Aug 27 – 29, 2026
University of Foreign Language Studies, The University of Danang, Vietnam
Asia/Ho_Chi_Minh timezone
Repositioning English: From Foreign to Second Language

Simple stories, big impact: some practical strategies for using storytelling in resource-constrained EFL primary classrooms

Not scheduled
1h
University of Foreign Language Studies, The University of Danang, Vietnam

University of Foreign Language Studies, The University of Danang, Vietnam

Workshop Professional Development Workshops

Speakers

Phuong Le Hoang Ngo (University of Foreign Languages and International Studies, Hue University, Vietnam)Dr Thao Thi Thanh Tran (University of Foreign Languages & International Studies, Hue University)Ms Tien Phuoc Thuy Hoang (Hue University of Foreign Languages and International Studies, Hue University)Ms Nhi Thuc Nguyen (University of Foreign Languages & International Studies, Hue University)

Description

Storytelling has long been recognized as a powerful pedagogical tool in primary English language education (Ellis & Brewster, 2014). Despite these benefits, we observe that many primary English teachers in Vietnam remain hesitant to integrate storytelling into their classrooms. This reluctance is often attributed to resource constraints, including limited access to visual aids, technological facilities, teaching materials, and the perceived time-consuming nature of story preparation and adaptation.

This interactive workshop aims to demonstrate that effective storytelling does not necessarily require extensive resources or equipment. In so doing, the workshop will first provide an overview of storytelling and its pedagogical benefits in primary EFL contexts. Participants will then observe a demonstration of a story-based lesson designed for Grade 4 learners, illustrating how a single story can be adapted for different teaching environments, including classrooms with minimal teaching resources. This will be followed by several hands-on activities, in which participants will work to adapt a story script according to their learners’ proficiency levels and contextual constraints. They will explore practical techniques for simplifying language, creating low-preparation teaching aids, incorporating gestures and voice techniques, and maximizing learner participation without relying on expensive materials or technology. The workshop will conclude with a 10-minute reflection and discussion session, providing participants with an opportunity to share insights, discuss potential classroom applications, and reflect on how storytelling can be implemented effectively in their own teaching contexts.

Ellis, G., & Brewster, J. (2014). Tell It Again! The New Storytelling Handbook for Primary English Language Teachers. British Council.

Biography

Dr. NGO Le Hoang Phuong is a lecturer at the University of Foreign Languages and International Studies, Hue University, Vietnam. She holds an M.A and a Ph.D in Applied Linguistics for Language Teaching from the University of Southampton, UK. Her current research focuses on EMI, Global Englishes/ decolonialization in language teaching, teacher agency, and teacher education.

Dr. TRAN Thi Thanh Thao is a lecturer at the University of Foreign Languages and International Studies, Hue University, Vietnam. She holds an M.A. in TESOL from Australia and a Ph.D. in English Language Education from the Education University of Hong Kong. Her current research focuses on language competence, mobile learning, technology-enhanced language learning, self-regulated learning, and the integration of digital technologies to support language development.

Ms. NGUYEN Thuc Nhi is a lecturer at the University of Foreign Languages and International Studies, Hue University, Vietnam. Her research interests include technology in language teaching and learning, AI-assisted writing, and EFL writing instruction. She is particularly interested in the use of digital tools to support learners’ writing development, revision processes, and language learning experiences in higher education contexts.

Ms. HOANG Phuoc Thuy Tien is a lecturer at the University of Foreign Languages and International Studies, Hue University, Vietnam. Her research interests include Discourse Analysis, Language Skills as well as Theory and Methodology of English Language Teaching. Her previous research focuses on methods of learning vocabulary, improvements in English learning and teaching skills, and schematic structure analysis of storytelling genres.

Ms. HO Thi Thuy Trang is a lecturer at the University of Foreign Languages and International Studies, Hue University, Vietnam. Her current research areas include English teaching methodology, ICT in language teaching and teacher professional development.

Affiliate type University

Authors

Phuong Le Hoang Ngo (University of Foreign Languages and International Studies, Hue University, Vietnam) Dr Thao Thi Thanh Tran (University of Foreign Languages & International Studies, Hue University)

Co-authors

Ms Tien Phuoc Thuy Hoang (Hue University of Foreign Languages and International Studies, Hue University) Ms Nhi Thuc Nguyen (University of Foreign Languages & International Studies, Hue University) Ms Trang Thi Thuy Ho (University of Foreign Languages & International Studies, Hue University)

Presentation materials

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