There’s no question that the dictionary is a powerful resource for students and teachers. In the study of English – a language with countless rules, exceptions, idioms, and unusual spellings – no teacher can cover every word or phrase in class time alone. This makes independent study essential for students, and this is exactly where the dictionary comes in.
The dictionary is a perfect silent teacher. It goes hand in hand with learning, from pronunciation and spelling to understanding how words are used in different contexts. It pushes the boundaries of a student’s vocabulary beyond what the classroom can offer and does even more.
This guide explains the importance of vocabulary in a student’s academic life, captures interesting facts about the dictionary, and outlines practical ways students can get the most out of this invaluable tool.
Why Vocabulary Matters
Vocabulary, much like what students encounter in English classrooms and lectures, goes far beyond individual words and phrases. Multi-word units, such as collocations, idiomatic expressions, phrasal verbs, and set phrases, are essential for true language proficiency and, by extension, clear communication – hence their importance.
This provides much of the basis for how well learners speak, listen, read, and write. Its development should therefore be a priority. When students build good vocabulary skills, their communication becomes clearer and more precise. Without it, effective communication is almost impossible because vocabulary shapes how well-informed and articulate a student appears.
One might even argue that a strong vocabulary creates a favourable impression. And nothing opens the door to a richer vocabulary in English better than a good dictionary and consistent use of it.
Interesting Facts About the Dictionary
The dictionary is known to provide students with not just the meaning of words or phrases, but the possible meanings of a word in different contexts, correct pronunciations and spelling of words, as well as other resourceful information that can facilitate learning. Students who use a dictionary well can continue learning far beyond the classroom, giving them an edge over their peers. Here are a few quick facts about this all-important resource:
a. The English scholar John of Garland first coined the term dictionary in 1220.
b. Samuel Johnson laid the foundation for the modern English dictionary in 1755.
c. The Oxford English Dictionary was first published in 1928 in no fewer than 12 volumes after five decades of work. Today, it remains a trusted reference, updated quarterly with new words.
d. Interestingly, a dictionary is an excellent tool for writers, but it does not teach one how to write.
e. The longest word in an English dictionary is pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis, a synonym for silicosis (a lung disease). It was coined in 1935.
Practical Ways to Turn the Dictionary into a Vocabulary Booster
There are a lot of students who feel afraid when they learn English because they think English is always focused only on grammar. It is not true, because every skill needs vocabulary. Without curiosity and a willingness to explore, the dictionary is just a thick stack of paper gathering dust. Here are practical ways students can get the most out of this invaluable tool:
- Mindset
It all starts with the mind and a genuine desire to discover new words. Students should stay curious and ready to learn daily.
- Read Extensively
Reading widely exposes students to new words. Students should make it a habit to use a dictionary to learn the correct pronunciation and meanings of new words.
- Keep a Vocabulary Journal
A journal is a great tool for building vocabulary. Students should keep a special notebook to record new words they learn. They should review this journal regularly and use the words every day to reinforce their memory.
- Use Visuals
Many dictionaries include pictures or diagrams to support understanding. This helps understand and remember new words easily when put into practice. Students should make use of these visuals whenever possible.
Conclusion
Learning vocabulary is essential for academic success. Every student holds the key to a better vocabulary, so they must build it to achieve fluency and master it to excel in their studies. The dictionary, in every sense, is the right tool that can make all the difference.
The call is for every student out there to open the dictionary today and take charge of their vocabulary journey, one word at a time!
Check out our literature catalogue to discover an array of titles that can help motivate children to keep turning the pages. It’s time to explore and embark on an enriching literary journey.
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