Repositori URV

Identifier: imarina:9261216

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/imarina9261216

Authors:
Moreno Villanueva, Jose Antonio

Abstract:
This study examines the usefulness of lexical availability as a criterion for selecting vocabulary with regard to levelling and identifying entries in a dictionary aimed at Chinese-speaking intermediate and advanced students who are learning Spanish as a foreign language. To do so, the study looks at indices of lexical availability obtained in six relationally areas: Tourism, Education, Health, Environment, Politics and Justice. First, in order to evaluate the possibilities of lexical availability in contrast to lexical frequency, these indices are contrasted with the frequency indices of Davies and Davies (2018) and the Corpes XXI-Enclave RAE. Correlations are then established between the most available terms and their score in the inventory of Specific Notions of the Plan curricular from the Institute Cervantes (2006). The research confirms that lexical availability indexes are a useful criterion that complements lexical frequency when selecting dictionary entries in the areas studied. The research also shows that lexical availability indexes offer important data for vocabulary levelling. Finally, the article calls for a revival in the use of dictionaries for didactic purposes and reflects on other possible contributions that lexical availability can make to new developments in pedagogical lexicography.