A large population uses English for Specific Purpose (ESP) instructions with a content-based approach in Japanese universities. Given this trend, various studies have been conducted that focus on ESP’s theory, status, effects, and issues. Many have suggested further effective implementation of the ESP program, thus emphasizing the importance of acquiring vocabularies.
Believing in the requirement of learning vocabulary to implement effective ESP instructions, the current study focuses on students’ vocabulary learning, their vocabulary size, and ESP corpus development in an English as a Second Language context. Participants are 98 university students majoring in physical therapy (PT). The study first performs a needs analysis for designing the vocabulary-emphasized instruction. The instruction involves various types of vocabulary-enhanced activities, including word list construction (index), translation and definition exercises, fill in exercises, and round-up tests. The instruction’s effectiveness is measured by students’ pre- and post-test vocabulary scores.
The numerical and correlational analysis is performed using the IBM SPSS Statistics software. The results of the vocabulary size test and PT corpus vocabulary tests are also included in the analysis. Although significant improvements in students’ vocabulary acquisition were not observed, examining each vocabulary item helps understand students’ learning tendencies and difficulties. Further studies are needed to delve into various factors such as students’ autonomy and vocabulary learning strategies in vocabulary acquisition. It is believed such examination will help to design successful ESP instructions.

Authors:
Minako Inoue, Health Science Unviersity, Japan

About the Presenter(s)
Minako INOUE graduated From UCSB with a Ph.D. in Education. Currently, teaching English at Health Science University in Japan. Research interests are ESP, vocabularies, and second language acquisition.

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