A Tool for Language Learning
The acquisition of a good basic vocabulary is the key to success in language learning. By paying extra attention to the most frequent words and word forms it is possible to make faster progress.
List of Words was compiled in order to facilitate the study of these important and in some cases grammatically complex words.
List of Words is an ongoing experimental project. The purpose of the current English-Spanish version is to demonstrate the didactical concept described below. It should not be considered final.
The Most Important Words
List of Words' vocabulary is based on word frequencies and examples extracted from large collections (corpora) of text and transcribed conversation. It contains the 900 most important words.
(compare curriculum based word lists for children : Wordly Wise 3000 tutorials)
Semantic Grouping
Semantic grouping (the words are categorized by meaning) and many authentic examples make memorizing easier.
In contrast to most listings of this kind, List of Words uses semantic grouping consistently. Every word is categorized semantically.
Grammar through Vocabulary
Words with similar meaning are often connected with other words in a similar way, i.e. they often have a similar syntax. Therefore, by combining consistent semantic grouping with authentic examples of use, List of Words can - to some extent - substitute a conventional grammar.
While a grammar still is needed (for morphology etc.), many students may find it easier to study syntax when example sentences are grouped semantically.
Alphabetical List with Links
An alphabetical index with translations is linked to the semantic categories and can serve as a reference on beginning-level.
Use it YOUR way
List of Words can be used in many different ways depending on objective and personal taste: As a mere check list of what you already (should) know, or in a much more active way, as a tool for fast, systematic language learning.
Ambitious students may want to use it as a starting point, translating List of Words into their favourite language.
Last but not least: The semantic category structure shows in a simple yet very effective way how language mirrors reality. This makes List of Words ideal for various theoretical purposes, such as semantic discussions, artificial language construction etc.