Trong bài thi IELTS Speaking Part 2, bạn có thể gặp những câu hỏi về kế hoạch và sự thay đổi. Đề bài "Describe a plan that you had to change recently" yêu cầu bạn mô tả một kế hoạch mà bạn đã thay đổi gần đây, giải thích lý do thay đổi và chia sẻ cảm nhận của bạn về sự thay đổi đó.
Để giúp các bạn tự tin hơn với đề bài này, các bạn có thể cùng SOL tham khảo các sample answers dưới đây nhé.
Describe a plan that you had to change recently
You should say:
When this happened
What made you change the plan
What the new plan was
And how you felt about the change

Trong 1 phút chuẩn bị, bạn có thể suy nghĩ theo các bước sau:
Chọn một kế hoạch thực tế: Một chuyến đi chơi, một buổi hẹn, một kế hoạch học tập hoặc công việc.
Lý do thay đổi: Thời tiết xấu, vấn đề sức khỏe, lịch trình thay đổi, hoàn cảnh bất ngờ…
Kế hoạch thay thế: Điều chỉnh thời gian, chọn địa điểm khác, thay đổi hoạt động…
Cảm xúc về sự thay đổi: Thất vọng, thích thú, bất ngờ hoặc học được điều gì đó.
A few weeks ago, I had planned a weekend trip to the beach with my friends. We were all excited because we hadn’t gone on a trip together for a long time. However, just two days before our departure, the weather forecast predicted a heavy storm hitting the coastal area. It was too risky to continue with our plan, so we had to cancel the trip.
Instead, we decided to have a staycation in the city. We booked a hotel with a rooftop pool, enjoyed a buffet dinner, and spent the weekend relaxing. It was different from what we originally planned, but surprisingly, it turned out to be a fantastic experience. We had great conversations and quality time together.
At first, I was quite disappointed because I was really looking forward to the beach. But in the end, I realized that it’s not about the destination but the people you spend time with. This experience taught me to be more flexible and open to changes.
I’d like to talk about a plan I had to change at the last minute. It happened about a month ago, when I had planned to go on a short trip to Ninh Bình with some friends. We had been looking forward to it for weeks because it was a great chance to escape the city and enjoy the peaceful countryside.
Unfortunately, the weather completely ruined our plan. A few days before our trip, the forecast predicted heavy rain and even storms in the area. At first, we were still hopeful that the rain wouldn’t be too bad, but on the morning of our departure, it was pouring down. Since most of the activities in Ninh Bình involve being outdoors, like visiting temples and riding boats through caves, we knew we had no choice but to cancel.
Instead of going on the trip, we decided to have a small gathering at a friend’s house. We ordered some food, played board games, and spent the whole day chatting. It wasn’t the adventure we had expected, but in the end, it turned out to be a fun and relaxing day.
To be honest, I felt a bit disappointed at first, but looking back, I think it was still a good experience. I realized that the people you spend time with matter more than the place you go to. Also, since we couldn’t visit Ninh Bình that time, we’re now even more excited to go when the weather is better.
Last month, I had planned to study for my IELTS exam every evening for two weeks straight. However, after just a few days, I realized that I was too exhausted from school and other commitments. My initial plan was too intense, and I couldn’t focus properly.
So, I decided to adjust my study schedule. Instead of studying every night, I spread out my study sessions, focusing on different skills each day and taking breaks when needed. I also joined an online speaking club to practice with other learners, which turned out to be a great way to improve my fluency.
At first, I felt guilty for not sticking to my original plan. But later, I saw that this new approach was much more effective. I learned that it’s important to be realistic when making plans and to listen to my body and mind.
Heavy storm – Cơn bão lớn.
Staycation – Kỳ nghỉ tại nơi mình đang sống.
Rooftop pool – Hồ bơi trên tầng thượng.
Quality time – Thời gian chất lượng bên gia đình/bạn bè.
Look forward to – Mong đợi điều gì đó.
Be flexible and open to changes – Linh hoạt và sẵn sàng thích nghi với sự thay đổi.
Exhausted – Kiệt sức, mệt mỏi.
Spread out my study sessions – Giãn cách thời gian học để hiệu quả hơn.
Fluency – Khả năng nói lưu loát.
Listen to my body and mind – Lắng nghe cơ thể và tâm trí của mình.
Sample Answer 1:
As far as I can tell, people frequently change their plans due to unforeseen circumstances. Things like sudden work commitments, bad weather, or personal emergencies often force people to adjust their schedules. Moreover, some people are simply spontaneous by nature and enjoy being flexible rather than sticking to rigid plans.
Sample Answer 2:
The way I see it, it depends on the person. Some individuals are meticulous planners who prefer to stick to their original schedule, while others are more adaptable and open to change. That said, unexpected situations, such as a last-minute opportunity or a change in priorities, can make even the most organized person reconsider their plans.
Useful Vocabulary:
Sample Answer 1:
My take on this is that technology makes planning much more efficient and hassle-free. With smartphones and apps, people can set reminders, schedule appointments, and even get real-time traffic updates to ensure their plans go smoothly. Online calendars and collaboration tools also make it easier to coordinate with others, especially in a professional setting.
Sample Answer 2:
As far as I’m concerned, one of the biggest advantages of technology is that it allows for instant adjustments. If a plan changes, people can quickly reschedule through messaging apps or booking platforms without any inconvenience. Plus, AI-powered recommendations help people plan trips or events more effectively by suggesting the best options based on their preferences.
Useful Vocabulary:
Sample Answer 1:
To my way of thinking, parents continue to plan for their children because they want to ensure stability and security. Many parents believe that kids lack the experience to make good decisions, so they take responsibility for organizing their education, extracurricular activities, and even their future careers. While this may seem controlling, it often comes from a place of love and concern.
Sample Answer 2:
What I reckon is that parental planning is still common because of societal expectations. In many cultures, parents are expected to take an active role in shaping their children’s future, ensuring they have the best opportunities. Additionally, modern life is extremely competitive, so parents feel the need to map out a clear path to success for their kids.
Useful Vocabulary:
Sample Answer 1:
As far as I can see, it depends on the situation. If my plan involves other people, I would definitely inform them as soon as possible to avoid causing any inconvenience. However, if it’s a personal matter that doesn’t affect anyone else, I might not feel the need to announce it.
Sample Answer 2:
The way I see it, keeping others informed about changes in plans is a matter of basic courtesy. Whether it’s rescheduling a meeting or postponing an outing, letting people know in advance helps maintain trust and good relationships. That said, if the change is minor and doesn’t impact anyone, then there’s no real need to make a big deal out of it.
Useful Vocabulary:
Hy vọng bài chữa đề này giúp bạn có thêm ý tưởng và cách diễn đạt linh hoạt trong IELTS Speaking Part 2 và IELTS Speaking part 3. Chúc bạn học tốt nhé.
