An investigation into the effectiveness of using authentic materials in teaching ESP reading skills as upplementary materials for the second year students at vietnam university

VIETNAM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY, HANOI UNIVERSITY OF LANGUAGES AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES FACULTY OF POST-GRADUATE STUDIES DOÃN THỊ LAN ANH AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE EFFECTIVENESS OF USING AUTHENTIC MATERIALS IN TEACHING ESP READING SKILLS AS SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIALS FOR THE SECOND-YEAR STUDENTS AT VIETNAM UNIVERSITY OF TRADITIONAL MEDICINE (Khảo sát tính hiệu việc sử dụng tài liệu gốc công cụ bổ trợ cho việc dạy kỹ đọc tiếng Anh chuyên ngành cho sinh viên năm thứ hai Học viện Y-Dược học cổ truyền Việt Nam) M.A MINOR PROGRAMME THESIS Field: English Teaching Methodology Code: 60140111 HANOI - 2015 VIETNAM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY, HANOI UNIVERSITY OF LANGUAGES AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES FACULTY OF POST-GRADUATE STUDIES DOÃN THỊ LAN ANH AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE EFFECTIVENESS OF USING AUTHENTIC MATERIALS IN TEACHING ESP READING SKILLS AS SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIALS FOR THE SECOND-YEAR STUDENTS AT VIETNAM UNIVERSITY OF TRADITIONAL MEDICINE (Khảo sát tính hiệu việc sử dụng tài liệu gốc công cụ bổ trợ cho việc dạy kỹ đọc tiếng Anh chuyên ngành cho sinh viên năm thứ hai Học viện Y-Dược học cổ truyền Việt Nam) M.A MINOR PROGRAMME THESIS Field: English Teaching Methodology Code: 60140111 Supervisor: Assoc Prof Dr Nguyễn Văn Độ HANOI - 2015 CANDIDATE’S STATEMENT -***** - I hereby certify that the thesis entitled AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE EFFECTIVENESS OF USING AUTHENTIC MATERIALS IN TEACHING ESP READING SKILLS AS SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIALS FOR THE SECOND-YEAR STUDENTS AT VIETNAM UNIVERSITY OF TRADITIONAL MEDICINE Is the result of my own research for the Degree of Master of Arts at Vietnam National University, University of Languages and International Studies (ULIS) and that this thesis has not been submitted for any assessment in any other formal courses of study elsewhere Hanoi, 2015 Doãn Thị Lan Anh i ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS On the route to the complete thesis, I am deeply indebted to a number of people for their support and enthusiastic assistance First and foremost, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to my supervisor, Assoc Prof Dr Nguyen Van Do, who gave me a lot of invaluable guidance, suggestions, comments and encouragement throughout my study My sincere thanks go to all the lecturers of the Faculty of Post-Graduate Studies at the University of Languages and International Studies, Vietnam National University for their interesting and useful lectures Without them, I could not have come up with the idea for my thesis My special thanks are also extended to all my colleagues and the second-year students at Vietnam University of Traditional Medicine for their great contribution to the data collection and their constructive recommendations for this study Without their outstanding cooperation, my thesis would not have been completed Last but not least, my heartfelt thanks go to my parents, my husband, my son and especially my younger brother Without their love, understanding and encouragement, I could not have concentrated on my study and fulfilled my thesis on schedule ii ABSTRACT Materials play an extremely important role in language teaching and learning (Robinson, 1991; Nunan, 1991) They are not only considered as a resource of useful and interesting information but a motivation for learners to study and acquire their language as well (Dudley-Evans & John, 1998; Nonaka, 2001) Therefore, developing suitable materials for learners is a necessary in English language teaching This study is conducted with an attempt to investigate the effectiveness of using authentic materials as supplementary materials realized in an extensive reading program on the students’ reading proficiency and the attitude of students after exposure to program so as to meet the needs of the students at Vietnam University of Traditional Medicine for a way to access real-life language In order to collect information on the students’ reading ability, motivation and attitude towards the treatment given through the experiment, a pre-test, a post-test and an attitude questionnaire are chosen as the main instruments The study drew the participation of 58 non-English major students The findings suggest positive effects of using authentic materials as supplementary materials and provide conclusive evidence of reading fluency improvement together with a positive attitude towards program The findings are a good reflection of the research issue and draw some implications for the ESP teaching and learning, which necessitates the supplementation of authentic materials for extensive reading as a remedial approach to the teaching and learning reading comprehension not only in the context of Vietnam University of Traditional Medicine but to other similar contexts as well iii TABLE OF CONTENTS CANDIDATE’S STATEMENT……………………………………………………… i ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS………………………………………………………… ii ABSTRACT……………………………………………………………………….