Achieving high scores in the IELTS exam can be a daunting task for many Vietnamese learners, with speaking and writing often cited as the most challenging skills. Two English education experts, Ha Dang Nhu Quynh and Tran Anh Khoa from DOL English, shared their insights on these difficulties and the strategies to overcome them.

Both of them have recently scored a perfect 9.0 out of 9.0 on the IELTS test, a rare accomplishment in Vietnam that underscores their expertise in the English proficiency exam.

Speaking: A matter of practice and reflex

Quynh emphasized the lack of opportunities to practice speaking as a significant barrier.

“Many learners don’t have access to native speakers or proficient English speakers to correct their mistakes, making it hard to identify areas for improvement,” she explained.

Moreover, speaking requires quick reflexes and a deep mastery of language, as there is no time to deliberate during conversation.

Khoa echoed similar sentiments, adding that the Vietnamese education system, particularly in public schools, often does not allocate sufficient time for speaking practice.

“Speaking demands quick reflexes developed through consistent practice, which isn’t always prioritized in the curriculum,” he noted.

Writing: From lengthy essays to precise arguments

For writing, both experts pointed out the stark differences between IELTS essays and traditional Vietnamese essay formats.

“In schools, students are taught to write lengthy and narrative-driven essays. But in IELTS, you have just 40 minutes to craft a concise, well-structured argument,” Khoa remarked.

He suggested using the Linearthinking method to maintain focus and avoid digressions.

Quynh identified writing as the most challenging skill for her personally, especially in breaking into higher bands like 8.0 or 8.5. Her solution?

“Understand the IELTS scoring criteria and avoid vague, generic ideas. Linearthinking helps me break down questions into specific aspects, allowing for deeper ideas and topic-specific vocabulary,” she said.

Mastering reading in record time

Both experts revealed that they complete the reading section of the IELTS test in under 20 minutes.

Instead of relying on traditional skim-and-scan techniques, they use methods rooted in Linearthinking, such as simplification and identifying connections between ideas.

“This allows me to grasp the main points quickly, even in complex texts,” Quynh said.

Khoa insisted on prioritizing key information in sentences while skipping unnecessary details.

“This strategy improves efficiency without requiring a word-for-word understanding,” he explained.

Role of Linearthinking

Developed by Le Dinh Luc, a math major turned English educator, Linearthinking applies logical structures to learning English.

Both experts praised its effectiveness across all four skills – reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

“It addresses common issues Vietnamese learners face, such as translating directly from Vietnamese or blending Vietnamese grammar with that of the English language,” Quynh said.

Advice for English teachers in AI era

With AI tools becoming more prevalent, Quynh highlighted the importance of integrating technology into teaching.

“AI can streamline material creation and grading, but teachers need to design thoughtful prompts and exercises,” she said.

Khoa encouraged teachers to embrace creativity and innovation.

“Instead of replicating what others are doing, find new ways to leverage AI to address specific challenges in your teaching,” he advised.

Vision for future

Quynh hopes to normalize high IELTS scores of 8.0 or above for Vietnamese learners.

Meanwhile, Khoa aspires to help his students achieve their own high scores, believing that personal success is most meaningful when it inspires others.

With these expert insights and strategies, Vietnamese IELTS candidates can approach their preparation with greater clarity and confidence.

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