Tag: Vietnam

Places you must see in Vietnam.

My favorite “Must See’s” in Vietnam.

Whether you come for a holiday or like me an ex-pat who has lived in Vietnam for 15 years, there are myriads of places to see and adventures to experience. These are some of my favorite places I have visited and some of the experiences I have encountered.

Vietnam.

Vietnam is almost the same area as New Zealand and could easily fit into the United States 25 times over, yet with nearly 100 million people and a spectacular landscape, there are a million things to do.

Here are some of my favorite spots to visit in Vietnam, ranging from jagged highlands in the north to tropical beaches in the south, and with a wealth of history and culture in between you will never be left bored.

And let’s not forget about the strong as superman coffee and cheap beer and amazing food.

A Little Background First.

I came to Vietnam over 15 years ago and it still feels like yesterday. The day-to-day life is funny, frustrating, complex but never boring.

I still remember stepping off the Vietnam Airlines plane where the seat felt like torture because it had a metal rod inserted in the middle of the chair. Vietnamese love a firm chair.

When I stepped off the plane in Saigon, now Ho Chi Minh city, the first thing I noticed was the smell. The people smelled cleaner and fresher somehow.

It wasn’t until some time later I realized this was because of the diet. To Vietnamese most foreigners smell like meat sacks.

The smell of the streets though is a different matter. Mixed in with the aromas of great food you will find the smells of rubbish, and worse affronting your nose. You will get used to it.

Off the Plane.

After catching a bus from the plane to the interior of the airport I had to get my bags to go to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam.

Hanoi is an amazing place, although I did have a guard point an automatic assault weapon at me when I climbed the steps of Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum. My first of many out-of-the-ordinary experiences. I am sure he would have not shot me.

After a week in Hanoi, including “bia a hoi’ing” (Drinking homemade beer with the locals) it was off to Halong Bay and then so many other places that I have come to love. So let’s dive into my favorite spots.

My Favorite Spots in Vietnam.

Hanoi.

The Old Quarter near Hoan Kiem Lake in Vietnam’s capital city is rich in history and culture. With market streets, a thriving nightlife, and some of the best Vietnamese food on the planet, this is the city’s tourism epicenter.

There’s a lot to see and do here, but the most important thing is to immerse yourself in Hanoi’s pulsing heart. Go bia a hoi’ing and eat on a plastic seat while slurping up a bowl of hot noodles and nodding furiously to other patrons.

The people in Hanoi are more reserved than those in the south but there is no animosity about the war years so you can relax and enjoy your “Pho”. It is nice that they are more reserved as it is not as much of an in-your-face city as Ho Chi Minh.

Halong Bay.

I took a taxi from Hanoi to Halong bay, which shows you how cheap taxis are in Vietnam. But that was 15 years ago, although the prices are still amazingly cheap.

This journey was an eye-opener as I had never seen a huge pig on the back of a motorbike before. Have I said this already, this country has great opportunities for the photographer in you?

Got to Halong bay and got on a Junk and sailed around the karst systems of Halong Bay, absolutely one of the wonders of the world.

Halong Bay is breathtakingly magnificent, and you can book overnight cruises that not only take you to the most remote regions of the Bay but also include activities such as kayaking or, if you’re like me, just sunbathing.

You may explore this gorgeous location on day trips, two-day trips, three-day trips, and even longer getaways.

Da Nang.

After the excesses of Hanoi and the overeating and sun baking in Halong Bay, it was nice to get to Da Nang. Da Nang was and still is a very touristy place but it has a nice underbelly of life once you get to know the area a bit more.

When I first went to Da Nang I stayed in a 5-star hotel and had a wonderful time. Since then, I have been back a few times and stayed in less expensive accommodation and probably have had more fun.

However, for your first trip, I would recommend a beachfront hotel with all the amenities. It worked for me.

Da Nang is Vietnam’s third-largest city, and it is the country’s commercial, tourism, and educational hub. Locals consider it to be the most worthwhile place to live in Vietnam, and many ex-pats consider it to be one of the best places to retire.

But, whatever the hype, it’s definitely worth visiting and, depending on your mood, partying in or just relaxing.

Hoi An.

The next stop was Hoi An and I had a great but expensive time. My fault entirely, the clothes are so cheap and you get them made to measure in 24 hours. I still have my silk nightgown.

My only unpleasant experience here was a young lady who tried to exchange foreign coins with me and got quite aggressive. So I gave her $5.00 and threw them into the water, I am sure she went swimming later.

Apart from that touristy event, yes it is a very tourist place now and charges just to get into some areas, you can have a great time.

Hoi An is noted for its celebrations, with the Full Moon Festival, held on the 14th of each lunar month. This is one of the most well-known nights before the full moon. During this time “Old Town” becomes much more festive, bustling, and magnificently decked with lighting.

And what I enjoyed the most was the floating lanterns next to the hotel I stayed in. I was told that Graeme Green also stayed in the same riverside hotel as me. So it was dinner on the patio with a bottle of red.

My Son.

Those who wish to make a day trip from Hoi An to other tourist attractions in the vicinity such as My Son will be blown away much like I was.

This place is old and amazing. When I visited I was told not to stray off the paths as some old bombs had still not been found or diffused. It certainly livened up the whole experience.

My Son is a photographer’s delight and you will be pleased you made the effort to get here. But if you don’t want hundreds of people in your pictures do what I did and get there early.

My Son History.

Between the 4th and 13th centuries, a unique civilization formed on the coast of modern-day Vietnam, with spiritual roots in Indian Hinduism.

The ruins of these spectacular towers and temples are built in a spectacular jungle setting and served as the Champa Kingdom’s religious and political capital for most of its existence.

Unfortunately, it was bombed by the Americans during the liberation of Vietnam from foreign aggressors, much like the Ukraine of today.

When I last visited they were still unsure as to how the construction and mortar were combined to make it as long-lasting as it is. Another lost art. And the photos I shot are still some of the best I have ever done.

Nha Trang.

Nha Trang nearly ruined me, and it was here that I famously lost an eyebrow. When you have to join a full group for breakfast with only one eyebrow, it doesn’t look good.

This place is much busier than some of the other southern beach towns, which means there is a lot more to see and do. The nightlife is vibrant, and adrenaline enthusiasts will enjoy a variety of extreme activities such as jet skiing, surfing, and even fly-boarding.

There’s a lot to do, so take it slowly.

During the holidays, Nha Trang is filled with local families on vacation as well as international visitors.

The water here is clean and clear for swimming, and with dedicated swimming areas and landscaped sunbathing areas, this makes it a terrific choice for restful days at the beach.

If you get tired of sunbathing, head north across the Xom Bong Bridge to the historic Po Nagar Cham Towers, which have been utilized as a place of prayer since at least the 7th century.

There is also an excellent museum dedicated to Alexandre Yersin’s work, who discovered the cause of the bubonic plague and built the Pasteur Institute in Nha Trang.

There was a lot to see and a lot to do, but now it was time to head even further south. Into the bowels of the wicked city and wonderful nightlife.

Ho Chi Minh City.

My home town, if you can call it that. Overcrowded, bustling, and smelly in good and bad ways. I love it. I have spent the majority of my time in Ho Chi Minh City and it is all the best of Vietnam and all the worst at the same time.

I live in a district called Go Vap and it is not foreigner-friendly but in nice ways. Most foreigners will not move from districts 1, 2, 7 and the surroundings but the blessing of moving further out is you get to understand the culture and see what real Vietnamese life is like.

So what is life like here? Interesting to say the least.

Ho Chi Minh City, originally Saigon, is the economic capital of Vietnam and the southern region’s major center.

HCMC’s dynamic cityscape, a freewheeling, global metropolis, brings old and modern Vietnam together in the smallest of areas, signifying the city’s past as well as its future.

The Notre Dame Cathedral, the city’s Central Post Office, and the Saigon Opera House are all located near Dong Khoi street. The more upmarket end of town.

‘Pham au Lau” is or was the famous or infamous, depending on your point of view, backpacker area of Ho Chi Minh City. In the past, it has been notorious for prostitutes, drugs, and petty crime. But also great nightlife and amazing experiences.

These days it is a sad area with most businesses being closed because of high rentals and no visitors. All thanks to Covid.

The Chinese neighborhood known as Chợ Lớn is still great for exploring on foot. Head for Bình Tây Market, a wholesale trading center, and Thiên Hậu Pagoda, a temple that pays homage to the sea goddess.

And if you come, it is always appreciated if you try to speak a few words of the local language. Correct or not you will get respect for the attempt. 

Conclusion.

And there is so much more. If you come to Vietnam on holiday or for work take the time to explore the country and get to know some of the people and culture of this wonderful country.

Who am I?.

My name is Stephen and I have lived in Vietnam for 15 years and have my own school here as well as having an amazing Vietnamese family. I am also the author and owner of this website. I hope you have enjoyed this short article about Vietnam.

