VSTEP Speaking VSTEP Review Speaking Test 09

When I was a child, I studied at a public school, which is also called a national school in some places. I think it was a good experience because the teachers were caring and I could make friends from many different backgrounds. If I had to choose between a public school and a private school, I would choose a public school for most students because it is more affordable and follows the national curriculum closely. However, private schools may offer smaller classes, better facilities, and more extracurricular activities. In my opinion, the best choice depends on the family’s budget, the child’s needs, and the quality of the school.

Yes, I often experience traffic jams, especially during rush hours in the morning and late afternoon. They usually happen when people are going to work, taking children to school, or returning home. Traffic jams can be very stressful because they waste time and make people tired before they even arrive at their destination. In my city, the problem is worse on rainy days or near busy intersections. To reduce traffic jams, I think people should use public transport more often, start work at different times, and follow traffic rules carefully.

I would choose social media because it is the fastest and most effective way to attract tourists today. Many people use platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to look for travel ideas, so beautiful photos and short videos can quickly reach a large audience. TV and radio advertising may look professional, but it can be expensive and less popular among young travellers. Writing travel content, such as blog posts or online articles, is useful because it gives detailed information, but it may take longer to gain attention. Social media can combine pictures, videos, reviews, and travel tips in one place. Therefore, I believe it is the best choice for promoting the city to both domestic and international visitors.

In my opinion, reducing crime rates requires both prevention and education. First, security cameras can help prevent crimes in public places because people are less likely to break the law when they know they are being recorded. Cameras can also help the police find evidence after theft, violence, or traffic offences. Second, prisons are necessary for serious criminals because they protect society and show that illegal actions have consequences. However, prison should not only punish people; it should also provide training and support so that offenders can change their behaviour after they are released. Third, education is probably the most important long-term solution. Schools and families should teach young people about laws, responsibility, respect, and the consequences of crime. Job training and community programmes can also help people avoid crime by giving them better opportunities. Personally, I have never been directly involved in a serious crime, but I have heard about phone theft, online scams, and traffic violations, which are quite common in many places. Overall, I think my country is relatively safe, especially in daily life, but people still need to be careful with their belongings and personal information. Therefore, a combination of cameras, fair punishment, education, and social support is the best way to reduce crime.