… iii TABLE OF CONTENTS…………………………………………………………… iv LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS…………………………………………………………vii LIST OF TABLES……………………………………………………………………viii PART A INTRODUCTION 1.1 Introduction 1.2 Rationales 1.3 Aim and objectives of the study 1.4 The scope of study……………………………………………………………… 1.5 Research hypotheses 1.6 Methods of the study 1.6.1 Research instruments 1.6.2 Data Analysis 1.7 Significance of the study 1.8 Design of the study PART B DEVELOPMENT CHAPTER I REVIEW OF LITERATURE 1.1 An overview of ESP 1.1.1 Definition of ESP 1.1.2 Characteristics of ESP 1.1.3 Features of ESP courses 1.2 English for medical purposes (EMP) and its characteristics 1.2.1 Definition of EMP 1.2.2 Characteristics of EMP 1.2.2.1 Characteristics of medical terminology 1.2.2.2 Grammatical features of English for medical purposes 10 1.2.2.3 Syntax 11 1.3 Textbook evaluation 13 iv 1.4 Authentic materials for ESP course book 14 1.4.1 The role of reading materials 14 1.4.2 Definitions of authentic materials 14 1.4.3 Advantages of authentic materials 15 1.4.4 Possible problems in using authentic materials……………………………… 17 1.4.5 The criteria for selecting authentic materials 18 CHAPTER II METHODOLOGY 20 2.1 Fast facts about teaching and learning reading ESP at VUTM 20 2.1.1 The course objectives 20 2.1.2 Textbook description 20 2.1.3 Students’ background and the current situation of learning and teaching ESP 20 2.2 Research method 21 2.2.1 Rationale for using quasi-experimental method 21 2.2.2 Research methods 22 2.2.3 Variables 23 2.2.4 Participants 24 2.2.5 Reading materials 25 2.2.5.1 Non-authentic materials 25 2.2.5.2 Authentic materials 25 2.2.5.3 Applying authentic materials in extensive reading program 25 2.2.5.4 Post-reading activities 26 2.2.5.5 Students and teacher’s role 27 2.2.6 Description of data collection instruments 28 2.2.6.1 Pre-test and post-test 28 2.2.6.2 The attitude questionnaire 29 CHAPTER III FINDINGS 30 3.1 Comparison of experimental and control groups’ reading proficiency after the program 30 3.1.1 Comparison of reading proficiency in the pre-test and post-test within groups 30 3.1.2 Comparison of reading proficiency between groups 31 3.2 Subjects’ opinions of the program 31 v 3.2.1 Subjects’ attitudes toward the program 32 3.2.2 Subjects’ preference of the post-reading activities 33 3.2.3 Subjects’ suggestions for future program 34 CHAPTER IV DISCUSSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 35 4.1 Discussion of research questions 35 4.1.1 Comparison of experimental and control groups’ reading proficiency after the program 35 4.1.2 Students’ opinions of the extensive reading with authentic materials 36 4.2 Implications 37 4.2.1 Research implications 37 4.2.2 Pedagogical implications 37 4.3 Limitations of the study 40 4.4 Recommendations for further research 40 PART C CONCLUSIONS 42 REFERENCES 43 APPENDICES I APPENDIX ……………………………………………………………………………… I APPENDIX 2………………………………………………………………………………III APPENDIX 3……………………………………………………………………………….X APPENDIX 4………………………………………………………………………………XI vi LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS VUTM : Vietnam University of Traditional Medicine EFL : English as a Foreign Language ELT : English Language Teaching CLT : Communicative Language Teaching GE : General English ESP : English for Specific Purposes EMP : English for Medical Purposes ERP : Extensive Reading Program N : Number of cases %: Percentage vii LIST OF TABLES TABLES Table Descriptive statistics for the pre-test and post-test scores of the experimental and control group 29 Table Mean gains of the experimental and control group 30 Table Experimental subjects’ attitudes toward the program 31 Table Experimental subjects’ preference of the post-reading activities viii 33 APPENDIX PRE-TEST & POST-TEST Number of questions: 45 Time allowed: 60 minutes Questions - Directions: Read the passage and choose one best answer for each question based on what is stated on the passage or on what can be inferred by tick A, B, C, or D (except question 8) Herbs and Drugs Herbs are different kinds of plans and plant parts that can be used for medical purposes This can include the leaves, stems, roots, or seeds of the plant Herbs have been important in traditional medicine for centuries, in both the East and the West In Western medicine, they have largely been replaced by drugs Herbal treatments are, however, still an integral part of Eastern medicine In recent years, interest in traditional medicine has increased in the West Many people are either using modern methods combined with traditional treatments or are turning to these treatment entirely While traditional medicines can be helpful, they are not without their share of problems The main different between herbs and drugs is that, while herbs are simply parts of plants, drugs are specific chemicals in a pure form Many modern drugs are derived from chemicals found in