Online Vocabulary Tool:
http://vocabahead.com/Home/tabid/37/Default.aspx
I consider this site an excellent resource for ELL vocabulary for a few reasons.
First, vocabulary is presented visually- online flashcards, if you will. There is a picture depicting the definition of the word, with the word presented underneath the picture. However, in addition to visually experiencing the word, the flashcards are actually videos with sound- one may click on the flashcard to hear the pronunciation of the word, a definition of the word, and a short narration using the word in context (relating to the picture). All of this is done in the target language. Therefore, the student is learning the word visually and by sound, which encourages long-term acquisition of the word. As emphasized in the readings and in class, learning a word in context allows learners to understand various facets of the word, and also promotes long-term acquisition.
Second, the site allows for individualized lists generated by a class, teacher, or student(s). Students and teachers can create their personal vocabulary lists to study by choosing vocabulary words from the thousands of words available. This makes the vocaulary lists relevant to the students, as well as chunking this wealth of information into feasible lists. When students create their own lists, learning is more student-focused, authentic, and relevant to the students. Students can share their personalized lists with other users of the site.
Finally, students and teachers can create their own video flashcards, and upload them to the website to share among themselves and the greater population that makes use of this website. This is a great collaberative activity for students, which again places learning in the hands of the students, and encourages long term acquisition. Students will master vocab as they strive to create a quality product that is useful to other learners.
If the students are going to create their own vocab lists or create videos, they must register and log-in. This is a free service, though. It allows students to access a great vocabulary tool whenever and wherever they have access to the Internet.
Kristen, you need to include a discussion of this source....something as rich as your discussion for post #2
ReplyDeleteIf you consider this a good resource, please also tweet the link with a short description of the site (and with #ESL and #MATESOL added at the end)
Thank you, Terrie. I found the site late last night and wanted to post it to my blog so that I wouldn't loose it, with the intention of blogging about it later today. I will remember to tweet the link with tags as well!
ReplyDelete