Acquiring new vocabulary is a crucial aspect of language learning, and it is particularly important for Omani and Arab learners of English. In this article, we will discuss some effective strategies for teaching vocabulary to Omani and Arab learners.

1. Contextualization

Omani and Arab learners tend to learn best when new vocabulary is presented in a meaningful context (Al-Seghayer, 2001). Teachers can provide authentic materials, such as news articles, short stories, or videos, that include the target vocabulary. This allows learners to see the words in context and better understand their meanings and usage.

2. Repeated Exposure

Repetition is a key element of vocabulary acquisition, and it is particularly important for Omani and Arab learners. Teachers can provide multiple exposures to new vocabulary through activities such as word games, flashcards, or vocabulary quizzes. This helps learners to better retain the words and their meanings.

3. Cognitive Mapping

Cognitive mapping is a technique that involves connecting new vocabulary to existing knowledge (Higa, 2007). Teachers can encourage Omani and Arab learners to make connections between the new words and their native language or cultural knowledge. For example, teachers can provide analogies or examples that help learners to understand the meanings of new words.

4. Personalization

Personalization is another effective strategy for teaching vocabulary to Omani and Arab learners. Teachers can encourage learners to relate the new words to their own lives and experiences. For example, learners can write sentences or stories using the new vocabulary that relate to their own experiences or interests. This helps learners to better remember and understand the new words.

5. Technology

Technology can also be an effective tool for teaching vocabulary to Omani and Arab learners. Teachers can use multimedia resources, such as videos or podcasts, to present new vocabulary in a visual or auditory format. Online dictionaries and vocabulary apps can also be useful resources for learners to practice and review new words.

Omani and Arab learners of English can best acquire vocabulary through strategies such as contextualization, repeated exposure, cognitive mapping, personalization, and technology. By incorporating these strategies into their teaching, English language teachers can help Omani and Arab learners to develop a rich and varied vocabulary that will serve them well in their future academic and professional endeavors.

Al-Seghayer, K. (2001). The effect of multimedia annotation modes on L2 vocabulary acquisition: A comparative study. Language Learning & Technology, 5(1), 202-232. doi: 10.1017/S0272263199002013

Higa, M. (2007). Learning vocabulary through cognates: Effects of captioned video and keyword generation. CALICO Journal, 24(2), 291-312. doi: 10.11139/cj.24.2.291-312