plants One example is aspirin, which is made from chemical extracted from the bark of the willow tree Other drugs are entirely synthetic Even those drugs that are derived from natural sources are heavily processed in order to purify and concentrate them This allows drugs to be administered in very precise amounts Different kinds and degrees of illnesses often required dosages that differ only slightly A little too much or not enough of a certain drug can have negative effects on the patient Many drugs also produce negative effects even when taken in the recommended dosage These undesired negative effects are called “side-effects” The possibility of dangerous and unexpected side-effects from drugs has led many people back to traditional medicine Herbal treatments seem more natural than modern drugs Many feel that traditional medicine is more concerned with treating the underlying causes of disease instead of just the symptoms, though the truth of this claim is not yet clear In any case, there is a certain comfort in taking natural herbal treatments instead of the processed, synthetic chemicals derived from them There are, however, disadvantages to herbal treatments, some of them serious Few herbal treatments have been scientifically studied While the active chemicals in the herb may be known, it may not be clear what they really do, or if they are really effective at all Because the active chemicals are not used alone, it is very difficult to determine the proper amount for treatment, since the levels of the chemical are not constant throughout the plant Therefore, the risk of under-and overdose is higher than with drugs A more serious problem is that certain herbal treatments may have no real medicinal effect, thus giving the patient a false sense of security This is particularly harmful when the patient refused treatment with modern drugs that could be effective Finally, because production of herbal treatments is seldom regulated, harmful substances can be present in herbal preparations Herbs grown in polluted soil may contain lead, arsenic, or mercury They may also be tainted with pesticides It is for these reasons that herbs should not be treated as the perfect substitute for drugs Although herbs appear to be quite distinct from modern drugs, it is important to use them with the same sort of care III The word “integral” in the first paragraph is closest in meaning to A Harmful B Important C Famous D Controversial Which of the following is closest in meaning to “tainted” in paragraph 5? A Accompanied B Augmented C Substituted D Contaminated The word “this” in paragraph refers to A Patients taking ineffective herbs instead of drugs B Patients having a sense of security C The risk of under- and overdose of a herbal treatment D The patient’s belief that modern drugs are bad for you Why does the author mention that drugs are heavily processed? A To show that herbs cannot complete with modern medical techniques B Because many mistakes can occur in this processing C To illustrate that drugs are not natural D To point out that many countries cannot afford to produce drugs What is the main different between herbs and drugs according to the passage? A Drugs can cause side-effects, whereas herbs not B Drugs are at least partially synthetic, whereas herbs are natural C Herbs are dangerous when taken in large amounts, drugs are safer D Herbs can produce a false sense of security, whereas drugs not According to the passage, when are herbs most dangerous? A When not taken under a doctor’s supervision B When the patient refuses modern medicine C When the dosage is not administered precisely D When taken in combination with drugs Which of the following best states the topic of the passage? A Patient are not educated enough to use herbal treatments B Modern drugs are still a better choice than herbal treatments C Modern medicine should use herbal treatments more in the future D Herbal treatment can be helpful, but should be used with care & Select the appropriate phrases from the answer choices and match them to the type of treatment to which they relate TWO of the answer choices will NOT be used Drugs (8) B A E C H F A Are most dangerous when use with other treatments B Allow the dosage to be controlled precisely C May contain harmful additives D Treat the cause of the disease and not just the symptoms E Are typically associated with side-effects F Are gaining in popularity in the West G Cause damage to the nervous system H Undergo heavy processing IV Questions 10 - 14 Directions: Read the passage and choose one best answer for each question based on what is stated on the passage or on what can be inferred by tick A, B, C, or D (except question 5) Acupuncture or the existence of hormones and other biochemical substances There is no relationship between the meridians that are used in this form of medicine and the layout of the organs and nerves in human physiology Nor can it be demonstrated that unblocking gi by any means is effective in the treatment of disease Many scientists and doctors continue to make this argument in opposition of acupuncture, trying to prevent it from becoming an