In this presentation the teaching of vocabulary is approached in terms of chunks of words. Theoretical issues are explored in relation to Corpus Linguistics perspectives on formulaic language and its impact on the teaching of a foreign language. The advantages of this approach will be analysed and activity samples based on songs will be presented for a B2 learning context.

Legends and myths serve as effective tools for English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners not only to reflect upon moral values and cultivate their cultural awareness, but also to gain insight into formulaic language (Lindstromberg & Boers, 2008). The recognition and use of formulaic sequences or chunks allow them to enhance their productive and receptive skills. However, these learners usually struggle to develop their formulaic competence, especially if their teachers rely on a word-focused vocabulary teaching approach heavily. This paper presents some useful guidelines for crafting lesson plans based on legends and myths, designed for explicitly teaching formulaic sequences to young learners.