OVERVIEW OF THE STUDY
Rationale
In applied linguistics, research has primarily focused on teaching and learning English skills, while the study of English collocations has received less attention Recently, however, students preparing for exams like IELTS and TOEFL have increasingly recognized the significance of collocations in mastering vocabulary Understanding which words commonly pair together is essential for effective language use, making the study of collocations a crucial component of English language learning.
Historically, individuals have sought to understand the rules governing English collocations and their significance in language use Research has focused on various aspects, including lexical collocations, grammatical structures, different types, and the origins of collocations, highlighting their crucial role in effective communication.
However, not many people have research on the methods of learning collocations
Understanding collocations is crucial for effective communication in English and enhances skills such as reading and listening Third-year students at Thuongmai University’s English Faculty are ideal respondents, as their knowledge of academic vocabulary and business terminology is essential for establishing a strong foundation for their future careers.
This thesis explores effective methods for learning English collocations to enhance vocabulary among third-year English students at Thuong Mai University The goal is to identify strategies that facilitate the easy formation and understanding of English collocations, ultimately improving their overall English language skills.
Aims of the study
English collocations are essential for learners, yet many struggle to grasp their significance Research indicates that mastering collocations enhances vocabulary usage, which is crucial for achieving high scores in exams like IELTS and TOEIC Furthermore, many third-year English students at Thuongmai University lack sufficient knowledge of collocations This study aims to address these gaps in understanding and application.
Third-year English Faculty students often employ various strategies to navigate the complexities of collocations, yet they frequently encounter challenges in mastering them Understanding the significance of collocations is essential for enhancing their language proficiency, as these word combinations are integral to fluent and natural English communication By identifying their weaknesses in this area, targeted support can be provided to improve their grasp of collocations, ultimately enriching their overall learning experience.
- Suggest some suitable methods for English learners and third – year students of English Faculty about learning English collocations and enhance their vocabulary.
Research subjects
- The research questions of the study:
What are the methods that students use to learn English collocations?
What are the weaknesses that students have in learning English collocations?
How can students do to enhance English collocations and vocabulary
- Research subjects: The methods of learning English collocations in order to enhance English vocabulary.
There is a significant opportunity for exploration in this subject due to the limited research conducted in the past Additionally, understanding English collocations is crucial for business students, making this topic both relevant and accessible.
However, this is an interesting and potential topic.
Scope of the study
This study examines the techniques employed by third-year English students at Thuongmai University to learn English collocations The rationale behind this research is grounded in the significance of collocations in enhancing language proficiency and effective communication skills among learners.
Students from the English faculty have dedicated three years to their university education, achieving an intermediate level of English proficiency Mastering English is essential for their future job prospects, serving as a crucial foundation in their career development.
English will be the most important thing for these students when they choose jobs.
Understanding English collocations is essential for achieving fluency and ease in the language This is particularly important in the business realm, where grasping economic terminology is crucial for accurate translation Mastering collocations provides a foundational knowledge that enables individuals to translate documents closely and effectively, ensuring clarity and precision in communication.
Secondly, after consulting and discovering, researcher sees that these students have enough characteristics of English learners and they are suitable to this topic as well Their main characteristics are:
- They have to learn a lot of subjects related to English at university
- In the third year of university, students have to understand more about specialized English and academic terms.
- English is very important for them in their career.
Research methodology
This study employs quantitative research methods, focusing on objective measurements and the statistical analysis of data It utilizes polls, questionnaires, and surveys, along with computational techniques to manipulate pre-existing statistical data.
Quantitative research focuses on gathering numerical data and generalizing it across groups of people or to explain the phenomenon.)
Researcher chooses this type of methods because of its characteristics.
Firstly, the data is usually gathered using structured research instruments.
The study's findings are derived from larger, representative sample sizes, ensuring high reliability and the potential for replication It focuses on a clearly defined research question, seeking objective answers Additionally, the research can be utilized to generalize concepts, predict future outcomes, and explore causal relationships.
The primary method utilized in this survey is a questionnaire, which comprises a collection of questions designed for research objectives Questionnaires can be qualitative or quantitative, and while they may not always be part of a survey, every survey inherently includes a questionnaire.
In qualitative research, questionnaires utilize open-ended questions delivered through email, telephone, or face-to-face interactions, allowing for in-depth responses Conversely, quantitative research employs questionnaires that feature closed-ended questions with limited response options, facilitating statistical analysis and data quantification.
