do? In my hometown, people work in a variety of fields. Many are involved in agriculture because the area is known for its fertile land. Others work in small businesses, teaching, or healthcare. In recent years, more people have started working in factories or offices due to industrial development. Tourism is also growing, so some locals work in hotels or as tour guides.
Cue card 11
Trân: Hey, I’ve been thinking… I want to be more social, but I’m not sure where to start. Any advice? Quân: Sure! It’s not as hard as it seems. Start small, like making eye contact and smiling at people. Trân: Eye contact? That sounds a bit awkward. Quân: It might feel that way at first, but it works. It shows you’re confident and approachable. Trân: Hmm, okay. What else can I try? Quân: Try making small talk with strangers, like when you’re in line at a café or waiting for the bus. Just ask something simple like, “How’s your day going?” Trân: Oh, I don’t know… I’m worried I’ll run out of things to say.
Quân: Don’t overthink it. Just show genuine interest. Ask about their hobbies or what they like doing for fun. Trân: I like that idea. But what if I don’t feel confident? Quân: Fake it till you make it! Act confident, even if you’re nervous. Practice helps a lot. Trân: Okay, I’ll try that. Anything else? Quân: Join a group or club that matches your interests. It’s easier to connect with people who like the same things as you. Trân: That’s a good idea. I’ve been thinking about a book club or maybe a fitness class. Quân: Perfect! And remember, it’s all about small steps. Don’t pressure yourself too much. Trân: Thanks! I’ll give it a shot and see how it goes. Quân: You’ll do great. Just take it one step at a time!
Cue card 12
Quân: Hey! I’ve been trying to study more effectively lately, but I feel like I’m not getting anywhere. Do you have any tips? Trân: Absolutely! One thing that really helps me is breaking up study sessions into smaller chunks. Studying for a few focused sessions with breaks in between is much better than cramming for hours. Quân: That makes sense. I tend to study for long periods and get exhausted. I’ll try shorter sessions. What do you do to remember things better? Trân: Active recall is a game-changer for that! Instead of just re-reading notes, I quiz myself on the material or try explaining it in my own words. It really forces me to engage with the information. Quân: Oh, I’ve heard of that! I usually just read my notes over and over, but that sounds way more effective. Do you have any other strategies? Trân: Yes, spaced repetition is another great one. Reviewing material at gradually increasing intervals helps you retain it long-term, rather than just for a test. Quân: Interesting! So, I’d study something one day, then again in a few days, and maybe a week later? Trân: Exactly! You can even use apps that schedule it for you. And don’t forget the basics— good sleep, hydration, and exercise can also improve focus and memory. Quân: True! I often skip out on sleep before big exams, but I’ll try not to this time. Thanks for all the tips; I feel like I’ve got a much better plan now.
In my country, people save money for various reasons. Many save for their children’s education, buying a house, or starting a business. Others save for emergencies, such as medical expenses or unexpected events. Saving for retirement is also common, as people want to ensure financial security in their later years.
- Is money important to you? Yes, money is important to me because it provides security and allows me to meet my needs, such as food, housing, and education. However, I believe money is not the most important thing in life. It’s more about using it wisely to create a comfortable and meaningful life, rather than letting it control you.
- Do you think money management skills are important? Absolutely. Money management skills are crucial for everyone. They help people budget their income, avoid debt, and plan for the future.
- Should parents give children money? Yes, I think parents should give children money, but in a thoughtful way. For example, giving an allowance can teach kids about budgeting and the value of money. However, parents should also guide their children on how to save and spend responsibly. This helps children develop good financial habits from a young age.
Cue card 15
Quân: I was just thinking about what makes a great boss. What qualities do you think are most important? Trân: That’s a great question! For me, communication is key. A good boss needs to be clear about expectations and provide honest feedback. It’s hard to do a good job if you’re unsure of what’s needed. Quân: Totally agree. I’d add fairness to that. A good boss treats everyone equally and gives credit where it’s due. It makes a huge difference when you feel valued and recognized. Trân: Absolutely! I’d also say supportiveness is essential. A great boss helps their team grow, whether it’s through training, mentorship, or just being available when you need advice. Quân: Yes! And I think trust goes both ways—trusting their employees to do their jobs without constant micromanaging. It creates a much more positive atmosphere. Trân: That’s so true. Lastly, I think a good boss should be approachable. When employees feel comfortable sharing ideas or concerns, it creates a stronger, more collaborative team. Quân: Definitely. So, communication, fairness, supportiveness, trust, and approachability— those really cover it! Trân: Exactly. If more bosses focused on those qualities, I think workplaces would be a lot more enjoyable and productive.
