American Tradition

Transcription

American Tradition

American
Tradition
000i-00vi_Gr11_vocab&spelling-FM.indd 1
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Exceeding the Standards: Vocabulary & Spelling, American Tradition
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Cover Image Credits: Scene, Dennis Ackerson, 2007, Rocky Mountains, CO; liberty bell, © Tetra Images/Tetra
Images/CORBIS.
ISBN 978-0-82194-357-1
© 2009 by EMC Publishing, LLC
875 Montreal Way
St. Paul, MN 55102
E-mail: [email protected]
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All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be adapted, reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted
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Printed in the United States of America
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Contents
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . v
Unit 1: Word Study Skills and PAVE
Lesson 1:Word Study Notebook. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Lesson 2:Word Study Skills in Reading. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Lesson 3:PAVE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Time Out for Test Practice: Word Study Skills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Unit 2: Word Parts
Lesson 4:Affixes and Roots. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Lesson 5:Suffixes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Lesson 6:Prefixes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Time Out for Test Practice: Recognizing Word Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Unit 3: The Evolution of Language
Lesson 7: Archaic Language. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Lesson 8: Compound Words. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Lesson 9: Manipulating Language. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Lesson 10:Technology-Related Words . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Time Out for Test Practice: Defining Archaic Language and
Technology-Related Words . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Unit 4: Determining Meaning
Lesson 11:Denotation and Connotation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Lesson 12:Literal vs. Figurative Language. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Lesson 13:Homophones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Time Out for Test Practice: Words with Multiple Meanings
and Homophones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Unit 5: Context Clues
Lesson 14:Context Clues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Lesson 15:Providing Context Clues in Your Writing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Time Out for Test Practice: Using Context Clues. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Unit 6: Spelling
Lesson 16:Spelling Review. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Lesson 17:Contractions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Lesson 18:Common Spelling Errors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Time Out for Test Practice: Spelling Patterns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
© EMC Publishing, LLC
Exceeding the Standards: Vocabulary & Spelling
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Unit 7: Word Origins
Lesson 19:Borrowed Words . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Lesson 20:Greek and Latin Words. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Lesson 21:French and Spanish Words. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Lesson 22:Native American Words. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Lesson 23:Eponyms and Toponyms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Time Out for Test Practice: Borrowed Words. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Unit 8: Formal and Informal Language
Lesson 24:Register. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Lesson 25:Colloquial Language. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Lesson 26:Academic Language. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Time Out for Test Practice: Register, Colloquialisms,
and Academic Language. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Unit 9: Choosing Your Words
Lesson 27:Synonyms and Antonyms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Lesson 28:Semantic Families. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Lesson 29:Celestial Words. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Lesson 30:Varying Word Choice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Lesson 31:Euphemisms, Doublespeak, and Clichés. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Lesson 32:Expanding Your Word Knowledge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Time Out for Test Practice: Synonyms and Antonyms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Answer Key. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
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Introduction
The Exceeding the Standards resource books provide in-depth language arts instruction to enrich
students’ skills development beyond the level of meeting the standards. Exceeding the Standards:
Vocabulary & Spelling offers meaningful ways to incorporate word study into the language arts
classroom.
Vocabulary & Spelling presents thirty-two lessons, designed to be used weekly, that cover a broad
range of topics from etymology to context clues to spelling patterns. These lessons are aligned with
the units of the Mirrors & Windows: Connecting with Literature program and may be used alone or as
supplements to the Vocabulary & Spelling workshops in the Student Edition. Each lesson incorporates
words from selections in the corresponding unit of the textbook. By using these lessons in
conjunction with the literature program, you will help your students become better readers, writers,
speakers, and spellers.
Each lesson in Vocabulary & Spelling includes the following components:
• A Word of the Week, selected from the corresponding textbook unit, highlights a word that
students may find particularly meaningful or interesting.
• Grammar instruction on one or more topics is followed by a Try It Yourself section that allows
students to practice what they are learning.
• Just For Fun activities encourage students to play with words, reminding them that language can be
fun and interesting.
• Tip boxes in the margin throughout the lesson clarify definitions, offer additional information, and
give helpful suggestions.
• A Time Out for Test Practice at the end of each unit provides students with the opportunity to
assess what they have learned and to practice test-taking skills by answering sample standardized
test questions in a multiple-choice format.
It is essential that vocabulary instruction include a variety of strategies to develop students’
word-study skills. Lessons in Vocabulary & Spelling provide many different ways of exploring and
studying words, word parts, semantic families, and spelling patterns and rules. Activating students’
prior knowledge of words and of essential concepts related to words helps students make associations
between new terms and words they already know.
The activities in Vocabulary & Spelling will help you actively engage students in working with
words. As their curiosity about word exploration grows, your students will become increasingly
confident in their ability to attack, learn, and experiment with new words.
Related Program Resources
For more vocabulary and spelling instruction, including charts of common prefixes, suffixes, and
word roots, refer to the Mirrors & Windows Student Edition Language Arts Handbook, Section 2:
Vocabulary & Spelling. Additional vocabulary development activities integrated with the literature
selections are included in the Meeting the Standards unit resource books and in Differentiated
Instruction for English Language Learners.
Teaching Tips
Word study encompasses not only vocabulary and spelling, but also the strategies language users
employ to unlock meanings and internalize spellings. Effective instruction in word study gives students
tools for learning new vocabulary and spelling independently in the long term. The following teaching
tips can help you ensure that your students get the most from the lessons in Vocabulary & Spelling.
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Teach Word Attack Strategies
There are a number of strategies good readers employ when they are confronted with an unfamiliar
word. These strategies include:
• using the context as a clue
• gleaning hints from pictures, charts, graphs, and other text support
• examining word parts: prefixes, suffixes, and roots
• combing through memories for associations with the word
• consulting dictionaries and other reference materials
• asking an authority, such as a teacher or other expert in the field
For many of us, these strategies have become second nature, and we are hardly conscious of using
them. To students, however, they are not so obvious; strategic word decoding takes place mostly
internally and silently, word attack strategies are largely invisible, and uninitiated students may never
witness them in action. Research suggests that students need explicit instruction in these strategies to
become proficient readers and effective writers. The lessons in Vocabulary & Spelling provide such
explicit instruction.
Create a Word-Rich Environment
The essential backdrop to an effective word study program is a classroom where words are clearly
valued. The following are some ideas for creating such a classroom.
• Word Wall Post a variety of vocabulary words and/or words of the week in your classroom to
provide students with repetition and recycling of the terms you want them to internalize. Use it
as the basis of word games such as bingo, Jeopardy, and twenty questions, as well as collaborative
storytelling.
• Class Dictionary Have students keep a class dictionary by taking turns entering words studied in
class, providing definitions, illustrating terms, writing contextual sentences, and searching for realworld uses of the words.
• Classroom Library Provide a broad range of reading materials, giving students time for sustained
silent reading, and modeling avid reading yourself, to build students’ vocabularies.
• Word Processing Language Tools Encourage students to make use of language features built into
word processing programs, such as dictionaries and thesauruses.
• Online Word Games Schedule time for your students to learn new vocabulary with online word
games and other technology tools.
• Language Mentor Share your own interest in words by drawing students’ attention to interesting
words in the news or in pop culture and by modeling how you approach words that are new to you.
Foster Curiosity
The key to incorporating meaningful word study into your language arts classroom is to encourage
dialogue with your students about how words create meaning. Your own curiosity about language
is infectious and will encourage your students to become inquisitive “word detectives” motivated to
solve the mystery of word meanings.
About Spelling “Rules”
Some students benefit from memorizing what are sometimes called spelling rules; others are
frustrated by the number of exceptions to each rule. To reflect the prevalence of exceptions, the term
spelling pattern has been used instead of spelling rule in this resource. In addition to introducing
students to spelling patterns, you can help them become stronger spellers by following the same
teaching tips mentioned above: modeling the use of strategies, creating a word-rich classroom, and
fostering curiosity.
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Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 1
Word Study Notebook
Understand the Concept
With more than one million words and growing every day, English has
the largest vocabulary of any language in the world. Most of us know
only a small percentage of those words and use even fewer of them in
our daily life. So, no matter what, you are bound to run into unfamiliar
words from time to time. Keeping track of these words and their
definitions can help you enrich your vocabulary and therefore become a
better reader, speaker, and writer.
A good way to collect new words is to keep a word study notebook.
In it, you can record each new word with its definition, pronunciation,
and origins, along with an example sentence or drawing to help you
remember it.
Here is a sample page from a word study notebook.
Word: vestige
Pronunciation: \ves´ tij\
Origins: French, from Latin vestigium, meaning
“footstep, footprint, track, vestige”
Definition: trace, mark, or visible sign left by
something vanished or lost
Contextual sentence: The ruins of Chichén Itzá are
vestiges of the vanished civilization of the ancient
Maya.
0001-0081_Gr_11_vocab&spelling-L1-32.indd 1
Word of the Week
martial (>m5r sh@l) adj., relating
to military matters
Because of his many years
spent as an army officer, Colonel
Thompson tended to view
relationships between countries
from a martial perspective—which
country had the best equipped
army, which country could best
defend itself in the event of an
invasion, and which country held
its military officers in the highest
esteem.
Martial is derived from the
name of the Roman god of
war, Mars. Synonyms of martial
include military, soldierly, warlike,
belligerent, aggressive, hostile,
and bellicose, though these
words can be used in somewhat
different ways. Military music, such
as the famous marches written
in the late nineteenth century by
John Philip Sousa, is also referred
to as martial music.
Add a picture or catchy
saying to help you
remember the meaning of a word.
Tip
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The origins of a word
are known as its
etymology. Many words in
English come from Latin and
Greek. In a good dictionary, you
will find the etymology of each
word along with its meaning and
pronunciation.
Tip
Try It Yourself
Fill in this sample page of a word study notebook.
Word: pulchritude
Pronunciation:
Origins:
Definition:
Tip To write the pronunciation
of a word, you need to
use special phonetic symbols such
as the following:
Sentence using the word:
Drawing:
\ä\ (as in star)
\e–\ (as in me)
\8\ (as in my)
\ô\ (as in paw)
.
\u\ (as in foot) and
\@\ (as in extra and civil)
You can find these and many
other symbols in a dictionary or
glossary.
You may think of
books, newspapers,
and magazines first, but you’ll
also see new words on signs, in
instructions, and in restaurant
menus. You may hear unfamiliar
words on the radio, in songs, or in
movies. Keep your eyes and ears
open—words are everywhere!
Tip
Many words in the dictionary have more than one definition. When
looking up a new word, you will often have to decide which definition
best fits. Skim a newspaper or magazine article until you find a word
you don’t know. Use the sample notebook page below to create a word
study notebook entry. If there is more than one definition, decide which
one is most appropriate to the way the word is used in the article. Add
a second definition if there is one, and write a sentence illustrating the
second meaning.
Word:
Sentence it was used in:
Pronunciation:
Definition:
Another definition:
Sentence illustrating second definition:
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Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 2
Word Study Skills in Reading
When reading, you will often encounter words that are new to you.
These unfamiliar words should not stop you from understanding and
enjoying what you read. Here are several strategies you can use to figure
out the meaning of unknown words.
Use Context Clues
If you encounter a new word in a passage you are reading, you can
often figure out the meaning of the word by using context clues—
information in the passage that hints at the meaning of the word. Look
at the following passage:
The town was considering building a tunnel under the Grace
River. Environmental concerns threatened to derail the subfluvial
road. An alternate plan called for a bridge instead.
You may not know the word subfluvial, but, by looking at some of the
clues in the passage, you can figure out what the word means. The word
subfluvial describes the road that is also called a tunnel. A tunnel goes
under something. Since this tunnel goes under a river, you can guess
that subfluvial means “put or located under a river.”
Try It Yourself
Word of the Week
pilfer (pil> f3r) v., steal
Her daughter would pilfer coins
out of the wishing well.
The word pilfer comes from the
Middle-French word pelfrer, which
comes from the word pelfre,
meaning “booty” or “treasure.”
The first recorded use of this word
in English occurred in 1548.
Tip
•
•
•
•
•
Try these strategies to
attack new words:
look for context clues
find text support
examine word parts
use a dictionary
ask for help
If one strategy doesn’t work, try a
different one.
Some context clues use
comparison. These types
of clues help you understand the
meaning of a word by showing
what the word is similar to.
Tip
EXERCISE A
Look at the following passage. Use context clues to figure out the
meaning of the word acerbic.
American author Ambrose Bierce is well known for his somber
tale “An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge.” However, he is
perhaps best loved for the acerbic wit he displays in some of his
other works. His acid tongue shows up well in the satirical Devil’s
Dictionary, which contains many stinging barbs aimed at people
and conventions of nineteenth-century American society.
Other context clues use contrast.
These types of clues help you
understand the meaning of a word
by showing what the word is not
like.
1. What do you think acerbic means?
2. What clues in the passage helped you determine the word’s meaning?
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Examine Text Support
The use of context clues is one strategy to understand new words. Using
other items on the page can help too. These items may include pictures,
diagrams, maps, charts, captions, headings, and sidebars. These text
features are designed to clarify or provide additional information about a
subject. Consider the passage below. Context clues in the text help explain
the term salt box, but the picture gives you even more information.
One example of New England colonial architecture is the
salt box. With its steeply sloped rear roof, this style of home
resembled the boxes used for storing salt. The first salt box
homes came about in the early 1700s when people added
lean-tos to the back of the house. Later, the design caught on
and many houses were built with the lean-to already part of the
original structure.
Find Meaning in Word Parts
A prefix is a letter or
group of letters added to
the beginning of a word to change
its meaning.
Tip
A suffix is a letter or group of
letters added to the end of a word
to change its meaning. Many
suffixes indicate the part of speech
of the word. For example, the
suffix -ly often denotes an adverb.
A word root is a word part that is
neither a prefix nor a suffix.
Some unfamiliar words may contain parts that you have seen in other
words. These parts, or morphemes, may be prefixes, suffixes, or roots.
Prefixes come at the beginning of the word. Suffixes come at the end
of the word. Roots make up the core part of the word. Knowing the
meaning of common prefixes, suffixes, and roots can help you decipher
the meaning of many words. Take a look at the following sentence:
Fatima lay awake, plagued by incertitude.
What does incertitude mean? If you don’t know the word, you can get
a good sense of the meaning by looking at the word parts. You might
notice cert and think of certain, so you know the word has something
to do with being sure. Then you look at the prefix, in-, which means
“not,” like un-. Now you know the word has something to do with
being unsure or uncertain. Since the word is a noun, you can guess the
word means something like uncertainty, which happens to be one of the
dictionary definitions of incertitude.
You know many word parts already. Learning others will help you attack
new words. Your teacher may provide you with Word Parts Charts
containing common prefixes, suffixes, and word roots. Familiarize
yourself with these word parts and their meanings. When you encounter
an unfamiliar word, break it down to see if you recognize any of its parts.
Try It Yourself
Record unfamiliar words
you encounter in your
word study notebook.
Tip
EXERCISE B
Use your knowledge of word parts to define each of the following
words. Write your answers in your notebook.
1. apathetic
2. resounding
3. malediction
4
4. triennial
5. convivial
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Consult a Dictionary
If context clues, text support, and word parts don’t help you guess a
word’s meaning, consult a dictionary. Sometimes a dictionary entry
will contain more than one definition. In that case, you will need to
use some of the other methods you learned to determine the correct
meaning. Look at the following example:
The gushing review contained too many fulsome comments that
only showed the reviewer was enthralled with the lead actress.
The dictionary offers several definitions for fulsome:
If you’ve tried the other
four strategies and are
still unsure of a word’s meaning,
ask someone for help. Your
teacher, a parent, a librarian, or
another knowledgeable person
may be able to help you. When
you discover the meaning of the
word, enter it in your word study
notebook.
Tip
ful • some (ful> s@m) adj., 1 a: characterized by abundance:
copious b: generous in amount, extent, or spirit c: being full and
well developed 2 : aesthetically, morally, or generally offensive 3
: exceeding the bounds of good taste: overdone 4 : excessively
complimentary or flattering
Because there are four possibilities (even more if you consider that
definition 1 contains several different related meanings), you have to
decide which one works best in this particular context. Try inserting
each definition in the sentence where fulsome appears. Definition four
works best in this case.
Try It Yourself
Many words appear in the
dictionary as main entries
more than once. Often these
entries represent different parts of
speech, such as break the noun
and break the verb. Other times,
entries have completely unrelated
meanings. Use context clues to
determine which meaning makes
the most sense.
Tip
EXERCISE C
Look up each underlined word in the dictionary. Then write down the
definition that best fits how the word is used in the sentence.
1. Jo has an affinity for music.
2. The anthology contains many old chestnuts.
3. The discord between the two factions erupted into violence.
4. Bernie’s fustian toast went on and on.
5. Trevor removed the woof from the loom.
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Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 3
Word of the Week
acquiesce (a kw7 es>) v., agree
without protest
Lowell felt compelled to acquiesce
because the enemy had him
surrounded.
