adopt (verb) to take as one’s own

• Sample Sentence: Twelve-year-old Phelan was adopted as a baby.

• Turn and Talk: Why is it important to adopt a new attitude when faced with a difficult situation?

ensure (verb) to make sure that something happens; to make certain of something

• Sample Sentence: Staying out of the sun ensures that Elijah will not get a sunburn.

• Turn and Talk: How can you ensure that you will get accepted to a college or university?

tension (noun) a state of stress or unfriendliness between individuals or groups; a feeling of stress or strain

• Sample Sentence: Jamila’s adoptive parents worried about tension between the families after Jamila decided to contact her biological parents.

• Turn and Talk: What causes tension among groups of students at your school?

consent (verb) to agree to

• Sample Sentence: Some birth parents consent to open adoptions because they still want to be involved in the child’s life.

• Turn and Talk: Would you consent to give a speech in class for ten extra points on your final grade?

*consent (noun) permission

• Sample Sentence: School field trips require parental consent before the child is allowed to go.

• Turn and Talk: If someone asked to use your picture in an advertisement, would you give your consent? Why or why not?

duration (noun) the length of time something exists or lasts

• Sample Sentence: In a closed adoption, birth records are kept secret for the duration of the child’s life.

• Turn and Talk: What can you do to get good grades for the duration of your middle school years?

*alternate part of speech