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Explore Learning Methods that Show the Value of Building Vocabulary
Use focused vocabulary lesson plans to inspire students to learn new words. Help them appreciate differences between words and value the use of discriminating word choice
Synonyms and Antonyms
Illustrate the nuances among synonyms to demonstrate how students can get across their meaning in a more specific manner. For example, imagine a pitcher throwing a ball. Then ask them to describe what it would look like using each of the following synonyms: toss, lob, hurl, and fling.Denotation and Connotation
Explain the difference between a word’s denotation (literal meaning) and its connotation (implied meaning). The connotations of words can affect people’s thoughts and opinions. It’s important for students to understand that a group of synonyms may share the same denotation. For example, funny, amusing, witty, quaint, odd, and peculiar are all synonyms. Funny, amusing, and witty all carry positive connotations, while odd and peculiar carry negative connotations, and quaint can be positive or negative depending on how it’s used. When quaint is used to describe a cottage, it most likely has a positive connotation. However, if a student calls an adult quaint, the adult may think that means “old.”Literal vs. Figurative
Remind students that the literal meaning of a word is its denotation, or dictionary meaning. Explain that figurative language creates an image using literary techniques like simile, metaphor, and personification. Give students examples of these techniques, and then demonstrate the difference between literal and figurative uses of a word. For example, discuss how the lights of a country inn might be a “beacon” for a tired traveler.Informal vs. Formal
Point out the need for informal and formal use of language. Show students examples of formal written correspondence and compare them to casual memos, notes, and letters. Compare newspaper articles and newsletters. Also discuss how speakers choose language according to their audience. Ask students to consider how they would speak to the principal and compare that to how they talk among friends. For example, they might refer to a hat as a “lid.”Hook Students’ Interest in Building Vocabulary
Humor can be a particularly effective strategy in these types of vocabulary workshops. Provide exaggerated and comical examples to help students become aware of how wrong word choices can cause hilarious and horrifying miscommunication.To help students arrive at the conclusion that building vocabulary makes communication more effective and interesting, try the following activity: Have students do writing exercises using a limited vocabulary base. Then have them do rewrites using vocabulary words and share both versions with classmates.
Ultimately, when students recognize the impact of careful word choice, they will be more open to building their vocabularies.
Republished by Abu Adil