The word acquiesce comes from
the French word acquiescer and
from the Latin word acquiescere,
created by combining ad- and
quiescere, which means “to be
quiet.”
Use context clues to
predict the meaning of an
unfamiliar word. Context clues
are words and phrases in the
surrounding text that hint at the
meaning of a word. They allow
you to compare or contrast an
unfamiliar word to words that are
familiar.
Tip
Comparison clues help show
the meaning of the word through
restatement, apposition (the
renaming of something in different
words), and examples. Contrast
clues help show the meaning of
a word through giving its opposite,
or antonym. Contrast clues may
use words such as but, however,
although, or yet. (Hint: question 2
contains a contrast clue.)
PAVE
PAVE is a good way to help yourself remember the meaning of a new
word. PAVE stands for Predict, Associate, Verify, and Evaluate. When
you encounter a new word, try the following process:
Predict
Try to predict the meaning of the word based on context
and on your prior knowledge of the word or its parts.
Associate Then, write a sentence using the word.
Verify
Next, check the meaning of the word by using a dictionary
or glossary. If you find more than one definition, write
down the most appropriate definition.
Evaluate
Finally, assess the sentence you wrote using the word. If
necessary, rewrite the sentence to reflect the meaning you
found.
Try It Yourself
Use PAVE to learn the underlined words in the sentences below.
1. If you need your passport quickly, you can pay a small fee to
expedite the process.
Predict
Associate
Verify
Evaluate
2. The diffident student never raised his hand or spoke in class, but
the more outgoing and confident students participated every day.
Predict
Associate
Verify
Evaluate
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3. Glenn hemmed and hawed, unable to resolve his ambivalence.
Predict
Just for Fun
Try PAVE with a partner. What
is the weirdest word you know?
Write a sentence using the word.
Switch sentences with a partner
and try PAVE on your partner’s
word.
Associate
Verify
Evaluate
4. The company refused to capitulate to the demands of the striking
workers.
Predict
Associate
Verify
Evaluate
5. I was trying to read, but my loquacious neighbor made it hard to
concentrate.
Predict
Associate
Use your knowledge of
word parts to predict the
meaning of the word. (Hint: locu
or loqu is a word root meaning
“speak.”)
Tip
Verify
Evaluate
Just for Fun
Find an unfamiliar word in a magazine or newspaper. Use PAVE to
learn the word.
Word
Predict
Associate
Verify
Evaluate
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Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
Time Out for Test Practice
Word Study Skills
Use context clues to determine the meaning of the underlined words in the
following sentences. Write your answers on the blanks provided.
_____ 1. Randall would like to venture to the
front lines, but those who do are
either wounded or killed.
A. undertake the risk of
B. demonstrate; protest
C. understand the appeal of
D. avoid; disappear from
_____ 2. Queen Margo was kind to anyone
who displayed submission; she did
not appreciate those who fought
back.
A. a feat of strength
B. uncertainty; danger
C. state of being above pettiness
D. act of yielding; surrendering
_____ 3. When Parla became a government
agent, she encountered many
insidious characters whom she did
not trust.
A. mean; rude
B. sly; crafty
C. dull; boring
D. curious; entertaining
_____ 4. His proposal was ineffectual, so
we did not invest our money in his
business.
A. above or superior to all others
B. not powerful enough; inadequate
C. annoying; irritating
D. blasphemous; void of religious
ideals
Use your knowledge of word parts to answer the following questions. Write
your answers on the blanks provided.
_____ 5. The prefix retro- means “back.”
Knowing this, what might the word
retroactive mean?
A. being physically active throughout
one’s life
B. recovering after a traumatic or
debilitating event
C. applying to actions that have
previously transpired
D. the loss of future profits in a nonprofit organization
_____ 6. The suffix -ence means “quality or
state.” Knowing this, what might the
word independence mean?
A. being independent or self-ruled
B. the state or quality of democracy
C. not having freedom or self-rule
D. the state or quality of
determination
8
_____ 7. Consider the words describe
and prescription. Based on your
knowledge of word parts, which of
the following words belongs in this
grouping?
A. scribble
B. scripture
C. script
D. All of the above
_____ 8. Consider the words symphony
and microphone. Based on your
knowledge of word parts, which of
the following words belongs in this
grouping?
A. macro
B. cymbals
C. siphon
D. cacophony
4/15/09 12:47:24 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 4
Affixes and Roots
When you encounter an unfamiliar word, analyze its parts. You may be
able to guess the meaning of the word if you recognize its prefix, suffix,
or word root.
You are already familiar with many prefixes and suffixes. Prefixes
and suffixes are called affixes. They can be added to a base word or
word part to change its meaning. For example, adding affixes to the
word believe results in different words such as unbelievable, disbelieving,
and nonbeliever. Adding affixes to the word root cred results in different
words such as incredible, credulous, and discredit. Following are some
common prefixes.
Prefixes
co-/col-/com-/con-/cordeinterretrosubsyntransuni-
Meaning
together
opposite
among; between
back
under
with; together
across; beyond
one
Examples
cooperate, collaborate
defrost, decipher
international, intersect
retrospect, retroactive
substandard, subfloor
synonym, synergy
transatlantic, transfer
unicorn, unilateral
Word of the Week
undaunted (un d5n> ted) adj.,
firm in the face of danger; unafraid
The undaunted warriors
continued on their difficult
journey.
The word undaunted contains the
following word parts: The prefix
un-, meaning “not,” the suffix -ed,
which indicates the past tense
of the verb, and the verb daunt,
which means “to lessen the
courage of.” Knowing these word
parts, a reader might determine
that undaunted means “not
subdued.”
Below are some common suffixes.
Suffixes
-able/-ible
-al
-ant/-ent
-ar/-er/-or
-ion/-tion
-ity/-ty
-ive
-ous
Meaning
capable of
having to do with
one who
one who
action or process
state of
tending to
characterized by
Examples
attainable, possible
personal, governmental
contestant, resident
liar, lawyer, actor
revolution, occasion
longevity, infinity
creative, pensive
generous, joyous
A prefix is a letter or
group of letters added
to the beginning of a word. A
suffix is a letter or group of letters
attached to the end of a word.
Many suffixes indicate what part
of speech the word represents
(whether noun, verb, adjective, or
adverb).
Tip
The majority of prefixes, suffixes,
and word roots in English are
derived from Latin and Greek
words.
9
4/15/09 12:47:25 PM
The following word
parts all have to do with
number:
Tip
mono-, unidi-, bitriquadr-, tetrpent-, quinthex-, sexhept-, septoctnovedeccent-
one
two
three
four
five
six
seven
eight
nine
ten
hundred
Just for Fun
Use prefixes, suffixes, word roots,
and base words to make up your
own words. For example, you
might put together mis + dict
+ age as the action of speaking
wrongly. Use each made-up word
in a sentence.
Tip
The following suffixes
create nouns:
-age, -ion, -tion, and
-ment mean “action or process”
-dom, -ity, -ment, -ness, and -ty
mean “state or quality of”
-ant, -ent, -er, and -or mean “one
who”
10
Word roots are central word parts that cannot stand alone. Instead
they combine with other word parts to form words. Below are some
common word roots.
Word Roots
equ/equi
fort
mot
mut
scrib/script
spect
terr
Meaning
equal
strong
move
change
write
look
earth
Examples
equidistant, equitable
fortify, comfort
motor, emotion
mutate, mutation
describe, prescription
inspect, speculate
extraterrestrial, terrain
Your teacher may provide you with Word Parts Charts containing
common prefixes, suffixes, and word roots. Familiarize yourself with
these word parts and their meanings. When you encounter an unfamiliar
word, break it down to see if you can recognize any of its parts.
Try It Yourself
Examine each word below. Divide the word into parts—prefixes,
suffixes, word roots, and base words—and use what you know about
these parts to determine the meaning of each word. Write your
response in your notebook.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
deforestation
retrospective
immutable
synesthesia
subterraneous
transcriber
concurrent
equivocal
fortitude
uniformity
4/15/09 12:47:25 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 5
Word of the Week
Suffixes
A suffix is letter or group of letters added to the end of a word.
Knowing common suffixes will help you identify unknown words that
contain those suffixes. Consider the suffixes in the chart below.
Suffixes
Meaning
-ance/-ence/-ency/-ancy quality or state
-ment
-ness
-less
-ly
-ed
-ify/-fy
action or process; state or
quality; product or thing
state of
without
in such a way
past tense of verb
make or cause to be
Examples
defiance, independence,
emergency
development, government,
amusement, ointment
kindness, happiness
hapless, careless
quickly, studiously, invisibly
walked, acted, fixed
vilify, magnify, glorify
palpable (pal> p@ b@l) adj.,
able to be touched or felt; easily
observed
The tension in the air was
palpable and we all wanted to
leave.
The word palpable contains the
suffix -able, which means “capable
of.” Knowing the meaning of
this suffix will allow you to better
understand words that contain
this suffix, such as questionable,
treatable, and expandable.
A suffix is a word part
that changes the meaning
of a root and the function of the
word. The suffix -ism indicates a
noun.
Tip
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Use the above chart to guess the meaning of the following words. Then
use each word in a sentence.
1. precariously
Meaning:
Sentence:
2. earnestness
Meaning:
Sentence:
3. effacement
Meaning:
Sentence:
4. fluctuated
Meaning:
Sentence:
11
4/15/09 12:47:26 PM
Words that end in -ist
often apply to people.
Note that the suffix -ist means
“a person who does a particular
thing.” The suffix -ist also means
“characteristic of.” Examples of
-ist words related to isms are
ventriloquist, communist, and
realist.
Tip
5. baseless
Meaning:
Sentence:
The suffix -ism has several meanings, as shown in the chart below.
Meanings of -ism
act, practice, or process
prejudice or discrimination based on a
specific characteristic
state or condition
system of belief; doctrine
characteristic or trait
Examples
plagiarism, despotism
sexism, ageism
alcoholism, barbarism
feudalism, Taoism, optimism
heroism
Just for Fun
Make up your own “isms”
to describe acts, prejudices,
conditions, doctrines, or traits.
Make a list of these words and
their definitions.
doomism: the act of predicting
doom in all situations
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE B
Use what you know about the suffix -ism to determine the meaning of
each of the following words. Write the definition of each word. Check
your response using a dictionary if necessary. Then write a contextual
sentence using the word.
1. realism
Meaning
Sentence
2. communism
Meaning
Sentence
3. Stoicism
Meaning
Sentence
4. pessimism
Meaning
Sentence
5. racism
Meaning
Sentence
12
4/15/09 12:47:26 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 6
Prefixes
A prefix is a meaningful word part that appears at the beginning of a
word. A prefix can be added to an existing word to change the word’s
meaning, or it can be combined with a word root (such as rupt, fer, or
ject) to create a new word.
prefix + word
inter + cede = intercede
prefix + root
inter + ject = interject
Knowing the meanings of common prefixes can help you understand
and define words that contain them. For example, the prefixes en- and
em- mean “into or onto; cover with; cause to be; or provide with.” Words
that contain either of these prefixes will have one of these meanings.
empower:
provide with power
I felt empowered by my new position.
enslave:
cause to become a slave
His goal was to enslave the others before the sun rose.
Other common prefixes include:
Prefixes
anti-/antco-/col-/com-/
con-/corcircumexextra-/extroil-/im-/in-/irintra-/intromispostsub-/supsupersemiultraunder-
Meaning
against; opposite
together
Examples
antibody, antacid
commingle, concentrate,
correlate
around; about
circumnavigate,
circumstance
out of; from
explode, export, extend
outward; outside; beyond
extrasensory, extrovert
not
illogical, impossible,
inoperable, irrational
into; within; inward
introvert, intramural
wrongly
mistake, misfire
after; later
postgame, postpone
under
substandard, suppress
above; over; exceeding
superstar, superfluous
half; partly
semicircle, semidry
too much; too many; extreme
ultraviolet, ultrasound
below; short of a quantity or limit underestimate, understaffed
Word of the Week
unscrupulous (un skr2> py2
l@s) adj., lacking moral principles
Her actions were unscrupulous
and she hurt many people
because of this.
The word scruple means
“an ethical consideration or
principle that inhibits action; to
show reluctance on grounds
of conscience.” If a person is
scrupulous, it means they have
moral integrity. Therefore, adding
the prefix un- (which means “not”)
to scrupulous describes a person
who has little or no moral integrity.
Most prefixes we use
today come from ancient
Greek and Latin, although some
come from Old English.
Tip
The spelling of a prefix
may vary depending on
the word or base to which it is
attached. The prefix con- can be
spelled com-, col-, co-, or cor-.
Tip
comcolcocor-
used before b, p, or m
used before l
used before o
used before r
The spelling changes make
the resulting words easier to
pronounce. For instance, when
con- is added to the word
respond, it is spelled cor-.
Correspond is easier to pronounce
than conrespond.
13
4/15/09 12:47:27 PM
Prefixes may have more
than one meaning. The
prefix ex- can mean “out of,” as
in extract and exclude, or it can
mean “former,” as in ex-boyfriend
and ex-president
Tip
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Use your knowledge of prefixes and the meanings in the above chart to
define each of the following words. Then use each word in a sentence.
1. collaboration
2. insensible
Tip
The following prefixes all
mean “not”:
a-, an- (atypical)
dis- (disinterested)
il- (illogical)
im- (impervious)
in- (insecure)
ir- (irrational)
un- (unreal)
3. excommunicate
4. anticlimactic
5. introspective
EXERCISE B
Use your knowledge of prefixes and the meanings in the above chart to
explain the differences between the following pairs of words. Then use
each word in a sentence.
A fun way to increase your
understanding of word
parts is to break a word down into
its parts and then use those parts
to make other words. Take the
word introspective, for example.
You could use the prefix intro- to
make words such as introduction
and introvert. You could work
with the word root spec to
make aspect, retrospective, and
spectacle. You could also use the
suffix -ive to make words such as
creative, passive, and elusive.
Tip
1. extraordinary / ordinary
2. underachiever / overachiever
3. quote / misquote
4. market / supermarket
5. culture / subculture
Just for Fun
For each word below, choose one part of the word (prefix, suffix, or
word root). See how many different words you can make using that part.
biped
malformation
inaudible
cosigner
transport
14
4/15/09 12:47:27 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
Recognizing Word Parts
Use your knowledge of word parts to choose the word that best completes
each sentence.
_____ 1. American authors writing in the
_______ period, that is, the period
following World War II, include
Marianne Moore, John Cheever, and
John Updike.
A. prewar
B. postwar
C. subwar
D. antebellum
_____ 2. We will have to _______ the old
equipment with special filters to meet
the new emissions standards.
A. revamp
B. retrofit
C. replace
D. produce
_____ 3. What are the seven events in the
______?
A. pentathlon
B. decathlon
C. biathlon
D. heptathlon
_____ 4. Before airplanes, _______ crossings
could take months.
A. transatlantic
B. crossatlantic
C. overatlantic
D. coatlantic
_____ 5. Martin said he thought we’d have
snow, but his ________ was wrong.
A. prodiction
B. predict
C. prediction
D. predicament
_____ 6. Any parent of _______ will tell you
it is a lot of work taking care of six
babies at once.
A. quintuplets
B. septuplets
C. sextuplets
D. quadruplets
_____ 7. If you are slipping a lot, apply
_______ pads to the bottoms of your
shoes.
A. antiskid
B. misskid
C. malskid
D. deskid
_____ 8. Paula quickly _______ the unreliable
source.
A. accredited
B. retracted
C. discredited
D. respected
_____ 9. The craft generally floats, but it is
_______.
A. repellent
B. dehydrate
C. submersant
D. submersible
_____ 10. We went to the cemetery for the
_______.
A. subterranean
B. interment
C. depopulation
D. transcendent
15
4/15/09 12:47:28 PM
_____ 11. With affiliates all over the world, the
company often holds ______ instead
of trying to get everyone together in
one place.
A. transconferences
B. teleconferences
C. geoconferences
D. synergy
_____ 12. Because of his ______, Jordan never
learned to swim.
A. geophobia
B. claustrophobia
C. hydrophobia
D. agoraphobia
_____ 13. The young criminal had been ______
all his life and thought he would
always be angy and bitter.
A. benevolent
B. malcontented
C. decimated
D. discreditable
_____ 14. Confessional poetry shows the
______ of the writer.
A. introspection
B. revision
C. interbiography
D. extroversion
_____ 15. Let’s ______ our watches, so we can
meet at the same time.
A. synchronize
B. realignment
C. retromatch
D. chronicle
16
_____ 16. The committee voted to ______
funds for the construction project, so
it could begin as scheduled.
A. resign
B. misdirect
C. retraction
D. allocate
_____ 17. Walt is being punished for several
______.
A. distractions
B. infractions
C. transactions
D. overreactions
_____ 18. Are you right-handed, left-handed, or
______?
A. ambidextrous
B. semihanded
C. biped
D. co-handed
_____ 19. One cake is enough; the three
additional cakes are ______.
