THU DAU MOT UNIVERSITY

FACULTY OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES

ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROGRAMME
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FINAL PAPER
Submitted as a fulfilment for the course
INTRODUCTION TO THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE

Student’s name: NGUYỄN NGÔ BẢO VY

Student’s code: 2522202010444
Class: D25NNAN07
Course:2025-2029
Major: English Language

Ho Chi Minh City – November 2025

 THU DAU MOT UNIVERSITY
ENGLISH LANGUAGE FALCUTY
ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROGRAMME
----------

FINAL PAPER
Submitted as a fulfilment for the course
INTRODUCTION TO THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE

Student’s name: NGUYỄN NGÔ BẢO VY

Student’s code: 2522202010444
Class: D25NNAN07
Course:2025-2029
Major: English Language
Lecturer: Tran Thanh Du, Ph.D.

Ho Chi Minh City - November 2025

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of contents pag

e
Part 1. THE HISTORY AND IMPORTANCE OF ENGLISH (3 pages) 1
1.1. The history of English 1
1.2. The importance of English 2
Part 2. LANGUAGE SKILLS (6-7 pages) 4
2.1. Listening skills 4
2.1.1. Definitions of listening 4
2.1.2. Your problems in listening 4
2.1.3. Strategies to develop listening skills 5
2.2. Speaking skills 5
2.2.1. Definitions of speaking skill 5
2.2.2. Your problems in speaking 6
2.2.3. Strategies to develop speaking skills 6
2.3. Reading skills 7
2.3.1. Definitions of reading 7
2.3.2. Your problems in reading 7
2.3.2. Strategies to develop reading skills 8
2.4. Writing skills 8
2.4.1. Definitions of writing 8
2.4.2. Your problems in writing 9
2.4.2. Strategies to develop writing skills 9
Part 3. HOW TO STUDY EFFECTIVELY AT UNIVERSITY (2-3 pages) 10
 Part 1
THE HISTORY AND IMPORTANCE OF ENGLISH

1.1. The history of English

1.1.1 Where did English come from

English began in the 5th century when Germanic tribes invaded Britain and their dialects
formed Old English. It looked very different from modern English but shared some roots and
words. After the Norman Conquest in 1066, French and Latin mixed with Old English to
create Middle [Link] printing press in the 16th century helped standardize spelling and
grammar. Later, the Industrial Revolution and British colonization introduced many new and
foreign words, shaping Modern English as we know it today.

1.1.2. The Three Main Stages of English

a) Old English (450–1100 AD)

Old English developed from the Germanic dialects of the Angles, Saxons, and
Jutes. It was later influenced by Norse and Latin through Viking invasions and the
spread of Christianity. Although difficult for modern speakers to understand, about
half of today’s most common English words come from Old English.

( Nguồn: [Link]
old-english-to-modern-days)
b) Middle English (1100–1500 AD)

After the Norman Conquest, French became the language of the ruling class,
adding many new words to English—especially in politics, art, and food (e.g., beef,
pork, veal). By the 14th century, English regained importance, and Geoffrey
Chaucer wrote in Middle English.

c) Modern English (from 1500 onwards)

 The Renaissance and the printing press brought new vocabulary from Latin and
Greek. Works like A Table Alphabeticall (1604) and the King James Bible (1611)
helped standardize English. As the British Empire expanded, English spread
worldwide and developed regional [Link] the 19th century onward, English
continued evolving with science, technology, and media. Today, over 1.5 billion
people use it as a global language for communication, business, and education.

1.2 The importance of English

English is essential in global communication, education, business, and entertainment. It
connects people worldwide and offers many opportunities for study and work.
1.2.1 English is the language of international communication
English is the official language of 53 countries and spoken by about a
quarter of the world’s population. It enables communication across
cultures and serves as the main language in the UK, the US, Canada,

Australia, and many other nations.

(Nguồn: [Link]

1.2.2 English gives you better opportunities for education.

Good English skills open doors to international education. Tests like TOEFL or IELTS
allow students to study at universities around the world.

