RHETORICAL STRUCTURE OF INTRODUCTION SECTION IN ENGLISH AND VIETNAMESE ECONOMICS RESEARCH ARTICLES: A CONTRASTIVE ANALYSIS

Abstract

Introduction plays a vital role in research articles as it demonstrates the author’s knowledge in their research area. This study aims at identifying similarities and differences in rhetorical structure of introduction section in English and Vietnamese economics research articles from international and national journals. Drawing on the CARS model proposed by Swales, the paper synthesized, analyzed and contrasted the frequency of moves and steps of introduction in 30 English and 30 Vietnamese scholarly articles. The findings were interpreted explicitly in light of linguistics ands cultural factors to elaborate the influence of culture on Vietnamese authors’ mindset and presentation of ideas in introduction. Finally, the study puts forth recommendations for Vietnamese scholars to raise awareness of discrepancies in national and international scientific discourse in an attempt to meet the standard of international publication, enhance research quality and boost the representation of Vietnamese science in the world.