Speakers
Description
The use of checklists in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) writing instruction has gained attention as an effective tool for guiding students through the writing process. In the context of Vietnamese grade-10 students using the textbook Global Success, teaching writing often faces a number of difficulties regarding the requirements of the writing tasks and the linkage between the tasks and the language learned in the units. This study employed a qualitative research design to explore student perceptions and practices regarding the use of checklists in writing. Data were collected through an open-ended questionnaire, which was translated into and answered in Vietnamese. Forty-two participants completed the questionnaire. A thematic analysis was conducted to identify recurring themes and patterns in students' experiences and perspectives. The results reveal that learners' perceptions are positive when feedback is clear and helps them identify areas for improvement. While the existing assessment criteria are generally viewed as adequate and aligned with standards such as IELTS, there is a desire for more specific content examples and feedback that encourages deeper thinking rather than just superficial checking. The study also provides guidelines and pedagogical suggestions for language teachers and learners to effectively utilize checklists, along with recommendations for textbook writers. Some difficulties in using checklists in teaching writing are also addressed.
Biography
Thi Lam Tra DINH is currently an English teacher at Le Quy Don High School for the Gifted, Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa, Vietnam. She has some publications in areas, including testing and assessment, pragmatics, and ICT. She has presented at VietTESOL International conferences since 2018. Her areas of interest are pragmatics, intercultural communication, extensive reading, and the application of ICT in language teaching.
Thi Thanh Nha TRAN is currently Deputy Principal and has also been an English teacher at Le Quy Don High School for the Gifted, Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa, Vietnam since 1996. She used to be a key trainer of VTTN (Vietnam’s Teacher and Trainer Network) and Access English (Two of the projects sponsored by the British Council Vietnam). She has been a participant and presenter at some VietTESOL International conferences. Her areas of interest are intercultural communication, reading, writing, and the application of ICT in language teaching.
