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Eric Paul Monroe: Virtual Classroom
Teaching Spanish and English As a Foreign Language

Learning Methodologies


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Alphabetical order is a well known and effective way to arrange vocabulary to allow rapid retrieval. Unfortunately, alphabetization fails to allow an additional semantic manifestation. Another mnemonic device should be utilized in conjunction to promote a higher lexical inventory.

Categorizing is an effective methodology that allows chunks of lexical information to be arranged in multiple manners to instantly relate their significance. Binary forces should be correlated to stimulate schemata, accelerating the retrieval of the needed lexical term.

Traditional dictionaries translate a given lexical term without relaying contextual or situational appropriateness. Contrastively, interpretation conveys an exact semantic idea culturally acceptable for a given instance. To reinforce this methodology, further explanation should accompany both languages. The novice should utilize their native language while at an advanced level, emphasis should be placed on producing clarifications in the target language.

A right-brain activity artistically provides a general meaning which facilitates an association between a pictorial concept and quite possibly a group of related lexical terms. An additional mnemonic device should accompany this methodology as short-term memory fades with celerity.

Paraphrasing is an effective method which allows intermediate foreign language learners to increase their fluency in the target language. In the absence of a cultural interpretation, paraphrasing specific lexical terms facilitates comprehension between foreign language learners with multiple proficiency levels in addition to providing a beneficial mnemonic device that primes the learner for a more holistic definition.

Antonyms rapidly augment the acquisition of vocabulary, regardless of proficiency level in the target language, while bestowing an opportunity to acquire morphemic formulation strategies and at the same time, imparting a basis for extrapolating the full range of lexical possiblities based on the semantic dualism opposites render.

Hypothesizing appropriate lexical terminology in a given situation generally tends to render translational difficulties, unless the given context has been acquired through the target language. Whether through listening or reading comprehension, correct input is paramount and inestimable. In addition to morphemic information, the context provides insight into tone, mood, and reality, not unlike nonverbal communication.

With a limited knowledge in the field of English orthographics or when dealing with specific terminology taken from another language, phonological guidance proves indispensable. Phonological or phonetic transcriptions utilizing the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) facilitate accuracy and eliminate errors originating from one's native language. Problematic areas such as intonation, stress, and articulation could be alleviated through referencing available phonetic transcription resources.

Morphemic partnerships facilitate retention of vocabulary through associating lexical terms while providing an appropriate, comprehensible context. Knowledge of grammatical paradigms hastens acquistion of a foreign language, allowing learners to predict in the target language through morphemic awareness. Another mnemonic device should be utilized in conjunction with this methodology to ensure information filters into long-term memory.

Foregrounded lexical terms reinforce shifting from short-term to long-term memory through providing additional contact with the target language. Utilization of highlighters with multiple colors empowers an extensive array of mnemonic devices such as circling text or highlighting phrases to further convey semantic information. Qualitative analysis is left to the deft foreign language learner's imagination.

Exemplifications


Alphabetization
Categorization
Interpretation
Diagram Sketch
Paraphrase
Opposites
Contextual Discourse
Pronunciation
Word Partnerships
Grammatical Highlighting