This book, also called Sanskrita-vidyarambhah, is an introduction to the Sanskrit language. There are two parts to this course: Samskrta-vidyarambhah Part One and Part Two. The Sanskrit Picture Dictionary is an ideal reference book and supplement to this resource. Samskrta-vidyarambhah means ‘the beginning of Sanskrit education’. - 7 books in Total incl Sanskrit Picture Dictionary
The course is divided into two parts with ten units in each part. In the first part, the Devanagari script is not introduced as part of the course work requirements. It is included along with Roman transliteration so that students will become accustomed to seeing the script. The initial focus is on oral language. This course is based on communicative language and is not a traditional grammar approach.
Contemporary research into language acquisition informs us that second language learners require multiple opportunities to engage in authentic language usage. The chapters in this book are sequential but can also be studied independently. The chapters do build on previous knowledge introduced, this is especially so for the use of vocabulary and the conjugation of verbs.
A special feature of the Samskrta-vidyarambhah course is the inclusion of games. We have carefully selected and designed over ten games for interacting with and using the Sanskrit language. Games provide students with a stress-free, safe context in which to experiment with the language. While we accept the principle of accuracy in production of the target language, we also acknowledge the importance of approximation and experimentation with the language.
Unique features of the Student Book is:
- Focus on Sanskrit as a spoken language.
- Learning is structured around pairs and small groups.
- Progression from simple to more complex language.
- Tasks are designed for genuine communication to take place.
- Students interact with authentic language.
- A wide variety of teaching methods are utilised.
- Multiple opportunities are provided for students to learn.
- Initial emphasis on fluency rather than accuracy.
The purpose of this Sanskrit Picture Dictionary is to provide those new to Sanskrit, particularly those from English speaking backgrounds, exposure to many of the high frequency words required to communicate in spoken Sanskrit. This picture dictionary will assist in swift Sanskrit vocabulary acquisition. Words are placed into associational categories: body parts, dress and ornaments, colours, immediate environment in the house, school and nature, common food items, occupations, institutions, animals, and transportation There is also a section on high frequency verbs.
This helps the learner to develop a vocabulary word bank around the theme. For each theme we have compiled a page of verbs that are commonly associated with that topic or cluster of nouns.
Review pages have been included at the end of each major section. The image is listed without a title and the learner is expected to add the correct word from memory. In the early stage of the Introductory Course, of which this dictionary accompanies, the Devanägaré script is not introduced. Therefore we have included both Devanägaré and a Roman transliteration for each image. The answer may be given in either script.
The dictionary is not intended to be sequentially processed as a language course book may be designed. The nature of word acquisition is very much dependent on time, place, circumstance and need. It would be artificial and unhelpful to attempt to predict the sequence of vocabulary learning. “Lexical chains” or words that fit together in a topic or theme is the best way to introduce vocabulary.
Unique features of the dictionary
* Words are presented thematically in useful categories.
* High frequency verbs section with accompanying images.
* Devanagari and Roman transliteration used for every image.
* Review pages to act as checkpoints for each unit or group of units.
* The inclusion of a number of simple sentences for each topic unit.
* An index ordered alphabetically in English for quick reference.
* Pronunciation guide for diacritics used in the Roman transliteration.
* An Appendix with Roman transliteration and meanings in English.
We are confident that this resource will greatly assist you in your early stages of learning Sanskrit language. Congratulations on your courage and determination to take on this wonderful challenge of learning one of the oldest and most perfect languages in the world.
