WEEK 4 – HOMEWORK

Read the following text, highlight the use of noun phrases, then translate the text
into Vietnamese.
Tet is a time for visits from family and friends. The first visitor to a home is very
important. If the first footer is rich, prestigious, or happy then the family will have
good fortune that year. Usually this visitor is a relative, but sometimes the family will
invite a special guest that they feel will bring them good luck.

The first day of Tet is reserved for visiting family and relatives. The second day is set
aside for special guests and close friends to visit, and the third day is for teachers and
business associates to make a visit. Negative talk and arguments are taboo. Visitors end
their visit with a farewell wish for the family such as, "I wish that money will flow into
your house like water, and out like a turtle."

The Vietnamese believe that their deceased ancestors will visit the family for the
holiday. Altars are decorated in the homes with incense, flowers, and photographs of
deceased relatives. A tray full of fruit, coins, and a tall vase of blossoms are placed in
front of the altar symbolizing good luck and prosperity. The third day is also a day to
visit the graves of deceased relatives. The graves are decorated with incense, flowers,
and candles. Many Buddhists go to their favorite Pagoda to pray for a good year. The
Catholics go to a pre-midnight mass.

The first footer: ngườ i xô ng nhà

A farewell wish: lờ i chú c chia tay

Deceased ancestors: tổ tiên đã mấ t

Deceased relatives: ngườ i thâ n đã mấ t

Pre- midnight mass: thá nh lễ nử a đêm