established form of medicine Because it has no strong scientific foundation or basis, there are those who would continue to discredit it In China, the practice of acupuncture has been traced back to approximately the 1st millennium B.C Some evidence has placed the practice of acupuncture within the period of the Han dynasty (from 202 B C to 220 A D.) Its origins are somewhat uncertain The earliest Chinese medical texts (68 B.C.) not mention acupuncture, though some hieroglyphics have been found dating back to 1000 B.C that depict an early type of acupuncture Sharp pointed stones, believed to have been used to treat certain diseases in ancient times, were discovered amongst some rums Some scholars argue that the manner in which these stones were used was not dissimilar to certain acupuncture techniques Though it has continued to be regarded with some level of skepticism and mistrust, acupuncture is gradually becoming accepted in the Western world as a form of medicine In 1994, between ten and fifteen million people in the United States tried it as a form of treatment Furthermore, in 1996, the FDA changed the status of acupuncture needles With the needles now regarded as class medical devices, it meant that acupuncture was now considered safe when performed by a licensed practitioner Acupuncture can also be found on many college curriculums today Acupuncture is understood to be a procedure for regulating the circulation of gi (vital energy) and blood Approximately 2,000 years ago, a text describing the usage of gi was written, titled Huangdi Neijing I (Yellow Emperor's Classic on Internal Medicine) This text explained how holes, put into the energy paths of the body, called meridians, could treat various physical problems In some cases, holes into a meridian would let out blood without releasing gi Other holes into meridians would let out gi without releasing blood The basic understanding of gi and blood within the body was based on observations of water in nature 10 What does "its" in paragraph refer to? A B C D Over time, the focus of acupuncture shifted from releasing gi and blood to regulating the flow of gi within the body Physicians believed that, just as water could be blocked from its natural flow, gi could be blocked within the body The physician's job was then to determine where meridians were blocked, and through acupuncture, to clear the blockage In a blocked stream, creating a small hole or crevice in a blockage may clear the entire path of the stream The force of the water penetrating the hole will widen it until the normal flow is restored Physicians then reasoned that, in the human body, inserting a small needle into the blocked meridian would have a similar effect Acupuncture Blood Gi Water 11 What does the pronoun “it” in bold of the last paragraph refer to? A B C D Acupuncture The needle The FDA The change in medical status 12 The phrase "a similar effect" in the last line of paragraph refers to Although this description of the basic concept behind acupuncture is overly simplified, it still conveys the essence of how acupuncture works Even today, students of traditional acupuncture are taught to locate the areas of disturbance, to isolate the main blockage points, and to clear the blockage But that is only the tip of the acupuncture iceberg Other factors which must be considered in acupuncture therapy include where needles are put into meridians, how deeply the needles are inserted, and even what the needles are made of A creating more flow through opening a small hole first B inserting needles into crevices C locating blocked points that need to be opened D testing the amount of flow through different points of the body 13 Which of the following means most nearly the same as "clear" as used in paragraph 3? In the Western world, many arguments have been made against acupuncture One such argument is that traditional Chinese medic me is not based on knowledge of modern physiology, biochemistry, nutrition, anatomy, and any of the known mechanisms of healing Nor does it have any bass in cell chemistry, blood circulation, nerve function, A B C D Clean Go beyond Remove Successfully pass through 14 Directions: An introductory sentence for a brief summary of the passage is provided below Complete the summary by selecting the THREE answer choices that express the most important ideas in the passage Some sentences not belong in the summary because they express ideas that are not presented in the passage or are minor ideas in the passage V First sentence: The practice of acupuncture has existed for over two thousand years D Over ten million people tried acupuncture in the United States in 1994 A It regulates the flow of energy through the body by removing blockages E The treatment of the meridians is based on nerve function and blood circulation B References to acupuncture can be found in the earliest Chinese medical texts F Acupuncture is considered a safe treatment when practiced by a qualified professional C Many arguments have been made to discredit acupuncture as a form of medicine Questions 15 - 22 Directions: Read the passage below and then complete the table: Blood