Jan 26, 2026

Monday, January 26 - 4:00 - 5:00 PM MST

Description:

In this session, participants will explore ways to record vocabulary using a Lexical Journal informed by the lexical approach and psycholinguistic principles to promote learner autonomy. Although the value of lexical notebooks has long been recognised, they remain underused, and many learners still record vocabulary ineffectively. The session presents a modified notebook that reflects how language is organised in the mind through association, analysis, and emotional engagement. Activities such as mind maps, Frayer models, collocation work, word formation, and synonym/antonym tasks support long-term retention. Participants will learn practical strategies to integrate these tools into their teaching and foster independent learning.

Bio: Olena Gyrych is an English instructor with over 10 years of teaching experience in Ukraine, Qatar, and Canada. She is a Cambridge DELTA–certified educator and holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in Philology. She actively participates in international professional conferences, including IATEFL and TESOL, and is committed to continuous professional development and evidence-based practice. Her work focuses on innovative, learner-centred approaches that promote communicative competence, vocabulary development, and assessment-informed instruction. Olena is passionate about empowering English language learners through practical, research-informed strategies and enjoys collaborating with fellow educators to bridge theory and classroom practice.

Register for the session via the Tutela Edmonton Group

Or email Bahar & Pam at edmonton@atesl.ca for the session link.

We look forward to seeing you!

ATEAL Chapter: Edmonton