There are two types of questionnaire:
- Questionnaires that evaluate variables that is separate, including questions regarding an individual’s behavior, facts and preferences.
- Questionnaires that measure factors incorporated into a scale like those about individual identities and different attributes, index and traits.
Surveys are primarily conducted through questionnaires, which, despite their drawbacks, remain the most viable option for gathering data During the survey period, many third-year English faculty students are busy preparing for their final exams, making methods such as observation and interviews impractical Consequently, the researcher relies solely on online questionnaires to effectively collect the necessary information for this study.
Organization of the study
The study is going to answer the question: How can students improve
English, especially English collocations? And it also helps them to understand the importance of English collocations The organization of this thesis is divided into four chapters:
Chapter 1 provides an overview of the study This chapter will put emphasis on the background of study and give some basic information such as rationale and the aims of the study, research subjects, scope of the study and research methodology
Chapter 2 introduces literature review related to this study In this chapter, readers can understand exactly about the theory of this thesis topic From definition to the history of English collocations The last section in chapter 2 focuses on the importance of English collocations and some main types of English collocations.
Chapter 3 provides a brief description on the plan of surveying Readers can know more about the current situation of third – year students of English Faculty and some difficulties that researcher have to face when conducting Throughout the data analysis, the strengths and weaknesses of them will be showed with the reasons
Chapter 4 gives some solutions to this phenomenon and some evaluation for this study.
The last one of this study is APPENDIX which contains the full description of all questions, methodologies of the survey.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Definitions of collocation
In corpus linguistics, collocations refer to word sequences that frequently occur together more than by chance, serving as a sub-type of phraseme in phraseology For instance, the term "strong tea," as noted by Michael Halliday, is preferred over "powerful tea," which sounds awkward to English speakers Conversely, in technology, "powerful computer" is favored over "strong computer." It's important to differentiate collocations from idioms; while idioms derive their meaning from established conventions, collocations simply represent commonly used combinations of words.
According to Oxford Collocations Dictionary [2002], collocation is a means of combining words in a language to produce natural-sounding speech and writing.
In English, certain combinations like "heavy wind" or "strong rain" are considered unnatural due to specific grammatical and lexical distinctions The authors highlight the importance of "word" collocations, where elements cannot be substituted even with synonyms, as seen in the phrase "small fortune," which cannot be replaced with "little fortune." Additionally, they discuss "category" collocations, where elements can pair with any items from a defined group of words.
This group can be quite large and its elements- predictable because they make up the same category, e.g measurements of time for a noun walk: five minutes’ walk/three-minute walk.
Collocations are defined as commonly-used groups of two or more words that often function idiomatically The "right" and "wrong" words in these collocations have developed through the evolution of the English language Therefore, it is essential to view collocations as entire units of language rather than merely a collection of individual words.
Collocations are unique combinations of words that do not adhere to standard grammar rules, making them abstract and often difficult for students to grasp With no definitive explanations and an endless list of possibilities, learners can feel confused and frustrated For instance, while one would correctly say "fast food" for lunch and seek a "quick fix" for a problem, phrases like "quick food" or "fast fix" sound unnatural to native English speakers, despite being grammatically correct.
Learning collocations is essential for achieving natural speech and enhancing expressive capabilities Collocations, which describe the habitual combinations of words, play a significant role in both everyday communication and professional environments In business contexts, specific nouns frequently pair with particular verbs or adjectives, such as "draw up a contract," "set a price," and "conduct negotiations." Understanding these combinations can improve clarity and fluency in language use.
Collocations can be classified as strong or weak, with strong collocations representing fixed and closely linked word pairs that are commonly used together While native speakers may still understand your message without strong collocations, failing to use them can lead to awkward or humorous expressions.
“make” and “do” provide perfect examples of why collocation is so important.
Generally, 'make' refers to things that are made that weren't there before 'Do' refers to actions that we take or do such as chores
- Collocations with “Make” make a cup of coffee / tea make noise make the bed
Collocations involving the verb "do" include phrases like "do the laundry," "do the errands," and "do business with someone." These combinations illustrate how certain verbs pair specifically with particular nouns, creating natural and commonly used expressions Understanding these verb-noun pairings is essential for effective communication in English.
The importance of English collocation
Native speakers of a language have at their disposal thousands of words.
