1. Lesson Plan 'How to Develop Ideas for Expressive Essays' No. 4

2. Composition "How to Develop an Outline for an Expressive Essay" number 5
Common ways of developing ideas for an expressive essay
1. Relating to the present and future
Read the paragraph (Page 117 – textbook)
Purpose: Bamboo provides shade, it is a melody, a gateway, a bamboo flute. Bamboo shares sweetness, offers harmony, and brings happiness.
Imagining: In the future, steel and cement will surpass bamboo and rattan, but bamboo will always remain with the Vietnamese people throughout their life journey.
-> This expresses the author’s emotions toward the bamboo plant.
(- It reminds us of the relationship between bamboo and people - Bamboo symbolizes the Vietnamese people.)
=> This form of expression creates a natural and seamless connection between the present and the future.
2. Reflecting on the past and contemplating the present
Read the paragraph (Page 118 – textbook)
The author is fascinated by the clay rooster:
It becomes the rooster crowing melodiously at dawn.
The longing to be a musician playing a brass instrument.
Characteristic: The fragile nature of toys.
Imagining the spirits of toys that are no longer alive.
-> Toys are not inanimate objects; they have souls, and through them, humans aspire toward beauty.
=> This type of expression establishes a connection between the past and the present.
3. Imagining situations, making promises, wishing for something
Read the paragraph (Page 119 – textbook)
Imagining a scenario:
Growing up and meeting the teacher again in the midst of a group of students, recalling memories
The teacher with the younger students.
The teacher’s lessons.
The teacher’s disappointment when a student holds the pen incorrectly and cannot be corrected, feeling concerned when the school inspectors arrive to ask about the students, feeling happy when the students achieve outstanding results.
Wishing: Vowing never to forget the teacher’s kindness, nurturing nature, and motherly qualities.
-> This reveals the deep affection and respect for the teacher.
=> This kind of expression requires vivid imagination from the writer.
4. Observing and reflecting
Read the paragraph (Pages 120, 121 – textbook)
Observing the face, the eyes, the hair, the smile, the teeth, the tough life.
-> Reflecting on the mother: Aging, stern – expressing love, compassion, and regret.
=> This method of developing ideas tends to evoke real, profound emotions.
Practice
Question 1: Practice developing ideas for an expressive essay based on the following topics:
a. Feelings about the garden at home.
b. Feelings about a pet animal.
c. Feelings about a family member.
d. Thoughts about the beloved school.
Answer:
a. Feelings about the garden at home
Introduction: Introduce the garden and emotions toward it
Body: Describe the garden, its history.
The garden and the joys and sorrows of the family.
The garden and the parents’ labor
The garden through the four seasons
Conclusion: Emotions about the garden at home.
b. Feelings about a pet animal
Introduction: Introduce the pet and feelings toward it
Body:
The nurturing process (observing the pet’s activities, appearance, personality)
The development of affection between the pet and the owner
Conclusion: Thoughts about the pet.
c. Feelings about a family member
Introduction: Introduce the family member and personal feelings.
Body:
Past memories
Current connection with the family member.
Thoughts about their future, wishes for them.
Conclusion: Affirm the everlasting bond with the family member.
d. Thoughts about the beloved school
Introduction: Introduce the school and the feelings, pride, and attachment to it.
Body:
The beauty of the school
Meaningful memories with the school
Thoughts about the school
Conclusion:
Commitment to studying to enhance the school’s tradition.
Affirmation of love for the school and the assurance of always remembering it, no matter where one goes.

3. Composition "The Method of Structuring Ideas for Expressive Writing" Number 6
I. COMMON METHODS FOR STRUCTURING IDEAS IN EXPRESSIVE WRITING
1. Connecting the Present with the Future
Suggested response to the question:
Reflecting on the future of industrialization evokes feelings that while there may be an increase in materials like steel and cement, the bamboo will still endure.
To express the enduring bond of the bamboo, the passage brings to life images of it providing shade on the road, producing music, serving as a gatepost, flying on a swing, and soaring in the form of a kite, all conjured through the writer's vivid imagination and symbolism.
Making connections with tangible objects is a way of expressing emotions towards them.
2. Reflecting on the Past and Contemplating the Present
Suggested response to the question:
The author’s nostalgic fondness for the chicken invokes a magical sense of being transformed into a rooster, joyfully crowing in the morning. This memory broadens into thoughts on childhood toys.
Such memories are also a means of expressing affection for these objects.
3. Imagining Situations, Making Promises, and Expressing Wishes
Suggested response to the question:
- The author's imagination allows them to convey deep affection for their teacher by recalling cherished memories: the teacher surrounded by younger students, delivering lessons, observing the class, feeling disappointed when a student misuses a pen, caring for the students, and rejoicing in their successes. Recalling these moments expresses both affection and admiration for the teacher.
- The connection made between the northernmost region of Vietnam, Lung Cu, and the southernmost part, Ca Mau, serves to highlight the writer's love for the country and their desire for its reunification.
4. Observing and Reflecting
Suggested response to the question:
In this passage, the act of observation helps to depict a shadowy figure, whose face evokes deep sympathy and regret for the writer’s own indifference and neglect.
Summary:
- To spark ideas for expressive writing, one might recall past memories, reflect on the present, envision future possibilities, create emotional situations, or observe and reflect on experiences to generate feelings.
- Regardless of the approach, the emotions conveyed should be genuine, and the events described must stem from personal experience. This ensures the writing resonates with the reader and fosters empathy.
II. PRACTICE EXERCISES
Suggestions for structuring ideas on specific topics:
a) Emotions about the family garden:
- Envision the family garden as it was, is, or will be. Identify your connection to it—whether you are currently distant or reminiscing about it from afar.
- Consider how the garden is intertwined with both the material and emotional aspects of family life. Reflect on the memories and bonds it holds, and how it symbolizes the labor of your ancestors.
b) Emotions about a family member:
- Identify who this person is and describe the close relationship you share with them.
- Recall memorable moments and significant impressions formed through your time spent with them.
- Explore the deep connection you share with this person in both joyful and sorrowful times in daily life, studies, and play.
- Express concern, affection, and heartfelt wishes for their well-being.
c) Emotions about a pet (dog, cat, cow, etc.):
- Identify the pet in question—whether it is nearby or far away, alive or passed.
- You may describe the pet and reflect on the memories, joy, and care associated with it, demonstrating affection and appreciation for the animal.
d) Thoughts on the beloved school:
- Envision the cherished school you attended or are attending. If it’s a past experience, you can reflect on your memories there.
- Recall unforgettable moments spent with friends and teachers at school.

