Learn These Words First
Learn These Words First is a multi-layer dictionary for second-language learners of English. A key feature of this dictionary is its arrangement of definitions and defining vocabulary into multiple layers, making it accessible to beginning level ESL students.
Multi-layer structure[edit]
Most monolingual learner's dictionaries are designed for intermediate-level English learners, who are likely to have receptive familiarity with most words in a typical 2000-word defining vocabulary.[1]
Learn These Words First, however, is designed for beginning-level learners, who may be starting with an English reading vocabulary of less than 300 words. To accommodate these students, definitions are arranged in progressively more complex layers, so they can be understood by readers with different levels of vocabulary:[2]
- Layer 1: Basic vocabulary: The 360 most basic words are explained for beginning-level learners, using illustrations, translations, etc. These words are presented in a series of short lessons.
- Layer 2: Defining vocabulary: These 2000 intermediate-level words are explained using only the words from the basic vocabulary lessons.
- Layer 3: Full dictionary: This includes advanced-level words, all explained using only the defining vocabulary.
This multi-layer structure also eliminates circular definitions, since words are always explained using the vocabulary from a simpler level.[3]
Research behind the dictionary[edit]
Learn These Words First is the first public edition of the NSM+LDOCE research dictionary.[4]
The NSM+LDOCE dictionary is notable for demonstrating how circular definitions can be eliminated through the use of semantic primitives and reductive paraphrase. The research dictionary used Natural Semantic Metalanguage (NSM) and computer-aided lexicography to produce non-circular definitions for all 2352 words in the defining vocabulary of the Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English (LDOCE).[5]
External links[edit]
References[edit]
- ↑ Atkins, B. and M. Rundell. The Oxford Guide to Practical Lexicography, 2008: Oxford University Press.
- ↑ http://learnthesewordsfirst.com/about/what-is-a-multi-layer-dictionary.html
- ↑ Bullock, D. 'NSM + LDOCE: A Non-Circular Dictionary of English', International Journal of Lexicography, 24/2, 2011: 226-240 (link).
- ↑ http://learnthesewordsfirst.com/about/research-behind-the-dictionary.html
- ↑ Wierzbicka, A. 'Common language of all people: The innate language of thought', Problems of Information Transmission, 47/4, 2011: 378–397 (Appendix B).
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