Several advantages to the computerization of various English dictionaries are discussed. Given the achievements of the British National Corpus, it is argued that lexicographers currently have a ...multimedia tool that provides immediate linguistic information, eg, common collocates of a particular word. Although some print versions of contemporary dictionaries are characterized by their enormity, electronic dictionaries eliminate spatial concerns, permitting detailed entries when necessary. It is recommended that beginning language learners not be introduced to such extensive word entries & that lexicographers & educators use electronic dictionaries with caution. Nevertheless, the employment of electronic dictionaries provides several advantages: encouraging the development of student autonomy, functioning as an extra-curricular resource, & inviting language learners to strive for orthographic & translation accuracy. J. W. Parker
Every One a Winner? Deuter, Margaret
Modern English teacher,
07/1996, Letnik:
5, Številka:
3
Magazine Article
Ways in which teachers can encourage English students to make better use of dictionaries are suggested. Two activities, with sample worksheets, are presented. In the first exercise, students use ...examples from the British National Corpus to write a definition for a common word. This is considered to be an effective way for them to discover the importance of precision in meaning & to develop essential skills in paraphrasing. In the second exercise, students are given a text including several types of errors & are asked to identify the mistakes with the help of a learner's dictionary. The main function of this activity is to encourage them to correct their own work without constant feedback from their teacher. J. Paul