If you want to have a look at walking around Dong Khoi street and looking at the TET Flowers click on the YouTube button below.

TET 2022

Any or all links on this site may be affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation, you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

How to Make Money teaching ESL |101

Make Money Teaching English | 101.

You can earn a lot of money teaching English as a second language, whether you’re searching for a side hustle or full-time employment. You have the option of teaching either online or in a classroom.

Most teaching firms pay teachers a range of hourly rates, and I’ll show you how you can maximize your rates.

Also, what factors determine how much money students are ready to pay for classes with you, and how can you expand your school if you decide to start your own business and become an online English teacher?

Here are a few things you should know if you’re a natural English speaker who wants to make money by helping people all around the world learn English.

Get Qualified.

It’s crucial to establish yourself as a professional in the area as an online English instructor if you want to make the most money. Getting trained and certified is the most common approach to do so.

I recommend UDEMY to get your qualifications. Their training is comprehensive and affordable.

OnLine.

Online teaching firms, in particular, want to know that you’re not only TEFL/TESOL certified and have learnt the essential principles of teaching English, but also have specific training in teaching online and are committed to continuing your professional growth.

Your Business

If you start your own business as a freelance online English instructor you will be able to attract more students and charge a higher hourly rate as your qualifications increase. And the more you build your business and the experience in your market increases, the more you can ask for.

But be careful to not price yourself out of the market. Do shopping surveys of other schools and find out what their rates are and try to come in a little under the larger centers.

Classroom Teaching

And it doesn’t change for classroom teaching. If anything it may be more essential to show qualifications and experience. No school wants an unqualified or inexperienced teacher in a classroom of potentially 50 students who don’t know what they are doing.

Even developing countries are becoming more strict with qualifications for classroom teaching. In Vietnam for example it is expected that teachers of EFL will have a B.A. ( Albeit not necessarily in the teaching field)

Tech needs for online teaching.

Online teaching is a convenient way to earn money, but it comes with a number of technological and technical requirements.

The essentials.

  • Internet Access that is Consistent. If you have a strong, consistent Internet connection, you can teach from anywhere in the globe. If you have a strong, consistent Internet connection, you can teach from anywhere in the globe.
  • Computer. To connect to virtual classrooms, the majority of English-as-a-second-language (ESL) tutoring organizations need their teachers to use a laptop or desktop computer. Smartphones are rarely allowed unless you work for app-based businesses like PalFish.
  • Headset Microphone. Most companies don’t allow you to teach with a built-in microphone. Fortunately, there are many affordable headset microphones on the market.

You can find out more at “What is technology in the Classroom“

Tech needs for classroom teaching.

Almost every EFL teacher has dealt with this situation:

A class of students who are uninterested in what is going on, no matter how well-prepared the lesson plan is.

We all want our students to be engaged, but we also recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all method to attaining it, whether we teach online or in person.

Each class has its own set of strengths, dynamics, goals, and outcomes. Fortunately, we may employ several strategies to encourage participation without being overbearing. you can find out more “ HERE“

Tech to help.

Classroom teaching has its own specific problems and you want to minimize these by incorporating some basic technology in your classroom.

First and foremost, after a long day in the classroom, a wireless headset with a Bluetooth connection to a speaker will save your voice.

I presently utilize a Sony 30 watt speaker, and an “Aporo” wireless headphone (XB32). In addition, I use Google Drive on my phone to store all of my audio recordings.

It will work with any decent wireless headset and speaker. I recommend that you practice before teaching.

My phone is also connected to the Sony speaker through Bluetooth. I’ve saved all of my audio recordings to my phone and programmed the tracks I’ll need for the upcoming lessons.

For any visual presentations, I also use a tiny projector that I display on the classroom wall. Alternatively, I use a whiteboard or a projection screen. The projector’s audio output is also connected to my Sony speaker.

Invest in your future with some essential equipment if you want to make your classroom experience more interesting for your students and work easier for you. you can read more “Here“

Setting up Your Own School. ( Classroom style )

Starting your own teaching business, the most difficult ( And most profitable ) of the three possibilities is great if you have the motivation and drive to see it through. It is also something that will take time.

So if you do not want to be in one country for longer than 3 years this is probably not for you.

Not only will you have to hustle to find your own students, but you’ll also be running the show from the ground up, deciding what age group/demographic you want to teach, and developing your own lesson plans based on that.

As well as getting your name out there and marketing your business, and determining your rate of pay and a form of payment that is acceptable where you teach.

How did I do it?

I was teaching in a Vietnamese public school and was well recognized as being an excellent teacher. That is, I always turned up for classes on time and had my lessons pre-prepared. I made the lessons fun for the students and they wanted to learn.

Not rocket science, but when you are up against people who want to go out and drink all night then stagger into the classroom and teach, you are number 1.

After teaching at a few schools I was approached by students and teachers who wanted to improve their English skills.

I had no idea what I was doing but started out charging a minimum hourly base of $50.00 per hour per class. The students were ecstatic and I increased my enrollments very fast. In under 3 years, I was teaching around 150 students per week across different levels.

Now after 5 plus years and coping with the pandemic we, ( I now have other teachers helping ) are still in operation and making more and moving forward again.

Your Online School.

Setting up an online school is, in my opinion, not much different from setting up a classroom environment for teaching.

However, you do need to focus on what country you wish to teach in. If you are not living in that country it will be much more difficult to get students quickly.

The students and more importantly the parents will not know who you are and this will make getting new enrollments more difficult. But if you want to jump straight into this, here are some suggestions.

Intro Video.

This video should highlight your accent, abilities, and why you believe you would make an excellent ESL teacher for their children.

Use this video to sell yourself and your strengths to get your first students, gain some solid, positive reviews, and start to build your client base.

You can use a free tool like Screen-Cast-O-Matic for this.

Market Yourself.

Put your video out into the marketplace, Use Social Media platforms and find groups that specialize in ESL or EFL, and follow and interact with people on the platform.

Compensation:

It’s typical to start with cheaper pricing to attract new students and to establish a positive reputation through favorable feedback and reviews before increasing your rate.

How much can I make?

Starting an ESL tutoring business is a significant financial investment. Many employers demand that teachers devote a certain number of hours per week to their students or sign a contract. and the pay rate will reflect on experience and qualifications.

What They say.

According to Glassdoor, full-time online ESL teachers earn an average salary of around $36,800 per year.

Glassdoor also has information on the hourly rates of well-known tutoring firms.

Popular online organizations like VIPKid pay between $17 and $21 per hour depending on your experience and bonuses, while SayABC pays between $16 and $22 per hour based on your experience and bonuses. According to Magic Ears, their teachers can make up to $26 per hour.

What I say.

Teaching in the classroom or teaching online can range from a low of $10 per hour up to $40 per hour depending on where you teach and the level you teach.

Do not expect to walk in and start making 40.00 per hour. It would be more reasonable to expect $17.00 to $20.00 at the moment depending on the country as well. Countries like Dubai and Taiwan are currently paying very good salaries.

If you decide to set up your own business the rewards are much greater. You have the potential to make $100 and more per hour.

Also, you need to take into consideration the cost of living. Living in some southeast Asian Countries can be very cheap and your pay will go much further. Also, you will be able to save a considerable amount.

Pros and Cons of Teaching Online.

For good reason, English teaching is a popular career choice. It’s difficult to find a profession that is as flexible and well-paid as ESL teaching.

Pros.

  • ESL tutoring pays higher than the minimum wage in every state in the United States, with an average hourly rate of $18.

    Fully Remote.

  • You can work from any place as long as you meet the job’s technology criteria and your surroundings are well-lit and pleasant.
  • Potential to work full-time. Working full time becomes more and more feasible as your teaching skills improve and you establish a rapport with parents and pupils.

     

Cons.

  • Hours that are unusual. You must be willing to get up between 3 and 6 a.m. to teach during peak hours if you are teaching in Asia.
  • Onboarding is a lengthy process. Barriers to admittance include requirements such as a bachelor’s degree or a TEFL certificate.
  • In addition, leading education firms’ onboarding processes often include at least one interview and might take up to a month to complete. If you’re searching for a quick way to make money, teaching English as a second language isn’t for you.

And if you decide to travel to another country to teach there are many more pros than cons. Living in a foreign country and experiencing the different cultures and food are some of the greatest pleasures of ESL and EFL teachers.

Conclusion.

It can be challenging and it can be frustrating, but the experiences you gather will last for your whole life. And the change you can bring to someone’s life is one reason alone to be an ESL Teacher.

Who Am I?

My name is Stephen, and I’ve been teaching English as a second language/English as a foreign language for over 15 years and own a school in Vietnam. I am also the proprietor of this website and the author of this post.

Below is a link to my most recent YouTube Vlog on TET in Vietnam.

Any or all links on this site may be affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation, you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

How to Teach Grammar to ESL Students.

Teaching Grammar to ESL students.

Teachers frequently shy away from grammar lessons because they are not fun to teach and can be immensely boring for the student.

