Box 5.2 Question for discussion

Vocabulary presentation techniques

1.  Some techniques are more popular than others. What are they and can you account for their popularity?

     Maybe the most popular techniques are definition, example and illustration because for the teacher is easier to teach with these techniques, the others need more participation of the teacher, for example demonstration.

    2.   Are there techniques that are particularly appropriate for the presentation of certain types of words?

    Yes, for example the illustration is better for children; they motive with pictures on the board and learn words accorded with the image. Another case, with definition the students know what is the word and, if the teacher includes the illustration they learn the definition according to the picture and related with their own knowledge.  

3.- Are there techniques which are likely to be more, or less, appropriate for particular learner populations (young/adult, beginner/advanced, different background cultures)?

    Yes, for example illustration and demonstration are more appropriate for children, capture their attention with images or mime. Definition, examples or synonyms are more appropriate for youngers or adults because sometimes they know a little more the second language.

 4. - Do you, as an individual, find that you prefer some kinds of techniques and tend to avoid others? Which? And Why?

I prefer example, description and associated ideas. Because with examples we know more words related with one definition. In the case of description I like because the teacher can teach with characteristics of the word, qualities and we imagine or related with our knowledge and then we associated ideas with our environment and reflect the experiences with classmates.

I don’t prefer translation and antonyms because I prefer to learn with techniques more didactics. That includes the interaction of the student and the association of the real meaning of the word.