WR072h

Writing Standard 2.h - Level 7

Choose a range of words that are precise and vivid.

Students will choose precise and vivid words

KNOW that an extensive vocabulary is the key to creating interesting and exciting writing.
KNOW the difference between informal words and formal words and be able to identify when it is appropriate to use either.
KNOW that a dictionary has the meaning of words and the correct pronunciation and usage.
KNOW that a thesaurus lists synonyms and antonyms for words.
KNOW what figurative language is and be able to identify and write examples
KNOW commonly used suffixes and prefixes
KNOW that the meaning of a word can sometimes be determined by using context clues

ABLE TO DO

Students will be able to identify and replace weak verbs, adjectives, and nouns with stronger, more specific, words.
Students will be able to use a dictionary to find out the meaning of words and the correct pronunciation and usage.
Students will be able to use a thesaurus to find synonyms and antonyms.
Students will add two new words to their working vocabulary each week.
Students will be able to access lists of synonyms and antonyms that can be used to create more vivid sentences.
Students will increase their knowledge of synonyms for common words.
Students will be able to distinguish and interpret figurative language and multiple-meaning words.
Students will recognize the origins and meanings of frequently used foreign words in English and use these words accurately in speaking and writing
Students will expand their written and oral vocabularies
Students will be able to identify clues in context for more specific word choices
Students will be able to monitor expository text for unknown words or words with novel meanings, using words, sentences, and paragraph clues to determine meaning
Students will be able to understand and explain "shades of meaning" for related words (e.g. softly and quietly)

Have students draw pictures to demonstrate vocabulary comprehension
- there are a variety of techniques and approaches that can be used, but if the student can create a mind picture, he or she is more likely to remember the word.
When students review vocabulary, have them label each word according to its part of speech; this will be extremely helpful if the word has multiple meanings
Use a variety of commercially available or teacher-generated materials to practice vocabulary words.
Encourage students to replace "common" vocabulary with "formal" words once they have completed their writing assignment.
Provide adequate practice opportunities to "own the word."

From Image to Detailed Narrative Using a picture, students are encouraged to think critically and write about their interpretation of events that are occurring.
Flip a Chip Using affixes and roots to build vocabulary.
Using Poetry to Understand Similes This unit helps students understand what a simile is and has them write original poetry using similes.
Creating Vivid Verbs This activity helps students create unique and interesting sentences with vivid verbs.
Synonyms for said
Commonly Mispronounced Words Humorous look at some of the words people often mispronounce.
Building a Better Vocabulary Online quizzes to help build vocabulary
Vocabulary Graphic Organizers Vocabulary graphic organizers for all methods of development.
Word of the Day Word of the Day Vocabulary worksheet.
Word Wheel Vocabulary-building activity.