Before they can do anything, the students must sit silently and listen to a lecture on the present perfect, present simple, past participle, or whatever grammatical topic you are addressing.

For a variety of reasons, it can be difficult. Lessons can be tedious. It’s possible that the grammar is too difficult for the students. Or they become bored and lose focus.

As a result, the teacher may become overwhelmed when attempting to present and explain all of the complicated rules.

How do we overcome this and make it a bit more fun and understandable?

Continue reading to learn a few tips about teaching ESL grammar classes.

Some Tips On Teaching ESL Grammar.

Let’s have a look at how to organize and deliver a good and pleasant grammar class.

We’ll walk you through a step-by-step teaching procedure that will fully engage your pupils in the lesson and ensure that they comprehend the rules without the need for lengthy, confusing explanations. And have a bit of fun at the same time.

1. Learn the rules yourself first.

If you grew up in an English-speaking household, you most likely picked up on grammar principles without even realizing it. While this makes you a natural speaker of the language, it might cause some difficulties while teaching it.

It is claimed that it is impossible to properly teach something that you do not understand yourself.

To put it another way, who would you choose as your teacher? Someone who knows what they’re talking about, or someone who is just pretending to know what they’re talking about?

2. Traditional approaches to teaching Grammar.

When it comes to teaching grammar, there are two main approaches that have been traditionally used. The two approaches are the deductive and inductive learning approaches.

Depending on your ESL student’s background, teaching inductively may be far more effective than teaching deductively.

Inductive learning.

The bottom-up method is another name for inductive learning. This strategy is widely used by teachers to help students especially those without recent educational backgrounds, such as adult learners, to learn more quickly.

To apply it, you teach grammar through a discovery process, in which students learn how the rules work through a series of tasks.

Deductive Learning.

The more traditional teaching method is when the teacher first explains the particular rules that govern each aspect of the grammar lesson then the students practice or do exercises.

Or, to put it another way, the teacher first explains the rules, after which he or she gives lessons based on those rules.

Although the deductive method is tried and tested, it is arguably less successful. Take the time to experiment with both and see what happens.

You can learn more at Udemy about teaching grammar.

3. Mix it up.

Create your own way of teaching Grammar by mixing both approaches and then adding your own unique touch.

For younger learners, you could use the inductive method and incorporate it in a TPR ( Total Physical Response ) style of teaching. Think outside the box and be creative in your approach to teaching grammar.

But first and foremost before you walk into the classroom prepare a lesson plan.

4. Do a Lesson Plan.

Far too many first-time ESL instructors enter the classroom without properly planning their lessons. Simply speaking the language does not guarantee that you can teach “off the cuff”.

Proper planning will allow you to avoid a lot of bad situations such as giving an explanation “off the cuff”, only to find out it is wrong.

The English language is complicated, and many rules include more exceptions than we would prefer. You don’t want to be caught off guard by one of those exceptions while speaking in front of the class.

Planning allows you to lay out the direction of your class ahead of time, including any relevant examples, ensuring that you have a flawless path for your students to follow. Let us go to the classroom.

5. Do a Warm-Up Activity.

Start your lesson by getting students engaged by playing a topic-relevant game.

For example, you can read out an article and ask your students how many times did you say the word “the”. ( You can also say pronouns or any point you wish the students to focus on )

You will quickly find them listening intently. You will probably need to read the ( short ) article 2 or 3 times.

Then ask them to give you the answer, you can turn this into a competitive game if you wish.

Most students will be wrong, but watch while they scour the text looking for the word “the”. You can also do it with punctuation. How many full stops, commas, etc. Now you have their attention, make the most of it.

6. Keep it Real.

Present the grammar in a way that has meaning and relevance, the students can start to understand what the structure means and why it’s used if they can relate it to a real-life situation.

Presenting the Grammar.

You could use the same article you used for a warm-up and highlight some examples of the target grammar topic.

Use a sentence containing the grammar items you are teaching and have students put it into their own words. But changing the meaning with their word substitution.

For example, if you’re teaching comparatives and superlatives and the sentence is “He is taller than his brother,” students might practice comparative adjectives by replacing “taller” with “larger,” “shorter,” “fatter,” “smarter,” and so on.

You can also include students’ names to make it more personal, just make sure you do not criticize any students accidentally.

7. Doing the Boring Bits.

Your goal is for students to be able to use the grammar taught after you teach it.

In order to do so, students must be taught the form, meaning, structure, and pronunciation correctly. This is where many teachers begin their lessons.

They believe it is their obligation to provide all of this information to the students in one foul sweep.

If you’re not careful, this stage can quickly devolve into a protracted, teacher-led rant that the kids have trouble following.

 Use a guided discovery process to help your students understand that boring grammar stuff.

Grammar Instruction Using Guided Discovery

Guided discovery is a worksheet or activity that guides pupils through the understanding of a grammar structure.

The beauty of guided discovery is that it encourages students to figure out the rules on their own rather than having the knowledge spoon-fed to them by the teacher.

This means that students will be more engaged, empowered, and invested in the learning process as a result. The following is an example of how a guided discovery works.

Example of Guided Discovery in Teaching irregular Verbs.

Despite the fact that there are only about 180 past tense verbs in modern English, they are the most regularly used verbs.

Almost seventy percent of the time, we use an irregular verb. The implication for grammar instruction is that irregular verbs are an extremely important area to cover.

So, how would I go about doing it?

I would pre-teach the words I was going to use and practice the pronunciation at the start, this should only take 15 minutes.

If it is taking longer you are trying to teach too many things or not explaining them properly. Then review quickly by asking questions.

If only one person doesn’t understand then it is probably that person. But if 50% of your class doesn’t understand it is definitely you.

Which means you have not prepared your lesson properly. Sorry, but true.

8. Introduce the activity.

Now, get the students to practice what they have learned. You can get them to do it individually or some people recommend pairing up your students. I have found by pairing up students they have a lot of fun talking to one another but don’t do much work.

My preference is to get them to work independently and concentrate on their own learning. This is also easier for you to check if they understand by asking them to put their name on the sheet and checking it later.

So what activity or study tool, I hear you say?. If we wanted to teach irregular verbs we could use something like this.

Here is an example of a word cloze activity.

Now get them to practice after completing.

9. Practice the Target English Grammar

Now the students need a chance to practice what they’ve learned. Here are a couple of fun, interactive practice ideas for irregular verbs you can use.

Class Survey.

Get the students to write two or three questions they would like to ask all of their classmates, using irregular verbs.

For example: What did you eat for breakfast. And the answer could be, I ate cereal for breakfast. Etc.

Allow pupils to ask any questions they wish.

As students prepare their questions, keep an eye on them to assist them and fix any problems that arise.

Then tell the kids that they must collect information on the questions they wrote from all of the other pupils.

They should all stand up and mingle, asking and recording questions from other students in the class. Getting them walking around also helps break the monotony.

Comic strip writing

This is a fun exercise, as there will be a variety of answers that may turn out to be hilarious.

Show the original comic and write it on the board. Then teach the target grammar item as above.

After verbally guessing the speech and learning the grammar from the original comic, have students fill in the speech bubbles on their own.

But only using the target grammar to make the content different from the original.

This is more suitable for flyers to intermediate-level students. You can tweak the activity for beginners by getting them to fill in the blanks.

For intermediate students, you can give helping words to guide them in their writing.

And there are many online resources you can use, here is a list of some of my favorites. ” My top 10 ESL Websites”

Conclusion.

So there you have it: some ways for keeping your grammar pupils engaged and motivated.

By adding a variety of activities and resources, you may make grammar more enjoyable for both yourself and your students.

Spend some time gathering your resources, and you’ll be glad you did when you notice a difference in your students’ motivation levels in the classroom.

Your students and the school with which you work will see you as an excellent teacher.

Who Am I?

My name is Stephen, and I’ve been teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) for over 15 years and own my own school. I also place teachers in both private and public schools throughout Vietnam.

I am also the author and owner of this website.

You can check out TET in HCMC on the YouTube link below.

TET 2022

Disclosure

Any or all links on this site may be affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation, you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

What are the Common Problems of ESL Students?

This is about understanding the students feelings in the ESL classroom and it may help you teaching your students more effectively.

Common problems of The ESL student

For a variety of reasons, the English language is regarded as one of the most difficult to master. There are many reasons why English as a second language (ESL) students fail to acquire the language. It can be from the complicated spelling and phrasal verbs to pronunciation and strange grammatical structures.

However, this article is not focused on the technical aspects of teaching, it is more about the students feelings, but it may help in you teaching your students more effectively if you understand their fears and needs.

Things to Keep in Mind

There are several things you can keep in mind as a teacher while planning your classes and one of the most important is to make the learning environment comfortable and stress-free.

Learners will be less likely to become frustrated and more likely to comprehend what you’re teaching them if they are relaxed and having fun for a start. However, there is so much more.

Understanding some of these problems comes some way in helping solve these problems for the student.

