whereas (conjunction) although, in contrast with the fact that

• Sample Sentence: Whereas people who own dogs may leave them home alone, Marlena says people who rent dogs give the animals lots of attention.

• Turn and Talk: How is middle school different from elementary school? (Try: In elementary school, ______, whereas in middle school, ______.)

capable (adjective) able to do or accomplish something

• Sample Sentence: Davonte Reese wanted a dog, but his parents didn’t think he was capable of taking care of one.

• Turn and Talk: What is one thing that people say you are capable of achieving? Do you agree or disagree with them?

ongoing (adjective) continuing without interruption

• Sample Sentence: Each dog has a special right to a permanent home with ongoing companionship.

• Turn and Talk: What is an ongoing argument or debate that you have with your friends?

compatible (adjective) able to exist together well

• Sample Sentence: People domesticated dogs to be socially compatible and live with humans.

• Turn and Talk: What are some qualities of the people with whom you are most compatible?

notion (noun) idea or belief

• Sample Sentence: Marlena Davis disagrees with the notion that pet rental is bad for dogs.

• Turn and Talk: Do you agree with the notion that world peace is possible?