Individuals possess the theoretical ability to generate and comprehend an infinite array of sentences using their grammatical knowledge However, in practice, they often rely on familiar phrases and word combinations tailored to their communication needs This reliance on established language patterns occurs as words become associated with one another through repeated usage within a language community Occasionally, a unique combination of words can create a lasting memory link, particularly if it carries significant emotional weight or is used by a person of high status.
When words are grouped together, they can predictably influence each other's usage However, non-native speakers often lack these pre-formed word combinations in their memory, leading to the frequent production of incorrect phrases.
It is important to study English collocations because it will help English learners understand how to use vocabulary words in a sentence correctly.
Many English learners dedicate countless hours to mastering thousands of vocabulary words, often relying on dictionaries for definitions However, despite their extensive knowledge, they frequently struggle to incorporate these words effectively into sentences.
Mastering English collocations is essential for learners to effectively remember vocabulary and construct natural-sounding sentences These combinations of words enhance fluency and make your language use more idiomatic, closely resembling the speech patterns of native speakers.
Teaching collocations significantly boosts learners' oral communication skills, listening comprehension, and reading speed By focusing on collocations, learners become more aware of the language chunks commonly used by native speakers in both speech and writing, leading to improved language proficiency.
I make my bed each morning to start the day fresh Parents often share stories with their children to foster imagination Before bedtime, Sean enjoys browsing the internet to unwind.
Or we say: Strong coffee/tea , NOT powerful coffee/tea
2.2.2 For third – year students of English Faculty at Thuong Mai university
Students at the English Faculty of Thuongmai University must grasp the use of English collocations in business, as these expressions play a crucial role in shaping their future careers Understanding collocations will significantly influence their professional communication and effectiveness in the workplace.
In the business world, effective communication is essential, whether it involves crafting emails, letters, contracts, advertisements, invitation cards, company profiles, or business letters for meetings A lack of familiarity with business collocations can lead to significant challenges in conveying your message clearly and professionally.
The following is an example of collocations used in advertisement:
The new whitening revolution Pure Vitamin C + Melanin-Block
Dark spots and skin pigmentation, a growing concern by many Asian women, are mainly caused by constant exposure to harsh UV rays resulting in overactive melanin production in the epidermis.
L’Oréal Skincare Laboratories has introduced an innovative whitening skincare solution, the White Perfect Double Action Concentrated Whitening Essence, which effectively addresses pigmentation issues on both the skin's surface and within the epidermis.
THE UNIQUE DOUBLE CHAMBERS MELANN+BLOCK+LACTIS ACID+DERMOLISS CHAMBER
Melanin-Block acts directly on melanogenesis and effectively reduces melanin production by -53%.
Efficient exfoliating agents: Lactic acid and Dermoliss gently exfoliate away melanin-filled dark dead cells to recover skin tone evenness, radiance and greater transparency.
(Adapted from Maybin, Mercer & Hewings, 2007: p 70)
As we can see from the example, the collocations found in this advertisement are as follows:
Mainly caused by, effectively reduces, and gently exfoliate.
Intensifying adverbs, such as "mainly," "effectively," and "gently," play a crucial role in enhancing language by combining adverbs with adjectives to create more compelling expressions As highlighted by McCarthy & O’Dell (2005), these adverbs contribute to the effectiveness of persuasive language in advertising English through their strategic use in collocations.
Here is another example of collocations used in invitation cards:
Mr and Mrs John C Smith request the pleasure of the company of Mr James K Brown & Guest at a small holiday party and dance
Monday, the twenty-third of December from seven o’clock in the evening until eleven o’clock.
Wilshire Road Los Angeles, CA 90039
Mr and Mrs John C Smith cordially invite Mr James K Brown and guest to join them for an intimate holiday party and dance.
To accept a written invitation, you may use the collocations as follows: Mr.
A and … accept with pleasure the invitation of
Or: … has much pleasure in accepting
To conclude, the collocations used for writing, accepting, and declining an invitation can be particularly used according to the purpose of writing.
These collocations are essential for business writing when you have to deal with businesspeople around the globe.
We can see that English collocations in business are always related to the work and important documents If the translators make mistakes with translation, it
Third-year English faculty students are expected to have a strong grasp of academic vocabulary and terminology It is crucial for them to focus on learning and retaining English collocations, particularly in the business field, to enhance their communication skills and academic success.
