This bilingual-picture dictionary is a communication and language development tool for beginning ESL learners. The content focuses specifically on school-related language, such as locations in the school and class activities etc. Each entry contains a picture and the word/phrase presented in two languages (e.g. English & Arabic). Space is provided for student-specific or school-specific vocabulary to be added.

If you have questions or suggestions on how to improve this resource or encounter an issue, please contact me at Jenny-Lyn@exploringeducation.ca.

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Suggested Uses

Beginning ESL learners: Find the word or phrase they wish to communicate using the pictures and the first-language text, then point to the entry to communicate with the English-speaking educator or peer. 

Developing ESL learners: Use the dictionary to identify the needed English word when communicating verbally with English-speaking educators and peers. They can also use the resource to assist with spelling familiar school words and phrases during writing activities. 

Advanced ESL learners: Introduce their first-language to their EFL (English as a First Language) educators and peers through a mini-lesson using a page from the picture dictionary. These collaborative learning opportunities foster a supportive and encouraging learning environment for all students. 

English-Speaking educators & peers: Find the word or phrase using the pictures and the English text, then point to the entry when communicating with a beginning ESL learner. 

Social Studies: During units on international topics (e.g. Ancient civilization), this dictionary can be added to the class library or the display to expand upon the information presented during formal lessons. 

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Example Phrases and Vocabulary

Basic phrases (e.g. I understand, Please, Thank you)

School items: “I need…” (e.g. tissue, pencil)

Personal items: “I forgot…” (e.g. permission form, lunch)

Requests: “Please help me…” (e.g. tie my shoe)

Time-Related Questions/Schedule (e.g. “When is…?”,“library”)

School locations & people: “I need to go to…” (e.g. bathroom, office)

Reflection on activity: “This activity is…” (e.g. too hard, confusing)

Outdoor recess: “I would like to play with…” (e.g. basketball)

Indoor recess: “I would like to…” (e.g. draw a picture)

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Languages included

Arabic (Syrian) - English Picture Dictionary

Pashto - English Picture Dictionary

Urdu - English Picture Dictionary

Swahili - English Picture Dictionary

French - English Picture Dictionary

Mandarin - English Picture Dictionary

French - English Picture Dictionary

Spanish - English Picture Dictionary

English Picture Dictionary

(with space to add your own translations or to use with special education students)

Picture Dictionary Bundle

(all languages above plus any future translations for free)

Have authentic, first-language speaker translations available for another language? Send them to me at exploringeducation01@gmail.com, and I will gladly make that version of the dictionary for you free of charge. Please note that I will then add the translated dictionary to my products on TPT through @ExploringEducationCanada. 

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Acknowledgements

Text by Jenny-Lyn Usher

Translations by Skyler0217 (Fiver)

Images by

• Back to School Clipart SUPER Bundle by Sasha Mitten @ Rainbow Sprinkle Studio (TPT)
• Kids Feelings Clip Art Bundle by Corinne @ ChirpGraphics (TPT)
• Yes and No Clip Art Bundle by @ Deeder Do Designs (TPT)
• Back to School and Classroom Kids Behaviour Clip Art Bundle & Snack Foods and Snack Time Kids Clip Art & Clothing Clip Art & Math Manipulatives and Math Kids Clip Art Big Bundle @ Whimsy Clips (TPT)
• Tissues & Boogers Clip Art by @ MrsSpeaker (TPT)
• Massive A-Z Clip Art Set Bundle & Careers A-Z Clip Art Set by @ The Teacher’s Corner (TPT)
• Sports Pack by @ JB Design (TPT)
• Seasonal Clothing by @ NehaFaheem (Fiver)

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Terms of Use

This resource was created and copyrighted by Jenny-Lyn Usher and is sold through my TpT store ExploringEducationCanada. A purchased copy can be used for personal use in your classroom in digital form or as printed copies for students. Additional licenses can be purchased for sharing with other professionals. Advanced permission is required to copy, modify or post this product.