Cue card 16
Quân: Hey, if you had to pick the most important qualities in a co-worker, what would they be? Trân: Hmm... that’s a good question. I’d say being reliable is huge. Like, if someone says they’re gonna do something, they need to actually do it, you know? Quân: Oh, for sure! Reliability is a big deal. For me, being collaborative is right up there. I hate it when someone acts like they’re working alone on a team project. Trân: Oh yeah, teamwork is everything. And honestly, I think being respectful goes hand in hand with that. Like, even if you don’t agree with someone, you’ve gotta treat them with respect. Quân: Absolutely! Respect can make or break a team. What about hard-working? That’s another must for me. I can’t stand it when someone’s slacking off and leaving the rest of us to pick up the slack. Trân: Totally agree. But I think it’s also about balance. Like, being adaptable is just as important. Things don’t always go as planned, so you’ve gotta roll with the punches. Quân: True, true. And I’d add attentive to the mix. Paying attention to details and to what’s going on around you makes such a difference. Trân: Oh, 100%. And honestly, I really admire people who are problem-solvers. Instead of just pointing out problems, they come up with solutions. It’s such a positive vibe. Quân: Totally! And while we’re at it, I’d say being positive in general is huge. Nobody wants to work with someone who’s constantly negative. Trân: Yeah, positivity is contagious. I’d also throw in professional. It’s not just about dressing right—it’s about how you handle tough situations and communicate. Quân: Right! So, reliable, collaborative, respectful, adaptable, hard-working, attentive, professional, positive, and a good problem-solver? Trân: That sounds like the dream co-worker! Too bad we don’t all have one like that, huh? Quân: Ha, yeah. But we can always try to be those people, right? Trân: Couldn’t agree more. Let’s aim to be those co-workers ourselves! Quân: Deal! Alright, see you later.
Whatever time-space we're living in, friendship always plays an important role in our lives. With the challenges of modern life, having good friends can reduce stress and make life more enjoyable.
- Is it important to stay in touch with your friends throughout the years? Yes, staying in touch with friends is very important. Even if life gets busy, maintaining communication helps keep the bond strong. With technology like messaging apps and video calls, it’s easier than ever to stay connected, even if friends live far away. Long-lasting friendships are valuable because they grow deeper over time
- Do you think that social media is changing the way that we relate to our friends and family? Yes, social media has definitely changed the way we connect with friends and family. On one hand, it makes communication faster and allows us to stay updated on each other’s lives. However, it can also make relationships feel less personal if people rely too much on online interactions instead of meeting face-to-face. Finding a balance is key.
Cue card 18
Quân: Hey, have you ever thought about how to stay safe online? It’s such a big deal these days. Trân: Definitely! The internet can be fun, but you’ve gotta be careful. Like, I always keep my personal info private—no sharing my address, phone number, or anything like that. Quân: Same here. I’m super picky about what I share too. Even a simple photo can reveal more than you think if you’re not careful. Trân: Exactly! That’s why I always check my privacy settings. I make sure only friends can see my posts, not random strangers. Quân: Good call. I’ve been doing that too. And you know, I’ve learned how to report posts or block people if something seems off. Trân: Oh yeah, knowing how to report stuff is so important. It’s like having a safety button. And don’t forget about passwords—mine are always strong and unique. No way am I using something basic like “ThisSubjectSuck.” Quân: Haha, same here. I even use a password manager to keep track of them all. What about meeting people online in person? Would you ever do it? Trân: Honestly, no. That’s way too risky unless I bring someone I trust or know it’s 100% safe. Better to be cautious than regret it. Quân: Totally. And if I see something online that’s upsetting or just feels wrong, I don’t hesitate to tell someone I trust—like a parent or teacher.
Trân: That’s a good habit. Some people keep it to themselves, but talking to someone can make such a difference. Quân: Yep! So, be nice, stay cautious, and always think before you click. That’s pretty much my online motto. Trân: I love that! Honestly, these little habits can save us from so much trouble. Stay safe out there! Quân: You too! Bye for now.
- How often do you talk to your friends? I talk to my friends quite often, maybe a few times a week. We usually chat online or send messages to stay updated on each other’s lives.
