Teaching techniques in vocabulary learning have not kept pace with development in other areas of language pedagogy, and yet the large number of words that students must learn demands on approach that will bring order and system into the process of vocabulary acquisition. The solution to this problem is a topical vocabulary checklist in two versions: 7,000 words for complete coverage of a language, and 2,000 words for bringing perspective and arrangement into basic courses. This topical system differs from earlier vocabulary lists in that it contains a frequency index number for each word presented. The system divides all areas of daily language use into 46 major topics with logical subtopics for larger categories. The list is in English with blanks next to each word for active use by students. The checklist reduces vast amounts of vocabulary items to manageable levels, and gives the student the following advantages over previous approaches: he is always aware of his progress; he has visible subgoals; he can emphasize areas of special interest; he knows his strengths and weaknesses in active language use; and he has a systematic and instructive device for periodic reviews of the language he is studying. There is a definite place in the curriculum for a methodological approach to vocabulary learning. (Author)