Limitations of the word pattern approach

While this approach is helpful for learners to understand sound patterns and improve spelling, it may be difficult for them to remember the words that are taught. Because the vocabulary is not often connected beyond the sound pattern itself, it may be difficult for learners to remember exactly what bin, fin, sin and gin may mean. Generally, when trying to teach vocabulary, it is best to teach vocabulary words that are connected to each other. The next exercise, labeling, will help learners develop a greater functional vocabulary.

E: Labeling

Who is this intended for?

This activity can be used with any learner who wants to learn concrete objects or pictures. Labeling can assist the learner in developing a larger functional vocabulary because the vocabulary is grouped into units.

How can I make this activity participatory?

Choose words (and link them by theme) based on the needs or interests expressed by your learner. For example, Carine's goal is to learn how to follow a recipe. In order to ensure Carine reaches this goal, there should be a number of lessons dedicated to this theme. One of these lessons could involve teaching kitchen verbs such as stir, grate and peel since knowing these would allow her to better understand the recipes she is trying to follow.

Example exercise for Carine

  • Using page 32 of The Canadian Oxford Picture Dictionary,5 look at the list of kitchen verbs (using the pictures) with Carine.
  • Have her choose which verbs she is interested in learning.
  • Say each verb and have her repeat the verb (two to three times).
  • Tutor says the verbs in the same order originally presented.
    • Learner touches the appropriate picture.
  • Tutor says the verbs in any order.
    • Learner touches the appropriate picture.
  • Learner says the verb and the tutor touches the picture.
  • Make cue cards with a picture on one side and the written form of the verb on the other. (Either the learner or the tutor could write the word.)

5 E.C. Parnwell, The Canadian Oxford Picture Dictionary (Oxford.: Oxford University Press Inc., 1996.)