Reading materials for learning TOEIC vocabulary based on corpus data

Reading materials for learning TOEIC vocabulary based on corpus data

JACET42.pdf

It is agreed that presenting words in context rather than isolating them from context enhances learners’ acquisition of vocabulary. For example, several recent studies have found positive evidence supporting the use of explicit vocabulary instruction in conjunction with reading (Paribakht & Wesche 1997). A great deal of vocabulary learning material which follows this idea has also been provided by publishers or on the Web, however, the selection of most words is mainly based on material writers’ experience and intuition. Indeed, Kennedy (1987a, 1987b) points out that corpora are useful tools to look critically at existing language teaching materials about ways of expressing quantification and frequency of vocabulary in ESL (English as a second language) textbooks. Considering recent remarkable developments and the progress of computer technology, it is now possible to select vocabulary statistically, and create materials objectively based on vast amounts of corpus data.
The sorts of learners we principally have in mind are the ones who mastered senior high school level vocabulary and want to continue to increase their vocabulary. We attempt to bridge the gap between English vocabulary used in Japanese senior high school textbooks and those used in international communication through reading.