is composed of many different kinds of cells, each with a specific function Most blood cells are formed in the bone marrow and released into the bloodstream at various stages of maturity Red blood cells (erythrocytes) make up 45 percent of blood volume Their primary function is to pick up oxygen in the lungs and transport it to tissues throughout the body At the tissue site, red blood cells exchange oxygen for carbon dioxide and carry it back to the lungs to be exhaled First, they are packed full of hemoglobin, which functions as the oxygen carrier Interestingly, red blood cells have no nuclei, a feature which makes even more room for hemoglobin Second, they are shaped like disks This shape greatly increases their surface area compared with a sphere of the same volume The large surface area is important because it improves the efficiency of oxygen transfer between hemoglobin and the tissues where the oxygen is needed Red blood cells are formed in the bone marrow, and they have an average life span of about 120 days After this period of time, red blood cells tend to become misshapen and they are removed from the circulation by the spleen White blood cells (leukocytes) are only /1,000 as numerous as red blood cells in the bloodstream There are five main types: neutrophils (also called granulocytes), eosinophils, basophils, monocytes, and Iymphocytes Each plays a distinct and important role in helping the immune system fight infection Neutrophils contain granules of bacteria-killing enzymes in the cytoplasm - the substance surrounding the cell Eosinophils attack protozoa that cause infection Basophils are the least common type of white blood cell and their function is not completely understood They play an important role in regulating allergic reactions such as asthma, hives, hay fever and reactions to drugs Monocytes are the largest white blood cells They engulf and destroy invading bacteria and fungi and clean up debris once foreign organisms have been destroyed by other white blood cells When monocytes leave the bloodstream and enter tissues or organs, they can evolve into larger cells called macrophages that have an increased capacity to destroy foreign organisms invading the body Lymphocytes are the smallest white blood cells and are the backbone of the immune system Lymphocytes fight viral infections and assist in the destruction of other parasites A white blood cell count (WBC) is performed by counting the number of white blood cells in a sample of your blood A normal WBC is in the range of 4,000 to 11,000 cells per microliter A low WBC is also called leukopenia, a finding common in persons with HIV disease Red Blood Cells (erythrocytes) 15 VI Questions 23 - 27 Directions: Read the directions on the Disprin packet and answer the questions 23 How many tablets can adults take at one time? A 1-3 tablets B 2-4 tablets C 1-5 tablets 24 What’s the maximum number of tablets an adult can take in one day? A tablets B 10 tablets C 12 tablets 25 What’s the maximum number of tablets a13 year old can take in one day? A tablets B tablets C 12 tablets 26 In what situation can a 10 year old take this medicine? 27 The medicine should not be taken for longer than how many days without the doctor’s advice? A 10 days B 12 days C 24 days VII Question 28 - 34 Directions: Read and find out what the text is about Many people use alternative healing forms of health care and believe strongly that they are as effective as the system of medical practice Here are some examples: A Acupuncture: It’s a 3000-year-old Chinese medical system Acupuncturists insert hair-thin needles at certain points in the body to treat various diseases or to relieve pain B Reflexology: It is similar to acupuncture but focuses on treating certain disorders through massage of the soles of the feet C Herbalism: It is the world’s oldest and most widely used healing form Herbalists use herbs to treat illnesses such as depression, anxiety and hypertension D Ayurveda: It takes a preventive approach and focuses on the whole person It is effective especially in treating headaches and chronic sinusitis E Naturopathy: Proponents of naturopathy believe that the mind and body are in balance With a healthy diet, adequate rest and minimal stress, the body’s own vital forces are sufficient to fight off diseases F Homeopathy: It uses doses of herbs, minerals or even poisons to stimulate the body’s curative powers Homeopathy is based on the theory that if large doses of a substance can cause a problem, tiny doses can help healing of that same problem Which of the healing forms above: 28 involves the injection of needles into the body at various points? A 29 can help someone who has headaches and chronic sinusitis? ? D 30 gives small quantities of a substance? F 31 uses the sense of touch? _B _ 32 focuses on the balance between the body and the mind? _E _ 33 requires plants as medicine? C Questions 34 - 45 Directions: Match the items on the left with their appropriate definitions on the right Items A) Circulatory System B) Digestive System C) Endocrine System D) Immune System E) Integumentary System F) Lymphatic System VIII G) Muscular