Developing lexical competence

Before you start, look at the objectives. You should also read the comments, which focus on didactical issues.

• Definition ...

Lexical competence: knowledge of and the ability to use the vocabulary of a language, consists of lexical and grammatical elements. (CEF, p. 110)

• Objectives ...

You can learn here how to use online resources in order to: develop lexical competence; extend your range of vocabulary; understand and produce texts. You will learn how to use a search engine in order to extend your range of vocabulary (search strategies).

• Activities ...

You can choose between two activities: weather forecast in Portuguese --> >> clothing in Swedish --> >>

• Comments ...

We regard lexical competence as a requirement for successful language production, reception, interaction and mediation. Therefore, we believe that developing linguistic competence should always be directly related to language activities. It is important for learners to use their language competence in order to understand and/or produce texts. Activities for reception have a positive effect on the development of the ability to recognize lexical items. Nevertheless, it is important to offer opportunities for systematic vocabulary work in order to guarantee successful acquisition. Activities for production enable lexical competence to be activated and make it possible to memorize vocabulary in a meaningful context.

• Your turn ...

After you have familiarised yourself with the activities and the didactical background provided by the DidacTIClang team, create your own activity. It should allow your learners to develop their lexical competence using online resources.