The+Importance+of+Vocabulary

The Importance of Vocabulary As you begin to develop your Arabic language proficiency, focus on building your vocabulary. Arabic and English share relatively few cognates (words that are similar in both languages), which means that you will need to develop good strategies for memorizing and actively using the new vocabulary you are learning. In each unit, you will study several sets of vocabulary words and phrases that are connected to the unit’s themes. To be able to actively use these words in the real world, you will need ample practice both in and out of class. In class, use the vocabulary you have to express yourself as fully as you can. Practice using the vocabulary in creative ways in order to get your point across. Take your time as you speak, and, most importantly, don’t use English to express something you could express in Arabic! In the early stages of learning Arabic, online translation resources like Google Translate are more often your enemy than your friend! Focus on saying what you can say using the words you are learning in class, and don’t look up new words without some direction from your instructor. At home, work on becoming an efficient memorizer. Spend time personalizing the words by relating them to what you see around you, what you do, who you know, etc. Read through the memorization strategies below, and try them out as you study new vocabulary. Even if you feel confident in your memorization skills, you may find some new methods you haven’t tried before. As you study your vocabulary lists at home, you will find a dedicated space on each page to write yourself some notes about the new vocabulary items. Use this space to draw pictures of the words, leave hints, write notes, etc—this space is for you to take ownership of the new vocabulary.