Vocabulary building: "My little notebook"

Many people I speak with about language learning ask me about how to increase vocabulary. To be honest with you, it is a question I often ask myself.

 

 

Here are two ideas:

One is my idea which I have called "My little notebook"

1. Buy a small writing pad, and make sure it is small enough to carry around in your jacket or bag.

2. When you discover a new phrase or interesting word, write it into the smalll writing pad.

Here are some examples:

"I like learning English and I want to improve it"

"Could you help me with my English please?"

"I really enjoy discovering more about Chinese culture"

"My family is well, thank you for asking"

"Nice to speak with you"

"Thanks for your help, it is very much appreciated"

"I really enjoy...........as my hobby" (playing sport, cooking, walking etc)

3. Write notes in your own language alongside it

4. Review the little book each day or a few times a week.

5. Write a weekly or monthly review in your book.

6. If you think of questions, write them in a "questions to ask" page. When later, you have a chance to check with a teacher or native speaker, you can look in your little book.

 

Today I found a useful article on increasing vocabulary. I think it is very good, so I have made it into a PDF document and you can download it.

Bye for now

Happy Exploring!

Alan