Topic: Vocabulary

10-Second Review: Use vocabulary exercises based on the SAT Sentence-completion test in which students use the context to supply the correct word.

Title: “A Context-Based Strategy for Teaching Vocabulary.” Deanna L. Nelson. English Journal (March 2008), 33 -37. A publication of the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE).

Summary: Take sentences containing vocabulary words from literature to make up the exercises. Put in blanks in place of the words. Students supply the missing words. “…cool where others were ---------- and reserved where others were ----------.” (Original words: "heated" and "voluble")

Comment: Students should try to fill in their own words to complete the meaning. Then compare to the original. I think it’s an interesting idea. It’s also an interesting way to preview key ideas in the text. RayS.

The purpose of this blog is to share interesting ideas I have found in recent American professional publications dealing with the teaching of English at all levels, elementary, secondary and college.