Title:
THE EXPRESSIVE VALUE OF ANIMAL-RELATED LEXICAL ITEMS IN VIETNAMESE (BASED ON MATERIALS FROM VIETNAMESE LANGUAGE TEXTBOOKS FOR GRADES 2, 3, AND 4 – THE CONNECTING KNOWLEDGE WITH LIFE SERIES)

Authors:
Pho Thi Hong Oanh and Hoang Thi Thu Ninh

Abstract:
This article investigates the expressive value of animal-related lexical items in Vietnamese language textbooks for Grades 2, 3, and 4 in the Connecting Knowledge with Life series from a literary perspective. Drawing on reception theory and poetics, the study demonstrates that when embedded in children’s literary texts, animal-related lexical items transcend their purely denotative function and become artistic devices rich in evocative and expressive power. Through techniques such as personification, symbolism, metaphor, and a narrative–lyrical tone, animal images are constructed as “characters” endowed with inner lives, conveying humanistic values such as love, empathy, and a sense of responsibility, while also gently critiquing certain undesirable behaviors. The findings affirm the significant role of this category of lexical items in nurturing aesthetic sensibility, developing literary appreciation competence, and shaping the personality of primary school students, thereby contributing to the enhancement of literary teaching effectiveness within the framework of the new general education curriculum.

Keywords:
Expressiveness, lexical items, animals, Vietnamese language, Connecting Knowledge with Life

DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37500/IJESSR.2025.8617

Date of Publication: 31-12-2025