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How to Study Vocabulary ��Intermediate

Upper-Intermediate

Pre-Advanced

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What is Vocabulary?

  • True vocabulary knowledge includes:
  • * MEANING,
  • * CORRECT PRONUNCIATION,
  • * SPELLING, and
  • * APPROPRIATE USAGE IN VARIOUS CONTEXTS.
  • B1-B2 Level Scope (CEFR )
  • For B1-B2 learners, this typically involves a command of approximately 2,000-4,000 words, covering both everyday and academic discourse.

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Why Vocabulary Matters?

  • Helps you understand textsAcademic books and articles use special words. Knowing them helps you read and understand better.
  • Improves writingUsing the right words makes your writing clearer and more formal — important for essays and reports.
  • Makes speaking more preciseA good vocabulary helps you explain ideas clearly during presentations or discussions.

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Common Problematic Areas in Academic Vocabulary

  • Abstract Nouns
  • Confusing words like justice, evidence, impact
  • Hard to define or use in context
  • Word Families
  • Errors with forms: analyse → analysis, analytical
  • Misusing noun/verb/adjective forms
  • False Friends
  • Words that look similar in another language but mean something different�(e.g.,sempatik X sympathetic )

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Common Problematic Areas in Academic Vocabulary

  • Synonyms with Subtle Differences
  • increase vs. rise, affect vs. effect
  • Collocations
  • Using unnatural word combinations�(e.g., “do a decision” instead of “make a decision”)
  • Register/Formality
  • Using informal words in formal writing�(e.g., “get” instead of “receive” or “obtain”)
  • Prepositions with Academic Words
  • Errors like “responsible of” instead of “responsible for”

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How to Study Vocabulary in the Right Way (B1-B2 Levels)�

  • 1. Learn in Context
  • * DON’T JUST MEMORIZE WORDSlearn them in sentences.�Example:✖️ "impact" = etki✔️ "The new law had a big impact on education."

  • 2. Use Word Families
  • * Learn related forms together:�create(v) – creator(n) – creative(adj.) – creativity(n)

 

  • 3. Practice with Collocations
  • * Learn common word pairs:make a decision, do research, take notes

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How to Study Vocabulary in the Right Way (B1-B2 Levels)

  • 4. Keep a Vocabulary Notebook
  • * Include:
  • Word
  • Definition
  • Example sentence
  • Synonyms/antonyms
  • Word family

  • 5. Use Flashcards (Digital or Paper)
  • * Apps like Quizlet or Anki help with active recall and spaced repetition.

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How to Study Vocabulary in the Right Way (B1-B2 Levels)

  • 6. Review Regularly
  • * Revise words after 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month (spaced repetition).

  • 7. Use New Words in Speaking/Writing
  • * Try to use 3–5 new words each day in a sentence, email, or short paragraph.

 

  • 8. Group by Topic or Theme
  • * Learn vocabulary in TOPIC/THEMES like:�Education, Environment, Technology, Health

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Tips for Vocabulary Practice in B1-B2 Levels

  • 1. Use It or Lose It
  • Use new words in your own sentences.
  • Practice in writing, speaking, and even thinking in English.
  • 2. Group Words by Theme/Topic
  • Study by topic: health, education, environment, technology.
  • 3. Create Word Families
  • Learn related forms:�decide – decision – decisive – indecisive
  • 4. Watch & Read & Listen in English
  • Choose B1–B2 level content.
  • Note useful or repeated words and phrases.

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Tips for Vocabulary Practice in B1-B2 Levels

  • 5. Quiz Yourself
  • Test vocabulary weekly with games, puzzles, or short quizzes.
  • 6. Use New Words in Conversations
  • Try to include 3–5 new words in speaking practice or voice recordings.
  • 7. Spaced Repetition
  • * Regularly revise new vocabulary using spaced repetition techniques to embed words into your long-term memory.

 

  • 8. Visual and Thematic Learning
  • * Using mind maps, diagrams, and sketches to connect words with related concepts.
  • 9. Use Technology and Language Learning Apps

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How to Create a Vocabulary Study Plan (B1-B1 Levels)

  • 1. Set Duration
  • Example: 4 weeks
  • 2. Organize by Theme/Topic (1 per week)
  • Week 1: Daily Life & Travel
  • Week 2: Education & Work
  • Week 3: Environment & Health
  • Week 4: Technology & Society

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How to Create a Vocabulary Study Plan (B1-B1 Levels)

  • 3. Weekly Routine Example
  • Day 1–2: Learn 10–15 new words in context
  • Day 3: Practice with sentences or dialogues
  • Day 4: Do exercises (matching, gap fill, etc.)
  • Day 5: Use new words in writing or speaking
  • Day 6: Review with flashcards
  • Day 7: Quiz/test

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Helpful Vocabulary Resources for B1-B2 Levels

1. Books

  • English Vocabulary in Use (Intermediate)Cambridge�Clear explanations, themed units, and exercises.
  • Oxford Word Skills (Intermediate)Oxford University Press�Practical vocabulary with usage practice.

2. Websites

  • Quizletquizlet.com�Flashcards and games for vocabulary practice (search for “B1-B2 vocabulary” sets).
  • BBC Learning English – bbc.co.uk/learningenglish�Vocabulary lessons, videos, and quizzes at different CEFR levels.
  • English Pageenglishpage.com�Good for vocabulary and grammar practice with exercises.
  • Flo-Joe for FCEflo-joe.co.uk�Great for B2 level learners preparing for Cambridge exams.
  • Test English

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Helpful Vocabulary Resources for B1-B2 Levels

3. Apps

  • Anki – Spaced repetition flashcards (can download B1–B2 decks)
  • Memrise – Fun and interactive vocabulary learning
  • WordUp Vocabulary – Learn and review words in real-life context
  • Duolingo – Gamified learning with vocabulary practice.
  • WordUp – Teaches vocabulary with real-life video examples.
  • Vocabulary.com – Provides word explanations and quizzes.
  • Quizlet – Pre-made and custom flashcard sets with games and quizzes.

4. Listening-Based Vocabulary

  • The English We Speak (BBC) – Short podcasts on useful everyday phrases
  • Elllo.org – Listening + vocabulary quizzes with real speakers

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Helpful Vocabulary Resources for B1-B2 Levels

4. Online Dictionaries & Thesauruses

  • Oxford Learner’s Dictionary – Definitions, pronunciation, and example sentences.
  • Cambridge Dictionary – Includes collocations and idioms.
  • Thesaurus.com – Helps find synonyms and antonyms.

5. AI-Based & Interactive Learning

  • ChatGPT – Can generate explanations, quizzes, and practice exercises.
  • YouGlish – Finds word pronunciations in real YouTube videos.
  • Twee – Creates vocabulary exercises

(Please check “The Useful Resources “part on the website!)

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Good Luck!