4. Composition "The Method of Structuring Ideas for Expressive Writing" Number 1
I. Methods of Structuring an Expressive Essay Outline
1. Connecting the Present and the Future
The author envisions the future, affirming the deep connection between bamboo and the daily life of the Vietnamese people.
+ Bamboo plays a crucial role in labor, production, and warfare.
+ Bamboo embodies the spiritual beauty of the Vietnamese people.
- The author praises bamboo through analyzing its beauty and unique functions using passionate language and exclamatory sentences.
2. Reflecting on the Past, Contemplating the Present
- The author reminisces about a clay rooster, an unforgettable childhood toy, marking a significant memory in their life.
+ The author recalls the childhood years spent deeply engaged with this traditional toy.
+ These toys have stayed with the author throughout their life, becoming cherished, unforgettable memories.
→ The connection between the present and the past is successfully made, demonstrating the author's evolving thoughts and feelings.
3. Imagining Situations, Hopes, and Wishes
- Imagining scenarios also allows the author to express their desires and longings.
- In the excerpt from "Noble Hearts," the author uses imagined situations to convey deep, hidden thoughts and feelings of respect and admiration for the teacher.
- In the passage from "The Mouth of Lũng Cú, the Northernmost Point," Nguyễn Tuân clearly expresses his love for the country, vividly illustrating his devotion to the nation.
- The writing flows naturally, avoiding stiffness and forced language, which helps express genuine emotions.
4. Observation and Reflection
The passage illustrates how the author's keen observation brings back vivid and sincere images of the mother’s figure and face, evoking sympathy and regret for the author's past indifference.
II. Practice
Draft an outline for an essay about a pet animal.
An outline for an expressive essay about a rooster:
Introduction: Introduce the pet that brings you joy and is deeply connected with you.
Main Body:
- Describe the pet:
+ Its physical appearance, feather color, weight, and size.
+ Detailed description: eyes, nose, legs, body, tail.
- State its origin: was it bought or given as a gift?
- Its daily habits and preferences.
- How the pet is part of your life and any significant memories shared with it.
- Express your feelings for this pet.
Conclusion: Your emotional attachment to this pet.

5. Essay Outline "Methods for Structuring an Expressive Essay" - Part 2
Part I: COMMON METHODS OF STRUCTURING EXPRESSIVE ESSAYS
1. Linking the Present and the Future:
- The author imagines a future of industrialization, where despite the rise of steel and iron, bamboo and rattan will remain forever intertwined with the Vietnamese people’s lives. It will continue to play a crucial role in production, warfare, and serve as a symbol of the nation.
- The author expresses their feelings directly through the beauty and uses of bamboo, repeatedly emphasizing its significance.
2. Reflecting on the Past and Contemplating the Present:
- The author reminisces fondly about a clay rooster, recalling the moment of choosing one with a low-pitched voice, as if selecting a musical instrument.
- The author’s nostalgic thoughts emphasize that toys are not mere inanimate objects, as they possess a spirit and inspire humans to reach for beauty.
3. Imagining Situations, Hopes, and Wishes:
a. The author’s imagination helps express their admiration for a teacher: remembering two years spent in her class, where she always radiated kindness and compassion, like a mother.
b. The author’s connection from Lũng Cú, the northernmost point, to Cà Mau, the southernmost, reflects deep love for the country, with a strong sense of responsibility toward the homeland.
4. Observation and Reflection:
Through careful observation, the child comes to understand the quiet sacrifices made by their mother, feeling deep remorse for past neglect and the emotional distance maintained for so long.
Part II: PRACTICE
Answer the questions (page 121, 7th-grade Language Arts textbook, Volume 1)
Draft outlines for several topics:
Topic 1: Emotions about a pet:
* Introduction: Introduce a beloved pet (the cat).
* Main Body:
- The circumstances of adopting the cat.
- The cat’s fur is snow-white, small, and very cute.
- Explain why you named it so.
- The cat’s activities: catching mice, playing with its shadow.
- Its personality: slightly grumpy when someone tries to steal food, but never sneaks food.
- Share a memory with the cat (it found something for you).
* Conclusion: Your feelings towards the cat.
- The cat has its own emotions, and it treats everyone with respect.
Topic 2: Feelings about your school:
* Introduction: Describe your school.
* Main Body:
- Where is the school located? How many buildings does it have?
- What emotions does each place in the school evoke?
(Describe a particular place in the school.)
- How do you take care of and protect your school?
* Conclusion: Your emotions toward your cherished school.

