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Online Corpus-based Learner Dictionary

Introduction:

The best online learner dictionaries include:

(1) a corpus-based compilation of words;

(2) word frequency data;

(3) collocation guides;

(4) authentic examples of how words are used; and

(5) topical vocabulary from different disciplines.

CD ROM Dictionary:

The CD-ROM offers useful features not found in the hard copy:
• pronunciation guides (usually for both British and American language)
• electronic writing tools (designed to improve learners’ writing)
• quick find (clicking on a word in a text gives its definition)
• picture dictionaries (mostly in color)
• extra grammar and vocabulary exercises (to enhance learning)
• vocabulary notes (an electronic version of a vocabulary diary)
• wildcard functions (looking up words without knowing their exact spelling).

Dictionary features:

1-Corpus-based dictionaries
The dictionaries listed in Table 1 are corpus- based, which means the content is based on real-world spoken and written discourse when words, definitions, and examples are selected and organized. Church (2008) claims that corpus-based dictionaries “describe how language is actually used, as opposed to how it ought to be used” (334). Thus, definitions for a word are sequenced based on their frequency of use, and example sentences in corpus-based dictionaries are authentic. This sequencing makes it easy for learners of English to focus first on frequent words and meanings that will give them the most mileage.

2-Word frequency
Knowing whether a word is used a lot (high frequency) or a little (low frequency) in overall written and spoken discourse is very helpful information to English learners; that makes corpus-based dictionaries a must for the ESL/EFL classroom.

3-Collocations
With the use of corpora, lexicographers identify collocations (word combinations that normally go together) and incorporate them into learner dictionaries.

4-Authentic examples
For EFL learners another advantage of learner dictionaries over their general-use counterparts is the abundance of example sentences. In addition to definitions, learner dictionaries include “authentic examples to illustrate the use of words in context”.

5-Topical vocabulary
Another useful element corpus-based learner dictionaries offer for vocabulary learning is the way they present topical vocabulary by indicating how the words relate semantically to different categories. For example, in the LDCE, students can see that the word vocabulary belongs to the two topical groups “Linguistics” and “Language.” Other dictionaries provide synonyms and semantic webs to indicate different word usages and to illustrate how a single word relates to different concepts.

How to Teach Children to Use a Dictionary:

1-Find an appropriate dictionary. It is difficult for children to learn straight out of you favorite full-size Merriam Webster dictionary, so make sure you have a children's dictionary. It is best if the dictionary has pictures, color, clearly labeled headings, and an easy to read font.

2-Read with your child. Find a book that is slightly above their reading level, and ask them to read it to you. When they stumble on a word the don't know, ask them what they think the meaning is. If they say 'I don't know', help them to use context clues first. If they still cannot work it out, then get the dictionary.

3-Explain to them what a dictionary is, and how it can be useful. Depending on the age of the child, say something like "This is a dictionary. It is a helpful book we can use when we don't know the meaning of a word or we don't know how to spell something."

4To start teaching them how to use the dictionary, start by just letting them look at it for a minute. When they start to get bored of this, go back to the unfamiliar word and ask if they think the dictionary can help them to find out what it means. Encourage them to say yes.

5Next, explain that the dictionary goes by the alphabet. Ask them what letter their word begins with, and then help them to find that letter in the dictionary. Then explain that you have to find the second letter of the word, and so on. For example, if their word was reptile, help them find the letter r. Then tell them to find the 're' section. Keep doing this ('rep', 'rept', etc.) until they find the word.

6Ask them to read you the definition. Now they know what the word means. Go back to the book, and keep reading, until you have found three words they need to look up. Do this everyday and they will soon be able to use a dictionary by themselves.

customary units anchor chart - (dead pin)

33 Commonly Misunderstood Words & Phrases (Infographic)

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