A. sufficient
B. overindulgence
C. superfluous
D. sub-par
_____ 20. The colored glass is only _____, so
the room is rather dark.
A. supertransparent
B. semitranslucent
C. subvisible
D. semitransvisible
4/15/09 12:47:28 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 7
Archaic Language
Language is not static; it changes and evolves over time. If you were to
look at works written in English in previous centuries, you would likely
find words you do not recognize or that are no longer used today. For
example, pronouns such as thee and thou are rarely used today. You
would also find words that don’t have the same meaning today as they
did when the piece was written.
Archaic and Obsolete Words
Words or specific senses of a word that are no longer used may be
labeled in the dictionary as archaic or obsolete. An archaic word is a
word that is rarely used or is only used in some contexts. For example,
the word desert was once used to mean any uninhabited, uncultivated
piece of land. This sense of the word is now considered archaic. An
obsolete word is no longer used at all (though you may still find it in
writings from long ago).
Often, archaic or obsolete words may refer to clothing, activities, or
objects that are no longer commonly used. In some texts, such words
may be footnoted; in others you will need to use your word study skills
to determine the meaning of the word. Look at the following sentence:
Some of the company sat and talked while others were engrossed in a
game of quadrille.
You may be unfamiliar with the word quadrille. From the context,
it is clear that quadrille is a game, and you may guess from the
word part quad- that the game involved four people. This is
probably enough information to allow you to continue reading.
However, if you want to know more, consult a dictionary. There
you might learn that quadrille is a variant of the card game
ombre, that it was popular in the eighteenth century, and that it
was a predecessor to whist, another card game.
Tackle archaic and obsolete words the way you would tackle any other
word. The only difference is that you will not incorporate such words in
to your own speech or writing. They will become part of your reading
vocabulary.
Word of the Week
whim-wham (wim> wam)
n., whimsical object or device,
especially of ornament or dress
Lila liked to dress up in fancy
clothing adorned with a fancy
whim-wham or two.
Whim-wham is a word whose
origin is unknown, although
lexicologists think it originated
around 1500. There are a number
of words like this in the English
language. Curiously, there are a few
with the same, or nearly the same,
meaning as whim-wham. These
are: gewgaw (ca. 1529), gimcrack
(ca. 1676), knick-knack (1682),
and whigmaleerie (ca. 1730).
An archaic word is one
that is no longer widely
used. A word that is still used may
have an archaic meaning, or a
definition that is no longer used.
Tip
Just for Fun
Slang is a creative use of language.
Slang words may be variations
on existing words or may give
new meaning to a word. Make a
glossary of slang that you and your
classmates use. First brainstorm a
list of words. Then write definitions
for each word. Give sample
sentences to show the usage of
each word.
17
4/15/09 12:47:28 PM
Use context clues to
discover the meaning
of unknown words. That is, use
the surrounding words and their
meanings to provide you with an
idea of what the unknown word
might mean.
Tip
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Rewrite each of the following sentences, replacing archaic or obsolete
terms with more contemporary words. Use your dictionary for help.
1. We must reach the city by nightfall. Hurry up anon!
2. I would be lief to lend a hand if you need my aid.
Tip New words, or
neologisms, often have
to do with technology, popular
culture, and current events.
3. Although the story sounds crazy, Lena speaks soothly.
4. Approaching the menacing dog, Horace shouted, “Aroint!”
5. “This foul attitude ill beseemeth my fair-tempered young
daughter,” said Rhianna’s father after she yelled at him.
Just for Fun
Try coining your own words.
Consider clipping words,
combining words in unique ways,
combining word parts, or using
a word to mean something it
hasn’t meant before. Use each
of your new words in a sentence
that shows what your new word
means.
giraffiti—vandalism spray-painted
in high places
Check out the giraffiti on that
billboard!
18
6. I found my shoes betwixt the bookcase and the bedpost.
7. Meseems that Malcolm would get a better grade on his paper if he
spent more than two minutes on it.
8. I nigh made that winning basket, but the buzzer startled me.
9. After he walked under a ladder, he was plagued by wanion.
10. Howbeit she was not responsible for the mess, Ana was asked to
clean it up anyway.
4/15/09 12:47:29 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 8
Compound Words
The English language is constantly changing. As old words become
archaic and obsolete, new words are being coined, used, and accepted
into the English language. Many of these newer words are compound
words, which are created when two or more words are joined together
to create a single meaning.
examples
volleyball, downwind, campsite, over-the-counter,
user-friendly
Compound nouns that are written as one word are called closed
compounds (hometown). Other compounds are divided by a hyphen
(father-in-law) or a space (father figure). Compound adjectives are a
kind of compound word that can be closed or hyphenated. Below are
some common types of hyphenated adjective compounds.
Type of Compound Adjective
ages
centuries or eras
multiword phrases
numbered ranks or positions
adjectives + nouns
nouns + adjectives
nouns + gerunds
Word of the Week
cutting edge (k@> ti4 ej>) n.,
1. a sharp effect or quality; 2. the
foremost part or place
He was proud of his work
because it was regarded as being
the cutting edge of the industry.
The word cutting edge is an
example of a compound word. A
compound word is created when
two or more words are joined
together. What compound words
do you use in your vocabulary?
Examples
the thirty- to forty-year-old group
eighteenth-century art, space-age
technology
over-the-counter medicine, matter-of-fact
approach
forty-two dollars, fifty-first winner
ill-tempered personality
interest-free loan
the decision-making process
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Identify the compound nouns and compound adjectives in the
following sentences by underlining the word(s). Then identify the
compound as a noun or an adjective on the line provided.
example
I was hoping to obtain an interest-free loan. adjective
1. The play’s ending was very tongue-in-cheek. _________________
2. He was known as a blue-collar worker. _________________
3. Yasmene wanted to be a poet laureate. _________________
4. The photojournalists put themselves in danger to uncover the
truth. _________________
19
4/15/09 12:47:29 PM
Consult a good dictionary
when you are not sure
of the correct way to write a
compound word.
Tip
5. The work was hard, but the plowboy refused to let the earth get the
best of him. _________________
6. While I tried to prove my point, Cedric presented a solid
counterargument. _________________
7. The grassroots poet was known for her use of hyperbole and
alliteration. _________________
8. The misrepresentation of her character was viewed as poetic
license. _________________
9. The nine-day-old bread was actually quite delicious with a cup of
milk. _________________
10. French had the greatest influence on sixteenth-century
English. _________________
EXERCISE B
Write five sentences that use compound words not used in this lesson.
Underline your compound words and then find words or phrases
that could replace them. For example, you might replace “father-inlaw” with “my spouse’s father.” Note whether the tone of the sentence
changes without your initial compound word.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
20
4/15/09 12:47:29 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 9
Manipulating Language
People manipulate language all the time, twisting it and changing it to
make it new and fun. In this way, language continues to evolve. Here
are some ways people manipulate language.
Changing a Word’s Function. English speakers often change the
functions of words. This process is called conversion. For example, we
may take a noun and use it as a verb. The word contact was used as a
noun for several hundred years before it made it into the dictionary as a
verb. Even then, many people railed against its use as a verb. And today,
you can hear businesspeople using nouns like transition and partner as
verbs, as in: “We are transitioning to a new form of marketing…would
you like to partner with us on that?”
Changing a Word’s Meaning. In slang or colloquial use, words are
often given new meaning. The meaning may be based on an accepted
meaning of the word, or it may be completely different. For example, the
word chill, meaning “to make cooler,” is now used as slang for “relax.”
Adding Affixes. We can add a prefix and/or a suffix to change the
meaning of a word. For example, if your aunt is allergic to your cats,
you might need to de-cat-hair-ify the furniture before she comes over.
Or when you hear a new pop singer, you may say with annoyance, “She
sounds so Britney-esque.” Are these real words? Maybe not. But many
words formed in this way (such as deice and ultrachic) have entered
dictionaries over the years.
Clipped or Shortened Words. We shorten words, as in fax, which is a
shortened form of facsimile, or cab, originally cabriolet. Clipped words
are especially popular among college students, who coined such words
as prof, dorm, poli sci, and exam.
Try It Yourself
Using each prompt below, try to manipulate language yourself.
1. Write a sentence in which you use a noun as a verb.
2. Write a sentence using a commonly recognized word with a slang
or colloquial meaning.
Word of the Week
picturesque (pik< ch@ resk>)
adj., resembling a picture;
charming or quaint
The resort is known for its calming
pools and picturesque gardens.
The word picturesque is an
example of manipulated language,
specifically, adding an affix to a
word in order to give it another
meaning. The suffix -esque means
“in the manner or style of” or
“like,” so adding it to any word
gives it a new meaning. Consider
other words to which you could
add this suffix.
Sometimes instead
of adding an affix,
one is removed. This is called
backformation. For example,
babysit is a backformation of
babysitter. It was created when
the suffix -er was removed from
babysitter. In the same way, the
verb edit was formed from the the
noun editor.
Tip
People manipulate
language by forming
compounds and blends too.
Cookout is a compound made
from the words cook and out. The
word refers to a barbecue, when
people cook outdoors. The word
glimmer is a blend of gleam and
shimmer.
Tip
21
4/15/09 12:47:30 PM
Just for Fun
Each of the following words was
formed by the manipulation of
language. Match each word with
the explanation of how it was
formed.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
flu
motel
scarecrow
telephone (v.)
dig (as in “Can you dig it?”)
antiwar
burgle
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
compound of two words
backformation
word with a changed meaning
word formed by adding an affix
shortened or clipped form
blend of two words
word with a changed function
3. Make four new words by adding prefixes or suffixes to existing words.
4. Create your own blends by combining parts of two words as in
brunch or smog. Write three blends on the lines below along with
the words used to form them.
5. Choose a word that is used frequently. Make a shorter form of the
word. Write the long form and the clipped form below. Then use
the clipped form in a contextual sentence.
Full word
Clipped form
Writers and speakers often manipulate language in other ways,
too. They play with word sounds, such as rhyme, alliteration, and
onomatopoeia; idioms and other common expressions; and figurative
meaning to create a specific image or reaction in the reader.
Introducing new words and new ways of saying things can keep
language fresh. Newly coined words or phrases often catch on quickly,
like a fad. Some are simply vogue words or buzzwords that will fade
out when people tire of them, but others will become more firmly
embedded in the language.
When you manipulate language, take care to use new words and
phrases appropriately. Be aware that some new language may be too
informal for some purposes and may annoy or confuse your audience.
As always, choose words that are appropriate to your audience and
purpose, and make sure the meaning is clear in context.
Just for Fun
Coin a few of your own words and write formal dictionary entries for
these words. Then share your dictionary with a partner and try to use
each other’s words in conversation.
22
4/15/09 12:47:30 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 10
Technology-Related Words
As technology changes, new words are needed to describe new devices,
actions and processes, and entities. Technology-related words enter
language the same way other kinds of words do and you can approach
them the same way. Use context clues, what you know about word
parts, text support, dictionaries, and help from others to determine
word meaning.
Technology-Related Word Parts
Knowing the meaning of certain word parts can help you understand a
number of technology-related words.
Word Part
ecyberdiginettechnoteleweb-
Meaning
electronic
cybernetic (related to
computer networks)
digital
related to the Internet
technical, technological
distance
related to or of the World
Wide Web
Word of the Week
wireless (w8r> l@s) adj.,
describing telecommunications
devices that use radio signals
rather than wires
The wireless company offers
800 minutes for $39.99 with no
roaming charges.
Although the word wireless has
been around since the nineteenth
century, it has taken on a new
meaning with the introduction of
cellular telephones in 1991.
Example
e-mail, e-commerce
cyberspace, cybercafé
digitocracy
netiquette, netizen
technophobe
telecommute, teleconference
webzine, website
Take, for example, the word netiquette. This word is a blend of net and
etiquette and means etiquette or rules of conduct for communication
on the Internet. Also consider the word technophobe. If you know the
meanings of techno- and -phobe, you can determine that a technophobe
is a person who fears or dislikes technology.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Just for Fun
Make up your own technologyrelated words using the word parts
in the chart at right.
weboholic: one who is addicted to
the Internet
Define each of the following words based on your knowledge of word
parts.
1. e-tail
2. webcast
3. digirati
4. netizen
5. cyberculture
23
4/15/09 12:47:31 PM
If you can’t find these
technological terms in
your dictionary, check out an
online resource. Several are listed
on the following page.
Tip
New Meanings for Old Words
Words may gain new meaning over time as people use them in different
ways. Many words that are now used in reference to new technology
have other meanings in English. Some examples include boot, bug, surf,
and flame.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE B
Use a dictionary if you are unsure of the meaning of each of the
following words as it relates to technology. Write a contextual sentence
using each word in its technological sense.
1. boot
2. bug
3. surf
4. flame
An allusion is a reference
to a well-known person,
event, object, or work from history,
literature, the movies, etc. The
person who coined the computer
term Trojan horse, meaning a
destructive computer program,
was making an allusion to a Greek
myth.
Tip
Allusions
You are probably aware of terms such as Achilles’ heel and scrooge that
come from mythology or literature. Some technological words make
references to mythology or pop culture as well. Here are two examples:
Trojan horse—destructive program disguised as a benign application.
The term alludes to the Trojan Horse of the Iliad, an epic poem by the
ancient Greek writer, Homer. In the poem, the Greeks presented a
wooden horse as a gift as a way to get inside the city of Troy.
spam—junk e-mail. The term comes from a Monty Python skit in
which the word spam is repeated, drowning out other talk.
Just for Fun
LOL is a very common chatroom
abbreviation that stands for
“laughing out loud.” Another
common abbreviation is IMHO
for “in my humble opinion.” What
other chatroom abbreviations
do you know? Make your
own glossary of chatroom
abbreviations. You may wish to
include smileys or emoticons, too.
24
Acronyms and Initialisms
Acronyms are words made from initial letters of the main parts of a
compound term. Initialisms are abbreviations in which each letter is
pronounced as a letter. There are many technological acronyms and
initialisms. Here are some examples:
ISP
Internet service provider
IT
information technology
PDA
personal digital assistant
RAM random access memory
URL
Uniform Resource Locator
4/15/09 12:47:31 PM
Try It Yourself
An acronym is
pronounced as a word,
while an initialism is pronounced
letter by letter. For example, RAM
is an acronym, while ISP and IT
are initialisms. Other acronyms
include scuba (self-contained
underwater breathing apparatus)
and NASA (National Aeronautics
and Space Administration). Other
initialisms include HDTV (high
definition television) and TBA (to
be announced).
Tip
EXERCISE C
Use context clues, text support, or a dictionary or glossary to find the
meaning of the underlined terms. Write a definition of each word on
the line provided.
1. I miskeyed the URL, so the site didn’t load.
2. Sick of the slow speeds of her dial-up connection, Erin switched to
DSL.
3. FAQ
How do I subscribe?
Both acronyms and initialisms are
types of abbreviations.
How do I unsubscribe?
What happens if I forget my password?
Where to Look Up Tech-Related Words
Because technology changes quickly, the language related to it changes
quickly as well. Printed dictionaries may not include many of the latest
tech-related terms, so you might need to consult an online source
instead. Some sites to try include the following:
• http://www.webopedia.com
• http://www.logophilia.com/techwordspy
• http://www.netlingo.com
If you are unable to find the term in a printed or online dictionary, ask
for help. Ask a teacher, librarian, or technology-savvy friend.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE D
Use what you know about word parts or earlier meanings of the following
words to predict their technological meaning. Write your responses in
your notebook and use online resources to check your work.
1. malware
2. bookmark
3. clicks and mortar
Try an online source for
definitions of the latest
tech-related terms.
Tip
Just for Fun
A mouse potato is an online
couch potato, a person who
spends a lot of time in front of a
computer screen. Snail mail is a
term coined for mail sent through
the postal service instead of
electronically. Make a list of other
fun technology-related phrases
you encounter while searching the
online dictionaries.
25
4/15/09 12:47:31 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
Defining Archaic Language and Technology-Related Words
Use context clues, your prior knowledge, and word parts to identify the
meaning of the following underlined archaic words. Write your answers on
the blanks provided.
_____ 1. You are completely wood! Who
would ever wear that to a funeral?
A. serious
B. mad; wild
C. boring; calm
D. sad; concerned
_____ 2. Stella wanted to get directions from
her teacher afore she wrote the
assignment.
A. before
B. when
C. after
D. because
_____ 3. I was beforetime known as Miss
Pennbrewster, today I am known as
Mrs. B.
A. formerly
B. afterward
C. curiously
D. descriptively
_____ 4. I think the yacht is large enough
endlong, but it is rather narrow from
side to side.
A. today
B. before
C. outside
D. lengthwise
_____ 5. Our eyne have seen too much!
A. dreams
B. hearts
C. eyes
D. fears
_____ 6. The detective spoke to them
semovedly, so they couldn’t hear one
another’s account of the evening’s
events.
A. at once
B. cautiously
C. separately
D. suspiciously
Use your prior knowledge as well as your knowledge of word parts to identify
the technology-related word that each question describes. Write your answer
on the blank.
