For example, in the category Human Body, I can first divide it into the basic elements of head, legs, arms, torso. ![]() All you need to do is choose a topic, write it in a central circle and simply let your mind run wild, breaking ideas into branches and sub-branches. ![]() This is a way to go further than simple brainstorming and think of the different layers of each vocabulary category. Need ideas for vocabulary categories? You’ll find a host of topics at the englishclub. For my higher-level students, I usually suggest awarding bonus points for particularly impressive words. This activity can be done alone or competing against a friend. So, the category of Computers will give me: save, delete, file, spreadsheet, etc. The premise is simple: choose a category, then take 90 seconds to brainstorm words and expressions related to this topic. Students usually find it much easier to answer a question like “What words do I know related to Finance?” rather than “What new words did I learn last month?”. Thinking of vocabulary in categories may not be the most organic way to find new words but for the purposes of revision, it can be hugely beneficial. These are a few suggestions to help you along. If you really want to improve your level, you’re going to need some techniques to really make that vocab stick. As satisfying as it is for students to pick up new words and expressions, it’s really just a short-term hit. You remind students of a particular word that they saw and you’re met either with the above reactions of exasperation, or - worse yet - vacant expressions of obliviousness. What’s not so rewarding is that class, maybe four weeks later, when you come back to talking about a similar topic again. It’s gratifying to teacher and student alike. As a teacher, it’s great to watch students learning new words and then incorporating them into speaking and writing activities. ![]() These are the sounds that surround language teachers day after day. “what was it?”… “oh, and I knew it by heart”.
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