- What do you think makes people have a long friendship? Well, I think it is important for a friend to be thoughtful and considerate. If I make friend with someone who only cares about themselves, especially if they are arrogant and narcissistic I would immediately be put off and try to disconnect from the conversation. A great friend will offer you practical advice, will glue your feet to the ground while being supportive in your decisions.
- How do people make friends now? Nowadays, people make friends through various ways. Social media and online platforms are popular, where people connect through shared interests or mutual friends. Schools, workplaces, and hobby groups are also great places to meet new people.
- Are friends more important than family? (Why?) I don’t think friends are more important than family, but both play different roles in life. Family provides unconditional love and support, while friends are the people you choose to share your experiences with. Ideally, a balance between the two is best, as both relationships are valuable in their own ways.
Cue card 19
Trân: Definitely! You should never criticize the monarchy in Thailand. It’s actually against the law under Article 112, also known as the “Les Majeste” law. People have been imprisoned for criticizing the royal family, and the penalties can be pretty harsh—ranging from 3 to 15 years in prison. Quân: That’s intense! I’ll make sure to avoid any comments about the monarchy. What about personal space? Are there any customs regarding that? Trân: Yes! One important custom is that you should never touch someone’s head in Thailand. The head is considered sacred because it's the highest part of the body, closest to the sky. So, it’s seen as very disrespectful to touch someone’s head without permission. Quân: Oh, that’s good to know. And I’ve heard that feet are considered the opposite, right? Trân: Exactly! Feet are considered the dirtiest part of the body , so you should never put your feet up on a seat, especially in public places like buses. It’s also rude to step over someone’s feet—always walk around them. Basically, keep your feet on the ground and away from other people’s faces. Quân: Got it! So, I need to be careful about where I put my feet and make sure not to touch anyone's head. Any other customs I should be aware of? Trân: I think those are some of the most important ones. Just remember to be respectful of the culture and traditions, and you’ll be fine!
Cue card 21
Quân: Hey! I heard you recently went to Korea. How was it? Did you learn anything about the local customs? Trân: It was amazing! Yeah, there were definitely some unique customs I had to get used to. For example, I noticed that people don't blow their nose in public. It’s considered really impolite there. Quân: Really? So, what do people do if they have a runny nose? Trân: They usually step out of the room or go to the restroom to blow their nose. At first, it seemed a bit strange, but after a while, it started to feel normal. Quân: That’s interesting! Anything else you had to keep in mind? Trân: Oh, definitely! Another big one was not sitting in seats meant for the elderly. On the subway and buses, there are seats specifically reserved for older people, and it’s a big no-no for younger people to sit there, even if the seats are empty. Quân: That makes sense. It's respectful. Did you have to speak much Korean?
Trân: I tried! Even knowing a few basic phrases, like “hello” or “thank you,” really helped when asking for help. People seemed to appreciate it, even if my pronunciation wasn’t perfect. Quân: I bet they did! Did you come across any customs that surprised you? Trân: Yeah, one more thing—taking off your shoes whenever you go inside someone’s home. Koreans always leave their shoes at the entrance. Even some restaurants and traditional guesthouses have shoe-off areas. Quân: That sounds nice, actually. It’s probably cleaner too. I’d love to visit someday and experience all these customs for myself! Trân: You should! Korea’s culture is so rich and respectful. Just be ready for a few differences, and you’ll have a great time.
- Do you think it’s important to know about other cultures? Yes, it’s very important to know about other cultures because it helps us understand and respect people who are different from us. It broadens our perspective, reduces stereotypes, and promotes tolerance. In a globalized world, cultural awareness is essential for effective communication and collaboration.
- What do you think is the best way to learn about another culture? I think the best way to learn about another culture is through direct experiences, like traveling or interacting with people from that culture. Trying their food, attending festivals, or learning about their traditions can give you a deeper understanding. Reading books, watching films, or studying history are also effective ways to learn about a culture.
- Do you think that learning foreign languages can help us understand foreign cultures? Yes, I totally agree, because language is a part of the culture when you dive in learning about it, you know more about their culture. It reflects the values, traditions, and way of thinking of a culture. Plus, speaking the language helps you communicate directly with locals, making it easier to appreciate their way of life.
- Do you think it’s easier to learn about other cultures today than it was before? Yes, it’s definitely easier to learn about other cultures today. The internet provides access to endless resources like videos, articles, and virtual tours. Social media allows us to connect with people from all over the world. Traveling has also become more affordable and convenient, making it easier to experience other cultures firsthand.