_____ 7. the rules of conduct for social
communication on the internet
A. netiquette
B. etiquetology
C. teletiquette
D. etiphobe
_____ 9. a video segment created for the
World Wide Web
A. cyberology
B. semicyber
C. webisode
D. teleprompt
_____ 8. a citizen of the Internet community
A. technophobe
B. telecommunity
C. cyberman
D. netizen
_____ 10. a group of people who communicate
electronically
A. e-group
B. techno party
C. webmeeting
D. teletype
26
4/15/09 12:47:32 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 11
Denotation and Connotation
A denotation of a word is its dictionary definition. A connotation of
a word is an emotional association or implication it has in addition
to its literal meaning. For example, the words unique and freakish are
synonyms. They both mean “different from what is typical.” However,
unique connotes someone or something that is special or one-of-a-kind,
while freakish connotes someone or something that is ugly, scary, or
upsetting. Meanwhile, the term different is more neutral—it lacks either
positive or negative connotations.
When you are writing and speaking, it is important to be aware
of the connotations of words so that you do not offend or confuse
people. When you are reading, you can learn about the connotations
of unfamiliar words by using the context as a clue, or by consulting a
dictionary or another person.
Word of the Week
vagabond (v6g> @ b5nd) n.,
wandering, idle, disreputable, or
shiftless person
The vagabond preferred to travel
through the south because it was
warmer.
Although vagabond is
synonymous with the word
traveler, it has a more negative
connotation. Would you prefer
to be called a vagabond or a
traveler? Other synonyms that
also have negative connotations
include tramp and bum, while the
synonyms tourist and wanderer
are more neutral.
Use Context Clues and Tone
Context clues can help you determine the emotions connected to a
word. Also look at the tone of the passage for clues about a word’s
meaning in that particular case. Look at the following sentences:
I didn’t realize how illness had ravaged Jorge’s body until I saw
his emaciated, skeletal figure.
Vince was a scrawny kid, who was always getting picked on.
Emaciated and scrawny both suggest thinness. In the first sentence, you
can tell that the thinness is related to illness or suffering and conveys a
sense of feebleness or fragility. In the second sentence, scrawny suggests
small or unnaturally thin with a related lack of strength.
A thesaurus, which
lists synonyms, near
synonyms, and antonyms
of a word, can also give you
information about the differences
in connotation between words of
the same meaning.
Tip
Use a Dictionary
Although connotations are associations or implications, not dictionary
definitions, a dictionary can still be helpful in determining the connotations
of a word. Some definitions may give some insight into the connotations of
a word, and the usage examples in the dictionary may help you determine
connotations. Some dictionaries have short features on usage that focus on
the differences in meaning or connotation of synonyms.
Ask for Help
If, after using context clues and a dictionary, you are still unsure about
the connotations of a word, ask somebody else who knows the word to
explain the connotations to you.
27
4/15/09 12:47:33 PM
A denotation of a word
is its dictionary definition.
Tip
A connotation is an emotional
association or implication attached
to a word or expression.
Try It Yourself
Use a dictionary to check the meaning of the following synonyms. Then
write a sentence for each word that uses the word correctly, taking into
account its connotations as well as its denotation.
1. beguiling
charming
2. mercurial
fickle
Just for Fun
Connotations may be very
personal. For example, when you
think city you may think crowded,
but a friend may think exciting.
Make a quick list of connotations
for the following words and
compare them with a classmate’s.
bus
cake
cry
yellow
3. guffaw
laugh
4. supercilious
arrogant
5. fault
foible
Just for Fun
Make a list of synonyms with different connotations. Then, put them
in order to show a progression from positive to neutral to negative. For
example: persevering, resolute, tenacious, persistent, obstinate, stubborn,
pigheaded. You might start your list by thinking of synonyms for silly,
fake, or flighty.
28
4/15/09 12:47:33 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 12
Literal vs. Figurative Language
Literal language means just what it says; it presents the actual or
ordinary meaning of words. This type of language is appropriate for
directions or instructions, reports, and many formal documents.
Figurative language is meant to be understood imaginatively.
Figurative language includes such figures of speech as metaphor, simile,
and personification. These figures of speech encourage readers to see
things in new ways. Figurative language is used frequently in literary
works and everyday speech.
Try It Yourself
Word of the Week
incessantly (in ses> @nt l7)
adv., continuing for a long time
without stopping
Roland felt that he had been in
detention incessantly for the past
two years.
In the above sentence, the word
incessantly is used figuratively.
It can be assumed that Roland
did not spend two solid years in
detention; he just felt like he was
always there.
EXERCISE A
Identify each of the following examples as literal or figurative language.
1. The leaves fell onto the recently raked lawn.
2. The angry river seized the raft and crushed it against the rocks.
3. I barricaded myself behind the newspaper, but my neighbor
continued to assault me with questions and small talk.
The expression “Her eyes
were diamonds” is a
metaphor. The expression “Her
eyes were like diamonds” is a
simile.
Tip
4. After a long pause, Mr. Vincenzo asked if I wanted the job.
5. The brakes screeched like a frightened animal as the car skidded to
a stop.
Metaphor
A metaphor is a figure of speech in which one thing is spoken or
written of as if it were another. This figure of speech invites the reader
to make a comparison between the two “things” involved. The two
things involved are the writer’s actual subject, or the tenor of the
metaphor, and the thing to which the subject is likened, or the vehicle
of the metaphor. To interpret a metaphor, identify the tenor and vehicle
and determine what the two have in common.
29
4/15/09 12:47:33 PM
Poetic expressions such
as “the trees sang in the
wind” and “the sky wept” are
examples of personification.
Tip
Simile
A simile is a comparison that uses like or as. A simile is a type of
metaphor and can be broken into a tenor and a vehicle. Interpret a
simile like you would any other metaphor.
Personification
Personification is a figure of speech in which an idea, animal, or thing
is described as if it were a person. Animals or objects speaking are one
example of personification.
Other examples of
figurative language include
verbal irony and understatement.
Verbal irony occurs when a
statement is made that implies
its opposite, as in “Gee, I’m so
happy there is a test today.” An
understatement is an ironic
expression in which something
of importance is emphasized by
being spoken of as though it were
not important, as in the phrase,
“He’s sort of dead, I think.”
Tip
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE B
Identify each of the following as a metaphor, simile, or personification.
1. The snow danced on the wind.
2. Corbin’s words stung like lemon juice in a cut.
3. Shana was graceful as a gazelle as she leapt over the
hurdles.
4. The sun painted the room a warm gold.
5. Martha’s story planted a seed of fear that sprouted into a
monstrous plant of terror.
EXERCISE C
1. Explain the following metaphor:
There comes a time when we all must spread our wings and leave
the nest.
Just for Fun
Using your own paper, write
several similes using the following
items as tenors or vehicles:
•
•
•
•
a clown
a pumpkin
a roller coaster
eating spaghetti
Make up your own metaphors
using the following tenors:
•
•
•
•
What is the tenor? What is the vehicle? What does it mean to
“spread [one’s] wings” and “leave the nest”?
2. Describe a good day using literal language.
3. Describe a good day using figurative language.
life
taking a test
bad luck
summer vacation
30
4/15/09 12:47:34 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 13
Homophones
Homophones are words that sound the same but differ in spelling
and/or meaning. Homophone is derived from the Greek roots homo,
meaning same, and phone, meaning sound, so it literally means “same
sound.” Because homophones sound the same, many people get
them confused in their writing. The following are some of the most
commonly confused homophones.
Commonly Confused Homophones
cite/sight/site. Cite means to quote or refer to. Sight means vision. Site
means place or location, as in campsite and website.
Word of the Week
arrant (6r> 2nt) adj., extreme
His arrant negativity has put us all
in a bad mood.
The word arrant might be
confused with the word errant,
because they share the same
pronunciation. However, while
arrant means “extreme,” the word
errant means “given to travel”
and “straying outside the proper
path.” These are examples of
homophones.
flair/flare. Flair means skill, ability, or style. Flare means to emit a
sudden burst of flame or temper, as in the term flare-up.
its/it’s. Its is a possessive pronoun meaning “belonging to it.” It’s is a
contraction of it is or it has.
reek/wreak. To reek means to stink or to smell. To wreak means to
bring about or to inflict.
reign/rein. To reign means to exercise authority. As a noun, reign
means the length of time during which an individual rules. A rein is a
strap used to control an animal, such as a horse. To rein in means to
control as if by using reins.
right/rite/write. Right is the opposite of left. It also means “something
to which one is entitled,” as in human rights. As an adjective, right
means “correct.” A rite is a ceremony, particularly a religious one. Write
means to put words on paper or to create a literary work.
their/there/they’re. Their is the possessive form of they. There is the
opposite of here. They’re is a contraction of they are.
who’s/whose. Who’s is a contraction of who is or who has. Whose is a
possessive pronoun or possessive adjective.
your/you’re. Your is the possessive of you. You’re is a contraction of
you are.
The word rein appears in
the expression “to give
free rein.” It refers to the fact that
you give rein, or slacken up on the
reins, to let a horse gallop more
freely. Do not make the common
mistake of writing this expression
as “free reign.”
Tip
Homographs are
words that share the
same spelling, but have different
meanings and pronunciations.
One example is bow (as in
“bowing before a king”) and bow
(as in “tie a bow on the present”).
Homonyms share the same
spelling and pronunciation, but
mean different things. An example
of a homonym would be bow (as
in “tie a bow on the present”) and
bow (as in “hunt with a bow and
arrow”).
Tip
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4/15/09 12:47:34 PM
With nouns and proper
nouns, an apostrophe is
used to show possession, as in
the doctor’s office, Kayla’s pen,
the girls’ bathroom.
Tip
However, with the possessive
forms of personal pronouns, an
apostrophe is not used.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Circle the homophone that correctly completes each of the following
sentences.
1. Tyra knows that (its / it’s) useless to talk to Carl while he’s
watching TV.
2. As we rounded the corner, the city came into (cite / sight / site).
3. (Who’s / Whose) supplies are these?
he
his
4. The (cite / sight / site) of the school is on the outskirts of town.
she
her, hers
5. Do you have the (right / rite / write) stuff to succeed?
it
its (not it’s!)
6. The presentation showed a creative (flair / flare).
we
our, ours
7. Zach’s room (reeks / wreaks) of dirty socks.
you
your, yours
they
their, theirs
(not they’re!)
8. The dense fog compromised our (cite / sight / site).
who
whose (not
who’s!)
Remember that it’s, they’re,
and who’s are contractions, not
possessives.
The dog chewed it’s bone.
The dog chewed its bone.
9. Give me (your / you’re) keys, and I’ll get the car.
10. Rosa took the (reigns / reins) when Kwynn resigned.
Proofreading for Common Errors
To avoid errors with homophones, first make sure you understand
when and how to use each word. Memorizing the meanings of the
homophones listed in this lesson will help. If you are unsure about
which homophones to use, check a dictionary. Always proofread
carefully to make sure you have used the correct word. Even if you
know which word to use, it is easy to write the wrong word by mistake.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE B
Proofread the following passage for errors in homophone usage.
Rewrite the passage in your notebook, correcting any errors you find.
Just for Fun
Write sentences using commonly
confused homophones.
Here’s an example: The reigning
champs floundered until the
new captain took the reins and
became a strong leader.
32
If you have to rite a report on a famous person, you could start by
consulting a reference book such as an encyclopedia or Whose
Who? These resources will tell you when a person lived, usually
the sight of his or her birth, and, for a ruler, the years of his or
her rein. You’re report may be a compilation of facts, or it may
include your opinions about the person. You can use visual aids
to add flare to an oral presentation. However you present you’re
report, make sure you site the resources you used.
4/15/09 12:47:34 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
Words with Multiple Meanings
Decide which meaning of the underlined word best fits the context of the
sentence. Write the letter of the best answer on the line.
_____ 1. These don’t have to be perfect; just
haggle the wood into smaller pieces.
A. bargain
B. annoy or exhaust
C. hack
D. wrangle
_____ 7. Deirdre held fast to her beliefs, even
when faced by strong opposition.
A. firmly
B. quickly
C. deeply
D. wildly
_____ 2. Can you haggle at the market or are
the prices fixed?
A. bargain
B. annoy or exhaust
C. hack
D. wrangle
_____ 8. The ring was fast on Susan’s finger,
and she thought she’d never get it off.
A. firmly loyal
B. quick to learn
C. stuck
D. swift
_____ 3. I love philosophy, but my mother
wants me to choose a more practical
major.
A. major musical interval
B. field of study
C. rank of commissioned officer
D. greater in rank or importance
_____ 9. I generally follow my impulses rather
than relying on careful thought.
A. waves
B. incentives
C. changes in momentum
D. sudden inclinations
_____ 4. Love of animals was one of the major
reasons Kelly chose to study biology.
A. major musical interval
B. field of study
C. rank of commissioned officer
D. greater in rank or importance
_____ 5. Glen registered the cold before his
feet went numb.
A. indicated
B. achieved
C. enrolled
D. perceived
_____ 6. Marcus registered early for the
conference.
A. indicated
B. achieved
C. enrolled
D. perceived
_____ 10. The electrical impulses caused lights
to blink on and off.
A. waves
B. incentives
C. changes in momentum
D. sudden inclinations
_____ 11. We ordered a quarter of beef for the
dinner.
A. one of four equal parts into which
something is divisible
B. limb of a quadruped with the
adjacent parts
C. three-month division of the year
D. unit of length that is one fourth of
a whole
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4/15/09 12:47:35 PM
Homophones
On the line, write the letter of the word that best completes each sentence.
_____ 1. Don’t worry. ____ not important.
A. Its
B. It’s
_____ 2. When did Queen Elizabeth’s ____
begin?
A. reign
B. rein
_____ 3. If ____ going on the field trip, you’ll
need a signed permission slip.
A. your
B. you’re
_____ 4. Rosa’s argument struck a ____ with
many listeners.
A. chord
B. cord
_____ 5. The program was informative, but it
lacked ____.
A. flair
B. flare
_____ 6. Grady can ____ numerous studies to
support his thesis.
A. cite
B. sight
C. site
_____ 7. Did Mr. and Mrs. Rossi find ____ car
in the garage?
A. there
B. their
C. they’re
_____ 8. Who has the ____ of way?
A. right
B. rite
C. write
_____ 10. For many, graduation is a ____ of
passage.
A. right
B. rite
C. write
_____ 11. ____ excited to get ____ licenses.
A. There … their
B. Their … they’re
C. They’re … their
D. Their … there
_____ 12. Did Keith ____ down the ____
number?
A. rite … right
B. write … right
C. right … right
D. write … rite
_____ 13. Can you ____ examples of ____
guaranteed by the Constitution?
A. sight … rites
B. site … rights
C. cite … rites
D. cite … rights
_____ 14. ____ to the Office of Tourism to get a
map of the historical ____.
A. Right … site
B. Write … cite
C. Right … sight
D. Write … site
_____ 15. The ____ of ____ grandchildren
always makes Myrna and Lloyd smile.
A. sight … there
B. sight … their
C. site … their
D. site … they’re
_____ 9. ____ going to change the
requirements for graduation.
A. Their
B. There
C. They’re
34
4/15/09 12:47:35 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 14
Context Clues
If you come across an unfamiliar word in your reading, you can often
figure out the meaning of the word by using context clues. Context
clues offer information about the unfamiliar word in the sentence
or surrounding context. They often compare or contrast the word
you do not know to other words you do know. Three main types of
comparison context clues are restatement, apposition, and examples.
Using restatement, the author may tell you the meaning of the word
you do not know by using different words to express the same idea.
Some words that signal restatement are that is, in other words, and or.
example
The amorphous or shapeless being could take any
form.
Apposition renames something in different words. Look for a word or
phrase that has been placed in the sentence to clarify the word you do
not know.
example
Word of the Week
brusqueness (brusk> nes) n.,
abrupt or blunt manner
He ended his lecture with such
brusqueness that no one had a
chance to ask any questions.
Though you might not
initially know the definition of
brusqueness, the context of the
sentence above contains enough
clues for you to make an educated
guess. The word brusqueness
comes from the French word
brusque, from the Italian word
brusco, and from the Medieval
Latin bruscus, meaning “butcher’s
broom.”
The astronomer devoted her life to studying the
cosmos, the vast frontier of outer space.
Examples used in a sentence can help illustrate a term you do not know.
example
Sleeping and stargazing are usually nocturnal activities.
Looking at word parts
can also provide clues
as to the meaning of words. For
example, the word amorphous
contains the prefix a-, meaning
“not; without” and the Greek root
morph, meaning “form.” Hence
the word means “without form.”
Other words that contain the root
morph include metamorphosis
and morpheme.
Tip
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Use context clues to determine the meaning of each underlined word.
Write the meaning on the line provided.
1. The nurse was worn out from dealing with the complaints of a
particularly querulous patient.