Collocations differ from idioms in that their meanings are derived from the meanings of their individual components A notable feature of collocations is that commonly used words often pair with less frequently used ones These regular combinations create patterns based on associations rather than grammatical rules, influencing how words are used together in language.
They are always in that order and to put them the other way around seems wrong.
Many words combinations made Benson and Benson classify the collocations into two types They are grammatical collocation and lexical collocation.
Grammatical collocation, as defined by Benson, Benson, and Ilson (1997), refers to phrases that consist of a dominant word—such as a noun, adjective, or verb—paired with a preposition or grammatical structure like an infinitive or clause This concept, also known as fixed combination words, is further supported by Mahmoud (2004), who describes grammatical collocation as a combination involving a preposition used with a noun, verb, or adjective Examples include phrases like "by accident," "admiration for," and "the house needs painting," as well as "she (the girl) is ready to go."
Grammatical collocations Combination Example G1 noun + preposition
G2 noun + to infinitive G3 noun + that clause
G4 preposition + noun G5 adjective + preposition G6 predicate adj + to infinitive G7 adjective + that clause
It was a pleasure to do it.
He took an oath that he would do his duty. by accident, in advance. be angry at, be fond of.
It was necessary to work
It was nice that he can was able to come home for the holidays. send ( the dative movement transformation verb)
Table 2.1 Grammatical collocations (Cited in Koya, 2005, p.69)
Lexical refers to the definition of words typically found in a dictionary, where a word is recognized as the smallest unit of language that can stand alone in both written and spoken forms.
2.3.2.1 Some Characteristics of Lexical Collocation by Hill (2000)
RESEARCH FINDINGS
Current situation
Most students at Thuongmai University began learning English in Grade Three of primary school, while some started at an even younger age As a result, their proficiency in English varies significantly.
This study focuses on third-year students from the English Faculty at Thuongmai University, who predominantly possess intermediate English proficiency These students have explored various methods to enhance their skills across all areas of the language.
Most students interviewed by the project team expressed a positive attitude towards English, stating that they find it interesting and recognize its importance in today's world.
Many learners struggle with English due to its complexity, often finding it challenging to communicate with native speakers and to develop essential skills such as writing, speaking, and listening Despite daily English lessons at school, they continue to face difficulties in communication and testing This issue largely stems from a lack of an immersive environment for practicing English, coupled with ineffective learning methods.
English collocations are crucial for students dedicated to mastering the language, as they play a significant role in achieving fluency similar to that of native speakers While some learners may be able to use collocations correctly, they often lack a clear understanding of their meanings and usage Emphasizing the importance of collocations can enhance students' overall English proficiency and communication skills.
The project team observed that university students predominantly use and learn English during their studies However, they often encounter difficulties, particularly in courses like business correspondence, where academic vocabulary poses significant challenges Translating business-related terms can be especially problematic for them.
In addition, they lack skills and vocabulary to express their feelings when communicating, which make them feel unconfident when talking with native speakers
For the most part, third –year students of English faculty at Thuongmai University can use English in communication and study, but they are not excellent.
Many students in various faculties hold IELTS or TOEIC certificates, while few students in the English faculty pursue these qualifications This is largely because they believe that their English major exempts them from the necessity of taking these standardized tests.
Difficulties
Learning English collocations can be challenging for students due to their unpredictable nature Unlike other language rules, collocations do not follow clear guidelines, making them difficult to master To effectively integrate collocations into their language use, learners must engage with natural language and gradually familiarize themselves with various collocations over time.
Here are some difficulties when learning English collocations:
One of the main challenges in English is understanding de-lexicalized verbs, often referred to as empty verbs These verbs, such as get, go, take, make, do, and have, are commonly used with various nouns, leading to a loss of their original meaning in certain phrases For instance, the expression "have a coffee" essentially means "drink a coffee," but it does not directly translate to the action of drinking This phenomenon can create confusion for learners trying to grasp the nuances of English verb usage.
Mistakes in collocations often arise from the use of de-lexicalized verbs, which can lead to misunderstandings While the grammar may be correct, the collocations can still be inappropriate Additionally, students frequently struggle with creating accurate collocations.
Students usually find it difficult to use collocations with “make” and “do”.
Sometimes, they use “make business” instead of “do business”; “make a report” instead of “do a report”, etc… these phrases have correct grammar, but students use the wrong collocations.
Another problem when learning English collocations is randomness.
