ESL Lesson - Academic English Writing Essay 'Thailand’s OTOP'

by Ajarn Charlie

Academic English Writing Essay (taken from an actual class session with a Thai student)

Title/Subject: Thailand’s OTOP

Possible Titles:

Title 1: OTOP in Thailand benefits SMEs

Title 2: Thailand’s OTOP program strengthens the local economy (This was chosen as more effective)

Brainstorming/Outlining

OTOP – ‘One Tambon, One Product’

• Foreign exchange and exports
• Supplements agricultural production
• Improves/increases entrepreneurs/SMEs
• Thailand’s economy stronger/strong economy
• Cultural exchange
• Product development, marketing, packaging and Internet
• Increases employment, decreases unemployment

Put the above in order important to you. The following introduction placed the above in a different priority which determines the order they are presented in the body. The conclusion of course agrees with the main thesis and ends with an optimistic assessment of the program for the future.

Introduction

In Thailand OTOP strengthens the local economy. ‘One Tambon, One Product’ supplements agricultural production, increases employment and improves SME’s. It also helps foreign exchange exports, helps with product development/marketing and increases cultural exchanges. (35)

Body

Agricultural production is supplemented by OTOP because it adds value to each district’s unique product. Examples include; wine, ceramics, pottery, baskets. etc. The King created the idea in the beginning and PM Thaksin implemented the King’s desires. (38)

Thailand’s employment is increased and SMEs are strengthened. In Thailand’s northeast ‘Isan’ region for example, unemployment has decreased and small business activity has grown. Also in other provinces and regions benefits are felt by OTOP’s success and development. (38)

Foreign exchange has increased with countries such as the US and the European Union. Product development and marketing has been enhanced by the use of the Internet for product sales. (30)

OTOP’s success has increased Thailand’s cultural awareness. Exchanges between people and nations have helped make the world aware of Thailand’s unique and special cultural and social history. (27)

Conclusion

OTOP not only strengthens the local economy but also helps Thailand to be known around the world. Thailand’s OTOP could be an example for other countries in the region to mirror. This could help them increase their economy and decrease unemployment.

Key Words and Ideas:

2. OTOP
3. benefits
4. entrepreneurs
5. SMEs
6. exports
7. agricultural production
8. marketing
9. economic strength – strong economy
10. booths and fairs