How to Help Students Remember Their Vocabulary Words
Repetition and understanding the definitions are the keys to students learning new vocabulary words. Even the most difficult words can be remembered using the right tools.
Instructions
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Write the list of vocabulary words on the board with the markers or chalk at the beginning of the week.
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Print and hand out the words with their definitions at the beginning of class. You also can place them on the desks for when the students arrive.
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Read the words and definitions aloud to let the students hear the pronunciations.
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Have the students take turns reading the words and their definitions aloud.
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Tell the students to try to come up with other words that they can associate with the new words to help them remember them. For example, a student might immediately think of his favorite actor appearing in a scene for the first time when he hears the word "debut."
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Make up crossword puzzles or word finds that make use of the words. Both can use the definitions of the words as the way to fill them in or find them in the puzzle.
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Have the students find the definitions themselves. Instead of offering both at the start of class, only offer the words. The students must find them in the dictionary at write out the meanings.
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Give the students flashcards. Have them write a word on one side and the definition on the other, then test one another with them.
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Tips & Warnings
Place vocabulary word and definitions on bulletin board outside the classroom so the students can see them every day and become more familiar with them.
References
- Photo Credit Dynamic Graphics Group/Dynamic Graphics Group/Getty Images