Here are some of the problems I have found that students encounter in the classroom and online.

Embarrassment

Learning English can be a daunting task. It’s common to feel self-conscious when practicing, especially in the presence of native English speakers.

These emotions occur when ESL students believe they are unable to effectively express themselves. Things that are ordinarily simple to ask for, such as “may I go to the bathroom,” become considerably more complex when they have to consider each phrase and how to integrate them.

It’s critical to practice as much as possible to assist overcome this fear of embarrassment.

Classroom practice.

The simplest method is to help the student practice in the classroom. I always start the English learning process by teaching basic and easy-to-understand phrases. I will teach things like, “Teacher I want a glass of water”. “Teacher, I want to go to the bathroom”. “Stand up”, “sit down”, “open your book” etc.

With a bit of work upfront not only will it instill confidence in your student, but it will also make it easier for you as the teacher. Once your students gain confidence in their capacity to communicate, they will be able to speak more effectively with others.

Another thing I like to do is say “you are better at speaking English than I am at speaking your language”. A good idea is to get them to teach you some basic words in their language as it shows that you are not scared about making mistakes.

Boredom

Children and adults are frequently exposed to a “new language” in a classroom setting, which can result in an overly structured approach to learning the language.

in my opinion, there are better ways of doing it. There are now lots of different ways to make the learning experience fun and interesting. My ethos is “laugh and learn”

There are a few different teaching styles and techniques you can use in the classroom and online to make sure your students aren’t bored.

Teaching Styles.

The teaching style I follow is TPR or total physical response. In my opinion, it brings a lesson alive and is much more fun for the student. This is a little of what it is about.

Total Physical Response.

T.P.R is a language acquisition method developed by psychology expert, Professor James Asher. TPR uses a combination of language and physical actions to engage students in the language learning process.

Total Physical Response has a lot of benefits, particularly for beginners and young learners.

  • The pairing of movement with language is innately associated with effective learning
  • Students actively use both the left and right sides of their brains
  • It works with both small and large groups
  • It sharpens students’ listening skills
  • Students are not required to speak until they are ready to, therefore creating a “safe zone” that greatly lowers inhibitions and stress
  • Students will appreciate the change of pace and potential for humor.
  • Kinaesthetic learners (who respond well to physical activities) and visual learners (who learn best with visual cues) will get a lot out of TPR.

You can find out more about the other teaching styles in my post, Teaching English Abroad.

Student Topics.

You can start by selecting a topic that your students enjoy. It may be movies, video games, or anything else, and you’ll use it as a springboard to create your own “learning” around it. It’s critical to pick something that the pupils, not you as the teacher, are interested in.

Playing Games.

Bring your classroom alive by playing learning games. Make sure your games are both age-relevant and lesson-relevant. They should not be used as just having fun, there should be some learning intent involved with the game or activity itself.

So use some of the free resources you can find online and integrate them into your teaching, whether online or in the classroom.

Here is a link to my favorite top 10 websites for teaching English, which includes sites for games and other activities.

It also provides additional links to other online and classroom games and activities.

There are also the more traditional games that don’t need extra resources. This can help when you are teaching a lot of classes with many students in each class.

If you teach in Vietnam, class sizes can get up to and above 50 students per class, it can become expensive if you are constantly handing out paper-based activities.

you can play more traditional games like “Hangman” or “Charades” and “Stop the Bus” and so many more. Have a look here to find some more ideas. How to Engage Your Students

Practice.

There’s no shortage of places for people to practice their English, from English coffee clubs to online communities like Facebook and Twitter. Furthermore, they may make a great friend along the way. (But please teach some internet safety rules).

Assign a homework assignment in which your student must join an online group to practice English. They may also be able to provide language exchange lessons. Obviously, this is intended for older students and is not suitable for younger students.

You can also get them to watch a movie with English subtitles in the classroom and then ask them to tell you what is happening.

Or translate a comic book into English so you can understand as well. 8-))

Conclusion.

There are a lot of things that we can do to help our students, we are only limited by our own imagination.

Who Am I?

My name is Stephen and I have been teaching ESL/ EFL for over 15 years and have my own school in Vietnam. I am also the author of this article and the owner of this website.

You can look at my last YouTube Vlog about TET in Vietnam below.

TET flowers

Any or all links on this site may be affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation, you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

How to Improve English Speaking Skills | ESL

Improve your students’ English Speaking Skills.

Many students can master the finer parts of English grammar but struggle when it comes to actually converse with native speakers. The only method to improve their speaking fluency is for them to do a lot of listening and then practice speaking.

Remember, listening is the foundation for speaking. And learning and teaching the listening skill is an important component in your students’ success in their ability to speak effectively.

Here are a few pointers on how to improve their English speaking abilities. But first, let us look at how the students feel.

Students concerns.

Why do students frequently cite listening and speaking as their primary concerns? Partly due to the demands of listening and speaking, and partly due to the manner in which speech is frequently taught.

It frequently includes language practice activities (discussions, information-gap tasks, and so on) or is used to drill a specific grammatical point.

Neither teaches real-world interaction patterns. So, how can we prepare students for real-world interaction in the classroom?

Real-Life Dialogue.

Many linguistic and ESL instructors now believe that students acquire a second language by “interacting.” This is best accomplished through communicative language instruction and collaborative learning.

The teaching of communicative language is based on real-life situations that necessitate communication. Students will be able to communicate with each other in the target language if this method is used in ESL classes.

In summary, ESL teachers should develop a classroom climate that promotes oral language through real-life dialogue, authentic activities, and meaningful work. When students work together in groups to achieve a goal or complete a task, this can happen.

Age and Level Relevant.

Before we get into the teaching tips, let us look at the level and age of the student we are teaching. As some ages and levels will not be able or understand some of the following practices.

For the younger learners, you will no doubt be using a book similar to “Family and Friends” This is text-based with a CD or downloadable audio file. They come with “Flashcards” which make the understanding of a new word a lot easier with a visual representation of the word being taught.

Mix it up for the younger learner with games and other material with both online and paper-based resources.

You can find a lot of material to help in my post “Top ten ESL websites“

Once your students are older and have some basic skills on board you can then start using the following classroom tips.

Teaching Tips.

Here are just a few ways you can mix up your lessons to make learning the speaking skill more interesting.

Role-Playing

Role-playing is one approach to getting pupils to speak up. Students act out a range of social scenarios and take on various social roles.

The teacher provides information to the students in role-playing activities, such as who they are and what they believe or feel. You may, for example, have your pupils practice a job application role-play. One is the employer, while the other is the job seeker.

Storytelling

Students can give a quick summary of a narrative or story they heard previously, ( See my post on Listening Skills ) or they can make up their own stories to share with their classmates.

Telling stories encourages creative thinking. It also aids students in expressing ideas in a formalized format. It has a beginning, middle, and end, as well as the characters and setting required to complete the story.

Students can also ask questions or tell jokes. For example, the teacher might invite a few pupils to ask him or her a question or share a joke at the start of each class session.

Telling jokes in a foreign language is very difficult, so reserve this for your more advanced students.

Use Pictures

Use pictures in speaking activities. Give pupils an image and ask them to explain what they see. Students can work in groups for this assignment, with each group receiving a different picture.

Students discuss the image in groups, and then a representative from each group describes the image to the entire class. This activity encourages learners’ originality and inventiveness, as well as their public speaking abilities.

Spot the Difference

Students can work in pairs for this task, and each pair is given two distinct photographs, such as a picture of a bedroom with different items in them. Students work in pairs to discuss the pictures’ similarities and differences. This is also great for teaching prepositions of place. For example, in, on, under, etc. In picture 1 the toys are on the rug, but in picture 2 there are no toys on the rug.

Information Gap

Students are meant to work in pairs on this exercise. One student will have information that the other partner does not, and the two students will share their information.

Reasons for using the “information gap” technique serve a variety of functions, including problem-solving and data collection.

In addition, each partner has a critical role to perform because the task cannot be done unless the partners offer the knowledge that the others require.

This gives everyone the opportunity to speak extensively in the target language. I personally find these activities very effective.

And More.

You can find out more about teaching Speaking skills at ” Teaching English Organization“

Points to remember as a Teacher.

If there are only two things you take away from this article, it would be this.

1. To ensure that your ESL students understand, speak slowly and clearly. Choose words that are less difficult for them to understand. When appropriate, use flashcards or illustrations so that your students may more easily understand the words or phrases being taught. Understanding and learning are enhanced when two or more techniques are used in the classroom.

2. Do not over-correct. If you continually correct their dialogue they will become too scared to talk in the classroom. They will “lose face” if you are teaching in South East Asia. Be aware of the social differences when teaching in a foreign country.

As a teacher, if you constantly correct your students’ you will disrupt the flow of the speech. Whether or not it is a great speech, they will become unmotivated to learn unless you provide positive feedback.