(Nguồn: [Link]

1.2.3 English opens new career opportunities.

In a global job market, many companies seek employees who can use
English to work with international partners, making English a valuable
professional skill..
 (Nguồn:[Link]/image-vector/career-education-growth-concept-learning-model-2239867575)

1.2.4 English is the language of business.

English is now an essential skill for anyone who wants to work in the
global job market. Studies show that most international business
communication takes place in English, and many global companies
require their employees to be fluent in it.

(Nguồn:[Link]
competing-in-the-global-era/)

1.2.5 English gives you access to a world of entertainment.

Many of the world’s most famous films, books, and songs are in English. Knowing
English allows you to enjoy them in their original form without subtitles, making the
experience more authentic. Watching movies or listening to music in English also helps
improve language skills naturally. Moreover, it gives you a deeper understanding of
global cultures and creative works.

(Nguồn:[Link]
global-media-and-entertainment/)

1.2.6 English gives you an access to more of the Internet.

 English is the main language of the Internet, appearing on more than half of the world’s
top websites. Understanding English helps you access vast online information, research,
and learning materials. It also allows you to connect with people worldwide through
social media, online courses, and digital communities. In today’s connected world,
English is the key to global communication and knowledge.

(Nguồn: [Link]

Part 2
LANGUAGE SKILLS

2.1 Listening skills

Listening is one of the most essential skills in learning English and plays
an important role in effective communication. Through listening, learners
can understand how native speakers use vocabulary, pronunciation, and
intonation in real-life situations. It also helps improve other language
skills such as speaking, pronunciation, and vocabulary acquisition. In
today’s globalized world, having good listening skills allows learners to
communicate more naturally, understand different accents, and gain
confidence in both academic and professional settings.

2.1.1. Definitions of listening

Listening is the active process of receiving, interpreting, and
responding to both verbal and nonverbal messages to gain
understanding, which goes beyond simply hearing. It involves giving
focused attention, understanding the speaker's perspective,
remembering what is said, and often responding thoughtfully.
 (Nguồn:[Link]
[Link])

2.1.2. Your problems in listening

When learning English, I face several problems with listening. The first
problem is that native speakers often speak too quickly, so I cannot
catch all the words or phrases. I also find it difficult to understand
different accents, as the pronunciation and rhythm vary from one
speaker to another. Another problem is the use of unfamiliar
vocabulary, idioms, or slang, which makes it hard to understand the
meaning. Sometimes, background noise or poor audio quality also
affects my listening comprehension. Moreover, I tend to lose
concentration easily when listening for a long time. These problems
make it challenging for me to understand conversations or lectures in
English effectively.

(Nguồn : [Link]
utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web)

2.1.3. Strategies to develop listening skills

To improve listening skills, learners should practice regularly and use effective
methods. Listening daily to songs, podcasts, movies, or news helps them get used to
different accents and tones. Watching videos with subtitles can aid understanding at
first, then try without them to test comprehension. It’s better to focus on main ideas
rather than every word and take notes to stay focused. Repeating or shadowing native
speakers improves both listening and pronunciation. Consistent practice and exposure to
real English are the keys to success.

2.2. Speaking skills

Speaking is one of the most important skills in learning English because it directly reflects a
learner’s ability to communicate effectively. Through speaking, learners can express their
ideas, opinions, and emotions, and interact confidently with others in real-life situations.
This skill not only helps improve pronunciation and fluency but also strengthens vocabulary
and grammar through practical use. In academic and professional settings, good speaking
skills are essential for presentations, discussions, and interviews. Moreover, developing
speaking ability builds confidence and encourages learners to use English more naturally in
daily communication.
2.2.1. Definitions of speaking skill
Speaking skill is the ability to communicate and share ideas through
spoken language. It involves using words, voice, and non-verbal
expressions to convey messages effectively in different situations.
This skill helps people express their thoughts, opinions, and feelings
clearly when interacting with others.

(Nguồn: [Link]

2.2.2. Your problems in speaking

When learning English, I encounter several challenges in speaking. One major issue is a
lack of confidence, especially when I have to communicate with native speakers. I often
worry about making grammar or pronunciation mistakes, which makes me pause or
hesitate. Another difficulty is finding the right words to convey my thoughts, so I
sometimes speak very slowly or stop mid-sentence. Pronunciation and intonation are
also problematic for me, leading to occasional misunderstandings. Furthermore, my
limited vocabulary prevents me from expressing ideas naturally in different situations.
These obstacles make me feel nervous during conversations or presentations in English.

