Questions for discussion box 5.2 (Group of 3)

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


     In our opinion, we think that the more popular techniques are: translation, concise definition, context, synonyms. We think that context and synonyms are very good techniques to make understand a student the meaning of a word. This way, it's difficult that a student get confused.


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


     Yes. For example, we think that detailes description is a very good way to teach vocabulary. You can describe animals, plants, furnitures, etc. With context technique, we can teach connectives. With illustration we can teach countries and places. All is in finding the correct technique for each vocabulary item.


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


     Yes, there is. For a children who is 8 or 9 years old a picture is more attractive than a definition. For english students (like us) definitions (in second language) are more useful than pictures, because we learn and practice vocabulary itself. On the other hand, for an adult, who has a lot of things to do apart of learning english, we think that context - synonyms and antonyms could be more effective than definitions.


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


     We prefer illustration, because is easier to make understand to the children when they don't dominate the language very well. A concise definition, thinking in public school students, we think we should avoid, because it could be hard for them to learn and understand. Hyponyms - synonyms - antonyms are good ways to contrast or give other word for the same meaning. We think that translation technique is the less effective of all, because students just don't learn. It's boring and less significative for them.