Mind maps

 

mind-map

 

As we have read in “Vocabulary´s key role in adult learning”,  one of my other posts on this website, learning new vocabulary items is essential in foreign language learning. Students should, therefore, try to find the most effective way to do it or, at least, the techniques or method that works best for them.

Foreign language students tend to associate vocabulary learning with learning lists. However, there are other methods which have proved to be more effective when it comes to learning new expressions in any language.
An example of this is the now famous vocabulary mind map. Here are some models. All of them hace a centre, where the key word is written, and a periphery, where the different categories and subcategories are scattered in a mandala shape. Students are advised to use different colours, symbols, images, etc. as that will help them to visualize and, hence, memorize the expressions better.
The objective of usign a mind map to record new vocabulary is to aid our brains in the memory process since we memorize by making associations. Therefore, the more we associate, the better. It´s also a way to connect the brain´s right and left hemispheres, our holistic and linear reasoning respectively.
Nowadays, there are some mind maps softwares in the market such Mind Meister or Bubbl, which can be practical alternatives.

Don’t forget to look at the Vocabulary Practice category. You’ll find some exercises to practise your vocabulary.

Leave a Comment