English Vocabulary Training Software
Computer programs are now available to
enable native-speaking or foreign students to improve their English, especially vocabulary, either
alone or under supervision. Some are designed for basic level students and
children, others at a higher level, such as for students preparing for
exams. For
business or commercial
use, there would need to be additional features included.
Vocaboly is an easy-to-operate, efficient and enjoyable way for people to improve their English vocabulary, whatever their reasons or motives. The program’s name is derived from Vocabulary and Monopoly – the popular board game. And although Vocaboly has a serious purpose, it has a light-hearted ‘game’ feel about it too, making it suitable for young or more mature students of English.
Vocaboly also
has features
The program runs under Windows
and comprises several modules which teach and test the meaning, spelling and
sound of some 12,000 English words with phonetic symbols and
pronunciation (sound files). These are contained in five ‘books’ supplied with the
program. They are designed to aid study for exams like SAT, TOEFL, GRE and GMAT;
the VOA Special English Word Book is also included. The user (or trainer) can make
up lists of selected words for more intensive practice, set difficulty levels and
also create new books using both existing and new words or
expressions. These files can be created or imported and exported easily.
There are also test modules in the form of multi-choice answers and two types
of games, testing memory, spelling and meaning.
Here is a screen shot showing Vocaboly’s ‘Free Study’ module, with a user-created ‘book’ for Business & Accounting. The highlighted word would be heard upon selection as well. Additionally, extra lines in the lower explanation box could contain a translation in another language or character set e.g. Thai, Lao.
For further information, visit the Vocaboly Software web site at http://www.vocaboly.com
