<p>Hi eliz0321!</p>
<p>As an ESL teacher, it seems to me that Asian customs of giving gifts are pretty different from American customs. My Asian students often give me small gifts (like cute, inexpensive pens), but most American students don’t give gifts: it’s sometimes seen by American teachers as an attempt to gain favor.</p>
<p>I would say that if the pen is a cute, inexpensive sign of gratitude, you should feel free to give it to your teacher along with a card. If the pen is at all expensive, however, you should probably hesitate to give it to him. Give the card, by itself, instead: it will be very appreciated. The card is certainly the safer option. In any case, your gratitude will be received and understood.</p>