One easy and very convenient method for improving your vocabulary is with the use of Vocabulary Flash Cards. Traditional Flash Cards – that is, those written on paper – have been around for many years. This is a good thing. They have been tried and tested and proven to be extremely beneficial. With the advent of computerized learning tools, you can also find software programs that offer you more efficient and effective ways of learning vocabulary through Flash Cards.
The best part about using Flash Cards to enhance your vocabulary is that it doesn’t matter your background. Flash Cards are beneficial to all learners. Whether you are a non-English speaker, a university student or a mature-aged learner, Flash Cards can help. The principle behind the Flash Card learning aid is adaptable to all learners.
The Traditional Flash Card
To create a traditional vocabulary Flash Card on paper, write the word in very large writing on one side of the Flash Card. On the other side, write a definition gained from a dictionary. Also, write a definition in your own words. You can also split the word into roots and define the roots. Also write antonyms (opposite words) and synonyms (similar words). Try to color-code the Flash Cards (e.g. nouns one color; verbs another). If you want to get more involved, you can also attach photos to Flash Cards to assist learning.
If you speak English as a second language and are learning English vocabulary, put the words in your first language on one side of the flash card and its English equivalent on the other side.
One method to improve your vocabulary is to carry empty vocabulary Flash Cards around with you. Every time you come across an unknown or interesting word, write it down. Once you get home or have access to a dictionary, write up your Flash Card. We often have small amounts of free time throughout our day (such as when waiting for buses or lectures). These wasted moments are perfect opportunities to get the Flash Cards out and start learning.
In essence, to practice your vocabulary with a Flash Card, you should: look at the word; provide a definition without the card; put it in a sentence; and state antonyms and synonyms. Once you have done this, turn the card over and see whether you were correct.
As you go through the Flash Cards, put correctly identified words in a new stack and wrong words back in the old stack. The new stack is the pile you have almost mastered. Over time, go through this stack again. Each time you get a word right put a red mark of the Flash Card. If you end up with three marks, then place it in a pile of words you know (Cornelsen Verlag, 2006).
It is important that vocabulary Flash Cards are constantly reviewed. You must also frequently move them out of order to prevent association with each other and suggestive learning. You can easily create more Flash Cards as you improve your vocabulary. The best feature about flash cards is that they are convenient and are simple to make. You can also personalize them, as you are able to add to them as you go throughout your daily life.
The New Style Flash Card: Using Vocabulary Software
Flash cards are also featured in vocabulary software, such as Ultimate Vocabulary’s Word Discover™ component. This software includes fifty word usage examples, word history, visual word explorer, encyclopedia information, and images for every single word. There are customizable Flash Cards within this software.
Vocabulary Flash Cards have been around a long time. They are a proven technique for developing your knowledge of word meanings. Whether you use traditional or modern Flash Cards, you will certainly notice the benefits.
References
Cornelsen Verlag 2006, Learning Strategy – Vocabulary Flash Card Set.