Collocations often appear arbitrary and lack clear rules governing their usage When students inquire why we say "do the homework" instead of "make the homework," we may struggle to provide a solid rationale, often resorting to the unsatisfactory answer that "it just is."
Therefore, it is very hard for students to form English collocations, or remember them A word can combine with a lot of adjectives, adverbs, nouns,…
However, there are also some words which only exist together, not with anything else
Learning English collocations can often leave students feeling confused and frustrated due to their seemingly random nature To effectively tackle this challenge, it is essential for learners to write down collocations and commit them to memory.
The next difficulties related to English collocation is meaning and noticing.
It means that sometimes, when trying to transfer from one language to English, it is very tough to find exactly words to express the feeling.
Many learners, particularly at lower levels, often concentrate on unfamiliar individual words instead of understanding their collocations This tendency arises from the common practice of noting vocabulary in isolation, typically by writing the word along with its first language translation in a vocabulary notebook In contrast, more advanced learners may recognize a word but neglect to examine its collocates within the text To enhance vocabulary acquisition, it is crucial for learners to be made aware of collocations prior to expecting them to identify these connections independently.
3.2.4 Difficulties in studying and teaching at Thuongmai university
For third-year English faculty students at Thuongmai University, mastering English collocations is crucial for enhancing their vocabulary Unfortunately, they often lack an optimal learning environment to support their studies.
The campus lacks an immersive English learning environment, with students rarely speaking the language outside of English classes Even during these classes, the reliance on tape recorders limits interaction, as most students do not have access to multimedia resources Although classrooms are equipped with projectors and computers, their quality often hinders effective teaching and learning, making it difficult for educators to present relevant slides and materials.
In addition, the subjects at university focus mainly on business, there is no subject that can help them enhance English collocations and learn English skills.
Textbooks often fall short in addressing the specific needs of students preparing for English proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEIC Additionally, many teachers rely on outdated teaching methods, which can lead to a lack of engagement among students This disconnect not only diminishes students' interest in learning but also leaves teachers feeling exhausted and frustrated in their efforts to connect with their classes.
Reasons why third – year students of English faculty at Thuongmai
Several factors can influence students' attitudes toward learning English Despite the growing importance of the English language in today's world, many students may experience a decline in motivation and interest during English lessons, creating significant obstacles to effective language acquisition.
Third-year students at Thuongmai University's English faculty engage with English as a mandatory language, utilizing it daily in their academic environment As a result, they have become well-acquainted with English collocations, making them a familiar aspect of their language studies.
However, there are a lot of problems they have to face when dealing with English collocations And these following are some objective reasons.
A positive classroom environment serves as a vital second teacher for students, significantly enhancing their learning experience When students are placed in conducive conditions, they are more likely to achieve better academic outcomes.
The second reason is that students in Vietnam usually spend time on working and earning money, they have very little time to practice English everyday.
While classroom environment and equipment play significant roles in learning English collocations, numerous subjective factors also influence students' learning experiences.
Many students struggle to fully engage with English collocations, often losing interest due to challenging subjects In the context of learning English for business, the necessity of mastering collocations becomes apparent; however, the lack of understanding can hinder their ability to remember new phrases and idioms As a result, some students perceive these topics as tedious and difficult.
Many learners underestimate the significance of English collocations, believing that effective communication in English is paramount This misconception leads them to overlook the value of mastering collocations, resulting in a reluctance to engage with the topic However, once they embark on preparing for exams like IELTS or TOEIC, they begin to realize the essential role that collocations play in enhancing their English proficiency and overall communication skills.
Some students exhibit a lack of motivation towards their education and future careers, leading them to invest minimal time in learning English This negligence can severely hinder their language skills and overall knowledge.
The process of surveying
An online survey was conducted from April 6 to April 9, 2018, involving 50 third-year English faculty students at Thuongmai University, representing various classes and hometowns The analysis of the collected data revealed insights into how students approach English collocations and their inclination to use these collocations to enhance their English language skills.
The survey aims to gather information on the challenges students face when studying English collocations and their coping strategies It consists of 12 questions designed to be completed in just 10 to 15 minutes, making it appropriate for third-year English faculty students with an intermediate level of English proficiency Participants are encouraged to select the answers that best reflect their opinions The questionnaire is organized into three distinct sections.
