vocabulary – Katherine Reilly

Picture this: a bright, buzzing classroom filled with eager eyes, crayons littering the tables like confetti, and one lone teacher armed with a flashcard pack and a prayer. Welcome to the world of teaching vocabulary to young learners – a chaotic yet rewarding educational experience for all parties involved. Now, buckle up as we take a laugh-filled tour through this quirky adventure, complete with treasure hunts, tongue-tied moments, and unexpected twists and turns.

“Class, today we’re going on a treasure hunt!” I announce with dramatic flair.

Instantly, their eyes light up, and the chatter intensifies. I scatter colorful vocabulary cards around the classroom while explaining that each card they find will hold a magic word to be decoded. Chaos reigns supreme. Some students sprint, while others crawl beneath desks as if seeking hidden fortunes.

By Katherine Reilly, Author, Teacher Trainer

Originally Published in ELT NEWS Magazine.

Grammar and Vocabulary are deemed by many as the cornerstones of language learning. Although this claim does have merit, as these two elements will establish a sound foundation to build upon, both educators and students alike must also acknowledge the fact that there is a broader picture to examine. What about productive skills like writing or speaking? Not to mention receptive ones such as reading and listening? Focusing exclusively on enhancing specific facets will prove detrimental in the long run – not to mention boring. If a balance is struck between all aspects of a language, then the result will most certainly reward the learner, bringing him one step closer to achieving his goal. To this end, grammar and vocabulary must be implemented in such a way, as to inspire the learner and stimulate his approach in a constructive manner; one which will enable him to master the language more effectively.