specify (verb) to clearly define

• Sample Sentence: The U.S. Constitution does not specify which languages can be used by the government.

• Turn and Talk: How many days in advance should teachers specify the date of an upcoming test?

establish (verb) to cause to be recognized and accepted

• Sample Sentence: Some people want to establish multiple official languages in the U.S.

• Turn and Talk: Think of your favorite actor. What film established them as your favorite?

cohesive (adjective) having the quality of unity or connection

• Sample Sentence: Supporters of English as the only official language believe the country would be more cohesive.

• Turn and Talk: Why are some classrooms more cohesive than others?

constrain (verb) to hold back or limit

• Sample Sentence: Making English the official language could constrain people who are still learning English.

• Turn and Talk: Why do you think some middle school students feel constrained by their parents?

xenophobia (noun) a dislike of people from other countries

• Sample Sentence: They also worry that such a policy could encourage xenophobia—that is, fear or dislike of people from other countries or cultures.

• Turn and Talk: What are some examples of xenophobia that you have seen on TV?