Abstract:

Visualization can be used at all the stages of teaching foreign languages, sometimes as the main method and very often as a complementary one. On the one hand, it is a well-known method and it has been used for a long time, but on the other hand, it is underestimated and neglected by a lot of teachers. We would like to point out the advantages of visualization in teaching foreign languages.

Firstly, visualization is essential at the beginning of language learning, especially if the teacher and the students have no common language to communicate. It is more effective to just show the object, than to use a dictionary every time.

Secondly, visualization guarantees successful vocabulary and grammar skills acquirement, provided, that the students pay attention in class, do homework and on the whole work hard.

Thirdly, visualization activates attention and concentration, increases interest in learning, contributes to easier perception and understanding, reduces tiredness, trains imagination and even causes positive effect on students’ emotions.

Fourthly, visualization can be one of the helpful tools in the process of adaptation. If the students learn the language in the country where this language is spoken (or if they are going to go to another country later), they have to adapt in this whole new world, where the language is just one of the problems. Demonstrating pictures or videos about holidays and celebrations raises cultural awareness, making students familiar with traditions and customs of another country.

So, visualization is really important in teaching foreign languages. Skillfully used visualization methods can enhance effectiveness of studies.