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Chapter 3: Essential Vocabulary Skills

Academic Reading,Fifth Edition

by Kathleen T. McWhorter

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Learning Objectives:

To learn techniques for vocabulary development

To develop skill in using context clues To use word parts to expand your vocabulary To handle technical and specialized

vocabulary

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Techniques for Vocabulary Development

Be Selective (useful words only!) Use What You Already Know Use New Words You Have Learned Acquire the Necessary Tools (dictionary and

thesaurus)

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Techniques for Vocabulary Development

Buy a Dictionary pocket collegiate

Use a Thesaurus Use Subject Area Dictionaries

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Techniques for Vocabulary Development

Use the Index Card System: Jot down words in the margin of notes or text. Later, write each word on an index card with

definition on the back. Go over words in your spare moments. Sort cards by topic, category. Continue to practice and use the words in your

speech.See Figure 3-3 in your book for Sample Index Cards.

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Using Context Clues

Definition or Synonym Context Clues

A chemical reaction is an interaction involving

different atoms, in which chemical bonds are

formed, or broken, or both.

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Using Context Clues

Example Context Clues

The use of nonverbal communication, such

as a smile, usually reduces the risk of

misinterpretation.

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Using Context Clues

Contrast Context Clues

Studies of crowd behavior suggest that people

in a crowd lose their personalities and act

impulsively, rather than making reasoned

decisions.

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Using Context Clues

Inference Context Clues

In wind instruments such as the trumpet, sound

is emitted directly by the vibrations of air

columns in the instrument.

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Limitations of Context Clues

There will be words for which the context provides no clues.

Context clues give a general sense, not the exact or complete definition.

Context clues suggest the meaning of the word only as it is used in a particular context whereas words have multiple meanings.

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Determining Meaning from Context

The tone of percussion instruments, such as drums and cymbals, depends in part on the geometry of the surface area.

What does percussion mean?

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Word Parts

The vocabulary of the average young adult is 30,000 words.

Learning word parts produces a multiplier effect….a single prefix can unlock the meaning of 50 or more words!

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Analyzing Word Parts

Prefixes postglacial microscope semifinalist

See Table 3-1 for a list

of Common Prefixes.

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Analyzing Word Parts

Roots factory geophysics transport

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Analyzing Word Parts

Suffixes homeward editor aerobic

See Table 3-3 for a list of

Common Suffixes.

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Learning Specialized Vocabulary

In Class Lectures words written on the chalkboard instructor repeats important words instructor offers several variations of the word

In Textbooks boldface, italics, or colored print in the text new terms written in the margin of the pages

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Learning Specialized Vocabulary

Learn Core Prefixes, Roots, and Suffixes for Each Course

Develop a Course Master File new terms essential prefixes, roots, and suffixes signs, abbreviations, and symbols with their

meaningsSee Figure 3-4 for a SampleCourse Master File.

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Summary Questions

What are some basic tools for vocabulary development?

What are four common types of context clues?

What are some aids to mastering specialized terminology?

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Read the article on interpersonal communication and complete the exercises following the selection.

“What Words Can and Cannot Do”

by Richard L. Weaver, III