Oxford Word Skills books are a collection of English vocabulary learning resources for all levels. This collection focuses on active and practical learning of new words in various fields of daily life and education.

In the following, we will get to know the leveling and features of this book collection.

Oxford Word Skills buying guide

here is information about the Oxford Word Skills books for Elementary, Intermediate and Advanced learners:

 Oxford Word Skills Elementary

• Oxford Word Skills Elementary Focuses on basic vocabulary for everyday use, greetings, introductions, and simple descriptions.

• Teaches learners about 2,000 words aligned with the Oxford 3000 word list.

Oxford Word Skills Intermediate

• Oxford Word Skills Intermediate Expands vocabulary to cover more complex topics, allowing learners to discuss hobbies, express opinions, and navigate daily interactions with confidence.

• Teaches learners about 2,000 words aligned with the Oxford 3000 word list.

Oxford Word Skills Advanced

• Oxford Word Skills Advanced Provides advanced vocabulary for academic discussions, professional settings, and nuanced expression of ideas.

• Teaches learners about 2,000 words aligned with the Oxford 5000 word list.

  

  Comparison of version 1 and 2 of Oxford Word Skills

There aren't necessarily drastic differences between "old" and "new" versions of Oxford Word Skills. However, there can be some subtle changes or additions over time as the series evolves. Here's what you might encounter:

Content and Design:

- Updated Word Lists: Newer editions might reflect updates to the Oxford 3000™ and Oxford 5000™ word lists, ensuring you learn the most relevant vocabulary for contemporary English usage.

- Visual Tweaks: Newer editions might have a slightly refreshed design, including updated fonts, layouts, or color schemes.

- Focus on Specific Skills: The emphasis on specific skills like phrasal verbs or idioms might be adjusted based on current learning trends or feedback.

Digital Resources:

- Expanded Online Resources: Newer editions might offer more extensive online resources, potentially including additional quizzes, interactive activities, or expanded audio recordings.

- Platform Changes: Access to online resources might be delivered through a different platform or app over time.

Overall Approach:

- Refined Explanations or Examples: Explanations and examples for new vocabulary might be tweaked for better clarity or engagement with learners.

- Integration of Technology: Newer editions might incorporate suggestions for using technology to enhance learning, such as language learning apps or online dictionaries, alongside traditional exercises.

It's important to note that these are potential changes, and the specific differences between editions might vary depending on the level (Elementary, Intermediate, Advanced) and the specific editions being compared.

Learning vocabulary with Oxford Word Skills

Building a strong vocabulary is the foundation for effective communication in English. The Oxford Word Skills series stands as a trusted resource for learners of all levels, offering a comprehensive approach to vocabulary development. This in-depth exploration delves into the key features and leveling system of these books, equipping you to make the most of your English language journey.

1. Targeted Vocabulary Selection:

Oxford Word Skills goes beyond simply throwing random words at learners. Each level focuses on a meticulously chosen set of 2,000 words, aligned with the Oxford 3000™ and Oxford 5000™ word lists.  These lists prioritize high-frequency words essential for fluency in everyday situations and academic settings.

2. Contextualized Learning:

Mere definitions often fall short when it comes to truly grasping a word's nuances. Oxford Word Skills understands this. New vocabulary is presented in realistic contexts, through engaging passages, dialogues, and real-life examples.  This approach helps learners understand not only the meaning but also the appropriate usage of words in different situations.

3. Mastering Synonyms and Antonyms:

Going beyond basic definitions, the series introduces synonyms (words with similar meanings) and antonyms (words with opposite meanings).  This empowers learners to express themselves with greater precision and nuance.  For instance, learning "happy" might be accompanied by synonyms like "joyful" and "delighted" and the antonym "sad".

4. Building Collocations:

Fluency goes beyond knowing individual words; it's about understanding how words naturally go together. Oxford Word Skills emphasizes learning collocations, which are frequently used word pairings like "strong coffee" or "make a decision".

5. Sharpening Grammar Skills:

While the primary focus is vocabulary, Oxford Word Skills recognizes the interconnectedness of language. The series subtly integrates lexical grammar, exploring how grammar interacts with vocabulary. This helps learners understand how words function within sentences and paragraphs.

6. Active Learning Through Practice:

Effective learning requires active engagement. Oxford Word Skills doesn't disappoint. Each unit features a variety of interactive exercises designed to solidify understanding. These exercises encompass activities like matching, sentence completion, gap-filling, and writing short paragraphs using the new vocabulary.

7. Self-Assessment and Review:

The series acknowledges the importance of self-assessment. Many books include "Cover and Check" cards allowing learners to test their knowledge independently. Additionally, regular review units revisit previously learned vocabulary, ensuring long-term retention.

8. Beyond the Textbook – Digital Resources:

Oxford Word Skills recognizes the power of technology-aided learning. Many editions come with access to online resources like interactive quizzes, listening activities, and pronunciation guides. These tools provide additional practice and cater to different learning styles.

9. Supportive Learning Tools:

The series extends beyond the core textbook. Many levels offer downloadable resources like monthly vocabulary calendars, learning record trackers, and mini-phrasebooks.  These tools create a structured learning environment and reinforce vocabulary acquisition throughout the month.

10. An Aural Advantage – Pronunciation Focus:

Several editions offer access to the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary app (OALD app). This valuable resource provides audio pronunciations for all vocabulary items, ensuring learners master both the meaning and pronunciation of new words.