The effect of the Embodied Scenes approach to preposition learning with PrepApp

Abstract This paper presents a digital tool for teaching and learning the usage patterns of English prepositions using an Embodied Scenes approach. Building on corpus linguistic investigations and insights from Cognitive Linguistics, we present the usage patterns of prepositional constructions in line with how spatial relations are typically used to construe meaning. The tool is intended to empower students of English to increase confidence in their L2 skills through usage-based examples. In two studies, we test a set of sample lessons targeting the preposition into . Data were collected from ESL classes at Swedish High Schools. Students were randomly assigned to a control group exposed to traditional preposition materials or an experimental group exposed to the new lessons. Students then completed a pre-test, learning sessions, a post-test, and a delayed post-test. Results show that the Embodied Scenes approach led to proficiency in using into and this was maintained over time.