2. I had to grabble and grope in my backpack to find a pencil.
3. After she fractured her fibula, Janet needed to wear a cast on her
leg for two weeks.
4. The cumulus clouds were piled up high in the sky like mountains
of cotton candy.
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4/15/09 12:47:36 PM
Comparison clues
sometimes use words
such as like or as. Contrast clues
may use words such as but,
however, although, or yet.
Tip
5. They gave every visitor to their booth a lagniappe of a pen or key
chain.
Contrast clues will help you find the differences between words. They
may use words such as but, however, although, or yet.
example
Another important type
of context clue is a
cause-and-effect clue. A causeand-effect clue explains that
something happened because
of something else. The reader
can then use this information
to decipher the meaning of an
unknown word. Look for signal
words and pairs of signal words
that indicate you might have a
cause-and-effect clue in your
sentence: because, if…then,
when…then, thus, therefore,
so, due to, as a result of, and
consequently.
Tip
The plant perished
because no one
remembered to water it.
Perished most likely means
“died,” since that is what happens
to plants when they don’t have
water.
The neighborhood deteriorated for decades, but in the
past few years it has undergone gentrification.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE B
Use context clues to find the meaning of each underlined word. Write
the meaning on the line provided.
1. I’m loyal to my friends and expect no perfidy from them.
2. Troy asked me if I wanted to go spelunking, but I don’t like caves.
3. Tony is gregarious, while Nick is reserved.
4. Winning the lottery transformed Yvette’s life, as she had been
impecunious since childhood.
5. We thought the decision would be consentaneous, but one person
didn’t agree.
EXERCISE C
1. Use context clues to identify the meaning of each underlined word
in the following passage.
Omar’s sangfroid gets him through many difficult situations.
Trevor, on the other hand, gets excitable and nervous during
misadventures. Omar evaluates the situation and takes care
of the most exigent problem. Trevor panics and starts running
around like a chicken with its head cut off.
2. If you have trouble determining a word’s meaning from context
clues, what other strategies can you use?
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Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 15
Providing Context Clues in Your Writing
As you know, you can use context clues to determine meaning as you
read or listen. You can also provide context clues in your own writing
to help your reader understand your meaning.
Remember that context clues allow you to compare or contrast an
unfamiliar word to words that are familiar. Comparison clues help
show the meaning of the word through restatement, apposition, and
examples. Contrast clues show differences between words.
I scolded my brother for his quixotic behavior, but he said there
was nothing he could do—being a foolish romantic was just in his
nature. (restatement)
Dickens’s Great Expectations can be described as a bildungsroman,
a novel about growing up. (apposition)
Becky tried to read the note to herself quietly, but it was so alarming
that she kept accidentally blurting out interjections like “Dear me!”
and “Oh, my!”(examples)
Word of the Week
conjecture (k@n jek> ch@r)
n., inference from defective or
assumed evidence; conclusion
deduced by guesswork
The defense lawyer objected to
the prosecutor’s argument, calling
it nothing but conjecture.
Conjecture comes from the
Latin conjectus, meaning “throw
together.”
Context clues compare or
contrast the word you do
not know to other words you do
know.
Tip
The voters thought the politician was honest, but he was actually
quite mendacious. (contrast clues)
Three main types of
comparison context clues
are restatement, apposition
(the renaming of something in
different words), and examples.
Tip
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Write a sentence using each of the following words, providing
comparison or contrast clues to show the meaning of the word.
1. lucidly
2. derision
3. misappropriate
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Just for Fun
Make up three or four words.
Then write a sentence using each
made-up word, providing context
clues to show the word’s meaning.
4. unvanquished
5. opulence
When you are finished, share one
of your sentences with the class to
see if they can guess the meaning
of the made-up word.
miglackish (meaning: having
glowing white teeth)
Maude always had dull, yellowishgray teeth—but now that she uses
Toothbrite brand polish, she is
positively miglackish!
Why would you use context clues in your writing? For the same reasons
other writers do—so your audience will understand your meaning. If
you are using a recently coined word, a piece of jargon, or another term
you think may be unclear, context clues can clarify your meaning.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE B
Write a paragraph about a subject you know well, such as a favorite
activity or hobby. Imagine that your audience does not know much
about this topic. Use context clues in your paragraph to help your
reader understand any special terms you use. If appropriate, include
other clues, such as diagrams or pictures.
Just for Fun
Make a crossword puzzle out of ten to fifteen words from your word
study notebook. For each crossword clue, write a sentence that contains
context clues, leaving a blank for the word. When you are finished,
swap puzzles with a partner.
example
Across
1. I tried to _______ my brother into letting me borrow
his CD player, but he refused.
C A
1
38
J
O
L
E
4/15/09 12:47:37 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
Using Context Clues
Use context clues to identify the meaning of the underlined word.
_____ 1. Some days Nana speaks lucidly;
other days we don’t know what she is
talking about.
A. lightly
B. coherently
C. strangely
D. simply
_____ 6. The animosity between the neighbors
began as minor discord two years
ago.
A. hatred
B. debate
C. conflict
D. agreement
_____ 2. Don’t be pusillanimous! Have the
courage of your convictions.
A. brave
B. wishy-washy
C. foolish
D. cowardly
_____ 7. A pro and con chart may help you
overcome incertitude.
A. certainty
B. problem
C. indecision
D. sureness
_____ 3. Ivan was never sure what to expect
from Levi and his mercurial moods.
A. constant
B. ever-changing
C. continually worsening
D. dark
_____ 8. Yolanda is normally loquacious, so
having laryngitis is driving her crazy.
A. quiet
B. talkative
C. healthy
D. taciturn
_____ 4. The owl is a nocturnal animal; the
wolf is a diurnal one.
A. furry
B. travels on foot
C. active at night
D. active during the day
_____ 9. Stella was rich in friends but
materially impecunious.
A. extremely poor
B. mean-spirited
C. wealthy
D. driven by impulse
_____ 5. After a long illness, Corinne’s
once plump frame was bony and
emaciated.
A. gaunt
B. healthy
C. shriveled
D. decimated
_____ 10. Ms. Mohegan refused to capitulate
to the students’ demand for an
extension.
A. capitalize on
B. give in to
C. approve
D. allow
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Identify the type of context clue you could use to identify the meaning of the
underlined word in each of the following sentences.
_____ 11. Carla used to care about her grades,
but lately she has been apathetic.
A. comparison
B. contrast
C. cause and effect
D. example
_____ 12. Gordon uttered a malediction upon
his brother, an angry curse that
worried everyone.
A. apposition
B. example
C. comparison
D. cause and effect
_____ 13. Have your selections and credit
card ready to expedite the ordering
process.
A. contrast
B. restatement
C. apposition
D. cause and effect
_____ 14. Louis has an affinity for the trumpet,
while Tim loves the tuba.
A. comparison
B. contrast
C. cause and effect
D. example
40
_____ 15. Kobe’s arrogance became even more
insufferable after he won top honors
in the exhibition.
A. example
B. contrast
C. cause and effect
D. restatement
_____ 16. Raising taxes is a perennial political
hot topic like gun control and
national defense.
A. apposition
B. example
C. cause and effect
D. contrast
_____ 17. Eliza worked hard to foment
the discussion by asking a lot of
meaningful open-ended questions.
A. cause and effect
B. restatement
C. comparison
D. example
_____ 18. Sheer tenacity kept Lu going,
although everyone thought she would
quit.
A. comparison
B. contrast
C. cause and effect
D. example
4/15/09 12:47:38 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 16
Spelling Review
Spelling and vocabulary go hand in hand. To use new words in writing,
you need to know how to spell them. Learning the following common
patterns will help you improve your spelling and your ability to
proofread for spelling errors.
Adding Affixes
Adding prefixes and suffixes often causes spelling errors. When adding
a prefix, do not change the spelling of the word itself.
examples
un- + noticed = unnoticed
pre- + establish = preestablish
The spelling of most words is not changed when the suffix -ment,
-ness, or -ly is added.
examples
enjoy + -ment = enjoyment
sloppy + -ness = sloppiness
If you are adding a suffix that begins with a vowel to a word that ends
with a silent e, you should usually drop the e. If you are adding a suffix
that begins with a consonant to a word that ends with a silent e, you
should usually leave the e in place.
examples
vindicate (vin> d@ k6t) v., prove
correct
Ari knew that finding the missing
bike would vindicate Tomas,
who desperately needed the
vindication.
The suffix -ion means “action or
process.” When adding this suffix
to the word vindicate, make sure
to drop the silent e since the suffix
begins with a vowel. This will
create the noun vindication, which
means “an act of vindicating” or
“the state of being vindicated.”
appease + -ment = appeasement
open + -ness = openness
reclusive + -ly = reclusively
If you are adding a suffix to a word that ends with y, and that y follows
a vowel, you should usually leave the y in place. If the y follows a
consonant, you should change the y to i.
examples
Word of the Week
captive + -ity = captivity
corrosive + -ly = corrosively
When adding a suffix
that begins with a vowel
to a word that ends in silent e,
you should usually drop the e.
However, there are exceptions
to this pattern. The e must be
kept when a word ends in ce or
ge, in order to preserve the soft
c and g sounds. (How would
you pronounce noticable and
couragous?)
Tip
notice + -able = noticeable
advantage + -ous = advantageous
Try It Yourself
courage + -ous = courageous
EXERCISE A
Read the following sentences and rewrite any word with spelling errors.
1. The leader acted decisivly.
2. The nonative members of the community were unaware of the
history of the square.
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4/15/09 12:47:38 PM
The following rhyme may
help you remember when
to spell words ei and when to
spell them ie.
Tip
“Write I before E
Except after C
Or when it sounds like an A
As in neighbor and weigh.”
There are many exceptions to this
rule! A few of them are the words
seize, either, neither, weird, and
height. However, the rule does
hold true for most words that have
the long e sound, as in shriek and
ceiling.
The spelling of most
words is not changed
when the suffix -ment, -ness, or
-ly is added. If there is a silent e, it
is usually not dropped before any
suffix beginning with a consonant.
However, there are a few
exceptions, such as the following:
Tip
acknowledge + -ment =
acknowledgment
judge + -ment = judgment
argue + -ment = argument
true + -ly = truly
3. I personaly recommend the cheesecake.
4. The fancyly dressed diners were out of place in the casual
restaurant.
5. We noticed some iregularities in the test results.
More Spelling Patterns
When a word is spelled with the letters i and e and has the long e sound,
it is most likely spelled ie, except after the letter c.
examples
thief, relieve, yield
ceiling, conceive, receipt
The only word in the English language that ends in -sede is supersede.
Only the following three words end in -ceed: exceed, proceed, and
succeed. Every other word that ends with the “seed” sound is spelled
-cede.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE B
Correct any spelling errors in the sentences below.
1. All of the procedes from the dance will go to charity.
2. Did you try to decieve me?
3. Paul was forced to conceed the point.
4. The mediator interseeded when the two parties began to fight
again.
5. Sheila was siezed by greif when her best freind’s campaign did not
succede.
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Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 17
Word of the Week
Contractions
temerity (t@ m6r> @ t7) n.,
recklessness
Contractions are commonly used in both verbal and written
communication. A contraction is formed by combining a pronoun and a
verb or the words in a verb phrase. One or more letters are removed and
replaced with an apostrophe. Consider the following statement: We’ll try
to help your new dog, but she doesn’t seem very friendly. The statement
contains two contractions we’ll (“we will”) and doesn’t (does not).
The most commonly used contractions are formed from the
pronouns I, you, we, he, she, and they with the verbs have, will, and are.
These include:
I’m (I am)
I’ve (I have)
I’ll (I will)
I’d (I would)
you’re (you are)
you’ve (you have)
you’ll (you will)
we’re (we are)
we’ve (we have)
we’ll (we will)
Lisa was known for her temerity
and many people didn’t trust her.
The word temerity is from the
Middle English word temeryte,
from the Latin word termeritas,
and from temere, meaning
“blindly, recklessly,” which is akin
to the Old High German word
demar, meaning “darkness.”
he’ll (he will)
she’ll (she will)
they’re (they are)
they’ve (they have)
they’ll (they will)
Commonly used contractions that are formed from verb phrases and
not include:
isn’t (is not)
wasn’t (was not)
won’t (will not)
don’t (do not)
didn’t (did not)
doesn’t (does not)
can’t (can not)
shouldn’t (should not)
Contractions versus Possessives
Contractions are sometimes mistakenly used as possessives to show
ownership. Look at the following two sentences and consider which one
uses possessives correctly.
example
The cat ate from it’s bowl.
The cat ate from its bowl.
When in doubt, break the contraction into its separate words. If you do
this for the example above, you will discover that the first line makes
no sense: “The cat ate from it is bowl.” The second sentence is correct.
Other commonly confused contractions and possessives include:
Possessive Form
its
their
your
whose
Contraction
it’s (it is)
they’re (they are)
you’re (you are)
who’s (who is)
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The contractions of the
pronouns he, she, and it
with is are:
Tip
he is (he’s)
she is (she’s)
it is (it’s)
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Rewrite the following sentences. Correct any misuse of contractions or
possessives.
1. Do you know who’s bag is blocking the door?
The possessive forms of he, she,
and it are:
2. Despite the dog’s many attempts, its not able to get its bone.
his
her
its
3. They’re wasting they’re time with you and you’re house.
4. Whose watching the kids after school?
5. I think you might be displeased with your results because your too
picky.
Formal vs. Informal
Using contractions in everyday speech and writing is common and
appropriate; however, contractions are informal by nature and should
not be used in most academic writing. Keep this in mind when you are
writing classroom assignments, letters, and your college applications.
Try to match your tone and word choices to the specific task. Knowing
when to use informal and formal language is half the battle; the second
half is using this language correctly.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE B
Remove all of the contractions from the following paragraph to make it
more formal. Rewrite the revised paragraph on the lines given.
I can’t be responsible for the decline of my grade point average.
Who among you hasn’t encountered a stressful time that caused
you to lose focus on your goals? It’s complicated, so I’d rather
not discuss the situation further. I hope this doesn’t affect my
acceptance into the university. I’ve been waiting to attend the
university all my life and I hope that you’ll accept my application.
44
4/15/09 12:47:39 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 18
Common Spelling Errors
Many people sound out words to determine how to spell them. While
using a word’s pronunciation can be helpful, it is an unreliable method
of spelling. Many words are not spelled the way they are pronounced,
and other words are commonly pronounced incorrectly, which can
cause spelling errors such as using extra syllables. An example of this
problem is the word foundry, which means “an establishment where
founding is carried; or the act, art, or process of casting metals.” This
word is often mistakenly pronounced with three syllables (foun-der-y)
when it should be pronounced with only two (foun-dry). Pronouncing
foundry with three syllables might lead a person spell it with an
unnecessary e.
People can also misspell words because one or more letters are silent
in the pronunciation of the word. Note the list below—the underlined
letters are not always heard in the common pronunciations of the words.
esthetic
gratitude
literature
mischievous
candidate
sophomore
Words that share the same pronunciation but are spelled differently are
called homophones. Homophones are one of the main problems with
using pronunciation to spell words—accidentally using the wrong word
can be confusing to your readers. Try to familiarize yourself with the
following list of homophones. If you realize a word is a homophone,
you are less likely to spell it incorrectly. If you are unsure of the correct
form to use, consult a dictionary.
Her rapt attention could not be
turned from the circus performer.
The word rapt is a homophone.
It shares the same pronunciation
with wrapped, which means “to
cover, surround, or envelope.”
Knowing common homophones
will help you avoid common
misspellings.
Pay attention to both
letters that spell sounds
and letters that are silent. Doing so
can improve some aspects of your
spelling. Always check a dictionary
for the correct pronunciations and
spellings of words that are new to
you.
Homographs are the
opposite of homophones.
A homograph is a word
that has the same spelling as
another word, but a different
pronunciation. The words bow
(b9<) and bow (ba1<) are
homographs.
Tip
Homophones
examples
rapt (rapt) adj., wholly absorbed;
lifted up and carried away
Tip
Omitted Sounds
examples
Word of the Week
ascent/assent
bear/bare
brake/break
capital/capitol
coarse/course
night/knight
pair/pear
peace/piece
plain/plane
site/sight/cite
sole/soul
some/sum
wait/weight
who’s/whose
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There are probably a few
words that you habitually
forget how to spell. Make up a
rhyme or another trick to help you
remember the correct spellings of
these words. For example, if you
get confused about the positions
of the i and the e in friend,
remember “A good friend is there
to the end.”
Tip
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Read the following sentences. Underline the correct homophone in
each pair based on the context of the sentence. You may refer to a
dictionary if necessary.
example
You should be (aloud/allowed) to read the answers
(aloud/allowed) in class.
1. You can (hear/here) the band better from over (hear/here).
2. Prudence wanted to (compliment/complement) Hiro on his new
coat because it (complimented/complemented) his eyes.
3. Niles (lead/led) the group past the marble staircase and straight to
the (lead/led) door.
4. Candace (threw/through) the baseball (threw/through) the
window and ran away as quickly as possible.