You can critique your students’ speech, but try to do it in a positive way. For example, you could say, ” Wow your speaking has come a long way in the last two months but be careful how you pronounce “said” etc.

Outside the Classroom.

Your pupils want words in order to communicate, and while class time is ideal for learning vocabulary, there are other opportunities for them to improve their speaking abilities outside of the classroom.

They can do so through viewing movies, listening to music, listening to the radio, and listening to podcasts.

They have access to books, periodicals, and blogs as well. They should listen and read for new and interesting idioms, slang terminology, and synonyms.

Then they should jot down this new information and look up anything they don’t understand. After that, they can either bring it to the following class or search it up on their own. This might be turned into a homework assignment.

Tips for the student.

Turn your thoughts into words

Speaking English can be practiced by saying your thoughts aloud or narrating your actions (“I’m washing the clothes, then I’ll make lunch”). You can improve your ability to translate your ideas into spoken words by chatting to yourself. Because no one will hear your blunders, practicing alone is also a low-pressure approach to practice.

Label everything.

Put “post-it notes” around the house with the name of the item you have labeled. For example, you can put a label on a desk with the word “desk” on it. Then you can practice your speaking by saying something like; I am walking to my desk.

Join an English coffee club.

In most countries, you will find like-minded people who wish to communicate in a social real-life situation. By joining a coffee club you will be given the opportunity to speak with native speakers as well as fellow countrymen.

An example of what you can expect can be found in various Facebook groups. You can find an example here. English clubs of Ho Chi Minh City.

Make a recording of yourself.

Most people dread having their voices recorded, but it’s a great method to develop your speaking skills. Hearing yourself on tape reveals things you would not have noticed otherwise.

You might be pleasantly pleased to learn that your speaking abilities are significantly greater than what you previously believed. You can also show your tape to your teacher or a native speaker friend and get feedback from them.

Instead of learning single words, learn sentences.

Speaking phrases rather than individual words is another way to improve your fluency.

Instead of asking, “Hello, how are you ?” use different expressions like “What’s up, buddy?” to spice things up. “How are you today, sir?” or “Hey dude, what’s up?”

When it comes to using informal dialogue, be cautious. Choose a greeting that is appropriate for the situation.

Conclusion.

Overall, remember that using language in conversation is not the same as practicing speaking in the classroom.

Developing the range of skills required to be a “good speaker” necessitates you as a teacher to focus on how your students talk to people and how they deliver it as spoken content.

Who am I?

I am the author and owner of Vietnam ESL. My name is Stephen and I am an EFL teacher who has been living in Vietnam for 15 years and now have my own school.

I also do teacher placements in Vietnam and Thailand. If you want to look at my school click on the YouTube button below.

My school.

Any or all links on this site may be affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation, you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

The top 10 Websites for new ESL teachers

Teaching ESL.

If you’re new to teaching English, you’ll need to find the greatest teacher materials to help you get started. With the widely available lessons and PowerPoint on the internet, teaching ESL has never been easier.

Teachers can use these ESL websites for assignments, lesson plans, and game ideas. It will halve the time you spend preparing to teach.

Even if you’ve been teaching ESL for a while and have a lot of resources, it’s always a good idea to go back to the basics and revisit the websites that were helpful when you first started.

My top 10 ESL websites.

Lantern Fish/ Boggles World

Many ESL teachers throughout the world consider Lantern Fish to be one of their favorites. I still use it after 15 years in my sector for a variety of reasons. For the busy instructor, it includes a variety of worksheets and lesson plans.

Worksheets on grammar, vocabulary, speaking, reading, listening, writing, and pronunciation are available to download.

You can also create your own worksheets and download or print crossword puzzles and “wordsearches” for those last few minutes in class.

Busy Teacher



BusyTeacher is greatly useful since it saves you hours of preparation time and helps you become a better teacher.

About 17,300 free printable worksheets and lesson plans are available to assist in the teaching of English to children and adults, beginners through to experienced students.

There are sections on vocabulary, grammar, listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Almost always, you’ll be able to find what you’re looking for here.

MES English

MES-English is a fantastic resource for teachers of young students of all ages and levels.

It provides free online worksheet tools and templates that you can use to create and print customized resources for your classroom.

All of the images from MES can be used to create spelling, reading, and writing tasks, as well as crosswords, wordsearches, flashcards, mazes, and other classroom games.

There are also talking worksheets, worksheets for introducing grammar points, a phonics workbook series, reward certificates, clip art to design your own worksheets, song sheets, nursery rhymes and chanting cards, and vocabulary building worksheets.

iSL Collective

ISL Collective is a global network of language teachers who freely share their own worksheets. The site is designed for all language teachers, whether they work in schools or provide private tutoring.

For teaching English classes, there are over 70,000 ESL, EFL printable worksheets, activities, and exercises.

In addition to English, training resources are available in German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Russian.

English Club.

English Club is an all-in-one ESL website that covers all aspects of the language from beginner to intermediate.

They even go up to near-fluent levels, so if you try one of their more complex ESL crosswords, you could find yourself fumbling a little.

From their webpage, English Club offers two options: Teach English for teachers and Learn English for students.

ESL Games Plus.

ESL Games Plus provides learners and teachers with engaging online games. Their learning games are primarily designed to teach ESL to children and teenagers. Grammar, vocabulary, sentences, listening, and pronunciation abilities. And are all taught and practiced through activities.

Students learn English vocabulary, sentence structures, grammar, listening, pronunciation, and phonics by playing educational games.

This website has a large number of ESL activities available online. Memory games, spelling games, interactive board games, hangman games, and many others are examples. They also have games for iPad, iPhone, and Android phones and tablets.

Dream English

Dream English songs are used to teach English to youngsters all around the world.

DreamEnglish has a song for almost everything. He’s a touch odd, but he has a knack for writing songs that are appropriate for children.

He also has fantastic music videos for each tune. If the song contains key language, you can sure he’s included it prominently in the video. This is an excellent location to look for songs that can assist your children to learn English.

There are kindergarten songs, sing-a-longs, flashcards, worksheets, and more.

You can download free mp3s of children’s songs and chants. Lyrics are available on all free song pages.

Merriam Webster Learner Dictionary

This dictionary will provide ESL students and teachers with clear and simple definitions. Simply insert a word into the search box to get a definition and an example phrase. When you’re trying to explain something, no more rambling and trying to explain in a long-winded fashion.

British Council; Learn English Kids.

Learn English Kids is a fantastic resource for both kids and parents. The students will have a variety of learning alternatives, including games to study vocabulary, grammar, writing, spelling, and punctuation in a fun and interactive way.

Worksheets, flashcards, crafts, and coloring pages are also available at Learn English Kids. They provide support to parents, as well as articles on a variety of themes to assist your children, videos on how to use English at home, and face-to-face training.

An excellent resource in whatever Country you work in.

DuoLingo

This free English learning website and app is designed for youngsters aged 13 and up. It’s a fun and interactive approach for older students to improve reading, listening, speaking, and writing abilities.

Duolingo’s lessons are packed with core methods; it tracks your progress, provides feedback when you get an answer wrong, and keeps your child motivated with a lives’ system that requires you to start again if you lose all of your lives’.

My top Websites for teaching online.

Teaching OnLine

For both the teacher and the student, online teaching and learning can be boring. However, with a little forethought and the use of some of the tools accessible, you can go from zero to hero in no time.

Thousands of digital education tools have been created to provide students greater choice and improve the learning experience. These tools encourage collaboration and promote teacher-student communication.

At the same time, both the teacher and the students will find the lessons more engaging.

These resources can be found on several of my favorite online teaching websites. OnLine Teachers Tools.

Conclusion.

ESL websites are fantastic for getting some fresh ideas to help you make your classes exciting and interesting. With a little casual surfing, you can find a variety of worksheets, handouts, entertaining exercises, and interesting activities.

These ESL websites are excellent for both you and your students, whether you’re a rookie ESL teacher or have plenty of experience in the classroom.

I have used these websites personally and still find them a great tool for both the classroom and online. Share these entertaining and educational ESL websites with your students to introduce them to a new method of learning English in class and at home.

My name is Stephen and I have been teaching ESL for over 15 years and have my own school. I also place teachers across Vietnam into both private and public schools. I am also the author and owner of this website.

You can check out my school on the YouTube link below.

My School

Any or all links on this site may be affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation, you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

Vietnamese culture in the classroom for ESL teachers.

This is about the importance of learning about the cultural difference in business and the classroom.

The importance of Vietnamese culture in the workplace.

Getting a job in another nation requires more than just finding a job and working hard. It’s also about getting a sense of the country’s cultural and business environments.

Adapting to the country’s business culture is, in essence, one of the most important talents to learn and one of the least discussed. If not handled correctly it can lead to miscommunication, frustrations, and uncomfortable situations.

It is necessary for those doing business or working in Vietnam for the first time to become acquainted with the country’s unique culture and traditions. Those who do will have an easier time finding work in the country.

Vietnam Cultural Traditions.

