Measures to improve the effectiveness of English 11 learning through organizing classroom-level English speaking contests In order to realize the role of English speaking contests in imp
INTRODUCTION
Reason for choosing the topic
The rapid advancement of science and technology has highlighted the limitations of traditional teaching methods, necessitating the exploration and implementation of innovative teaching techniques that cater to student learning This is particularly crucial in light of the 2018 General Education Program, which calls for a comprehensive overhaul of educational practices, including high school English To foster knowledge acquisition and the development of essential qualities and competencies, it is vital to adopt active, creative, and age-appropriate teaching methods.
The 2024-2025 academic year marks the full implementation of the 2018 General Education Program across all educational levels, including high school English This program focuses on enhancing learners' qualities and competencies, with English serving as a vital communication tool that facilitates student integration and development in a globalized context.
Hoang Hoa High School, located in Hoang Hoa district, Thanh Hoa province, has been dedicated to enhancing both cultural quality and ethical education since its establishment over a decade ago The school actively promotes initiatives like "Emulation to teach well, study well" and "Building a friendly school, active students" to elevate teaching and learning standards Committed to innovation, the faculty continually seeks to improve teaching methods and the overall quality of education.
In teaching English, I have identified several challenges: limited opportunities for students to practice communication, a lack of innovative and synchronized teaching methods, traditional approaches that fail to engage students actively, and learning content that often lacks relevance to social issues they care about Additionally, while many students possess strong creative and critical thinking skills, they are not provided with the necessary conditions to develop these abilities To address these challenges, it is essential to implement solutions that enhance students' English learning potential.
- To conduct practical research on English 11 teaching through the organization of English speaking contests at some high schools in Thanh Hoa province.
- To conduct surveys using investigation methods, interview methods, and conversations with teachers and students.
To enhance the effectiveness of English learning for 11th-grade students, an English speaking contest will be organized at Hoang Hoa High School in Thanh Hoa province The contest will focus on the critical topics of "Global Warming and Environmental Protection," encouraging students to engage in meaningful discussions while improving their language skills.
The analysis of results from the pedagogical experiment involved applying mathematical statistical methods to process the collected data This analysis was compared against the research objectives, leading to insightful conclusions for the Experience Initiative.
1.5 Novel aspects of the experience initiative
- To explore and establish the theoretical and practical basis for organizing English speaking contests in teaching English 11 at the high school level.
- To develop measures to improve the effectiveness of English 11 learning through organizing English speaking contests at the classroom level.
- To develop an illustrative lesson plan on "Global Warming and Environmental Protection" through the organization of an English speaking contest.
- To conduct a pedagogical experiment using the lesson plan and evaluate the results, thereby demonstrating the feasibility of the developed Experience Initiative.
2.1 Theoretical Basis of the Experience Initiative
To effectively implement the Experience Initiative, it is essential to establish a robust theoretical foundation grounded in scientific research, contemporary educational perspectives, and the guidelines outlined in the 2018 General Education Program for high school English.
2.1.1 Organizing Teaching and Learning Through Classroom-Level English Speaking Contests
In the implementation of the 2018 General Education Program, innovating teaching methods is crucial for enhancing educational quality and meeting developmental needs Organizing English speaking contests has emerged as a creative and effective teaching approach, frequently conducted at various levels, including individual schools, clusters, and extracurricular English club activities.
- Increase students' interest and motivation to learn by connecting lesson content to real-world issues that they care about.
- Develop reading comprehension and speaking fluency skills through researching and discussing debate topics.
- Raise students' awareness of social issues such as environmental protection, energy conservation, ecosystem conservation, and sustainable development, etc.
When selecting or developing debate topics for the English 11 curriculum, it is essential to connect them to significant social issues highlighted in the media For instance, while exploring the theme of "Environment," educators can facilitate a debate on "Effective measures to reduce air pollution in major cities." This approach not only enhances students' understanding of relevant topics but also encourages critical thinking and engagement with current events.
- Provide students with diverse reference materials in English, including scientific reports, newspaper articles, video clips, and reputable websites.
- Guide students on how to search for, evaluate, and select information suitable for the debate.
* Steps to implement the measure:
- The teacher introduces the debate topic and provides reference materials.
- Students divide into groups, research materials, and develop arguments for or against.
- Groups present their viewpoints and debate with each other.
- The teacher plays the role of facilitator, guide, and provide comments and evaluations.
- Summarize and draw lessons about language knowledge and social issues.
