THU NGUYEN -

USING COGNITIVE METAPHORS IN ENGLISH SONGS TO ENHANCE READING AND WRITING SKILLS FOR ENGLISH-MAJORED STUDENTS : LITERATURE/ TRANSLATION

The metaphorical images are expressed in songs and their artistic value provide a new look into literature and in communication generally. Understanding metaphors is crucial to comprehend figurative language in literature and to enhance practicing skills of learning English. Adding metaphors when writing stories, poems or songs means adding interest and depth to writings. Metaphors in songs are really an ideal new land to discover and improve students’ skills of English. Therefore, we can lead them to the creativity and open their imagination. Using metaphors can also be an effective way in training learners with abstract thoughts as well as familiarizing them early with literary skills they will need in lifelong learning. This paper is performed in the aim of helping learners better understand cognitive metaphors in English songs and give some strategies to apply them flexibly and effectively in teaching reading and writing skills for English- major students.

Nguyen Thi Hong Thu is currently working as a lecturer of English at Hanoi Law University. She graduated from Vinh university and earned MA degree at University of languages and international studies, Viet Nam national university. She has taught English for 10 years. Her teaching areas of interests are English for Specific Purposes, English Literature, Intercultural communication Competence, Reflective practice, Teacher development, CALL, English teaching methodology.