Corpus-Based Teaching of Specific and Academic Vocabulary for ESL Students

Abstract

The current paper presents the results of applying the corpus-based approach to teaching academic vocabulary as well as the vocabulary of English for specific purposes for ESL students. The approach relies on the bedrock principle of data-driven learning – referring to the language directly, refraining from mediated resources (coursebooks, dictionaries, and teachers), thus increasing language awareness by building a glossary tailored to students’ academic needs. The glossary encompasses not only lexico-grammatical meanings of the word but their functioning as well. The empirical data of the research proves that using corpora enhances conversational, reading, or writing skills.