Posted by Proving your proficiency in English can unlock new educational and career opportunities for you in English-speaking nations. There are some international standardized tests of the English language, such as TOEFL, IELTS and PTE, allowing non-native students and professionals to demonstrate their English language skills. Like IELTS, TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) has four sections, including reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
Having a strong vocabulary helps improve your overall language skills and secure good marks in all four sections. You need a strong vocabulary to make meaningful and correct use of a word. Whether you have joined a TOEFL test course or you are doing your TOEFL test preparations on your own, working on your vocabulary is essential for your success. So, today, we are going to share three proven ways to have a large vocabulary.
Learn New Words
The very first meaningful word you uttered was in your mother language. You have mastered your native language vocabulary because you have been speaking this language since your childhood. Still, sometimes, you get to learn new words. As English is not your native language, learning and remembering new words can be challenging. There are some tools and best practices you can use to add new words to the mix.
Learning a new word is not sufficient, as you will forget it if you don’t use that word regularly. Here are some tips that will help you remember newly learned words in the long-term.
Grow Your Vocabulary by Reading
While pursuing a TOEFL test preparation course, you may have noticed that written English makes extensive use of vocabulary. You will find many unfamiliar words while reading. If you are reading a book, underline those words. If you are reading something on a digital device, save that passage in a Word file and underline that word electronically. Before you grab a dictionary to read the meaning of the word, try to understand its meaning from the context. Now, check the dictionary to see if you are right or wrong.
Use a Word Journal
Maintain a word journal. Note down the new word, its definition, and a hint for correct pronunciation in your journal. Also, write down the context in which that word is commonly used. Read your word journal every day. When you practice writing, identify words from the journal that you can use while writing.
Engage in Vocabulary Enrichment Activities
Reading and taking notes is not the only way to improve your vocabulary for the IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL examination. You can participate in English vocabulary quizzes. There are English language apps providing entertaining ways to improve language skills. You can play online word-guessing games.
Learn By Listening
Reading is a proven way to learn new words. However, you need to learn correct pronunciation to prepare for the TOEFL speaking section. You need to connect to the sound and spelling of the word.
Type the new word in Google search field and press enter. Click the speak icon and Google Translate will read that word out loud. Most online dictionaries come with this feature.
Watch TED Talk videos that come with both audio and transcript. Watch videos with subtitles.
Retain New Words
You have learned the spelling, pronunciation, and meaning of a new word. What if you fail to recall that word when you should actually use it? Can you recall its meaning and pronunciation months later?
Incorporate in Daily Communication
The best way to retain new words is to use them in daily communication. You should speak, write, hear, and read these words every day. This will cement that word in your memory. Write and publish articles on platforms such as LinkedIn. You can also join online debate clubs. Get feedback from your teachers or friends. Regularly read your journal and add new words.
Speak New Words to Reinforce Learning
Reinforce learning by using new words in your daily conversations with real people. You can use English conversation club apps or websites. These apps allow you to create and join groups.
Adjust Your Rhythm
Keep in mind that it takes time to build a strong vocabulary. Learn at your own pace. Don’t overload your brain by learning too many words. You will have to determine how many words you should learn in a week or month.