Speaker
Description
Graded readers, simplified storybooks designed for language learners, offer accessible and engaging materials that can support Vietnam’s national policy to reposition English from a foreign language (EFL) subject toward a functional second language (ESL) in primary education. This mixed-methods study investigated how graded readers influence the motivation of young EFL learners at Dinh Van I Primary School in Lam Dong province, Vietnam.
The research employed structured questionnaires (n=90) and semi-structured interviews (n=15) with Grade 4 students aged 8–9. Quantitative results revealed strong positive perceptions across four motivational dimensions: emotional response, confidence, autonomy, and interest. Emotional response received the highest scores, while autonomy and interest scored relatively lower. Qualitative findings identified four key motivational factors—story content, illustrations, difficulty level, and reading activities—with illustrations emerging as the most influential factor and reading activities the least.
Grounded in motivational theories such as Self-Determination Theory (emphasizing autonomy, competence, and relatedness) and extensive reading principles, the study demonstrates that graded readers can effectively enhance young learners’ affective engagement and willingness to use English beyond the classroom. These findings support the transition toward ESL by fostering intrinsic motivation and meaningful literacy experiences.
The study concludes that incorporating graded readers as curriculum supplements can significantly boost learner motivation. Practical recommendations include prioritizing visually rich materials, selecting appropriate difficulty levels, and integrating interactive reading activities. Implications for teachers and curriculum designers highlight the value of learner-centered resources in Vietnam’s EFL-to-ESL shift.
Biography
Ms. Van Tran is a dedicated English teacher at Dinh Van I Primary School in Lam Dong province, Vietnam. With 12 years of experience teaching English to young learners in the public education system, she is deeply passionate about creating engaging and meaningful learning experiences for her students.
She strongly believes in the power of building genuine connections with young learners and fostering their love for English. Her teaching approach emphasizes motivation, creativity, and learner-centered activities, particularly through the use of stories and graded readers. She is committed to supporting Vietnam’s national goal of transitioning English from a foreign language to a functional second language in primary education.
Ms. Van Tran is enthusiastic about sharing practical classroom insights and contributing to the professional development of English language teachers in Vietnam.
| Affiliate type | Vietnamese public school |
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