- General questions about their knowledge ( questions 1, 2, 3, 4)
- Questions for students who can use English collocations and understand them (questions 5, 6, 7)
- Questions for all of respondents about their opinions (questions 8, 9,
In the initial section of the survey questionnaires, students provided insights into their general knowledge and the amount of time they dedicate to learning English The findings are visually represented in the accompanying pie chart, illustrating the current state of English language learning among students.
Chart 3.1 The amount of time students have been learning English
The pie chart reveals that the majority of students, over 7 years, have been learning English, enabling them to understand and use the language at an intermediate level In contrast, only 6% of respondents have been studying English for less than a year, likely reflecting a serious commitment to learning over their third year Additionally, 22% of students have been learning English for 2 to 5 years, while 16% have been studying for 5 to 7 years.
However, there is a disappointed fact about their learning English situation.
Despite studying English for over seven years, many individuals struggle to speak fluently due to limited time dedicated to their language learning.
This pie chart below is collected from question 2, which shows the amount of time students spend per day on learning English
Chart 3.2 The amount of time a student spend per day on learning English
With this question, three choices are given and the results are surprising.
A recent survey revealed that the majority of third-year English students at Thuongmai University dedicate less than two hours a day to studying English, with only 10% investing over five hours daily These statistics highlight a concerning lack of commitment to English language learning among the students.
In order to find out the best solutions to this problem, some weaknesses of students in learning English are showed in this chapter.
Chart 3.3 The weaknesses in learning English
The graph indicates that students find speaking, writing, and listening to be the most challenging English skills to master, with other skills selected by approximately 30% of respondents This suggests that while many students have a solid grasp of English grammar and phrases, they lack regular opportunities to practice these skills daily, hindering their overall improvement in listening, speaking, and writing.
Collocations, phrases, and new vocabulary significantly impact language skills Consequently, question 4, "Do you know many English collocations?" may reveal why students struggle to master English despite years of study.
For this question, with 50 answers, 22 answers are registered (account for 43.8%) for the option “YES” and 28 answers (56.2%) are registered for the option
An analysis of the questionnaires reveals that third-year English faculty students at Thuongmai University face significant challenges in developing their English skills, particularly in listening and speaking.
English collocations are familiar to many, with some individuals using them regularly, while others have limited knowledge This lack of understanding is not necessarily due to their university subjects or teachers, but rather a gap in their comprehension of what English collocations truly entail.
Therefore, even though they use them on a regular basis, they still do not know much about them
English learners confront with great difficulties when trying to learn English collocations Thus, they have to find out some methods to handle with this problem.
Here are some methods they have been using:
Chart 3.4 The methods that students use to learn English collocations
The chart reveals that the majority of students familiar with English collocations primarily rely on books and dictionaries for their studies, while a portion learns from their teachers at universities and English centers Online learning accounts for 38.9%, ranking as the third most common method, whereas only 27% of students acquire collocations through daily life experiences.
Learning English collocations can be challenging through everyday experiences alone To master them, students should engage in extensive reading and utilize various dictionaries for reference Furthermore, teachers play a crucial role in helping students retain these collocations over time.
To assess students' proficiency in using and recalling English collocations, questions 6 and 7 were specifically crafted to evaluate their abilities in this area.
These questions have the point ladder from 1(not well) to 5(very well) 36/50 answers were received for each question And here are the results:
Chart 3.5 Point ladder of students’ ability to use English collocations
Chart 3.6 Point ladder of students’ ability to remember English collocations
Research indicates that students who are familiar with English collocations tend to use and retain them more effectively However, a significant number of students struggle to remember and utilize collocations, often finding them challenging Notably, only 16.7% of respondents express confidence in their ability to recall English collocations.
3.4.2.3 Students’ opinions about difficulties and their suggestions
In questions 8 to 12, students expressed their views on the challenges of learning English, particularly highlighting that memorizing new vocabulary is essential for improving reading and listening skills Despite this, an overwhelming 94% of participants found it to be a challenging endeavor While they shared various strategies for retaining new words, many still struggle to effectively incorporate these words into their practical usage.
Discussion of the findings
The survey, conducted among a small group of third-year English students at Thuongmai University, may not fully represent the overall situation of studying English collocations at the institution Nonetheless, the findings provide valuable insights that can be leveraged to develop effective solutions, recommendations, and suggestions for enhancing the current state of English collocation studies.
Many third-year students at Thuongmai University's English faculty have over seven years of English study, indicating they should possess intermediate proficiency However, it is disappointing to note that two-thirds of the respondents dedicate less than two hours daily to learning English.
