Speakers
Description
The transition from EFL to ESL in schools in Vietnam underscores the increasing importance of preschool education in providing initial English exposure and communicative preparedness before the children enter primary education. This presentation reports on the development of a three-tier system of preschool English materials for 3-6 year olds in the emerging context of ESL-oriented schooling, in response to this educational change. The project aims to produce preschool English teaching materials, but the resources are also meant to facilitate the integration of English into the regular educational activities of preschools. The materials are developed based on the national Early Childhood Education Program and the national English Language Familiarization Program for Preschool Children, applying play-based, integrated pedagogy to offer culturally and developmentally appropriate English preparation. Vocabulary and language structures are introduced through familiar themes and experiential activities such as storytelling, music, movement, games, role-play, art activities, projects, and exploration of the surrounding world, allowing for meaningful and low-anxiety language exposure for very young learners. The presentation discusses the pedagogical principles, curriculum alignment, and material design considerations that inform the project, along with teacher-support materials such as songs, flashcards, posters, and guided classroom procedures. Sample materials and integrated activity designs will be demonstrated to highlight how preschool English materials can support language learning, learner engagement, and continuity from preschool to primary education within Vietnam’s long-term ESL transition.
Biography
Ha Cao Thi Hong Thu has three decades of experience in lecturing, teacher training, and curriculum development. She is based at the National College of Education Ho Chi Minh City and has worked with a range of universities, local departments of education and training, and commercial publishers. She has written a series of English textbooks for very young learners. She has also been a speaking examiner for over 15 years, bringing her expertise to standardized language assessment. She regularly presents, coordinates, and reviews at international TESOL conferences. Her professional interests include training teachers of English to very young learners and teenagers, designing English textbooks, and creating welcoming spaces for teachers to share ideas, learn from each other, and grow together.
Nguyen Thi Thanh Ha has more than 10 years of experience in English education and is currently working as an English lecturer at the National College of Education, Ho Chi Minh City. She holds an MA in TESOL from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Ho Chi Minh City. Her primary research interests include language learner motivation, learner autonomy, and professional development. She has actively participated in English language teaching conferences and professional development workshops, where she has shared practical classroom experiences and teaching practices for low-level learners. Her work mainly focuses on creating scaffolded communicative activities that promote meaningful language use, learner engagement, and greater learner confidence in English classrooms.
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