Key Issues in Vocabulary Teaching: A Brief Overview

Abstract

Vocabulary is still neglected in EFL classrooms. Many language educators consider the teaching of vocabulary to be challenging; therefore, they do not devote their teaching time to exposing their students to this vital skill. This article attempts to shed light on some of the vital issues related to the teaching of vocabulary to help teachers who are not yet ready to teach this skill. It begins with a discussion on the importance of teaching vocabulary by addressing the main reasons why vocabulary needs to be taught. Then, it gives a brief account of the different aspects that language educators need to take into account when teaching vocabulary to their learners. Besides, it introduces a list of the most useful strategies that language instructors can incorporate into their classrooms to teach vocabulary effectively. Finally, it sheds light on the different ways teachers can utilize to assess their students’ vocabulary learning. Results of the study provide insights on how language educators, who encountered difficulties in teaching vocabulary and decided to neglect it in their classrooms, can make teaching vocabulary effective