Analyzing 'Difficult Vocabulary' for Japanese Learners of English: Evaluating Materials Using the SVL as a Practical and Widely Accessible Vocabulary List

Abstract

This paper investigates how English learners appropriately select a vocabulary builder through analyzing several English-based builders and some books written in Japanese for those who seek upper-advanced vocabulary as research on this topic is limited. The analysis shows that some English-based books and Japanese books have similar difficult words for Eiken 1, and those to prepare for GRE collect more advanced words. In addition, since various types of books regarding the target vocabulary are available both in Japanese and English, learners can choose books most suited to their learning style. This may help advisers when consulting students who are studying for the SAT, GRE and Eiken Level 1.