6. Essay "Methods of Structuring an Emotional Composition" #3
I. Common methods of structuring emotional compositions
1. Linking the present to the future
Read the passage in the textbook and answer the following questions:
- The author's reference to the future of industrialization brought to mind the close connection between trees and the lives of our people. The qualities of bamboo, which cement and steel can never replicate, symbolize a deep affection for Vietnamese bamboo.
- The author expressed emotions directly by imagining the future of bamboo in people's lives: bringing benefits and cherished memories.
2. Reflecting on the past and contemplating the present
Read the passage in the textbook and answer the following questions:
- The author was captivated by the clay rooster:
Among all the toys, the clay rooster was the one I loved the most.
It brought a magical joy that revitalized my soul.
“The clay roosters broke over time, leaving behind a profound feeling, like a spirit.” It wasn’t just a toy, but a part of my childhood memories.
- The reflection on the past evoked emotions of fondness and nostalgia for the innocent days of youth.
3. Imagining situations, making promises, and wishing
Read the passage in the textbook and answer the following questions:
a. Imagination helped the writer express their admiration for the teacher in a more vivid and heartfelt way, particularly through the memories that were recollected.
b. The comparison between Lũng Cú – the northernmost point of Vietnam – and Cà Mau – the southernmost point – helped the author depict the beautiful landscapes of Vietnam from North to South, filled with scenic views that captivate the soul. This also expresses the author's love for nature and the homeland.
4. Observing and reflecting
Read the passage in the textbook and answer:
From the passage, I understand that observation enables the reader to better comprehend the subject of the emotional composition. As a result, the emotions expressed become clearer and more genuine.
=> In conclusion:
- To generate ideas for an emotional composition and spark the flow of emotions, the writer can reflect on past memories, contemplate the present, dream about the future, imagine situations, or engage in observation and reflection, all while expressing emotions.
- Regardless of the method used, the emotions in the composition must be pure and sincere, and the events discussed should be based on personal experience. Only in this way can the writing resonate with the readers and elicit their empathy.
II. Practice
Create outlines for the following essay topics:
a. Emotions about the garden at home
b. Emotions about a pet (a cow, a dog, a cat…)
c. Emotions about a family member
d. Thoughts on the beloved school
Suggestions:
a. Emotions about the garden at home
* Introduction: A brief overview of the garden at home (its space, time)
* Body:
- Describe the garden briefly:
Size: large, small (approximately how many square meters)
The garden includes what (trees, flowers, etc.)
- Share memories related to the garden:
I used to water the plants with my grandfather.
On afternoons, I would go out to pick flowers…
- The garden's significance: provides a green space for the house, fresh fruits, and cherished memories of grandparents…
* Conclusion: Reaffirm your feelings for the garden.
b. Emotions about a pet
* Introduction: Introduce the pet you love (its name, age, and how you got it…)
* Body
- Briefly describe the pet: appearance, color, notable features (fur, eyes, tail…)
- Share some memories with the pet
- The bond and care between your family and the pet
* Conclusion: Reaffirm your affection for the pet: love, like a true friend.
c. Emotions about a family member
* Introduction: Introduce the family member and your feelings toward them (grandparents, parents, or siblings…)
* Body
- Introduce their name, age, and your relationship.
- Briefly describe their appearance: body shape, face, hair, and skin tone.
- What you like most about them (smile, singing voice…)
- Share some memories with that family member (happy, sad memories).
- How your feelings toward them grew after certain memories (more love, attachment…).
- Your hopes for the future (maybe travel with your sibling, study hard to make your parents proud…)
* Conclusion: Reaffirm your feelings for the family member.
d. Thoughts on the beloved school
* Introduction: Introduce your school.
* Body:
- Provide a brief overview of your school:
Grade level: kindergarten, primary school, secondary school, high school, or university.
Location of the school, history.
- Describe the school briefly: school yard, trees, classrooms, and offices… (from outside to inside).
- Your thoughts on the school: old or modern…
- Share some memories with the school: memories with teachers and friends, during classes, recess, opening days, and graduation ceremonies…
- Hopes for the future: When returning, the school will have grown and nurtured many generations of future leaders.
* Conclusion: Reaffirm your feelings for the school: full of love and pride.