Understanding the business culture of Vietnam might help you connect with colleagues and avoid cultural misunderstandings.

Vietnams traditions have a long history throughout Southeast Asia. Learning about these traditional, well-respected cultural norms will make working in this country much easier.

Let’s take a look at some of the most important aspects of Vietnamese business culture, including some basic business conventions and etiquette.

Vietnamese greetings.

While English is becoming more popular, Vietnamese remains the most widely spoken language, with 86 percent of the people speaking it.

If a foreigner tries to learn simple phrases in Vietnamese, such as “xin chao” (pronounced “seen chow”), which means “hello,” the Vietnamese will be appreciative.

Saying hello and farewell is usually done with a handshake and a small bow of the head. Also, note that Vietnamese names are written in the following order: surname name, middle name, first name. Learn Vietnamese with the Mondly app.

Some basic Vietnamese cultural points.

Seniority and respect are prominent notions in Vietnam, influenced by Confucianism’s hierarchical structure; most Vietnamese believe they have a responsibility to respect those who are older than them.

Vietnamese people are very punctual, especially in business and in the classroom. However, a 5-minute lateness tolerance is usually acceptable.

Outside of the office, Vietnamese people typically need to create personal trust in order to improve teamwork and collaboration.

Attire: Due to the hot heat, Vietnamese people, particularly those from the south, dress informally. Suits and ties aren’t as popular as they once were, but wearing a t-shirt and trousers to class is a no-no.

‘Face’

“Face” is incredibly significant in Vietnam, as it is in many other Asian countries. While being candid and straightforward is a positive trait in the West,

in Vietnam, open dissent or raising issues in public can be perceived by the receiver as “losing face.” “Face” is a notion that approximately translates to “represents a person’s reputation, dignity, and prominence.”

Foreigners should be conscious that their words or behavior may accidentally cause a loss of face.

The most important thing to remember is to treat your coworkers with respect. If you have any recommendations or concerns, it’s preferable to discuss them in private.

Personal questions.

Many Vietnamese will ask questions that may seem personal to a foreigner. Discussing one’s family and personal life is normal and is seen as a sign of friendliness and interest.

Now we have covered the basics let us look at the culture of the classroom.

learning classroom Culture for the ESL teacher.

English is currently regarded by the Vietnamese as a language that can lead to personal achievement and worldwide opportunities. This is why the present generation of young learners want to learn English as a second language.

This necessitates parental involvement in the learning process, as they encourage their children to study hard and do their best in order to get high grades. When you work as an ESL teacher in a Vietnamese school, you may observe this.

You may also want to look at Culturally Responsive Education by Cynthia M. Douglas, PhD.

The classroom culture.

The Vietnamese place a high priority on promptness. Every day, you should arrive on time for class. However, teachers may be late due to inclement weather or traffic. In Vietnamese schools, there is also a dress code.

Although there is a lot more to say about this, the key point is that they dress conservatively. Depending on the school you attend, business casual is preferred or something a little more casual and relaxed.

Also, if you have a tattoo, cover it up as tattoos are still associated with criminals in Vietnam.

East vs. West.

Students at Western schools volunteer to respond to a question. Vietnamese students Vietnam, on the other hand, wait for the teacher to summon them. Pupils who answer when they are not called are penalized by their teachers.

Furthermore, it is common to see a teacher sitting at their desk, drinking or eating in class, playing games, or performing other personal things.

However, as an ESL teacher, I can assure you that this is not the case. Vietnamese students Vietnam are accustomed to seeing teachers as authoritative figures., so making friends with teachers is not a normal option.

The students.

Vietnamese students will tell you how confined their lives are. However, this is the standard in the country. They have a very competitive job market, which means that if you want to succeed, you must stay at the top of your class.

Vietnam has changed over the course of its war-torn history. It now boasts a thriving economy that provides incredible chances for its kids – but only for those who work hard.

This entails extended school-days, as well as the prospect of evening studies. Many Vietnamese students learn English as well, as it is now a prerequisite for those who complete higher school.

Outside the classroom.

Vietnam’s culture is deeply influenced by its rice paddies, mountains, oceans, and rivers. As a result, they consider it impolite to refuse to eat or finish your food, particularly if you are a visitor at someone’s home and they have prepared a meal for you.

If you are invited to someone’s home, try not to put too much in your bowl. Also, don’t forget to praise your hosts.

The Vietnamese are also open about their society’s difficulties. The subject might be anything from traffic to pollution to academic cheating to corruption.

Remember that when foreigners begin to criticize, they find it a bit arrogant and may take offense. Like anywhere, it is best to get to know your hosts before talking about anything controversial

Find out a lot more about etiquette in Vietnam in my previous post. Etiquette in Vietnam.

Conclusion.

Vietnamese culture is vivacious, inviting, and welcoming. It’s no different from other countries in that it’s full of nuanced details that take time to grasp.

However, unlike in current Western societies, Vietnamese culture places a strong emphasis on family, even into adulthood.

Family reputation and well-being are extremely important to the Vietnamese. This indicates that each family takes pride in supporting their children to succeed in school and in their careers.

Being aware of cultural differences will make a big difference to your stay in Vietnam.

Who am I?

My name is Stephen and I have lived in Vietnam for 15 years and have my own school. I am also the author and owner of this website.

If you would like to see a bit of Vietnam click on the YouTube link below.

My House in Vietnam

Privacy Policy

Any or all links on this site may be affiliate links, and if you purchase something through those links I will make a small commission on them.

There will be no extra cost to you and at times due to my affiliation, you could actually save money.

You can read our full affiliate disclosure here.

 

How to Grade Your Younger ESL students.

Testing your younger ESL students.

ESL students’ English-speaking ability can be assessed in a variety of ways. The two most common are speaking tests and speaking exams.

IELTS and TOEFL are tests are normally used for older and more proficient students and you can find out more information about this at ielts.org.

But first you need to look at the age of your new student and their proficiency in all the 4 learning skills. Especially as today we are concentrating on the younger student.

What are the 4 skills for learning a language?

Listening

When you were a kid, the first thing you did to learn how to speak was just listen to what everyone else said However, to improve listening skills, you must listen, listen and listen again.

It is not enough to take a lesson with your teacher; your student should also make an effort to watch cartoons or listen to music in their spare time, always keeping in mind that the content they select is appropriate to their level.

Subtitles in movies can also be used to learn new words.

This is where you need to involve the parents in the learning process.

Find out more about “Helping Your Children to Learn English at Home“

Speaking

As a child, the second skill is to reproduce the sounds you had previously heard. Simply try to say the words. Talking is the key to progressing in speaking abilities.

Get your students to talk to other students and native speakers to get a sense of the language’s cadence and rhythm. The students must build up a belief in themselves and strive to communicate as much as possible.

It does not matter if they make mistakes because they will learn from them. The objective is to get them to talk as much as possible.

Do not over correct them as it may inhibit their desire to speak.

Reading

Learning the alphabet and repeating the vowels and letters was the third thing you did in school. And it is the same with ESL. This is the 3rd skill.

There are certain actions you can take to improve reading efficiency. First teach words and short phrases. Then build to teaching the reading of paragraphs.

Then use the skim reading approach, which is reading quickly in order to get a rough impression of the information. A silent reading is also recommended internalizing the pronunciation of each word as well as the punctuation pauses.

However, you should make a list of the words your students don’t understand so you can look them and translate if necessary.

I was always told not to translate, but with some of the more prosaic words it is easier to do a translation than waste 30 minutes trying to get your students to understand a difficult word.

Writing

Writing is the fourth skill. However, before you begin writing, you must consider potential topics in order to arrange your thoughts. That means do a lesson plan, please. This skill is ranked last not because it is less important, but because it is the most difficult to master.

When practicing this skill, keep in mind the three main elements of the text: introduction, body, and conclusion, as well as studying punctuation, which will aid in text cohesiveness (how to utilize punctuation).

On the other hand, if you want your younger students to write right now, it’s best to start with short sentences, then tiny paragraphs, and finally whole text.

At this level do not expect too much. I concentrate on things like; ” I like chicken” ” I do not like fish” And I do not teach contractions at this level. The students have enough to think about already.

So what is the easiest way to test your new student without spending a long time going through everything, well this is how I do it.

Speaking Examinations

The first and most straightforward technique is to ask questions in a comfortable in-class or exam atmosphere.

For younger and lower-level students, or for those who do not have access to a formal testing location, a spoken test is preferable.

Before you ask questions you need to know the basics understanding the steps in learning English, or any language.

Understanding the first steps in learning English.

Starters.

Pre A1 Starters can assist your child in taking their initial steps toward: comprehending basic English information on the internet; enjoying English-language books, songs, television, and films; and making worldwide friends.

Movers

A1 Movers can assist your child with comprehending basic directions and engaging in simple discussions.

comprehend basic notices, instructions, or data

Fill out basic forms and make notes on times, dates, and locations.

Flyers.

