Vocabulary Acquisition in Language Learning.

Abstract

The article will explore the process of learning vocabulary in a foreign language. The term “word” does not refer just to a unit of meaning, but implies many aspects, such as sound, graphics, metaphor, collocation, that we have to take into account in language teaching. Vocabulary acquisition is an incremental process; therefore new items, including both single words and multi-word units, must be encountered several times, then recycled and employed in productive ways. Therefore, memory activation is crucial and learners select strategies according to their own learning styles. The language teacher should be aware of the process and provide students with activities meant to promote independent development of vocabulary.