In order to quickly develop vocabulary, active learning is necessary. Active learning is the notion that learning is enhanced and best accomplished by doing. This contrasts with vocabulary instruction of old, where individuals were passive receptors of information. According to … Continue reading…
A “parody” is an imitation of a person, place, or thing, done in order to poke fun at them. Sometimes this is done just to be humorous, but other times a parody can be sharper, mocking someone’s mannerisms in a … Continue reading…
“Hyperbole” means an exaggeration or overstatement, used in order to emphasize a point. It’s often done in order to create a humorous effect. Example: “The studio’s statement that millions of people went to the movie premiere on Friday is sheer … Continue reading…
“Droll” means “wry” or “whimsical” or “odd, in a humorous way.” Example: “We all enjoyed her droll presentation on Shakespeare; it was full of witty comments comparing his play’s characters to modern movie stars.”
E-learning involves instructing and learning via electronic means (such as the Internet, CD or DVD). As a strategy to develop vocabulary, E-learning has many advantages. Computer assisted learning provides a platform on which learning is both learner centered and active … Continue reading…
A “foible“ is an unusual habit or mannerism, particularly one that creates vulnerability. Example: “He insisted on always sitting at the head of the table when he played poker. This foible prevented him from competing in the big tournaments, where … Continue reading…
Actually being around the spoken word as it is used in context is an invaluable way of increasing vocabulary. Both using and hearing new vocabulary as it is used in everyday language helps develop vocabulary (Tsuguhiko and Manning, 2007). When … Continue reading…
“Stringent” means “keeping strictly to specific rules or standards.” Example: “The hospital established a stringent policy that all visitors had to follow when visiting patients, including a complete change of clothes and hourly hand-washing.”
The verb “sequester” means “to isolate and make separate from outside contact.” When you sequester someone, you are putting them in seclusion, or isolation. Example: “The doctors suspected that the child had been infected with measles, so they sequestered him … Continue reading…
“Detrimental” means “causing harm or damage.” Synonyms of “detrimental” are “destructive,” “harmful,” and “unfortunate.” Example: “Because most of the victims of the 1918 pandemic influenza were adults between 20 and 45 years old, many countries lost a large percentage of … Continue reading…