My synthesis paper

  

The second assignment of the course “Academic Writing in Education” is the most challenging task to me. This task required me to synthesize 10 peer-reviewed scholarly articles into a literature review, and the topic I chose was addressing the strategies for teaching academic English writing in Vietnam. 

By engaging with 10 peer-reviewed studies, I explored diverse perspectives on instructional methods while sharpening my analytical and writing skills. In particular, I gained a newfound appreciation for Jim Cummins' (2014) concepts of BICS (Basic Interpersonal Communicative Skills) and CALP (Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency). While I had applied these theories throughout my teaching career, this assignment pushed me to study them in depth for the first time. It was an eye-opening experience that will significantly enhance my teaching practice. 

Similarly, Velasco and García’s (2014) work on translanguaging was transformative, emphasizing how integrating native languages enhances creativity and critical thinking for bilingual learners. These insights underscored the importance of aligning teaching strategies with learners’ linguistic and cultural contexts.

Additionally, transformative approaches, such as encouraging students’ voices and bridging their cultural identities, highlighted the humanistic aspect of academic instruction. These perspectives, guided by Dr. Allyson’s structured feedback shaped my ability to connect theory with teaching practice effectively.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1y0Jm73-YZOWo2XLDsp5Ks0dZ9y20X7j0/view?usp=sharing

In conclusion, by engaging with 10 peer-reviewed studies, I explored diverse perspectives on instructional methods while sharpening my analytical and writing skills. The theme resonated deeply with my role as an educator, motivating me to seek practical insights that could enhance the learning experience of Vietnamese students grappling with linguistic and cultural barriers.

References

Cummins, J. (2014). Basic Interpersonal Communicative Skills and Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/242539680_Basic_Interpersonal_Communicative_Skills_and_Cognitive_Academic_Language_Proficiency.

Velasco, P., & García, O. (2014). Translanguaging and the writing of bilingual learners. Bilingual Research Journal, 37(1), 6-23. https://doi.org/10.1080/15235882.2014.893270.