A1 Movers can assist and develop your childs comprehension with basic directions and participating in simple discussions. As well as understanding basic notices, instructions, or data. And filling out basic forms and scribbling down notes, including times, dates, and locations.

It’s also better to focus on the English fluency level than the complexity of the question while administering a speaking test.

Questions that are age relevant.

To find out which level of learning your new student is on, you should mix up the questions, but always start with some easy ones first. And try to make it fun, they will be nervous and for some it may be the first time they have ever talked to a “foreigner”

Questions that can be used.

  • What is your name?
  • How old are you?
  • How many people in your family?
  • Who are they?
  • Where do you live?
  • When were you born?
  • Do you have any pets?
  • What is your favorite color?
  • What’s your favorite food?
  • Can you say the “ABC.”
  • Can you say the days of the week?
  • Can you say the months of the year?
  • Can you swim, cook etc?
  • Do you have brothers and sisters?
  • Are they older or younger than you?
  • Do you live in a house or an apartment?
  • What school do you go to?
  • What class are you in?
  • What is your favorite subject?
  • How long have you been studying English?
  • What country are you from?
  • What time is it?
  • What hobbies do you have?
  • What’s your favorite food?
  • What is your mothers name?
  • What is your fathers name?
  • Are you crazy? ( Remember have fun)

And I can list so many more, but for this age group keep it simple and short and evaluate the students answer. Then look at their age and social skills and choose a class accordingly

You should also use flashcards and other resources to fully develop an understanding of your students skill level.

Conclusion.

Whatever method you use to grade your students, please be gentle and kind. The best approach is to engage the students with humor so they want to learn and not forced to learn. Be the teacher you always looked up to.

Article by;

Stephen

Stephen is an English Teacher with more than 15 years of experience in online and face-to-face classes. Stephen also places ESL teachers throughout South East Asia and finds that this and tutoring match perfectly.

Book a class with Stephen to explore his teaching methodology, and improve your English level.

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Why is Vietnam a good place to visit?

Vietnam is a vibrant and colorful country. The scenery will take your breath away and there are a million things to do.

Vietnam is a good place to visit.

Vietnam should be on everyone’s travel bucket list. Vietnam will electrify all of your senses and grab you from with its breathtaking scenery, interesting history, epic gastronomy, and pulsating energy. Vietnam is exhilarating and calming and frustrating at the same time.

Vietnam is a safe tourism destination and one of the few that offers breathtaking beauty as well as a rich and interesting history.

One of the main reasons to visit Vietnam is to see the natural beauty. Other key factors include the opportunity to meet local people and learn about their culture.

Places to see in Vietnam

Vietnam is a hidden jewel that only those who have visited the nation can truly appreciate. Halong Bay, Phong Nha Ke Bang caverns, Hoi An Ancient Street, and the Cham Islands are all World Heritage Sites in Vietnam.

However, it is the areas separate from the non-heritage site that will amaze you even more. Da Lat, for example, is simply too beautiful to pass up.

At times, the French-style villas adjacent to a pine forest and bordered by strawberry beds, make you feel like you’re in Europe.

You will not be disappointed, whether it is a must-see attraction or an off-the-beaten-path attraction.

Halong Bay

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a famous tourist attraction. Ha Long is a Chinese name that means “descending dragon.”

Halong Bay, near the Chinese border in northern Vietnam, is a stunning natural beauty. The Bay is around 1,500 square kilometers in size and is lined with 1,600 limestone islands and islets.

In 1994, UNESCO designated this exceptional area as a World Heritage Site. Halong Bay is home to a diverse range of wildlife, and the surreal beauty that thrills the senses as you sail around on an upscale “Junk Boat”

From Hanoi, which is only 170 kilometers away, the best method to get to Halong City is by car, minivan, or bus. An hour-long helicopter transfer is also available if money is not an issue.

Phong Nha Caves

Hang son Doong cave

Phong Nha is a national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site located on Vietnam’s North Central Coast, some 500 kilometers south of Hanoi. Phong Nha is known for its cave and grotto systems, which number in the hundreds.

It is thought to be the world’s largest cave system. Phong Nha already held several global cave records prior to its discovery, including the longest river and the largest combined caverns and corridors.

The caves of Phong Nha.

Hang Son Doong. Only in 2009 was the world’s largest cave discovered, and only in 2014 was it opened to tourism. This is a cave with enormous and amazing architecture that could fit a complete New York city block inside of it.

There is no other way to see Son Doong than on the official journey, so be wary of anyone who claims to be able to show you Son Doong.

Hang En Cave is one of the world’s largest and most magnificent caves, on the same cave system as “Hang Son Doong,”. This is as close as you can get to a “Son Doong” adventure without the costly price tag and significant commitment.

A day hike through gorgeous jungle and valleys, as well as a minority community, is required to see this gigantic cave. This is followed by an overnight stay camping at the cave’s entrance or on a beach inside the cave, and then a trip back the next day.

Hang Toi is a true adventure cave that is now extremely popular! The cave has no lighting, so after zip-lining across the river, you swim through it with your head torch to guide you, then explore a muddy side channel before kayaking back across the river.

You can either join the National Park trip or go on your own to explore this magnificent cave.

The alternative entrance to Dark Cave can be viewed on the Abandoned Valley Trek, which is located many kilometers away. Hang Toi is a fantastic and easily accessible example of the stunning caverns found throughout this region.

Phong Nha Cave was the first cave to be opened to the public, and it can be visited by boat from Phong Nha Village up the river.

During the American War, it was used as a shelter, storehouse, and a hospital, and many marks from that time can be seen on its walls.

It can easily be done in half a day and is definitely worth seeing. Particularly for the traditional Dragon Boat ride up the river and through the cave.

The “city” of Phong Nha

The “city” of “Phong Nha” is a small, uninspiring place with only 1,000 inhabitants. There isn’t much to do in the city itself, and travelers will find only a few pubs, cafes, other western “hang-out” areas.

However, this city and its caves are gradually becoming a must-see destination in Vietnam, as proven by blogging websites and tourism leaflets.

Hoi An

Hoi An is a living museum that preserves the old-town architecture and was formerly a prominent Southeast Asian commercial port in the 16th and 17th centuries. Chinese temples, a Japanese-designed bridge, pagodas, wooden shop houses, French-colonial houses, and old canals are just a few of the historic structures.

Despite the fact that large-scale trading had long migrated elsewhere, Hoi An was successful in conserving and restoring its picturesque roots, and in December 1999, it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Hoi An Riverside resort is one I stayed at, and it was magical to wake up in the morning and see the farmers working in their fields, as well as the lanterns floating down the river next to the resort at night.

Five kilometers from the town center, Hoi An also features two wonderful beaches.

Hoi An is also recognized for its delicious food, enjoyable shopping, skillful tailors, friendly people, and welcoming ambiance, all of which bring visitors to this gorgeous town.

The Cham islands.

The Cham Islands are a group of eight granite islands located 15 kilometers off the magnificent coastline of “Hoi An.” The Cham people first landed on Hon Lao, the largest and principal island, some 3,000 years ago.

Historically, the eastern side of Hon Lao has been a good spot for ships to anchor. The army occupies half of the island and has previously restricted tourist access to the Cham Islands.

Tourists, on the other hand, may now enjoy the laid-back lifestyle and the activities available.

Getting there.

There are a variety of ways to travel to the island, so getting there is not a problem. Using a ferry, a speedboat, or a tour package.

The public ferry is substantially slower than the other modes of transportation. It is, however, far gentler on your wallet, and your stomach. It travels to the Cham Islands once a day and can be boarded at two locations: An Hoi Pier and Cua Dai Pier.

Visitors can go snorkeling, diving, and fishing in their turquoise waters, and there are plenty of powdery sand beaches to pick from. A handful of modest historical sites can be found on the Cham Islands.

They can be seen by taking a motorbike tour or by taking a leisurely stroll through the quiet pathways. Staying the night and watching the sunset behind the mainland is a great way to unwind if you’re looking for a taste of local life.

The Cities of Vietnam

Vietnam is a fast-developing country that is both adventurous and forward-thinking. Its cities are densely packed with culture, innovation, and colonial architecture, and they continue to push forward.

A potpourri of architectural styles and modern Asian architecture can be found in many of Vietnam’s cities. The top cities in Vietnam are waiting for you to discover their spectacular geographical natural panoramas, innovative cityscapes, and traditional cultures.

Saigon and Hanoi.

From the southern city of Ho Chi Minh City where evenings in the city are frantic and fun with packed bars and restaurants that come alive as travelers and locals mix and chat in the busy streets.

To the more sedate, and in my opinion more reserved, but equally congested Capital of Hanoi, there are many cities along the way to explore.

You can read more about the cities and my experiences in my post “What is it like living in Vietnam”

Dalat.

Da Lat is well-known for the great range of flowers, vegetables, and fruits are grown in the neighboring farmlands. Beautiful vistas, evergreen woods, and minority villages are among the many natural features. It is known as a romantic getaway for the Vietnamese.