(Nguồn: [Link]

2.2.3. Strategies to develop speaking skills

To improve speaking skills, learners can use several effective strategies. First, they
should practice regularly through conversations, discussions, or presentations to build
confidence and fluency. Second, listening to native speakers helps improve
pronunciation, vocabulary, and natural expression. Third, participating in group
activities encourages interaction and balanced participation. Learners should also focus
 on interesting topics to stay motivated and express ideas more easily. Finally, getting
feedback from teachers or peers helps identify mistakes and improve language accuracy.

(Nguồn:[Link]

2.3. Reading skills

Reading plays a vital role in language learning and personal

development. It helps learners expand their vocabulary, improve
comprehension, and gain knowledge about different topics and cultures.
Through reading, students are exposed to various writing styles and
ideas that enhance their critical thinking and communication abilities.
Moreover, regular reading practice strengthens focus and encourages a
lifelong love for learning.

2.3.1. Definitions of reading

Reading skill is the ability to decode written symbols and understand

their meaning, which includes recognizing words, comprehending
text, and reading with fluency. It involves a combination of abilities,
such as word recognition, which is the capacity to identify words, and
reading comprehension, which is the process of understanding what
has been read.

(Nguồn: [Link]
shapes-your-mind-5-7383)
 2.3.2. Your problems in reading

Sometimes I find reading difficult because I don’t always understand all the words,
especially when the text includes unfamiliar vocabulary. Long or complex sentences
also make it hard for me to catch the main idea. Another problem is that I lose focus
easily when the topic is not interesting, so I have to reread several times to understand.
Finally, managing time while reading in exams is a challenge for me, because I often
spend too long on one part of the passage.

(Nguồn: [Link]
kesulitan-belajar-siswa)

2.3.2. Strategies to develop reading skills

Several strategies can help learners improve their reading skills. Practicing reading
regularly allows learners to become familiar with different types of texts and increase
reading speed. Expanding vocabulary through wide reading and using dictionaries
makes understanding new words easier. Identifying main ideas and key details helps
learners comprehend the text more effectively. Taking notes, making predictions, and
summarizing what is read can enhance understanding and memory. Choosing
interesting and suitable materials keeps learners motivated and encourages consistent
reading practice.

(Nguồn: [Link]

2.4. Writing skills

Reading plays a crucial role in learning by allowing learners to access
knowledge, explore new ideas, and develop analytical thinking. Through
engaging with various texts, individuals are exposed to diverse
perspectives, styles of writing, and ways of expressing ideas, which
enrich their understanding and communication abilities. Consistent
reading practice also strengthens concentration, comprehension, and
overall language competence, making it an indispensable skill for
academic achievement and lifelong personal growth.
2.4.1. Definitions of writing
Writing skill is the ability to express thoughts, ideas, and messages clearly and
effectively in written form so that the intended audience can easily understand them. It
goes beyond the physical act of writing and involves a complex set of cognitive and
technical abilities

(Nguồn: [Link]

2.4.2. Problems in Writing

Several challenges affect my writing performance. Organizing ideas logically is often
difficult, which can make my writing unclear or hard to follow. Limited vocabulary
sometimes prevents me from expressing my thoughts precisely. Grammatical errors,
such as incorrect verb tenses or sentence structures, frequently occur in my writing.
Writing under time pressure, for example during exams, can cause stress and lead to
mistakes. Maintaining coherence and cohesion throughout a text is also challenging,
especially in longer paragraphs or essays.
2.4.3 Strategies to develop writing skills
To develop writing skills, learners should practice regularly and read widely to expand
vocabulary and sentence structures. Planning ideas before writing helps create clear and
organized paragraphs. It’s important to focus on grammar, spelling, and punctuation to
ensure accuracy. Revising and editing drafts improve clarity and style. Getting feedback
from teachers or peers can also help identify weaknesses. With consistent effort, writing
becomes more fluent and confident over time.
 (Nguồn:[Link]

Part 3
HOW TO STUDY EFFECTIVELY AT UNIVERSITY
3.1. Set Up Goals and Strive for Them

Setting clear goals gives students direction and motivation. Goals help
define what they want to achieve and guide them through their studies.
These can be short-term goals, such as completing weekly assignments
on time, or long-term goals, such as graduating with honors or obtaining
a scholarship. Students should write down their goals, review them
regularly, and adjust when needed. Working toward goals step by step
builds self-discipline and a sense of accomplishment.

