Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[fiona ting]

hi friends, how do you think of learning vocabulary? I am keen in learning vocabulary. I used to memorise the meaning of English vocab whenever I come across unfamiliar words. BUT I have problems in applying the vocab that I have learnt in my writing. After some times, i also totally forget about the meaning of the words. I have to look for the meaning again and again. So, what should I do in order to help me improve my vocabulary? And what should I do in order to help me produce a better piece of writing?

[Philo Kevetch]

Hello fion ting - I see that you asked the same question on a previous thread.

First, if you don't mind...... "WHAT" do you think might be better / keen "ON" learning / used to....when I CAME across (because used to) / memori"Z"e ( prefered spelling)
Please don't let these little things keep you from posting.....okay? :)

Many people underline (or "hi-lite") new vocabulary in the dictionary and stop there. Try writing three (or more!) original sentences using the new vocabulary and reviewing them regularly.

Let me know if this works for you. Philo

[seiyong]

I susgest you to write diary everyday. I feel that i'll use the words cognitively when it comes to writing. When you are free, try to list some words and their synonym so that you are revising them oftenly. Reading newspaper could help you to improve in writing. You are not necessary to read everyday but keep a few copies andd read them thoroughly. Try to understand the vocabularies in the article then write it down in a small note. Stick the note at the wall near your bed. Then you can revise it before you go to sleep..No too terrible but is an effective way ti improve your vocabulary too.

[advoca]

Dear Philo Kevetch,

May I point out for the benefit of the student that where I come from memorise is spelled with as S, not a Z. (I hope you do not mind my saying this and will neither take offence or offense.)

Where I teach (in Beijing), most students use either spelling because it is a mixed community using both British and American English.

No student under an American teacher in my neck of the woods would be castigated for using a British spelling. I, a Brit, like many others of my American colleagues, believe that the differences are not that important. They, and I, would correct a student who spelled words incorrectly, however, but not because of Brit and American spelling differences.


The Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary says that memorise is a British variant of memorize. It des not say that the spelling is wrong. Most British dictionaries (including the OED) say either is acceptable.

Incidentally, I think your idea to high-lite (or even high-light) words that a student does not understand is a good one. provided that they then consult a good dictionary that is designed for students. Some dictionaries can be most unhelpful, especially the small ones that many students use (or worse, an electronic hand held dictionary).

[fiona ting]

hi, Sei yong
Thanks for your suggestions. I noticed that you are good in using the new vocab that you have acquired. It helps you a lot in producing a good piece of writing. I am quite envy you because it is worth. How much you learnt, that is also how much you gained. I will try on the methods that you suggested to me. I hope it will work.