Looking Backward and Forward
z Throughout this course, we have delved into the history and
meaning of scores of powerful, lively, and beautiful words. But
even beyond building a rich treasury of words, we’ve also acquired
some valuable strategies for learning vocabulary, such as making
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and roots, and keeping a vocabulary notebook.
z As you move beyond this course, keep in mind these tips for
continuing to build your vocabulary:
ż First, read, talk, and write! Find a subject that inspires you,
such as yoga, politics, or jazz; read about it; and discuss it with
others. Consider writing a blog to share your thoughts with
others who have the same interests that you have.ż Second, keep up with your vocabulary notebook. As you’re
reading, take note of unfamiliar and interesting words. Once a
week, choose two or three of those words and record them in
your vocabulary notebook, just as we’ve done throughout this
course. Delve into them deeply.ż Third, use it or lose it: Challenge yourself to try out one
interesting word per day from your notebook. Choose a
word that will add some spice, color, or precision to your
conversation. Remember, each time you use a word is one
more step toward owning that word.- Even as a boy, the tyro physicist had been fascinated by the behavior of
proton, electrons, and __. - “Parents can be such __,” the teenage girl remarked to
her friend. “They have no knowledge of Internet __ or
texting slang.”
Review Questions