5. Before we say “(buy/bye/by)” for the weekend, would you go (buy/
bye/by) the store and (buy/bye/by) me some eggs?
While your word
processor’s spell-check
function may help you identify
some misspelled words, it cannot
replace a good eye and attention
to detail. Consider the following
sentence: “I herd that she has bin
weighting for you four many daze.”
Spell-check would not recognize
these errors, but a person
proofreading your writing would.
Never rely on your computer to
find every spelling error.
Tip
EXERCISE B
Choose ten words from the lists above or from your own list of
troublesome spelling words. Make up a saying or image to help you
remember the correct spelling of each word. Write or draw your ideas
in the space below. Continue on your own paper if necessary.
Just for Fun
Write a short note using phonetic spelling (spelling words the way they
sound) to see how different things look when you don’t use correct
spelling. For example, you might write the following to your pal Doug:
Hay Dug,
Thot I wud rite yu a not, becuz yu r a gud frend.
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4/15/09 12:47:40 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
Spelling Patterns
Choose the word that is spelled correctly.
_____ 1. The candidate refused to ____ defeat
and demanded a recount.
A. concede
B. conceed
C. consede
D. conseed
_____ 7. The new regulations ____ the old
rules.
A. superceede
B. supersede
C. superceed
D. superseed
_____ 2. Cut ____ words and phrases from
your writing.
A. unecessary
B. unnecesary
C. unneccessary
D. unnecessary
_____ 8. Did it hurt when you had your
tongue ____?
A. piersed
B. pearced
C. pierced
D. peirced
_____ 3. Cal was ____ to hear that nobody was
hurt in the accident.
A. relieved
B. releived
C. releveed
D. relived
_____ 9. The article was filled with typos and
____ words.
A. mispelled
B. misspeled
C. misspelled
D. mispeled
_____ 4. Is the stain on my shirt ____?
A. noticable
B. noticeable
C. noticible
D. notiseable
_____ 10. Davis thanked us ____ for our help.
A. sinserely
B. sincerely
C. sincerly
D. sincereley
_____ 5. Gaby was ____ with the quality of the
officiating.
A. disatisfied
B. dissatisfyed
C. dissatisfied
D. disatisfyed
_____ 11. Uma is determined to ____, whatever
the cost.
A. succeed
B. suceed
C. succede
D. sucsede
_____ 6. Some people call baseball the national
____.
A. passtime
B. pasttime
C. pastime
D. pass time
_____ 12. The bell tinkled ____ whenever
somebody opened the door.
A. cheerrily
B. cheeryly
C. cheerilly
D. cheerily
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_____ 13. In all the hubbub, Ron’s gaffe went
____.
A. unoticed
B. unnoticed
C. unnoticeed
D. unnotised
_____ 14. I usually eat breakfast, but ____ I skip
it.
A. occaisonaly
B. occasionnally
C. ocasionally
D. occasionally
_____ 15. Tobias didn’t even notice that we had
____ the furniture.
A. rearranged
B. rearanged
C. reearranged
D. reearanged
_____ 16. Winning the gold medal was the
_____ of Sasha’s dreams.
A. fullfillment
B. fullfilment
C. fufillment
D. fulfillment
48
_____ 17. Kirby’s points were ____.
A. iluminateing
B. illuminating
C. iluminating
D. illuminatting
_____ 18. When Keshia gets ____ she turns
bright red.
A. embarassed
B. embarrassed
C. embarased
D. embarrased
_____ 19. It is ____ that you wouldn’t be
chosen for the team.
A. inconcievible
B. inconcievable
C. inconceiveable
D. inconceivable
_____ 20. The report was poorly organized and
filled with _____ information.
A. irrelevant
B. irelevant
C. irrellevant
D. irrelevent
4/15/09 12:47:41 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 19
Borrowed Words
America has been called the great melting pot, and American English
reflects the variety of backgrounds that have shaped the nation. Some
words have been borrowed outright from other languages and others
have been adapted for use in English. Below is a sampling of the
countless words English has adopted and adapted from languages all
over the world.
apartheid—Afrikaans
assassin—Arabic
bamboo—Malay
bazaar—Persian
banzai—Japanese
bonsai—Japanese
boomerang—Dhuruk (Australian
aboriginal language)
bungalow—Hindi
caravan—Persian
chutzpah—Yiddish
corgi—Welsh
cruise—Dutch
curry—Tamil
easel—Dutch
fjord—Norwegian
geyser—Icelandic
glasnost—Russian
gnu—Khoikhoi
gong—Malay and Java
guru—Hindi
haiku—Japanese
hula—Hawaiian
intelligentsia—Russian
karaoke—Japanese
khaki—Hindi
ketchup—Malay
kiosk—Turkish
kiwi—Maori
koala—Dhuruk
kvetch—Yiddish
lei—Hawaiian
mamba—Zulu
perestroika—Russian
saga—Old Norse
sauna—Finnish
sauerkraut—German
shalom—Hebrew
slalom—Norwegian
taboo—Tongan
tattoo—Tahitian
tea—Chinese
tycoon—Japanese
yacht—Dutch
Word of the Week
commissar (k5> m@ s5r<) n., a
Communist party official; one that
attempts to control public opinion
or expression
You should put away your protest
posters before the commissar
arrives.
Commissar is a Russian word
that has been used in the English
language since as early as 1918.
It was adapted from the Russian
word komissar, which comes from
the German word Kommissar
and the Medieval Latin word
commissarius.
Words taken from other
languages into English
are known as borrowed words.
A more accurate term might be
“stolen words,” because there’s no
chance that English speakers will
ever return them to their rightful
owners!
Tip
An etymology is the
origin and history of
a word. A good dictionary will
provide the etymology of most
words.
Tip
49
4/15/09 12:47:41 PM
Use context clues or
a dictionary to find the
meaning of words borrowed from
other languages.
Tip
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Choose five words from the list on the previous page. Use a dictionary
to be sure you understand the meaning of each. Then write a sentence
using each word.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Just for Fun
Make a “world of words” map
showing the countries or regions
where various words originated.
EXERCISE B
Use a dictionary to look up any words you do not know from the list on
the previous page. Then classify as many of them as possible into the
five categories given in the chart below.
Plants, Animals,
and People
50
Food and Drink
Places and
Buildings
Objects
4/15/09 12:47:42 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 20
Greek and Latin Words
The English language is comprised of many Greek and Latin word
roots. In fact, it would be difficult to write a sentence without using
words that contain Greek or Latin origins. Below are some Greek and
Latin word roots that appear often in the English language, along with
their meanings and examples of how they are used.
Language
Latin
Greek
Word Root
dom/domin
cept
scrib/script
val
archa/archae
bi
cardi
dyn
tele
Meaning
house, master
to take, seize
to write
worthy
ancient, beginning
life
heart
force, power
from afar
Examples
domesticated, dominate
intercept, receptive
description, prescribe
valuable, valiant
archetype, archaic
biology
cardiologist
dynamic
television, telescope
Word of the Week
ascetic (@ set> ik) adj., selfdenying, severe
The headmistress wore only the
most ascetic clothing.
The English word ascetic has
Greek origins. It is derived from
the word aske–tikos, literally
meaning “laborious,” from aske–te–s
meaning “one that exercises,
hermit,” and from askein, meaning
“to work, exercise.”
The practice of borrowing words from other languages is common in
the English language. To discover the origins of a word, you should
research its etymology. Etymology is the study of word origins.
Etymologies can be found in most regular dictionaries as well as
in specific etymological dictionaries. In a regular dictionary, this
information is often enclosed in brackets near the start of the dictionary
entry, following the pronunciation guide.
While many English words are derived from Greek and Latin, some
Greek and Latin words are also commonly used within the English
language.
Greek Words
acropolis
agora
anathema
anemia
ethos
eureka
genesis
kudos
phobia
plethora
Latin Words
actor
agenda
census
diploma
interim
minimum
sponsor
stadium
tutor
veto
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Many scientific words
have Greek roots. The
word part -logy means “theory”
or “science.” Examples of its
use include the words biology,
archaeology, and cardiology.
Tip
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Select five words from the two lists above and write a sentence using
each of them. Consult a dictionary if you do not know the definition of
a word. Write your sentences on the lines below, or use your notebook
if you need more space.
EXERCISE B
Look up the etymology of each of the words listed below using a
dictionary, etymology dictionary, or by researching the word on
the Internet. An abbreviation guide found at the beginning of most
dictionaries will help you translate the entries. Briefly describe each
word’s etymology on the lines given. Note the words that have Greek or
Latin origins.
1. apathy
2. circumvent
3. dwindle
4. effigy
5. ravine
52
4/15/09 12:47:42 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 21
French and Spanish Words
As you know, English has borrowed and incorporated words from
other languages. Numerous words and phrases from French and
Spanish have been incorporated into English. Listed below are some
words that have been borrowed from French.
avant-garde
besiege
bizarre
bourgeois
café
chef
cuisine
debacle
debut
etiquette
gourmet
grotesque
liberty
marauder
mirage
passport
revenue
vignette
Word of the Week
menagerie (m@ na> j@ r7) n.,
collection of wild or exotic animals
We hurried to the animal exhibit,
not wanting to miss the new
menagerie.
The English word menagerie is
borrowed from the French word
ménagerie, which comes from
the Middle French meaning
“management of a household or
farm.” What other English words
can you think of that are borrowed
from French words?
Listed below are some words that have been borrowed from Spanish.
aficionado
alligator
arsenal
bravado
cafeteria
cargo
cocoa
guacamole
hurricane
launch
llama
mosquito
patio
renegade
stampede
tornado
vanilla
vigilante
Words taken from other
languages into English
are known as borrowed words,
although it might be more
accurate to call them “adopted” or
even “stolen!”
Tip
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Choose five words that you know from the lists above. Write a sentence
using each word.
1.
Use context clues and
a dictionary to find the
meanings of words borrowed from
other languages. Use a dictionary
to check the pronunciation.
Tip
2.
3.
4.
5.
53
4/15/09 12:47:43 PM
The initials RSVP on
an invitation stand for
répondez s’il vous plaît, or “please
reply.” It means you should let the
host know if you can attend.
Tip
Choose five words you do not know from the lists above. Use a
dictionary to find the meaning of the word. Write each word and its
definition on the lines below.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Just for Fun
On your own paper, write a scene
for a play or a descriptive paragraph.
Use as many words borrowed from
French as you can. Underline each
borrowed word or phrase.
10.
EXERCISE B
Use context clues to determine the meaning of each underlined Spanish
word. Write a definition for each word in your notebook.
1. The vigilante was a popular hero, but his lawless actions landed
him in jail.
2. I haven’t heard from Chantal in ages. She’s been incommunicado.
3. Coatsworth is a renegade with no regard for the law.
4. There’s no time to waste. Let’s get going pronto!
5. Ben is a racing aficionado—he watches racing, reads about racers,
and even races himself.
EXERCISE C
Some French terms used in English are not translated, nor is a wordfor-word translation necessary. Use context clues to determine the
meaning of each of the underlined French phrases. Write a definition
for each phrase in your notebook.
1. Priya was embarrassed by her faux pas.
2. Drake has given us carte blanche to do whatever it takes to get the
project done.
3. Clarice waved bon voyage from the platform as the plane took off.
4. The writer’s first novel was hailed as a tour de force, but his second
was considered shallow and derivative.
5. Renée is filled with a joie de vivre that infects others around her
with happiness and optimism.
54
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Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 22
Native American Words
As you know, English has borrowed and incorporated words from
other languages. English borrows words from numerous Native
American languages. Because the Spanish and French had contact with
many Native American peoples, some Native American words entered
English through Spanish or French.
Many of the words borrowed from Native American languages
refer to plants, animals, or the foods taken from these plants and
animals that were native to the New World, and therefore unfamiliar to
and unnamed by Europeans. Below are listed some animal names from
Native American languages.
chipmunk
condor
cougar
coyote
moose
muskrat
opossum
raccoon
skunk
sockeye
toucan
woodchuck
These are some plant and food names from Native American languages.
avocado
cashew
cayenne
papaya
pecan
pemmican
persimmon
petunia
potato
squash
succotash
tapioca
tomato
Word of the Week
bayou (b8> 2) n., a creek,
secondary watercourse, or minor
river that is tributary to another
body of water; any of various
usually marshy or sluggish bodies
of water
The tourists took a boat tour
through a Louisiana bayou.
Bayou comes from the Choctaw
word bayuk, meaning “river
forming part of a delta.” It came
into English during the 18th
century.
Just for Fun
Use the Internet to find other
words borrowed from Native
American languages.
Use context clues or a
dictionary to determine
the meaning of unfamiliar words
borrowed from Native American
languages.
Tip
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Choose five of the animals or plants listed above. Look up each word in
a dictionary to learn more about its etymology, or origins. Write which
Native American language the word comes from and whether the word
entered English through another language, such as Spanish.
1.
2.
3.
4.
55
4/15/09 12:47:44 PM
Some Native American
words entered English
through Spanish or French. For
example, the word cannibal came
through Spanish.
Tip
5.
In addition to plant and animal terms, other words have been
borrowed. Here are some examples.
Aleut/Inuit
anorak
igloo
kayak
parka
Just for Fun
Make an illustrated glossary of
words borrowed from Native
American languages. Use clippings
from magazines or draw or paint
illustrations for several of the plant
and animal words listed in this
lesson.
Algonquian
caucus
hickory
moccasin
powwow
toboggan
tomahawk
wampum
wigwam
Arawak
barbecue
mangrove
savannah
Carib
cannibal
canoe
Ojibwe
totem
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE B
You are probably familiar with many of the words listed above. Write a
definition for five of them. Use a dictionary to find the meaning of any
words you do not know.
1. Word
Definition
2. Word
Definition
Just for Fun
From which Native American
languages did the following place
names originate? What does each
name mean?
Chicago
Definition
4. Word
Definition
Kinnikinnik
Manhattan
5. Word
Minnesota
Definition
Mississippi
56
3. Word
4/15/09 12:47:44 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 23
Eponyms and Toponyms
While many words in the English language are derived or borrowed
from other languages, many also come from the names of people
or places. An eponym is a word derived from the name of a real or
fictitious person or place. The meaning of the word is usually related
to the person or place in some way. One type of eponym occurs when
a brand name becomes the generic term for a product. This is called
a proprietary eponym; the word proprietary means “belonging
exclusively to one person or organization.” A common proprietary
eponym is the word Kleenex. You might ask for a Kleenex when you are
really referring to facial tissue in general.
Word of the Week
Hoosier (h2> zh@r) n., a
nickname for a native or resident
of Indiana
Poet James Whitcomb Riley
became popular in large part due
to his quaint use of the Hoosier
dialect.
Although the origin of Hoosier is
uncertain, it may have derived from
“hoozer,” a slang term meaning
“anything large of its kind.”
examples
Heimlich maneuver—named for Henry Heimlich, a physician and
the possible inventor of the abdominal thrusts now known as the
Heimlich maneuver.
Frisbee—the most well-known brand name of a flying disc that has
become a proprietary eponym for the activity as well as the disc itself.
Try It Yourself
A fancy word for place
names is toponyms
(from the Greek topos, meaning
“place,” and -onym, meaning
“name”).
Tip
EXERCISE A
Research each of the following eponyms to determine what they mean
and on whose name they are based.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Asperger syndrome
Marxism
Salisbury steak
Ferris wheel
Parkinson’s disease
Toponyms
Another way of saying “place names” is the word toponyms, from the
Greek topos, meaning “place,” and -onym, meaning “name.” Toponyms
are often derived from other words, places, or ideas. They can even be
eponyms. For example, the city of Lincoln, Nebraska, is named after
President Abraham Lincoln. Place names in the United States reflect
Native American heritage and the history of European settlement. For
example, the names of the states come from Native American words;
English, Spanish, French, and Dutch words; and from the names of
important figures in American history.
Just for Fun
Think about people you know
or famous people you know
about. Consider the qualities you
associate with them and come up
with an eponym based on their
name. For each word you create,
explain its definition.
Katy Fress: fressor, noun, meaning
“someone who works well with
others”
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4/15/09 12:47:45 PM
Just for Fun
If you were asked to rename your
town or city, what would you
name it? Why?
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE B
Can you guess where each state name came from? Use a dictionary to
check your responses. Write the source and what the name means on
the line provided.
1. Louisiana
2. Washington
3. Pennsylvania
Many common elements
in place names can be
traced back to Anglo-Saxon and
Viking origins. For example, town
names that end in boro, borough,
or burgh come from Anglo-Saxon
words meaning “an old fortified
site.” The suffix -ton, also found in
many town names, means “farm”
or “settlement.” Below are some
more suffixes commonly used in
place names.
