Intended for elementary school teachers, researchers, and materials
developers, this book presents a cluster approach to vocabulary
instruction, in which words are taught in semantically related groups.
Over 7,000 words from elementary school textbooks have been organized
into 61 instructional clusters, each containing two levels of
subclusters which are grouped according to closeness of semantic
relationship. For each word, the authors have provided a recommended
grade level, its part of speech, and a note on whether it is a basic,
fundamental building block word. The list of clusters is presented in
the appendix. The four chapters that precede the appendix describe
vocabulary theory, procedures for forming the clusters, instructional
uses of the clusters, and additional vocabulary activities not directly
tied to cluster approach. Also included in separate appendixes are (1)
an alphabetized, referenced list of the words; and (2) definitions of
commonly confused words such as "infer" and "imply."
Your vocabulary is key to your success in school. From assigned essays
to standardized tests, words help you share your thoughts and ideas
clearly and correctly. How to Build a Super Vocabulary gives you the
power to understand and use new words. You'll explore how words are put
together, where they come from, basic spelling rules, and ways to avoid
common blunders. Plus, you'll get to know 600 words that are often
found on standardized tests.
Filled with easy-to-follow
advice, this hands-on guide includes 7 Keys to Success that will help
you discover the meanings of unfamiliar words and put new words to good
use in your speaking and writing:
* Know the History of Language
* Find the Roots
* Use Context Clues
* Use Your Tools
* Tackle the Tough Ones
* Build Your Vocabulary
* Use the Best Words