3.2. Make an Appropriate Study Plan

A good study plan helps students organize their time and work
efficiently. By planning when and how to study, students can avoid last-
minute stress and ensure steady progress. A daily or weekly schedule
should include time for classes, assignments, reading, rest, and social
activities. Students should also set priorities — focusing first on tasks
with closer deadlines or greater importance. Following a plan consistently
helps maintain balance and productivity.
 (Nguồn: [Link]

3.3. Keep a Balanced Schedule and Manage Time Effectively

University life is busy, and poor time management can lead to stress. To
stay balanced, students should divide their time wisely between
studying, relaxing, and socializing. Using planners or digital calendars
helps track assignments and deadlines. It’s also helpful to break large
projects into smaller parts and complete them gradually. Managing time
well not only improves academic performance but also supports mental
health and overall well-being.

3.4. Develop a Good Approach to Note-Taking

Good notes are essential for effective learning. Students should listen
carefully in lectures and write down key points rather than every word.
Using symbols, abbreviations, or bullet points makes notes clear and
easy to review. After class, students can organize and summarize their
notes to reinforce understanding. Digital note-taking tools like OneNote
or Google Docs can also help store and review materials conveniently.

3.5. Be Hard-Working and Active in Academic Activities

Success at university requires consistent effort. Students should attend

all classes, complete assignments on time, and participate actively in
discussions. Asking questions during or after lectures shows interest and
helps deepen understanding. Joining academic clubs, workshops, or
seminars also broadens knowledge and develops teamwork and
communication skills. Being proactive makes learning more meaningful
and enjoyable.
 (Nguồn: [Link]
work)

3.6. Develop and Exercise the Habit of Reading

Reading is one of the most effective ways to expand knowledge.

University students should read not only textbooks but also academic
journals, newspapers, and reference materials related to their field.
Regular reading improves vocabulary, comprehension, and critical
thinking. Setting aside daily reading time, even 20–30 minutes, helps
students stay informed and think independently. Reading widely also
enhances writing and research skills.

3.7. Make the Best Use of Libraries and Other Resources

University libraries are valuable sources of knowledge. They offer books,

e-books, journals, and study spaces that support academic success.
Students should learn how to use online databases and reference tools
provided by the university. Apart from libraries, other resources like
tutoring centers, online learning platforms, and academic software can
help students understand complex topics. Making full use of these
resources saves time and improves learning quality.

(Nguồn: [Link]
create-a-better-experience-for-patrons)
3.8. Seek Advice from Lecturers, Peers, and Experts

When facing difficulties, students should not hesitate to ask for help.
Lecturers and tutors can provide academic guidance, while classmates
may share helpful study techniques or resources. Collaborating with
peers in study groups allows students to exchange ideas and learn from
different perspectives. Seeking advice early prevents small problems
from becoming bigger obstacles. Learning to ask for support is a smart
and mature approach to studying.

3.9. Pay Attention to the Lectures

Paying full attention in class helps students understand lessons better

and remember key points. Active listening involves taking notes, asking
questions, and participating in class discussions. Avoiding distractions
such as phones or unrelated activities ensures focus. Reviewing lecture
notes shortly after class helps reinforce memory. Concentrating in class
saves time later and builds a strong foundation for exams and
assignments.

(Nguồn:[Link]
the-lecture/)

3.10. Conclusion

Effective study at university requires planning, discipline, and active

engagement. By setting clear goals, organizing time wisely, and
developing strong study habits, students can make the most of their
university years. Being hardworking, using available resources, and
maintaining curiosity are essential to success. With dedication and the
right strategies, every student can achieve both academic excellence
and personal growth