Using mind - mapping in teaching Speaking skills to young learners at TNA English Center: Master's Thesis / $c ; Supervisor:

Abstract

Mind mapping has been used widely as a common tool in teaching and learning for students in general, and young learners in particular in Vietnam. According to Buzan (2007), mind mapping is a way of noting the fun, easy way to absorb and release information and new ideas in the brain. It uses color, symbols, words, curved lines and an image related to the workings of the brain. Therefore, it can support both teachers and learners to develop a positive mindset towards foreign language teaching as well as learning. Moreover, the use of this strategy in the class encourages learners to focus on the tasks at hand, pay attention to the most essential keys, and create an enjoyable atmosphere for learning. The purpose of the current study was to investigate how well mind mapping works to enhance the speaking abilities of young learners as well as how they feel about utilizing mind mapping strategies to improve speaking skills. The researcher conducted a case study with the use of Pre - test and Post - test; and associated with applying teachers’ observations, and questionnaires. Twelve students at TNA English Center were selected as research participants. The results of the data analysis showed that using the mind mapping technique helps young learners improve their pronunciation, fluency, vocabulary, grammar, comprehension and critical thinking when speaking in English; they had productive attitudes towards the use of mind mapping in learning English - speaking skills. Most of them acknowledged that utilizing this tool helped them improve their vocabulary deficiencies. These research findings, offered several suggestions to enhance the effectiveness of mind mapping in both teaching and learning English at English Centers.