Since French colonial times, the hill city of Da Lat has been a favorite destination for getaway holidays.

Many people refer to it as ‘Le Petit Paris,’ and it even has a miniature Eiffel Tower in the center.

This getaway city, located 1,500 meters above sea level, provides a change of scenery with a mild environment, whereas other cities in Vietnam can be extremely hot and humid, especially during the summer. Temperatures in Dalat stay around 10°C from November to March, so make sure you pack some heavier clothing.

The People and Culture.

Outside My House In Vietnam

Vietnam’s people are indeed a priceless resource. From north to south, you will be greeted warmly by the majority of the locals, whether or not you know them.

However you still need to be careful, petty crime is still big in the cities. So do not carry cameras or phones in your hand or over your back if on a Xe-Om (motorbike taxi)

From bartering with locals to dining out with locals there is always something that will frustrate and amuse you at the same time.

The food.

Vietnamese cuisine differs by region and goes beyond pho and spring rolls. Fresh vegetables and pork and poultry continue to reign supreme, while beef is gaining popularity.

You may also find plenty of fresh seafood caught in the morning along the shore in places like Nha Trang and Da Nang, and served in your supper for a very low price.

See my favorite bites in my post...Vietnamese Street Food.

Conclusion.

With the lifting of travel restrictions, Vietnam should be on your list of destinations to travel to. However, please check your local embassy before booking your trip.

My House in Vietnam
My House in Vietnam

Stephen is the author and owner of “VietnamESL” and has lived in Vietnam for over 15 years.

How to Travel around Vietnam easily and safely.

Traveling around Vietnam.

Vietnam’s transportation network is improving, however, it is still a touch rough around the edges. 

The majority of travel takes place on roads, which are generally OK, but you may get a few potholes here and there.  Air-conditioned coaches transport visitors and locals up and down Highway 1.

Highway 1 is a small and unsurprisingly congested thoroughfare that stretches from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, passing through Hué, Da Nang, and Nha Trang along the way.

 Off the beaten path, the roads are less friendly. Quite often you will find winding dirt roads and tight narrow alleyways if you are riding a motorbike or traveling around town on a Xe-Om. (Motorbike Taxi)

Trains operate alongside Highway 1, and for longer journeys, their sleeper beds are significantly more comfortable than buses. 

Airline services are expanding, and the low-cost, comfortable services may allow you to shave days off your plan. 

Let us have a bit more of a look.

Planes, trains, and automobiles. (and Boats)

Coaches and Cars and Motorbikes.

Automobiles.

Coaches

Although Vietnam’s congested, narrow roads are not designed for overtaking, nearly every vehicle is either overtaking or being overtaken at any one time, and accidents ( And fatalities) are common.

Most routes now have fixed-price tickets, and the introduction of luxury buses on the main tourist route has seen comfort standards soar. Many buses have sleeper-berths for the entire route on the longer stretches, though obtaining 40 winks might be difficult. 

Why, because the nature of local roads ( and bladder requirements) means that emergency stops are regular, and Vietnamese drivers frequently blast their horns, which can become annoying after a lengthy stop-filled trip.

Security is still a major consideration. Always sleep with your bag at your side and never leave valuables unattended if you travel by coach. Petty crime such as theft is common and quite often done by local ex-pats as well as Vietnamese criminals.

Cars.

Hiring a personal driver is not expensive in Vietnam. Yes, it is more expensive but not exorbitant. An example of this would be traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau, a coastal town close to H.C.M.C., which would cost about 2,000,000 dong or about $90.00 US. Not bad for a 2-hour journey of 61 miles.

Motorbikes

Xe-oms used to be the go-to for traveling around town if you can cope with the heat and traffic. However, Grab has made big inroads into the local Xe-Oms business, mainly because they are cheaper and safer. 

Two dollars will get you from one side of the city to another, so if you are on a budget download the local grab app.

Hiring Motorbikes.

If you want to play Russian road roulette you can hire a motorbike. Unless you have lived here for a while or are a very experienced driver, I would not recommend it. 

But there are many places you can hire from. And most only need a copy of your passport and cash upfront. Do not leave your passport.

If you want a trustworthy person to speak to in H.C.M.C. I would recommend Stevie’s garage. He not only provides rentals but also sells quality second-hand motorcycles.

Road Rules

Because of the chaos that passes for a traffic system in Vietnam you should not venture out onto the roads until you’re completely sure of your ability to do so. 

In theory, you should drive on the right, but in fact, drivers and cyclists will drive on sidewalks and duck in and out of traffic as fast as they can. 

Using the “horn” on the car or motorbike is a normal occurrence and is used to warn others where you are. So do not freak out when you are walking or driving down the road and you hear a loud “BEEP” 

The normal speed limit on highways is 60 km/h, while in cities or towns it is 40 km/h or less. And if you get up to these speeds in rush hour, hats off to you. The traffic here is frantic. 

Get your Licence

I have had friends who have had their motorcycles confiscated because of no paperwork. Do not become one of them. 

You can find out more about getting your license in Vietnam in my post ” How to teach English in Vietnam”

Trains.

Fewer passengers choose the railway over tour buses, mainly because of the lower prices and consistent service of traveling by coach. But rail travel is definitely worth considering for a variety of reasons. 

For starters, main highways are usually dotted with run-down cafés, gas stations, snack stalls, and cell phone shops which the bus companies may have an affiliation with. So stopping in some cases is compulsory. 

However, from the train, you can view some of the countryside. Second, you’ll have a lot fewer close calls with vehicles, motorcycles, and dogs. Third, you’re practically certain to meet a bunch of pleasant locals, and maybe even get invited to join in the feasts that some of them bring on board.

Prices.

The prices are reasonable by train. HCMC to Hanoi costs between US$35 and US$70, depending on the operator and route, whereas HCMC to Hue costs around US$25. The higher the price, the more stops you add.

You can check out the fares at the Vietnam railway website. however please do not provide credit card details to this site as it is not secure. Please see below. From Google.

This website doesn’t have a valid certificate. The information sent to and from it is not secure and can be intercepted by an attacker or seen by others. There’s a risk to your personal data when sending or receiving information from this site.

If possible, contact the website owner to request that their site protect its data with a secure connection.

Google.

Planes

On longer journeys, flying comes into its own, saving hours or even days. 

The two-hour flight between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, for example, compares well to the 30 to 40 hours you’d spend on the train. And even longer on a bus. However…

With Vietnam’s extensive domestic aircraft network, getting around the country has never been easier.

Airports
Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang International Airport in Da Nang are the three major international hub airports in Vietnam.

Airlines

Domestic flights in Vietnam are currently operated by the following four airlines:

Vietnam Airlines is the country’s national carrier.

Low-cost carrier VietJet Air is dependable for short-haul flights.

Jetstar is a low-cost carrier founded by Vietnam Airlines in collaboration with Australia’s Qantas.

Vasco is a Vietnam Airlines subsidiary that specializes in very short-haul flights. It is used by those who wish to travel around Vietnam’s southern region.

And there are many regional airports in Vietnam with connecting services and taxis waiting to take you to your accommodation.

There are 33 Airports in Vietnam and this link covers all these 33 Vietnam Airports. Find Airport Information about airport to airport distance, airport to city distance, Current Time and Date at airport Vietnam, etc… at ..Airport lists in Vietnam

Boats, Ferries, and hydrofoils.

There are some places where you can catch a boat or a ferry or even a hydrofoil. And it can be a lot of fun.

One of the most amazing adventures in Vietnam is a boat tour of Ha Long Bay. Others include scheduled year-long runs,  weather allowing, to the key islands off Vietnam’s coast, such as Phu Quoc, Cat Ba, and Con Dao. 

Ferry and hydrofoil services are also available from Hai Phong to Cat Ba, as well as hydrofoils from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau and Ha Long City to Mong Cai and Bai Tu Long. 

River Ferries

A few river ferries still carry people from bank to bank in the Mekong from morning to night, despite being steadily superseded by bridges.

I have gone from high-end cruises to small boats on the riverways, and one of my most memorable occasions was sailing down the river in Tra Vinh with my wife and two friends. All at a ridiculously low price.

You can find out prices and more information at Vietnam Open Tour. But once again please do not provide credit card details as it is an unsecured site. OK to look, but do not provide personal information, please.

This website doesn’t have a valid certificate. The information sent to and from it is not secure and can be intercepted by an attacker or seen by others. There’s a risk to your personal data when sending or receiving information from this site.

If possible, contact the website owner to request that their site protect its data with a secure connection.

Google

Conclusion.

Whatever way you want to travel around Vietnam is dependant on cost and how adept you are at integrating and socializing with others. 

Be open to new experiences and share how you feel with your new Vietnamese friends, and try to learn a little language before you visit. 

Here is a link to my Happy New Year Phrases in Vietnamese.

 

My name is Stephen and I am the author and owner of Vietnam ESL 

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