The majority of them have troubles when handling listening, speaking and writing skills because they cannot create a good environment to practice English.
Another reason is that they are not willing to use English on a regular basis, which comes from the lack of vocabulary and collocations.
For students who know many English collocations, they can remember and use collocations quite well Most of them use books, dictionary for learning collocations.
Listening and reading skills are closely linked to collocations, and students often face challenges in mastering these abilities Based on the collected data, the researcher has identified key insights that provide valuable suggestions for enhancing their English proficiency.
In conclusion, the challenges identified by respondents regarding English collocations in the survey can inform effective solutions and provide valuable recommendations for drafting a strong construction contract The next chapter, titled "Recommendations and Suggestions," will present all the necessary information.
RECOMMENDATIONS AND SUGGESTIONS
How should students deal with English collocations?
Students should approach English as a distinct language rather than a direct translation of their native language It's important to refrain from translating word for word When studying expressions, they should focus on contextual usage to enhance retention and understanding.
When students encounter new expressions, it's essential to write them down within meaningful sentences For instance, in the sentence "I got home quite late," the word "got" effectively means "arrived." This practice helps reinforce understanding and retention of new vocabulary.
To effectively master English collocations, students should immerse themselves in extensive reading and listening, which naturally enhances their ability to recognize various collocations Moreover, they should adopt a chunk-based approach to language learning, concentrating on phrases as cohesive units rather than isolated words, in line with Lewis’ Lexical Approach.
Using dictionary and books is also a best way to learn English collocations.
There are a lot of English collocations and students cannot remember all Here are some good dictionaries and books for students to learn and look up collocations:
- Book: English collocation in use
- Dictionary: Macmillan Collocations Dictionary for Learners of English
- Book: Shortcut to English collocations
When students encounter a new grammar point, it's crucial that they prioritize understanding the sound of the grammatical structure over merely memorizing the rules By practicing and repeating these structures until they feel natural, learners can effectively grasp concepts like conditional sentences Additionally, embracing mistakes as learning opportunities can further enhance their language acquisition process.
Solution to problems facing third - year students when learning English collocations
4.2.1 Spending more time on self - teaching
Intermediate-level English students possess the ability to independently enhance their language skills At this stage, they can effectively utilize online resources and books for self-directed learning, eliminating the need for a formal teacher or structured English course.
It is very necessary to spend at least 2 – 5 hours on learning English per day.
To master English, students should cultivate a habit of continuous study, as English collocations are prevalent in music, movies, and books Engaging in self-education not only fosters discipline but also transforms reading into a regular practice, enhancing overall language skills.
Attending practical trainings/events becomes a habit Because they understand that there are many things they need to learn, and they always seek for more learning.
When learning becomes a discipline, their growth is bigger.
Learning English collocations can be challenging for students, but with dedication and self-education, they can master them effectively To enhance retention, students should jot down collocations when they encounter them, practice memorizing them, and create sentences to reinforce their understanding Keeping a dedicated notebook for this purpose is essential for successful learning and application of collocations.
In general, students using English collocations at intermediate level should spend more time on self – teaching and they have to non – stop learning English
4.2.2 Taking the IELTS, TOEIC, TOEFL tests
Taking an English test motivates students to engage seriously with the language Exams like IELTS and TOEFL emphasize the importance of academic vocabulary and collocations Mastery of English collocations significantly enhances speaking and writing skills, enabling candidates to achieve higher scores.
For English faculty students, taking the IELTS or TOEFL tests is highly beneficial, as both assess English language proficiency for non-native speakers The IELTS, or International English Language Testing System, evaluates four key skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing Similarly, the TOEFL, which stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language, also measures these essential language skills, making both tests valuable for academic and professional advancement.
Intermediate English students should dedicate time to preparing for an English certificate, as this can help them achieve their goals This preparation not only fosters serious learning but also enhances their understanding of English collocations.
Moreover, an English certificate is also important for them when graduating and then finding a job
For basic-level students aiming to enhance their understanding of English collocations, finding a qualified teacher is essential Participating in communication classes led by knowledgeable instructors can significantly improve their speaking and communication skills Additionally, students preparing for exams like IELTS or TOEFL also learn valuable collocations, further boosting their overall English proficiency.
Many students in this group lack confidence in their English skills, which hinders their willingness to communicate with native speakers As a result, their presentations often fall short of perfection However, research indicates that enrolling in an English course provides a supportive environment for practice, significantly boosting their confidence.