Tip
-ville
-dale
-field
-ham (from an Anglo-Saxon word
meaning “homestead”)
4. Vermont
5. Montana
6. Idaho
7. Minnesota
8. Rhode Island
9. Massachusetts
10. Hawaii
The names of cities, as well as the names of natural landmarks, also
came from a variety of sources. Many rivers, lakes, and mountains, as
well as some of our biggest cities, took Native American names. Other
cities, such as East Berlin, Pennsylvania, and Memphis, Tennessee, were
named after the great cities of the Old World. When naming the infant
cities and colonies after familiar places back home, settlers often added
the qualifier “New,” as in New York, New Jersey, and New England.
-by (from the Viking word for
“farm” or “village”)
-worth (from the Anglo-Saxon
word for “farm”)
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4/15/09 12:47:45 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
Borrowed Words
Choose the word pair that best completes each sentence.
_____ 1. When somebody is leaving on a trip
you might say _____ or _____.
A. adios … bon vivant
B. banzai … bon voyage
C. shalom … tour de force
D. adios … bon voyage
_____ 2. The woman in the teal ski _____
racing through the _____ is my aunt.
A. poncho … bazaar
B. parka … slalom
C. sombrero … karaoke
D. anorak … hula
_____ 3. We rest during our midday _____
and meet our neighbors in the _____
in the evening.
A. fiesta … patio
B. siesta … plaza
C. piñata … ranch
D. powwow … yacht
_____ 6. Ryan’s _____ are especially
noticeable when compared to
Gretchen’s _____.
A. faux pas … coup de grace
B. causes célèbres … faux pas
C. savoir faire … carte blanche
D. faux pas … savoir faire
_____ 7. Yorick is a(n) _____ of _____; he
loves the simple, three-line poems.
A. bon vivant … tango
B. de rigueur … bourgeois
C. aficionado … haiku
D. guru … carte blanche
_____ 8. Have you and Lorne had a(n) _____
or is he still _____?
A. intelligentsia … nada
B. glasnost … apartheid
C. tête-à-tête … incommunicado
D. powwow … laissez-faire
_____ 4. The _____ and the _____ are both
kinds of dances.
A. tango … hula
B. mamba … vogue
C. tango … mamba
D. hula … chutzpah
_____ 9. The _____ staged a _____ to
overthrow the old regime.
A. guerillas … coup de grâce
B. renegades … perestroika
C. machos … caravan
D. guerillas … coup d’état
_____ 5. The new _____ policy removed the
old _____ on trade with China.
A. glasnost … embargo
B. coup d’état … intelligentsia
C. apartheid … bonanza
D. laissez-faire … embargo
_____ 10. The newly rich _____ bought a _____
to sail around the world.
A. guru … canoe
B. tycoon … yacht
C. aficionado … caravan
D. vigilante … cul-de-sac
59
4/15/09 12:47:46 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 24
Word of the Week
enmity (en> mi t7) n., active
(usually mutual) hatred or ill will
Their relationship contained a sort
of enmity that no one else could
resolve.
The word enmity comes from the
Middle English word enmite, from
the Anglo-French words enemité
and enemisté, which come
from enemi, meaning “enemy.”
Synonyms include the words
hostility, hate, and antagonism.
Which of these synonyms seems
the most informal?
Keep your audience in
mind when choosing
the kind of language you use in
speech or writing.
Tip
Informal language
includes colloquialisms,
slang, and nonstandard grammar.
Colloquialisms are informal
expressions used in everyday
speech, such as hit the hay or
get off my back. Slang is colorful,
extremely informal speech made
up of invented words (such as
bling bling) or old words that are
given new meaning (such as tight
for “great” or “stylish”). Slang is
often associated with a particular
group of people and is not
understood by everyone.
Register
A register is a subset of a language usage specific to a particular
relationship between people. You would use different registers to talk to
a grandparent, a judge, a child under your care, and a friend. The words
you use, the grammar you employ, and your tone of voice will change
depending on the register you use. Careful speakers and writers use a
register appropriate for their audience. Register includes both formal
and informal language.
Formal and Informal Language
Most speeches, papers for school, and business communication use
formal English. Formal language avoids colloquialisms and slang and
uses standard grammar.
Most communication with friends and acquaintances and some
creative writing uses informal English. Informal language may use
colloquialisms, slang, and nonstandard grammatical constructions.
Conversational language tends to be informal. Sometimes errors in formal
writing occur because people write things as they would speak them.
formal language
Jed does not appear to be competent in
his current position.
informal language
It looks like Jed is in way over his head.
(uses a colloquialism)
Jed is screwing up big time because he is
totally clueless. (uses slang)
Tip
60
Jed don’t know what he be doing in that
job. (uses nonstandard grammar)
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
In your notebook, write two short descriptions of a book you have
recently read or a movie you have seen. Write the first description to
be evaluated by your teacher, using formal English. Write the second
description using informal English to be read by a friend.
4/15/09 12:47:46 PM
Jargon and Gobbledygook
Jargon is the specialized vocabulary used by members of a profession
or field. It tends to be difficult for people outside the profession to
understand. A plumber may speak of a “hubless fitting” or a “street
elbow” (kinds of pipe). A computer programmer may talk of “RAM
cache” (part of a computer’s memory) or a “shell” (a type of operating
software for computers). Avoid using jargon with a general audience. If
you must use it, define terms that may be unfamiliar to your audience.
Gobbledygook is unclear, wordy jargon sometimes used by
bureaucrats, government officials, and others to mask the truth. For
example, instead of admitting that her administration intends to raise
taxes, a bureaucrat might say, “we intend to proactively maximize
voluntary revenue income.” Gobbledygook may also simply be
the unintentional result of overblown, verbose writing. Effective
communication involves using precise language instead of muddy,
vague jargon.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE B
With the help of a partner, translate each of the following examples
of jargon or gobbledygook into ordinary language. You may need to
consult a dictionary.
Jargon is a set of
technical or specialized
language related to a particular
field. Like slang, it should be
avoided in certain situations
because it cannot be understood
by everyone.
Tip
Just for Fun
Write a dialogue between you and
a friend that uses an inappropriate
or unusual register.
1. We propose a multi-agency project catering for holistic
diversionary provision to preadolescents and adolescents for
positive action linked to the community safety strategy and the
pupil referral unit.
2. Your perusal of the aforementioned contract is cordially requested
(a copy whereof together with the map included therein is enclosed
herewith).
3. It has come to our attention that our manufacturing processes
have produced a byproduct which has not been disposed of in the
most environmentally friendly way.
61
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Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 25
Word of the Week
kibosh (k-> b5sh, ki b5sh>) n.,
something that puts a stop or
check on
We were going to have a picnic,
but the sudden hailstorm put the
kibosh on that.
The origin of the word kibosh is
unknown, but it has been in the
language since at least 1836.
The phrase “put the kibosh
on [something]” is a colloquial
expression. That is, it is an informal
expression used in everyday
speech, and is not appropriate for
formal occasions.
Colloquialisms are
informal expressions used
in everyday speech.
Tip
Colloquial Language
Colloquialisms are informal expressions used in everyday speech.
These expressions are appropriate for day-to-day situations
when communicating with people we know well. Colloquial, or
conversational, style is not appropriate for all situations, however. Avoid
using colloquialisms in situations where formal English is required.
Look at the following chart for some examples of colloquial
expressions and their formal counterparts.
Colloquialisms
How’s it going?
nuts
stuffed
beat
in the dumps
bellyaching
Formal Language
How are you?
insane
full
tired
depressed
complaining
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Rewrite each sentence, replacing each colloquialism with a more formal
phrase.
1. Rima was fed up with Priti’s constant tardiness.
Slang is informal
language characterized by
coined words, words with changed
meanings, and irregular grammar.
Tip
2. What’s eating you?
3. Martine was floored by Dillon’s demands.
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4/15/09 12:47:47 PM
Rewrite each formal sentence to include a colloquialism.
4. The pecan pie is excellent.
5. What you propose is absolutely impossible!
6. Louis got angry when Laurel criticized him.
Slang
Slang is very informal language characterized by coined words,
words with changed meanings, and irregular spellings and grammar.
Slang is often associated with a particular group of people and is not
understood by everyone. It changes frequently as new words are coined
and old words are put to new use. Slang is not appropriate in formal
writing or speech. Careful use of slang in creative works can provide
a contemporary flair, but it can also date a work or be offputting to
readers who are not familiar with the slang.
Slang
go ape
out to lunch
chill out
Formal Language
become frenzied or uncontrolled
out of touch with reality
calm down; relax
Just for Fun
Talk to people who are older than
you. Find out what slang words
were popular when they were
your age. Make a slang dictionary,
including the words you learned
from people of other ages and
words you use.
You may find dictionaries of slang
terms on the Internet or at your
library. One book that contains
slang popular in different eras is
the following:
Flappers 2 Rappers: American
Youth Slang by Tom Dalzell.
Springfield, MA: Merriam-Webster,
1996.
Many slang words or
expressions start as slang
and then become colloquialisms.
Some finally do become part of
standard English. In other words,
terms that were once considered
“radical” can be accepted into
“normal” language over time.
Tip
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE B
Write a brief dialogue between you and a friend including colloquialisms
and slang. Then rewrite the dialogue using standard English.
63
4/15/09 12:47:47 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 26
Word of the Week
Academic Language
synthesize (sin[t]> th@ s8z) v.,
to combine or bring together into
a whole
We have synthesized the data
from the surveys and concluded
that the majority of people in St.
Paul, Minnesota prefer vanilla ice
cream over chocolate mint.
Evaluate
To synthesize means to sift through
a quantity of information and make
a conclusion, or general statement,
based on that information. You
may be asked to synthesize
information in any one of your
academic classes. Do not confuse
synthesize with summarize, which
means to retell very briefly, stating
only the main points.
Tip
A fact is something that
can be proven.
An opinion is a statement that
can be supported but not proven.
In an essay, you will
present a thesis, or the
main idea or position you will take.
You will then prove or support
your thesis throughout the essay.
Tip
Understanding certain terms will help you in your schoolwork and
when taking standardized tests. Many of these words are related to skills
that have applications outside of schoolwork, too.
Evaluating is the process of judging something. Evaluate sources that
you use in research to make sure they are unbiased, reliable, and timely.
Evaluate news and commentary that you read or hear. Determine
whether statements are fact or opinion. A fact is something that can
be proven. An opinion is a statement that can be supported but not
proven. A bias is a prejudice or unreasoned judgment.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Identify each of the following as fact or opinion.
_____ 1. Toni Morrison received the Nobel Prize for literature in
1993.
_____ 2. Toni Morrison is the greatest American writer of this
century.
_____ 3. Toni Morrison’s work accurately portrays the hopes and
dreams of modern Americans.
Organize
You will often be asked to organize information. There are a number of
ways to organize information. These are just a few terms you may see
that ask you to organize:
Classify
Put into classes, or categories, based on similar
characteristics
Outline
Identify the main points in a logical order
Order/sequence Put events or steps in the order in which they happen
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE B
Choose a unit from a literature textbook or anthology. Classify the
literary selections by criteria of your choice, for example by genre or by
theme. Write your response in your notebook.
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Critical Thinking Skills
The following are some types of critical thinking skills you may be
asked to employ while reading, writing, or reasoning.
Generalize
Make a broad statement based on one or more
particular observations
Infer
Come to a conclusion based on evidence
Hypothesize
Make an educated guess about a cause or effect
Predict
Make a reasonable guess about what will happen
Analyze
Break something down into parts and think about how
the parts are related to each other and to the whole
Synthesize
Bring everything you have considered together into a
whole
Read an essay question
carefully to make sure you
know what you are being asked
to do.
Tip
When facing an essay
question, take some time
to organize your ideas before you
begin writing.
Tip
Plagiarism is the serious
offense of taking someone
else’s words or thoughts and
presenting them as your own. To
avoid plagiarism, put ideas into your
own words or use quotation marks.
Tip
Essay Words
A thesis statement is a sentence that presents the main idea or position
you will take in an essay. You will then prove or support your thesis
throughout the essay. Following are some key words you may find in an
essay question and an explanation of each key word.
Compare/Contrast
Identify and describe similarities and
differences
Describe/Explain
Tell the steps in a process; identify causes
and effects
Define/Describe/Identify Classify and tell the features of
Interpret
Tell the meaning and significance of
Summarize
Retell very briefly, stating only the main
points
Argue/Prove/Show
Tell and evaluate reasons for believing in a
statement
In either case, you must
document your sources, or give
credit to the person whose ideas
you are using. You do this by
placing a note in the text to cite
your source.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE C
For each of the following essay questions, write a thesis statement and
outline the points you would use to support it. Use your own paper.
1. Compare and contrast e-mail to another form of communication.
Name the benefits and drawbacks of each form.
2. Analyze Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. Identify the
rhetorical devices he uses and discuss the overall effect of the
speech.
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Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
Register, Colloquialisms, and Academic Language
Read the following sentences and identify whether they are informal or
formal. Place the corresponding letter on the blank provided.
_____ 1. Would you like to join me for dinner?
A. formal
B. informal
_____ 2. It is not important to me.
A. formal
B. informal
_____ 3. Stefan can’t see the other side of the
issue.
A. formal
B. informal
_____ 4. William does not appear to be
welcome at the party.
A. formal
B. informal
_____ 5. I hope he does not jump the gun.
A. formal
B. informal
_____ 6. I don’t know whose house this is, but
someone should call the cops.
A. formal
B. informal
Identify the best non-colloquial replacement for the underlined colloquialism.
Place the corresponding letter on the blank provided.
_____ 7. Hang in there!
A. Hold on tight!
B. Watch out!
C. Don’t lose heart!
D. Continue working hard!
_____ 8. I was hoping to do better, but I’m in
way over my head.
A. I’m doing better than I thought.
B. I’m afraid to try something new.
C. I’m not equipped to succeed.
D. I’m way out of my league.
_____ 9. Elisha is not coming today because
she doesn’t want to get into it with
you.
A. argue
B. join
C. meet
D. eat
66
_____ 10. The car that Jeremy has been driving
is sick!
A. overrated
B. stylish
C. broken
D. lost
_____ 11. You guys are acting ridiculous!
A. All males
B. All of you
C. People
D. None of you
_____ 12. I raced home as soon as I heard.
A. competed
B. journeyed
C. returned
D. rushed
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Select the best answer and place the corresponding letter on the blank
provided.
_____ 13. If you are asked to classify something,
you would most likely
A. consider its characteristics and
organize the information into
categories.
B. make a broad statement based
on one or more particular
observations.
C. bring everything you have
considered together into a whole.
D. identify the main points in a
logical order.
_____ 14. Which of the following is an example
of an opinion?
A. My curfew is ten o’clock on
weeknights and midnight on
weekends.
B. My sister is allowed to stay out
later than I am.
C. My sister is older than I am.
D. None of the above
of a fact?
A. The newspaper was the worst of
the local papers.
B. Eighty-two percent of local
households cancelled their
subscriptions.
C. The remaining households
must be unaware of the recent
downturn.
of an opinion?
A. The class trip was planned to
teach us about the judicial system.
B. Few of my classmates
remembered to bring a lunch.
C. The teacher took us to fancy
restaurant.
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Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 27
Word of the Week
unwieldy (un w7ld> 7) adj.,
hard to move or carry due to bulk
or heaviness
The box proved to be too
unwieldy and they were not able
to move it.
Synonyms of the word unwieldy
include cumbersome, ponderous,
and unhandy. Antonyms include
wieldy and handy.
The following are suffixes
that mean “not.” Adding
one of these to a word creates a
word with the opposite meaning.
Tip
a-, an-
atypical
dis-
disinterested
il-
illogical
im-
impervious
in-
insecure
ir-
irrational
un-
unreal
The Greek root -onym
means “name.” If we
add the prefix syn-, meaning
“together” or “at the same
time,” we have “name together.”
Synonyms are words that are can
be grouped together because
they name the same thing. If we
add the prefix anti-, meaning
against, we have “opposite
name.” Antonyms are words that
name opposite things. What other
words contain the root -onym?
Tip
68
Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms are words that have the same or nearly the same meaning.
Although synonyms mean nearly the same thing, two words may have
some differences in meaning or connotation. A thesaurus is a good tool
for finding synonyms.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Use your knowledge of synonyms, and a thesaurus when needed, to
identify three synonyms for each word below. Write your synonyms in
your notebook.
EXERCISE A
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
altruistic
amicable
musing
nomadic
solace
Antonyms
Antonyms are opposite words. A word’s antonym may be formed by
adding a negating prefix or suffix, such as un- or a-. For example, an
antonym for happy is unhappy. An antonym for typical is atypical.
Other antonyms are completely distinct words, such as hot and cold
or ecstatic and despondent. A thesaurus can help you find antonyms as
well as synonyms.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE B
Use an appropriate prefix or suffix to create an antonym for each word.
Then use your knowledge of antonyms and a thesaurus, if needed, to
identify an additional antonym for each. Write your answers in your
notebook.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
careful
healthy
broken
relevant
respectful
4/15/09 12:47:50 PM
Using Synonyms and Antonyms
You already know you can use synonyms to add variety to your writing
or to be more precise. For example, you might replace a word you have
used repeatedly with a fresher synonym, or you might replace a word
with a synonym that more accurately reflects your meaning.