2.1.3.2 Measure 2: Designing diverse and Engaging pre-debate and post- debate activities
- Thoroughly prepare students with knowledge, language skills, and debating skills before entering the official debate round.
- Consolidate and expand knowledge and skills after the debate ends.
- Develop listening comprehension, writing skills, and teamwork skills.
+ Brainstorming: Students brainstorm ideas related to the debate topic.+ Vocabulary building: Students learn new vocabulary and phrases related
Organizing classroom-level English speaking contests in a methodical and scientific manner offers significant benefits for students, fostering their comprehensive development in knowledge, skills, and qualities while enhancing English learning effectiveness By selecting speaking topics that address current social issues and align with the prescribed English curriculum, these contests play a crucial role in improving students' English learning outcomes.
2.1.2 The role of teaching through classroom-level English speaking contests
Organizing English speaking contests in the classroom serves as an effective educational tool, offering numerous practical benefits for students This initiative highlights five key roles of classroom-level English speaking contests in enhancing the teaching and learning experience.
2.1.2.1 Promoting proactiveness and activeness in English learning
English speaking contests motivate students to actively seek and analyze information in English Rather than solely relying on textbooks, participants are encouraged to explore a variety of resources independently, enhancing their reading comprehension and information analysis skills.
This activity empowers students to select topics aligned with their interests, enhancing their motivation and igniting a passion for English Such proactive engagement fosters a sense of responsibility for their own learning journey.
- Students are encouraged to ask questions, debate, and defend their viewpoints in English This not only helps them consolidate knowledge but also develops critical thinking and communication skills.
2.1.2.2 Comprehensive development of English language skills
English speaking contests offer a holistic language practice environment, enabling students to engage in all four essential skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing Participants read reference materials, listen to sample speeches, and write essays in preparation for their presentations, allowing them to articulate their ideas clearly and coherently.
- To participate effectively, students need to expand their vocabulary, master grammar, and practice pronunciation This process helps them improve their ability to use the language accurately, fluently, and confidently.
- The contest also provides opportunities for students to be exposed to many different language styles, thereby enhancing their ability to adapt and use English in many communication situations.
2.1.2.3 Enhancing critical thinking and problem-olving skills
- To build a persuasive speech, students need to be able to analyze information in English, evaluate evidence, and build arguments logically and coherently.
The contest promotes student engagement by encouraging them to ask questions, challenge established perspectives, and develop innovative arguments This approach enhances their critical thinking, logical reasoning, and creative problem-solving abilities.
- These skills are not only useful in learning but also necessary for life and work later on, especially in an international working environment.
2.1.2.4 Increasing confidence and English communication skills-
- English speaking contests create a safe and supportive environment, where students can overcome the fear of speaking English in front of an audience.
- The process of preparing and participating in the contest helps students become familiar with presenting ideas, expressing thoughts, and interacting with the audience in English.
- Encouragement from friends and teachers, as well as constructive comments and suggestions, helps students feel more confident in their abilities and enjoy the subject more.
2.1.2.5 Expanding knowledge of culture and society
- English speaking contests often focus on topical themes related to global issues, helping students expand their knowledge of culture, society, and the world around them through English.
- Students have the opportunity to access many different perspectives and viewpoints, thereby developing global thinking and the ability to integrate with different cultures.
- Researching and discussing these topics helps students raise awareness of social issues and develop civic responsibility.
2.1.3 Measures to improve the effectiveness of English 11 learning through organizing classroom-level English speaking contests
Research objectives
- To identify the current situation of organizing English 11 teaching and learning through the organization of an English speaking contest, thereby providing a theoretical basis for implementing the experience initiative.
- To develop measures to improve the effectiveness of English 11 learning through organizing an English speaking contest at the classroom level.
- To develop a lesson plan on "Global Warming and Environmental Protection" through the organization of an English speaking contest.
This study evaluates the feasibility of an initiative by comparing outcomes from an experimental class, which engaged in an English speaking contest on "Global Warming and Environmental Protection," with a control class that followed traditional teaching methods as outlined in the school's approved education plan for the 2023-2024 academic year.
Research subjects
Teaching and learning activities for the topic "Global Warming andEnvironmental Protection" in English 11 through the organization of an English speaking contest at Hoang Hoa High School.
Novel aspects of the experience initiative
- To explore and establish the theoretical and practical basis for organizing English speaking contests in teaching English 11 at the high school level.