To improve their English skills, students should dedicate 2 to 5 hours daily to practice exercises, focusing particularly on English collocations Numerous online resources offer effective exercises along with answer keys, making it easier for students to enhance their learning Here are some recommended websites to explore for valuable practice materials.
- Tolearnenglish.com Otherwise, students can find books for learning English collocations
To improve their English skills, learners should practice listening and reading daily They can utilize resources such as BBC, VOX, TED Talks, and VOA to engage with news and conversations, focusing on identifying and reviewing potential collocations regularly.
Recommendations for improving learning environment at Thuongmai University
Creating a comprehensive learning environment for students in a specific course or program is a highly creative aspect of teaching While many often emphasize physical spaces like classrooms and labs or the technologies that facilitate online learning, it is essential to recognize that learning environments encompass much more than just these tangible elements.
The characteristics of the learners.
The goals for teaching and learning.
The activities that will best support learning.
The assessment strategies that will best measure and drive learning.
The culture that infuses the learning environment.
After surveying, 80% students said that equipments in classroom are quite good, but they need to be guaranteed regularly, some classrooms need to be equipped with air – conditioners
About teaching methods, teachers of English faculty should have a modern method to approach the lesson and help students to improve their English skills.
Building strong relationships between teachers and students is essential, as these connections significantly influence students' emotions and learning behaviors Teachers should engage with students on a personal level, stepping down from their podiums to foster friendships By leveraging their own knowledge and experience, teachers can effectively support students in their learning journeys To enhance teacher-student relationships, it's crucial for educators to consider students' perspectives when addressing challenges and designing teaching activities.
Incorporating engaging activities and assessment strategies in the classroom can significantly enhance students' interest in learning English Utilizing diverse methods such as videos, games, and interactive activities can facilitate the retention of English collocations Consequently, teachers should adopt a flexible approach in their teaching methods to effectively cater to students' learning needs.
English learners at Thuongmai University frequently engage with collocations, which are essential for effective communication and business interactions The various scenarios and examples presented in this article highlight the extensive knowledge required to master these linguistic combinations.
Collocations serve as a powerful linguistic tool in English business communication, enhancing persuasiveness and clarity To effectively leverage collocations, it is essential to learn them through appropriate methods and techniques.
Third-year English faculty students must focus on mastering English collocations, particularly in the context of Business English A strong grasp of collocations reflects a learner's language proficiency and is crucial for effective language instruction Teaching collocations is vital to enhance learners' language skills, making it an essential component of their English studies.
Additionally, research studies on collocations should be carried out further and to a greater extent.
The survey questionnaire for third – year students of English faculty at Thuongmai University
This survey targets third-year English faculty students at Thuongmai University, aiming to gather quantitative data on their attitudes and opinions regarding "methods of learning English collocations." Your responses will be used solely for research purposes.
Please tick the most suitable answer for each question.
1 How long have you been learning English? a Under 1 year b 2 – 5 years c 5 – 7 years d > 7 years
2 How much time do you spend per day on learning English? a < 2 hours b 3- 5 hours c > 5 hours
3 What are your weaknesses in English? ( you can choose more than one) a Listening b Reading c Writing d Speaking e Vocabulary f Phrases g Grammar
4 Do you know many English collocations? a YES b NO ( If the answer is NO, next to question 8)
5 What are the methods that you use to learn English collocations? ( you can choose more than one) a Learning from teachers (from university, English center,…) b Learning online c Learning from books and dictionary d Learning from daily life. e Others
6 How well can you use English collocations?
Giving point from 1(not well) to 5(very well)
7 How well can you remember English collocation?
Giving point from 1(not well) to 5(very well)
8 Do you think it is difficult to remember new words and phrases? a YES b NO
9 What are the most difficult factors you have to face in reading skills? (you can choose more than one) a Vocabulary b Phrases c Speed d Logic questions e Others
10 What are the difficult factors you have to face in listening skills? ( you can choose more than one) a Vocabulary b Phrases c Speed d Others
11 Do you think learning English collocations is important? a Not important b Important c Very important
12 Choosing the methods you think that it would be the most effective way to learn English collocations ( you can choose more than one) a Participating in an English course b Learning from internet c Reading more books about English collocation d Using dictionary e Learning with a group of friends f Trying to write them down and learn by heart. g Others