Faculty of International Economics Administration: “English as an International Language” Program - 1ST MEETING SUMMARY

Use what you learn

EIL program run a place for language learners to use English in a casual setting. Practicing your skills in the classroom is important, but it is not like real life. In the classroom, you often focus on one skill and one item (for example: grammar - future tense). After learning the rules your teacher gives you time to practice using the item. You have your papers in front of you and the rules are fresh in your mind. Will you remember how to use your skills next week, or next year? In an English Club, you get a chance to practice many different skills in a setting that is more like real life. Though your English teacher understands your English, your English Club friends will require you to speak more clearly and listen more carefully.

Make English-speaking friends

Starting an English Club is a great way to make new lasting friendships. It is important to have good ESL (English as a Second Language) friends because your confidence will increase if you do. You will feel more comfortable using English around people you trust and have fun with. Don't limit your friends to the people in your class.

Base on Faculty of International Economics Administration students’ demands in learning and improving English abilities, Dr Nguyen Van Tan – Dean of Faculty who be responsible for the academic leadership and management of the faculty, establish a English education program for business students.

GENERAL MESSAGES

Yesterday at English Club (May 07) EIL discussed topic “Learning English through Music” and how everyone apply those learning skills in English. Most people had a nice time with others.

Our new phrase of the week was: "chorus - the element of the song that repeats at least once both musically and lyrically”. Speaker Nguyen Minh Quan introduces several key points such as:

·         Learning occurs in an environment of high stimulation and low anxiety.

·         According to the theory, the emotional state of the learner acts as a filter that permits or stops input.

·         Music uses both hemispheres of the brain.

·        Language learners need information and practice at their own level of competency “plus one,” or just a bit more of the next level.

·        Song lyrics help with “plus one.” The chorus is like a hook. Students learn the chorus and use it to learn the rest of the lyrics.

Attendants of first meeting were mentioned that there key points are useful for self-learning English.

Next, we continued with the discussion of how does listening to music effect your learning English and sharing experience in studying the second language such as English. Next section, we will continue with the game and puzzle which relevant to music.

IN CONCLUSION

There are some outcomes that EIL team records from attendants and the feedback is very positive:

·         Create an active and student-centered environment.

·         Improve all English skills.

·         Members can boost their English as well as help their fellow students improve theirs.

·         Bring new information about school to students.

·         Bring news and useful information to students.

·     Encourage members to speak English confidently and become more opinionated through practicing (speaking only English during meeting and giving presentation).

Here are a few suggestions for you to answer for next 2 weeks:

•           Are you self-confident?

•           What is your favorite part in public speaking?

Attendance has been low the first time. We are sure this because of lack of information. We hope more people will attend in next 2 weeks.

Minh Quân