- To develop measures to improve the effectiveness of English 11 learning through organizing English speaking contests at the classroom level.
- To develop an illustrative lesson plan on "Global Warming and Environmental Protection" through the organization of an English speaking contest.
- To conduct a pedagogical experiment using the lesson plan and evaluate the results, thereby demonstrating the feasibility of the developed ExperienceInitiative.
CONTENT
Theoretical Basis of the Experience Initiative
To effectively implement the Experience Initiative, it is essential to establish a robust theoretical foundation grounded in scientific research, contemporary educational perspectives, and the guidelines outlined in the 2018 General Education Program for high school English.
2.1.1 Organizing Teaching and Learning Through Classroom-Level English Speaking Contests
Innovating teaching methods is crucial for enhancing education quality under the 2018 General Education Program Organizing English speaking contests has emerged as a creative and effective teaching approach, frequently held at various levels, including schools, clusters, and English clubs during extracurricular activities.
- Increase students' interest and motivation to learn by connecting lesson content to real-world issues that they care about.
- Develop reading comprehension and speaking fluency skills through researching and discussing debate topics.
- Raise students' awareness of social issues such as environmental protection, energy conservation, ecosystem conservation, and sustainable development, etc.
When selecting or developing debate topics for the English 11 curriculum, it is essential to connect them to significant social issues highlighted in the media For instance, while exploring the theme of "Environment," educators can facilitate a debate on "Effective measures to reduce air pollution in major cities." This approach not only enhances students' understanding of relevant topics but also encourages critical thinking and engagement with current events.
- Provide students with diverse reference materials in English, including scientific reports, newspaper articles, video clips, and reputable websites.
- Guide students on how to search for, evaluate, and select information suitable for the debate.
* Steps to implement the measure:
- The teacher introduces the debate topic and provides reference materials.
- Students divide into groups, research materials, and develop arguments for or against.
- Groups present their viewpoints and debate with each other.
- The teacher plays the role of facilitator, guide, and provide comments and evaluations.
- Summarize and draw lessons about language knowledge and social issues.
2.1.3.2 Measure 2: Designing diverse and Engaging pre-debate and post- debate activities
- Thoroughly prepare students with knowledge, language skills, and debating skills before entering the official debate round.
- Consolidate and expand knowledge and skills after the debate ends.
- Develop listening comprehension, writing skills, and teamwork skills.
+ Brainstorming: Students brainstorm ideas related to the debate topic.+ Vocabulary building: Students learn new vocabulary and phrases related
Organizing classroom-level English speaking contests in a methodical and scientific manner offers significant benefits for students, fostering their comprehensive development in knowledge, skills, and qualities while enhancing English learning effectiveness By selecting speaking topics that address current social issues and align with the English curriculum, these contests play a crucial role in improving students' English learning outcomes.
2.1.2 The role of teaching through classroom-level English speaking contests
Organizing English speaking contests in the classroom serves as an effective educational tool that offers numerous practical benefits for students This initiative highlights five key roles of classroom-level English speaking contests, emphasizing their significance in enhancing language skills and fostering a dynamic learning environment.
2.1.2.1 Promoting proactiveness and activeness in English learning
English speaking contests motivate students to actively seek and analyze information in English Rather than solely relying on textbooks, participants are encouraged to explore a variety of resources independently, enhancing their reading comprehension and information analysis skills.
This activity empowers students to select topics aligned with their interests, enhancing their motivation and igniting a passion for English Such proactive engagement fosters a sense of responsibility for their own learning journey.
- Students are encouraged to ask questions, debate, and defend their viewpoints in English This not only helps them consolidate knowledge but also develops critical thinking and communication skills.
2.1.2.2 Comprehensive development of English language skills
English speaking contests offer a holistic language practice environment, enabling students to engage in all four essential skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing Participants read reference materials, listen to sample speeches, and write essays in preparation for their presentations, allowing them to articulate their ideas clearly and coherently.
- To participate effectively, students need to expand their vocabulary, master grammar, and practice pronunciation This process helps them improve their ability to use the language accurately, fluently, and confidently.
- The contest also provides opportunities for students to be exposed to many different language styles, thereby enhancing their ability to adapt and use English in many communication situations.
2.1.2.3 Enhancing critical thinking and problem-olving skills
- To build a persuasive speech, students need to be able to analyze information in English, evaluate evidence, and build arguments logically and coherently.
