EFFECTIVE ORAL ACTIVITIES TO ENHANCE MOTIVATION AND ENGLISH ACQUISITION OF YOUNG LEARNERS

Tóm tắt

English learning for young learners requires not only vocabulary and grammar instruction but also activities that can sustain motivation and support natural language use. However, many children still face psychological, cognitive, and instructional challenges that limit their participation in English classrooms. This study aimed to identify the difficulties faced by young learners in learning English and to examine how different types of oral activities were associated with their motivation and English language acquisition at Happy English T&Y Foreign Language Center. Using a convergent mixed-methods design, the study involved 68 learners aged 6 to 10. Data were collected through student questionnaires, parent questionnaires, teacher observation checklists, and semi-structured interviews. The findings show that students’ difficulties were shaped by both internal factors, including fear of mistakes, lack of confidence, cognitive limitations, and L1 interference, and external factors, particularly repetitive teaching methods. Mechanical drills alone appeared to have limited motivational impact. However, when non-communicative activities were combined with communicative oral activities involving interaction, movement, games, role-play, and storytelling, students showed higher motivation, greater confidence, and more natural English use. The study suggests that oral activities should be used in a balanced way. Controlled practice can help young learners build basic language knowledge and reduce anxiety, while communicative activities provide meaningful opportunities to use English. These findings offer practical implications for teachers, parents, and center management in creating more engaging and supportive English learning environments for young learners.