System H) Nervous System I) Reproductive System J) Respiratory System K) Skeletal System L) Urinary System The end! IX APPENDIX Answer keys (Pre-test & Post-test) B D B C C D D B,E,H A,C,F 10 D 11 D 12 A X APPENDIX A sample of reading authentic materials A READING PRACTICE Activity Before You Read Look at the picture and answer the following questions: What method of treatment is the man having? Have you ever had this method? Is this method of treatment popular in your country? Can you mention some effectiveness of this method? Is this method important in the alternative medicine? Activity While you read Read the passage and answer the following questions to check your comprehension Acupressure Points Used for thousands of years in China, acupressure applies the same principles as acupuncture to promote relaxation and wellness and to treat disease Sometimes called pressure acupuncture, acupressure is often thought of as simply acupuncture without the needles But what exactly is acupressure and how does it work? Theory behind Acupressure Traditional Chinese medical theory describes special acupoints, or acupressure points, that lie along meridians, or channels, in your body These are the same energy meridians and acupoints as those targeted with acupuncture It is believed that through these invisible channels flows vital energy or a life force called qi (ch'i) It is also believed that these 12 major meridians connect specific organs or networks of organs, organizing a system of communication throughout your body The meridians begin at your fingertips, connect to your brain, and then connect to an organ associated with a certain meridian According to this theory, when one of these meridians is blocked or out of balance, illness can occur Acupressure and acupuncture are among the types of TCM that are thought to help restore balance How Does Acupressure Work? Acupressure practitioners use their fingers, palms, elbows or feet, or special devices to apply pressure to acupoints on the body's meridians Sometimes, acupressure also involves stretching or acupressure massage, as well as other methods XI During an acupressure session, you lie fully clothed on a soft massage table The practitioner gently presses on acupressure points on your body A session typically lasts about one hour You may need several sessions for the best results The goal of acupressure or other types of Asian bodywork is to restore health and balance to the body's channels of energy and to regulate opposing forces of yin (negative energy) and yang (positive energy) Some proponents claim acupressure not only treats the energy fields and body but also the mind, emotions, and spirit Some even believe that therapists can transmit the vital energy (external qi) to another person Not all Western practitioners believe that this is possible or even that these meridians exist Instead, they attribute any results to other factors, such as reduced muscle tension, improved circulation, or stimulation of endorphins, which are natural pain relievers Common Acupuncture Points There are literally hundreds of acupuncture points on the body too many to name Here are three that are commonly used by acupuncturists and acupressure practitioners: Large intestine (L14): This is in the soft, fleshy web between your thumb and forefinger Liver (LR-3): This is in the soft flesh that sits between your big and 2nd toes It's an area similar to L14 Spleen (SP-6): This is about three finger widths above your inner anklebone It is a tender area of the lower calf muscle The health Benefits of Acupressure Research into the health benefits of acupressure is in its infancy Many patient reports support its use for a number of health concerns More well-designed research is needed, though Here are a few health problems that appear to improve with acupressure: Nausea: Several studies support the use of wrist acupressure to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting: After surgery During spinal anesthesia After chemotherapy From motion sickness Related to pregnancy XII The PC acupressure point is located in the groove between the two large tendons on the inside of the wrist that start at the base of the palm There are special wristbands that are sold over the counter These press on similar pressure points and work for some people Cancer: In addition to relieving nausea right after chemotherapy, there are individual reports that acupressure also helps reduce stress, improve energy levels, relieve pain, and lessen other symptoms of cancer or its treatments More research is needed to confirm these reports Pain: Some preliminary evidence suggests that acupressure may help with low back pain, postoperative pain, or headache Pain from other conditions may benefit, as well To relieve headache, the L14 pressure point is sometimes tried Arthritis: Some studies suggest that acupressure releases endorphins and promotes antiinflammatory effects, helping with arthritis Depression and anxiety: More than one study suggests that fatigue and mood may improve from the use of acupressure Better designed trials are needed to be sure Precautions with Acupressure