USING PICTURE FOR TEACHING LANGUAGE

Using pictures to teach language in the context of Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) can greatly enhance the learning experience by making abstract language concepts more concrete and relatable. Visual aids like pictures help learners to better understand vocabulary, grammar, and context, while also catering to visual learners. CALL provides a platform where images can be integrated seamlessly into language lessons, allowing teachers to create dynamic, interactive materials that engage students more effectively.

Benefits of Using Pictures in CALL:

1. Visual Representation: Pictures offer a visual context for words, making it easier for learners to grasp the meaning of new vocabulary, phrases, or grammar structures.
2. Memory Aid: Visuals help with memory retention, as students can associate a word or sentence with an image, improving recall.
3. Cultural Context: Pictures can be used to teach cultural nuances, expressions, or social situations relevant to the target language.
4. Engagement: Integrating images into lessons makes learning more interactive, fostering better engagement and motivation among students.

Procedure for Using Pictures in CALL:

1. Select Relevant Pictures: Choose images that directly relate to the language concepts you are teaching. For instance, if the topic is "food and drinks," select clear, relevant pictures that depict different types of food items or dining situations.

2. Edit the Pictures: Use image editing software to enhance the visuals before incorporating them into your lesson. This may involve:

   • Cropping: Crop unnecessary parts of the image to focus on the key elements that align with the language objective.
   • Labeling: Add text labels or annotations to the image to highlight vocabulary, grammar structures, or other key information.
   • Resizing: Resize the image to fit into worksheets, presentations, or other CALL materials without distorting the image quality.

3. Integrating Pictures with Microsoft Word:

   • Insert Images into a Document: In Microsoft Word, use the "Insert" tab to add pictures into your document. Place them strategically within exercises, comprehension questions, or vocabulary sections.
   • Editing in Word: Word allows you to further edit the images directly within the document. You can crop, add borders, apply artistic effects, or adjust brightness and contrast.
   • Interactive Elements: Enhance the lesson by adding captions, or creating drag-and-drop exercises (with images) that require students to match pictures with the correct vocabulary.

4. Designing CALL-Based Tasks:

• Picture Matching: Create exercises where students match pictures to the correct vocabulary or phrases.
• Descriptive Writing: Ask students to describe what they see in the pictures using the target language, incorporating new vocabulary and grammar.
• Discussion Prompts: Use images to prompt discussions, encouraging students to speak or write about what they observe, thus integrating speaking and writing skills into the lesson.

Example : I designed task titled "Analysis Content of the Pictures" focuses on analyzing pictures and developing essential skills such as reading comprehension, critical thinking, and writing. It is designed for beginner to intermediate learners, particularly junior high or high school students. The task aims to strengthen students' ability to understand written descriptions, connect them to visual representations, and describe scenarios effectively. By matching images with textual descriptions and answering questions, students practice interpreting visual and contextual information.

See more : Analysis Content of the Pictures