Topic
Academic Word List (AWL)
Overview of the Academic Word List (AWL): 570 word families, sublists, tools, and how to study and use AWL effectively in academic writing.
Featured introduction
Academic Word List (AWL)
Use this short introduction to get a feel for the section before choosing your next step.
Lesson pathway
Choose a lesson to begin
Choose one of the lesson entry points below. These are designed to move you from orientation into guided practice and then independent work.
Objectives & Key Language
Define outcomes; activate prior knowledge; curate key lexis/functions with examples.
Start lessonOverview & purpose of the AWL
Why the AWL exists; who should use it; benefits and limitations.
Start lessonGuided Practice
Model target language/skills with scaffolds; short controlled tasks with feedback.
Start lessonStructure: word families & sublists
570 word families; sublists 1–10; coverage across disciplines and typical frequencies.
Start lessonIndependent Practice & Reflection
Freer application to authentic tasks; quick reflection and improvement actions.
Start lessonTools & highlighters
Use online AWL highlighters/profilers to identify target words in texts.
Start lessonAssessment & Next Steps
Check achievement with a short performance/quiz; record gaps and plan next steps.
Start lessonWord forms, collocations & families
Learn base forms, derivations, and frequent collocations for accurate use.
Start lessonLearning plan & spaced practice
Set sublist goals; build spaced-repetition decks; practise retrieval and recycling.
Start lessonTesting & progress tracking
Self-tests, corpus checks, and logs to monitor growth.
Start lessonUsing AWL in academic writing
Select precise items; avoid overuse; ensure appropriate register and citation.
Start lessonSubject variation & alternatives
When to use discipline lists (e.g., AVL) and adapting AWL to your field.
Start lesson