Designing a Lexical Framework for an EAP Program at an American EMI University in Japan

Abstract: This study outlines the design and implementation of a lexical framework for the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program at Lakeland University Japan (LUJ), an American English Medium Instruction (EMI) institution. The project was developed in response to a persistent gap between students’ in-class performance and both standardized test outcomes and undergraduate matriculation. A needs analysis showed the value of a systematic approach to vocabulary learning that could be aligned with the existing course learning outcomes (CLOs) and the academic goals. As a consequence, five vocabulary workbooks were created, with a total of 2,400 words drawn from the New General Service List (NGSL) and the New Academic Word List (NAWL). The workbooks promote revision and verbal elaboration which also reinforce grammar structures appropriate to each level for each workbook (CEFR A1-C1). The materials were further enhanced through inclusive language updates, self-check sections, Quizlet sets, and short assessments. Future research will likely examine the framework’s impact on learner autonomy, teachers’ instructional practices, and the potential extension into domain-specific vocabulary areas in order to further enhance student success in an EMI setting.