In general, acupressure is very safe If you have cancer, arthritis, heart disease, or a chronic condition, be sure to have a discussion with your doctor before trying any therapy that involves moving joints and muscles, such as acupressure And, make sure your acupressure practitioner is licensed and certified Deep tissue work such as acupressure needs to be avoided if any of the following conditions apply: The treatment is in the area of a cancerous tumor or if the cancer has spread to bones You have rheumatoid arthritis, a spinal injury, or a bone disease that could be made worse by physical manipulation You have varicose veins You are pregnant (because certain points can induce contractions) Checking your comprehension: What exactly is acupressure according to Traditional Chinese medical theory? How practitioners acupressure? What is the goal of acupressure to the patients’ body? Can you name some common acupressure points used by acupuncturists and acupressure practitioners? Which health problems benefit from acupressure? XIII Are there any precautions with acupressure? Activity After You Read! Summarize the passage B SPEAKING AND WRITING PRACTICE Directions: Work in pairs to create the conversation between a doctor and his/her patient One student start using questions based on the case history below to get the information for diagnosis and she/he should take notes during the interview Another student plays a role of a patient Then, using the information collected from speaking task to complete the patient case history Acupuncture Form ADULT CONFIDENTIAL PATIENT CASE HISTORY Name: Date of Birth: Age: Sex: Male Female Occupation: Marital Status: How many of your immediate family members attend our clinic? Have you had acupuncture before? Have you taken Chinese herbs before? Main reason for treatment today: How long have you had this condition? Is it getting Better/ Worse/ Same? Does anything make it better? Does anything make it worse? Have you received treatment for this condition before? Details: Indicate Location of Pain or Area of Concern on Figure below: MEDICAL HISTORY- this information will help us to deliver a safe and effective treatment plan List any medication you take: List any herbs or supplements you take: Do you have any allergies? History of injuries, surgeries, illnesses: Describe your diet: List type and frequency of exercise: Please Tick ✓any of the following that are relevant for you Digestion and Elimination Male Reproduction o Abdominal bloating o Low libido o Nausea or vomiting o Impotence o Constipation o Poor fertility o Abdominal pain o Loose stool/ Diarrhea o Excessive Flatulence Respiratory Female Reproduction o Asthma o Irregular period o Coughing o PMT o Chest congestion o Painful periods o Tightness in chest o Heavy periods XIV o Wheezing o Shortness of breathe Cardiovascular o High blood pressure o Low blood pressure o Palpitations o Cold hands or feet o Excessive sweating o Varicose veins o Bruise easily o Low libido o Poor fertility o Menopausal symptoms Head and Throat o Headaches o Dizziness o Sore throat o Swollen glands o Ringing in the ear o Hearing changes o Vision changes o Blurred vision o Sinus or nasal congestion Skin o Eczema/ dermatitis o Psoriasis o Acne o Dry skin Thirst and Urination o Excessive thirst o No desire to drink o Frequent urination o Painful urinating o Incontinence o Allergies o Hay fever Musculoskeletal o Muscle pain o Joint pain o Muscle cramping o General stiffness o Muscle weakness o Osteoporosis o Arthritis o Nerve referral pain o Pins and needles o Tendonitis General Health o General fatigue o Flu and colds easily o Feels the heat easily o Feels the cold easily o Swelling or edema o Weight gain easily o Poor mental clarity What is the main problem for which you are seeking treatment? What is the severity of your condition (on a scale of to 10, 10 being the worst and being the best): How long have you had this health concern? Is there any time of day in which your condition is worse? What makes your condition better? (Rest, heat, ice, ect.) What makes your health condition worse? (Exercise, certain movements, heat, cold, certain weather conditions, ect.) What other forms of treatment have you sought for this condition, when did you have these treatments, and were they helpful? List in their order of priority any other health problems you have now: List any allergies, food sensitivities and food cravings that you have: List any accidents, surgeries or hospitalizations (include date): Date Doctor’s Signature _ _ XV ... Độ HANOI - 2015 CANDIDATE’S STATEMENT -***** - I hereby certify that the thesis entitled AN INVESTIGATION INTO THE EFFECTIVENESS OF USING AUTHENTIC MATERIALS IN TEACHING ESP READING SKILLS. .. with an attempt to investigate the effectiveness of using authentic materials as supplementary materials realized in an extensive reading program on the students? ?? reading proficiency and the attitude... applying authentic materials as supplementary materials for ESP students in reading skills Through the use of authentic materials in extensive reading, the researcher manages to choose suitable materials