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Vocabulary Studies Expanded
We've used Vocabu-Lit for several years to expand vocabulary. Excerpts from classical literature are used as the basis for defining vocabulary in context, and then by looking up the definition. Twenty words/week are added and reviewed using analogies, puzzles and matching exercises to reinforce new words.
Now that I have a freshman, I feel it is important to redouble our efforts in the area of vocabulary as preparation for SAT/ACT tests. We are currently reading unabridged classics in history and literature; I am pulling added vocabulary out for her studies. Next year, I will require her to create her own vocabulary lists from her classical readings.
I'm not particularly enjoying the classic, The Virginian by Owen Wister, but he does use interesting vocabulary. I'm just not a big fan of Westerns as a genre, I guess. Even if my freshman opts out of this selection, my 8th grade boys will probably love it!
Here's a sample of the vocabulary studies from this classic: Chapter One: antagonist incessant undulation querulous solicitude disquieting
Chapter Two: facetious valise jocular intrench epithet
Chapter Three: smote manifestation fastidious infernal gambols disporting
My goal is to add 20 words/week from their literature. By 10th grade, I think I'll have each student make their own list from each chapter of their literature books.
4:25 PM - Mar. 18, 2008 - post comment
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