The contest promotes critical thinking by encouraging students to ask questions, challenge established viewpoints, and develop innovative arguments, thereby enhancing their logical reasoning and creative problem-solving abilities.
- These skills are not only useful in learning but also necessary for life and work later on, especially in an international working environment.
2.1.2.4 Increasing confidence and English communication skills-
- English speaking contests create a safe and supportive environment, where students can overcome the fear of speaking English in front of an audience.
- The process of preparing and participating in the contest helps students become familiar with presenting ideas, expressing thoughts, and interacting with the audience in English.
- Encouragement from friends and teachers, as well as constructive comments and suggestions, helps students feel more confident in their abilities and enjoy the subject more.
2.1.2.5 Expanding knowledge of culture and society
- English speaking contests often focus on topical themes related to global issues, helping students expand their knowledge of culture, society, and the world around them through English.
- Students have the opportunity to access many different perspectives and viewpoints, thereby developing global thinking and the ability to integrate with different cultures.
- Researching and discussing these topics helps students raise awareness of social issues and develop civic responsibility.
2.1.3 Measures to improve the effectiveness of English 11 learning through organizing classroom-level English speaking contests
To enhance the effectiveness of English 11 learning through speaking contests, it is essential to implement scientifically designed measures that align with classroom realities Key strategies should prioritize the development of students' language skills, critical thinking abilities, and social awareness.
2.1.3.1 Measure 1: Developing debate topics closely linked to lesson content and prominent social issues
- Increase students' interest and motivation to learn by connecting lesson content to real-world issues that they care about.
- Develop reading comprehension and speaking fluency skills through researching and discussing debate topics.
- Raise students' awareness of social issues such as environmental protection, energy conservation, ecosystem conservation, and sustainable development, etc.
When selecting or developing debate topics for the English 11 curriculum, it is essential to connect them to significant social issues highlighted in the media For instance, while exploring the theme of "Environment," educators can facilitate a debate on "Effective measures to reduce air pollution in major cities." This approach not only enhances students' understanding of relevant topics but also encourages critical thinking and engagement with current events.
- Provide students with diverse reference materials in English, including scientific reports, newspaper articles, video clips, and reputable websites.
- Guide students on how to search for, evaluate, and select information suitable for the debate.
* Steps to implement the measure:
- The teacher introduces the debate topic and provides reference materials.
- Students divide into groups, research materials, and develop arguments for or against.
- Groups present their viewpoints and debate with each other.
- The teacher plays the role of facilitator, guide, and provide comments and evaluations.
- Summarize and draw lessons about language knowledge and social issues.
2.1.3.2 Measure 2: Designing diverse and Engaging pre-debate and post- debate activities
- Thoroughly prepare students with knowledge, language skills, and debating skills before entering the official debate round.
- Consolidate and expand knowledge and skills after the debate ends.
- Develop listening comprehension, writing skills, and teamwork skills.
+ Brainstorming: Students brainstorm ideas related to the debate topic.+ Vocabulary building: Students learn new vocabulary and phrases related
1.1 Reason for choosing the topic
The rapid advancement of science and technology is significantly expanding humanity's body of knowledge, highlighting the limitations of traditional teaching methods To address these challenges, it is crucial to explore and implement innovative teaching techniques that align with the 2018 General Education Program, which emphasizes comprehensive educational reform, particularly in high school English Utilizing active, creative, and age-appropriate teaching methods is essential for fostering students' knowledge acquisition and the development of their competencies and qualities.
The 2024-2025 academic year marks the full implementation of the 2018 General Education Program across all educational levels, including high school English This program focuses on enhancing learners' qualities and competencies, with English serving as a vital communication tool that facilitates student integration and development in a globalized context.
Hoang Hoa High School, located in Hoang Hoa district, Thanh Hoa province, has been dedicated to enhancing both cultural quality and ethical education since its establishment over a decade ago The school actively promotes initiatives like "Emulation to teach well, study well" and "Building a friendly school, active students" to elevate teaching and learning standards Committed to innovation, the faculty continually seeks to improve teaching methods and the overall quality of education.
In teaching English, I have identified several challenges: limited opportunities for students to practice communication, a lack of innovative and synchronized teaching methods, traditional approaches that fail to engage students actively, and learning content that often lacks relevance to social issues they care about Additionally, while many students possess strong creative and critical thinking skills, they are not provided with the necessary conditions to develop these abilities To address these challenges, it is essential to implement solutions that enhance students' English learning potential.