TEACHING LANGUAGE VOCABULARY BY GAMES WITHIN ESP DISCOURSE DOMAIN

Abstract

The article deals with the issue of vocabulary games in the framework of ESP discourse studies as one of the effective means of developing integrated language skills. Language games have proved to be beneficial for professional vocabulary learning. All the educational outcomes may be better achieved due to incorporating games into vocabulary learning process, since vocabulary is the basic part of any language learning. The following criteria should be taken into consideration by the teacher designing or choosing the game: correspondence to the topic and context; students’ level and interest as well as correlation between the type of game, timing and lexical units to be practiced. The factors concerning the number of students engaged in the game and the classroom settings are also quite relevant. Most beneficial are the games which involve students’ imagination and creativity. Usually teaching English vocabulary starts with single words which will be frequently used by the students, followed by more complicated lexical items such as phrasal verbs or collocations, later switching from General English to ESP discourse vocabulary training. Practical application of games for teaching vocabulary includes two preliminary steps, namely (1) grouping the students and (2) giving explanation / instruction about the game. The latter is necessary for the students to understand how to play according to the list of vocabulary to be practiced. The article includes some examples from the bank of game exercises as well as descriptions and discussions on the potential results of their application. Developing cooperative attitude, quick decision-making and teamwork spirit aimed at meaningful communication games promote integrated language skills resulting in professional discourse training. In spite of their supplementary activities character games can facilitate the process of foreign language learning due to friendly competition atmosphere they are accompanied with. Thus, learning vocabulary through games may also contribute to professional vocabulary training within ESP discourse studies.