Strategies for improving vocabulary skills
- Make flash cards for all new vocabulary words in class. Put the word on one side, and the definition and a sentence using the word correctly on the other side. Practice!
- Use the computer to make word search puzzles and/or crossword puzzles with vocabulary words. Regular crossword puzzles can also improve general vocabulary skills.
- Play word board games – Scrabble, Bogle, Hangman, Password, etc.
- There are several computer programs available from preschool up through college that will work on vocabulary skills. Also, for older children, many schools have practice tests (i.e. ACT or SAT) available.
- Use the dictionary to find meanings and a thesaurus to find synonyms of vocabulary words.
- When practicing vocabulary words, define the word, but also use it in a sentence to help cement the meaning of the word. Many children learn better when the word is used in the correct context.
- Use visuals to enhance memory. See attached paper for K.I.M. method and Memory Blocks method. These methods include drawing pictures along with a written definition to improve memory skills.
Websites to help improve vocabulary –
www.christian-mommies.com/ageless/school-and-homeschooling/12-ideas-for-improving-vocabulary/
this website has tons of links to other websites, including making crossword and word search puzzles out of vocabulary words, on- and off-line word games, board games, word of the day websites, and many more
http://highschoolace.com/ace/ace.cfm
this website has quizzes, homework resources, word of the day, and many other activities to help improve high school level skills and college prep, as well as links to many other websites
www.englishdaily626.com
this website has vocabulary quizzes, as well as many helpful activities that deal with all areas of the English language
www.vocabulary.com
this website sells tools to improve vocabulary skills, but also has many free interactive quizzes and games to improve skills