vocabulary

Classroom Elements

Vocabulary

Learning and reviewing L2 vocabulary can take place in each of Zoom’s interactive modes, which enables a multi-modal approach to a critical task in L2 acquisition.

Learning vocabulary is an important component of L2 acquisition, and a remotely taught class can and should include just as much emphasis on L2 lexis as a F2F classroom. L2 vocabulary acquisition researchers such as I.S.P. Nation (2008) suggest that a significant portion of classroom instruction should focus on L2 vocabulary training, through listening comprehension, writing, speaking and reading — all of which can be implemented in various ways via Zoom. The challenge for instructors lies in choosing the right set of tasks for a given set of students, and sequencing the tasks for maximum effect.

In the activities suggested below, “vocabulary words” can refer to newly assigned vocabulary items, or to previously learned vocabulary in need of review.

Share Screen:


Breakout Rooms:

Prepare a list of semantically unrelated vocabulary words in a Word file and send it to the class prior to the class via email attachment, or during the class via Chat.


Main Session:

Engage students in a Dictogloss exercise: Create a short narrative or story using as many targeted vocabulary words as possible, dictate it twice to the class, and allow them to jot down key words or ideas only in between dictations. Then have them recount as much information (using the targeted vocabulary) as they can:

OR: Create five or six sentences using new vocabulary words and dictate them to the class; have students write them down exactly as dictated. Call on students to read the sentences back to you — or send them to Breakout Rooms to read them to each other — and ask students to identify the new vocabulary words in the sentences.


References & Resources

Folse, K. (2005). Presenting new vocabulary in semantic sets facilitates learning (Chapter 3). Vocabulary Myths: Applying second language research to classroom teaching. Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press.

Nation, I.S.P. (2008). Teaching Vocabulary: Strategies and Techniques. Boston MA: Heinle, Cengage Learning.

Thornbury, S. (2002) How to Teach Vocabulary. Essex: Pearson Education Limited.