How to introduce vocabulary [2 min read]

Introducing and practising vocabulary is a vital part of an effective languages lesson - it's always worth spending a decent amount of time on this part of the learning process. And don't forget to plan for retrieval practice, too!

The second part of my digital course "Structuring an Outstanding MFL Lesson", is all about how to introduce vocabulary and grammar. In the course, I outline lots of great games and activities to introduce and practise vocab and grammar, both on a whiteboard and on paper.

Here are 5 of the most important things to consider when introducing vocabulary...

1. Focus on pronunciation before written form: Use an interactive whiteboard with pictures representing new vocabulary. Point to each picture and model the pronunciation, get the students to repeat after you in a choral repetition exercise.
2. Play interactive games like "Beat the Teacher": Display a slide with 10-12 pictures of vocabulary items. Point to pictures and say words, with students repeating correct words and staying silent for incorrect ones.
3. Introduce written forms through matching exercises: After students are comfortable with pronunciation, use activities like crosswords, picture-word matching, and target language-English matching exercises to help students connect sounds with written words and meanings.
4. Encourage personalisation: Allow students to add their own relevant vocabulary to what you've taught. This helps create personal connections and memorable experiences that cement words in their minds.
5. Use a step-by-step approach: Start with pronunciation, play games, introduce written forms, encourage personalisation, and then practise through various activities. This sequence helps reinforce new vocabulary effectively throughout the lesson and in subsequent sessions.