Word Webs: Exploring English Vocabulary

The aim of this project is to introduce students of English Language and Literature to the possibilities of a variety of online resources. The project was supported by a grant from the Higher Education Academy English Subject Centre.

The four units combine demonstration and interactive activities. Units 1 and 2 introduce the resources, with special reference to the history of the English language and literary texts. Units 3 and 4 explore specific topics in greater detail. By working through the units, students should gain insight into the topics and acquire skills which can be applied in other areas of their work.

The units are:

The Growth of the English Vocabulary

Using Online Corpora

Case study: Shakespeare's Vocabulary

Case study: Issues of Gender

We hope that you enjoy using them. If you have any problems or comments, please mail c.kay@englang.arts.gla.ac.uk