As already mentioned, vocabulary comprises the basic and most essential component of a language.
Fortunately, vocabulary is also the aspect of a language that is easiest to learn on your own!
Available Tools
Lists : words / phrases with native language translations is a good way to start and gives you a good overview.
Flash cards : a classic tool and still very useful.
- Write one word / phrase on one side of the card and the translation on the other.
- The cards should be small enough so that you can take them with you everywhere.
- Set a goal of memorizing seven (7) words or phrase a day (see „The Rule of Seven„).
Online vocabulary lessons : there are many websites offering free vocabulary training.
My favorite – one that I use to teach English and German – is Quizlet.com
For more about Quizlet, go to Products — Quizlet.
Of course, using – and understanding – words and phrases in various contexts require more than just dictionary definitions.
Two commonly available media that provide context are:
- text, and
- films (videos)
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