Synonyms and antonyms can also serve as context clues in a piece
of writing. For example, the first sentence below uses a synonym as
a clue to what the underlined vocabulary word means. The second
sentence uses antonyms.
Doug’s obstinacy, or stubbornness, annoyed his friends.
The dulcet tones of Melody’s voice were a welcome relief from
the shrill, piercing screeches of the other choir members.
If you find you have used
the same word repeatedly
in your writing, try replacing the
word with a synonym in some of
those instances.
Tip
You may need to consult
a dictionary and/or a
thesaurus to find a synonym and
antonym for each word.
Tip
When you come across an unfamiliar word, look for a synonym or
antonym in the text around it that might serve as a clue to the word’s
meaning. In your own writing, you may also clarify difficult words by
using synonyms and antonyms as comparison and contrast clues.
Just for Fun
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE C
Look for synonyms or antonyms to help you figure out the meaning of
each underlined word. Write the meaning in your notebook.
1. Little was accomplished because of the acrimony and constant
bickering between the parties.
2. Milo is cowardly, while Felipe is intrepid.
3. Jack accused the newspaper of slander after the scurrilous remarks
of a columnist caused his campaign to falter.
4. The usually vigilant guard was oblivious as the jewel thief entered.
5. Rahima, always laconic, had a typically terse response.
For each of the following words, write one sentence using a synonym
as a comparison context clue and one using an antonym as a contrast
context clue.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
obloquy
berate
dynamic
invincible
diffident
Play a quick-think opposites game
with a partner. Say a word. Your
partner should reply with an
antonym or opposite word. Keep
going back and forth, naming
antonyms as quickly as possible.
Just for Fun
Search the thesaurus for a pair of
antonyms that you would like to
incorporate into your vocabulary.
Then, make an illustration using
these words and showing their
relationship to one another.
gaudy/subtle
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Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 28
Word of the Week
plagiarist (pl6>j@ rist) n.,
someone who takes credit for the
ideas or work of another person
I was disappointed when I
discovered that my star pupil was
merely a plagiarist.
The word plagiarist might appear
in a list of different types of
thieves. While plagiarists are not
viewed as negatively as armed
bank robbers, for example, the
word plagiarist still belongs in the
same semantic family.
Semantic families include
everyday words, more
complex words, and even slang
and personal terms.
Tip
70
Semantic Families
The word semantics refers to the study of the meanings of words.
Semantic families are groups of words that have related meanings
because they name or describe related ideas or items. There are
semantic families of words for school, families, sports, medicine, and
just about any other topic you can name.
Semantic feature analysis can help you explore how related words
differ from one another. To use semantic feature analysis, begin by
identifying a topic category to be analyzed. Identify some words related
to that category and list them in a column along the left side of the
chart. Identify features shared by some of the words and list them in
rows across the top of the chart.
The example below shows how to set up a chart for semantic
feature analysis. The topic is the oral tradition. The words related to
that category are myth, tall tale, legend, spiritual, parable, fable, and folk
song. The features are prose, verse, teaches a moral lesson, and based on
history or historical figures. Note that a plus sign (+) is used for “yes”
and a minus sign (-) is used for “no” when filling out the chart.
Semantic Feature Analysis of Oral Tradition
Genres of the
Teaches a
Based on History or
Oral Tradition Prose
Verse Moral Lesson
Historical Figure
myth
+
+
–
–
tall tale
+
+/–
–
+
legend
+
+/–
–
+
spiritual
–
+
–
–
parable
+
–
+
–
fable
+
–
+
–
folk song
+
–
–
4/15/09 12:47:51 PM
Try It Yourself
Use the chart below to create your own semantic feature analysis.
Semantic Feature Analysis of ________________________________
After you have completed the chart, write a brief analysis of the
similarities and differences among the words, using the lines below.
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Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 29
Word of the Week
itinerant (8 ti> n@ r@nt<) adj.,
traveling from place to place
It was difficult for the astronauts
to track the itinerant vessel.
Synonyms for the word itinerant
include the words ambulant,
nomadic, roving, vagabond,
wandering, and wayfaring.
The word itinerant comes from
the Late Latin word itinerant-,
itinerans; from the Latin itiner- and
iter, meaning “journey, way.” It is
akin to the Latin word ire, meaning
“to go.”
Celestial Words
Stellar is a synonym of starry. The word stellar means “of or relating
to the stars.” It comes from the Latin stella, meaning “star.” When
referring to stars, we also use words beginning with astr- or astro-, a
prefix that means “star” or “outer space.” We find astr- in words such as
astronomy and astral.
As stellar is to star, solar is to sun. When referring the sun, we also
use words beginning with heli- or helio-, a prefix that means “sun.” We
find heli- in words such as heliocentric and heliotropism.
As stellar is to star, lunar is to moon. Lunar can mean both “of the
moon” and “in the shape of a crescent moon.” A lunette is something
moon shaped. The word lunatic comes from the same stem and was
based on the belief that lunacy varied with the phases of the moon.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Fill in the charts below to help you remember star, sun, and moon
words. In the top left corner, write the word stem related to each
celestial body. In the top right corner, create a visual clue. In the bottom
right corner, write a verbal clue to help you remember.
star
sun
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moon
EXERCISE B
Try using each of the following star, sun, and moon words in sentences.
Use a dictionary, if necessary, to verify the meaning.
1. heliotrope
2. astronaut
3. solarium
4. lunar
5. astrology
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Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 30
Word of the Week
cursory (k@r> s@ r7) adj., rapidly
and often inadequately performed
or done
She gave the article a cursory
review and sent it to the rejection
pile.
Synonyms for the word cursory
include superficial, shallow,
sketchy, and uncritical. Of these
synonyms, the word uncritical has
the most positive connotation,
and the words shallow and
sketchy have the most negative
connotations.
Varying Word Choice
Synonyms are words that have the same or nearly the same meaning.
A thesaurus is a good tool for finding synonyms. When choosing
synonyms, make sure you understand the meaning of each word.
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Use a thesaurus to find three synonyms for each of the following words.
1. bold
2. rude
3. unique
4. small
5. hungry
Synonyms are words that
have the same or nearly
the same meaning.
Tip
EXERCISE B
Identify the differences in meaning among the words you found in the
exercise above.
1. bold
2. rude
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4/15/09 12:47:52 PM
3. unique
Tip
A denotation of a word
is its dictionary definition.
A connotation is an emotional
association or implication attached
to a word or expression.
4. small
5. hungry
When you use a thesaurus
to find synonyms, take
care to choose the word that has
both the correct denotation and the
appropriate connotation for your
meaning. If you are unsure of the
meaning of a synonym you find, try
using a dictionary. The dictionary
may give you some clues about
the exact meaning or connotations
of the word and may even identify
differences in connotation between
similar words.
Tip
EXERCISE C
In order to avoid repetition, choose an appropriate synonym to replace
each underlined word.
1. The bold new chef was known for pairing bold flavors with more
mild-tasting comfort foods.
2. Blushing deeply, Claudine apologized for her rude comment,
saying that she had never intended to sound rude.
3. Few people understood the unique painting style of that unique
artist.
4. The small child’s room was outfitted with small furniture.
5. If I was hungry after skipping lunch, Jean-Claude must have been
hungry after a week of fasting.
Just for Fun
Choose a paragraph from a book
or magazine. Replace five to ten
words with synonyms that have
inappropriate connotations for
the context. Switch paragraphs
with a partner. See if you can fix
your partner’s paragraph using
appropriate synonyms.
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Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 31
Word of the Week
downsize (da1n> s8z) v., to
reduce the size of a business or
organization, especially by cutting
the workforce
The dot-com company downsized
by sixty percent.
Downsize, a compound word, is a
euphemism for the firing or laying
off of employees.
Euphemisms, Doublespeak, and Clichés
Euphemisms are inoffensive words or phrases that are substituted for
words or phrases that may be considered offensive. Many euphemisms
exist for death, body parts and functions, and abnormalities. The phrase
passed away is a euphemism for died. Consider carefully the use of
euphemisms, as they are less precise and direct than the words they
are intended to replace. In some cases, however, you may want to use
euphemisms to avoid upsetting your audience.
examples
misspeak; tell an untruth (euphemisms for lie)
incident; unfortunate situation (euphemisms for
accident or tragedy)
The word euphemism
literally means “to speak
with good words.” It comes from
the Greek roots eu-, meaning
“pleasant, well, or good” and
pheme, meaning “word.”
Tip
perspiration; glow (euphemisms for sweat)
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
1. In you notebook, make a list of euphemisms related to death.
2. In you notebook, make a list of euphemisms for job titles. For
example, the word custodian is a euphemism for janitor.
Doublespeak
Just for Fun
Classified advertisements
often contain euphemisms
or doublespeak designed to
downplay flaws or unattractive
aspects of an item for sale. Look
through some classified ads for
examples. Write your own ad for
an old, beat-up car or a cramped,
dingy apartment, or another
questionably desirable object. Use
euphemisms or doublespeak to
make the item sound desirable.
76
Doublespeak is the use of euphemisms to obscure meaning and mislead
people. Doublespeak is language that does not really communicate,
makes negative seem positive, and avoids responsibility. Replacing the
word killing with the euphemism unlawful or arbitrary deprivation of life
is an example of doublespeak. Using the phrase regime change to mean
“overthrow of a government” is an example of doublespeak, as is the the
use of the term conflict or operation to mean war.
Governments and corporations are often guilty of doublespeak.
Government uses of doublespeak are generally designed to avoid
reference to actions or issues that may be unpopular, such as war or
taxes. Companies may use doublespeak to downplay their responsibility
in an accident, to make a negative financial situation sound like less
of a problem, or to put a more positive spin on firing employees.
Advertisements often contain euphemistic doublespeak as well.
Learn to recognize doublespeak. You will often find it in news
reports, advertisements, and political speeches. Take time to interpret
doublespeak and respond to the meaning of what is being said. You
should generally avoid doublespeak in your speech and writing.
4/15/09 12:47:53 PM
Try It Yourself
Spin is a technique used
to slant public perception
of the news. Spin often uses
doublespeak to create a more
favorable opinion or an event or to
divert blame or responsibility from
a person or organization.
Tip
EXERCISE B
Skim newspapers and Internet pages or listen to news reports and
political speeches. Make a list of doublespeak terms you find. Then
translate the doublespeak into more direct language. Write your work
in your notebook.
Clichés
Euphemisms and doublespeak are similar in that they both veil the
meaning of language that may be offensive. Clear, strong writing
contains no doublespeak and only carefully chosen euphemisms.
Careful writers also avoid the overuse of clichés, or tired, overused
expressions, like “tried and true” or “crystal clear.” Other examples
include the following:
examples
like a fish out of water, fit as a fiddle, flat as a pancake,
bright and early, in the nick of time
Clichés, like euphemisms, have a place in speech or writing, but
they should not be used indiscriminately. First decide if the cliché is
necessary. If it is not, delete it. In some cases, a cliché may be the easiest
way to express yourself, but you should be aware of clichés and replace
them with fresher language when possible.
Write a paragraph or
dialogue using as many
clichés as you can.
Tip
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE C
Edit the sentences below to remove clichés and replace them with more
original language.
1. Howard was sick as a dog after he caught the flu.
2. Mrs. Carrington kept her home as neat as a pin.
3. From dawn until dusk, Imana worked on her paper.
4. Napoleon sought to reign over all of Europe, but that was
easier said than done.
5. Harriet Tubman faced many dangers, but she was as sly as a fox
and remained as cool as a cucumber when the going got tough.
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4/15/09 12:47:53 PM
Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
LESSON 32
Word of the Week
recondite (r@ k5n> d8t) adj.,
difficult or impossible for the
average person to understand;
deep
I attended the seminar but the
subject was too recondite for me.
The word recondite is from the
Latin word reconditus, the past
participle of recondere, meaning
“to conceal,” from re- + condere,
meaning “to store up,” and
com- + -dere meaning “to put.”
This lesson will explain how you
can add this and other unknown
words to your own vocabulary.
Keep a word study
notebook to record your
new words.
Tip
Use PAVE to learn and practice
using new words.
Expanding Your Word Knowledge
Reading and listening actively can help you build your vocabulary.
Remember that you can become a better reader and improve your
vocabulary by keeping track of new words you discover and their
definitions. You have learned many techniques for building your
vocabulary. Keep using these tips as you continue to expand your word
knowledge:
• Keep a word study notebook.
• Use PAVE to learn and practice using new words.
• When you encounter an unfamiliar word, use the following
techniques to determine its meaning:
– Examine context clues
– Break the word into its parts
– Check for diagrams, footnotes, and other text support
– Look up the word in a dictionary
– Ask for help
Try It Yourself
EXERCISE A
Use one or more of the strategies above to determine the meaning of
the underlined word below. Then, in the space provided, create a word
study notebook page for the word.
Many young people find it difficult to imagine themselves in
middle age, never mind senectitude.
Just for Fun
Make up a song, jingle, silly poem,
or slogan using words you have
learned recently. Share your
writing with a partner.
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4/15/09 12:47:54 PM
Using the new words you learn in your writing and speech will help
you understand the words even better and will reinforce what you have
learned. Remember to determine the connotations of new words in
addition to their denotations. Also, if you plan to incorporate the words
into your speaking vocabulary, make sure you know how to pronounce
them correctly.
Try It Yourself
Many suffixes indicate
the function of the word.
Learn variations of words you
know already.
Tip
adore (verb), adoration (noun),
adoring or adorable (adjectives),
adoringly (adverb)
EXERCISE B
Choose ten words from your word study notebook. Write a speech
using these words. Then practice and deliver your speech to the class.
Tip
To determine the
meaning of a word, first:
• use context clues
• break the word into its parts
• look for text support
then:
• look up the word in a dictionary
• ask for help.
Each week, pick five to ten
new words to incorporate
into your active vocabulary.
Choose words from your word
study notebook and make an
effort to use these in your speech
or writing at least three times
during the week.
Tip
Just for Fun
Crossword puzzles and other word games are a great way to explore
new words! Most newspapers have a crossword or other word puzzle.
Find one and give it a try. Make a list of new words that you learn while
completing the puzzle.
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Name: ____________________________________________________ Date: ___________________
Synonyms
Choose the word that is most nearly the same in meaning as the underlined
word. Use context clues and your knowledge of word parts to help you.
_____ 1. Mary was aghast when she saw what
the vandals had done to her car.
A. astounded
B. horrified
C. amazed
D. delighted
_____ 2. My application was rejected because
I had not filled out all the requisite
paperwork.
A. unnecessary
B. questionable
C. required
D. requested
_____ 3. Mrs. Hanson began to revile the
student because of his constant
tardiness.
A. disgust
B. awaken
C. loathe
D. scold
_____ 4. Gwen was a voracious reader who
devoured several books each week.
A. skilled
B. insatiable
C. cruel
D. enthusiastic
_____ 5. Yon-gi was a devoted adherent of
Buddhist philosophy.
A. priest
B. follower
C. listener
D. teacher
_____ 7. Swayed by the pernicious influence
of his friends, Jared began to commit
crimes.
A. false
B. frightening
C. destructive
D. vicious
_____ 8. After Jenna scored well on the SAT,
colleges began to inundate her with
colorful brochures inviting her to
apply.
A. reward
B. evaluate
C. invite
D. overwhelm
_____ 9. The art dealer discovered that the
painting, which she had believed at
first to be a Van Gogh, was in fact
spurious.
A. forged
B. valuable
C. worthless
D. authentic
_____ 10. “Could you do me a favor?” Collette
asked with an ingratiating smile.
A. irritating
B. flattering
C. thankful
D. gratifying
_____ 6. One of the lessons my mother tried to
inculcate in us was the importance of
sharing.
A. instill
B. develop
C. increase
D. calculate
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Antonyms
Choose the word that means most nearly the opposite of the underlined word.
Use context clues and your knowledge of word parts to help you.
_____ 1. The capricious cat meowed to go
outside, but when I opened the door
she decided to stay in.
A. flighty
B. fickle
C. decisive
D. slow
_____ 7. The archaeologists sought to exhume
some of the treasures buried deep in
the earth.
A. uncover
B. inter
C. hide
D. discover
_____ 2. The fort was impregnable.
A. vulnerable
B. expectant
C. barren
D. powerful
_____ 8. Kevin left ambiguous instructions.
A. vague
B. cryptic
C. explicit
D. detailed
_____ 3. The blossoms on the plant were
ephemeral.
A. seasonal
B. ugly
C. fleeting
D. permanent
_____ 9. As the knight rode off to seek his
fortune, his lady bid him farewell
with a heartfelt benediction.
A. prediction
B. circumlocution
C. contradiction
D. malediction
_____ 4. Our time here is finite.
A. beginning
B. unlimited
C. coarse
D. ending
_____ 5. The climate of Arizona is quite arid.
A. dry
B. lush
C. mild
D. harsh
_____ 10. The water in the lake was turbid.
A. clear
B. motionless
C. polluted
D. fast-moving
_____ 6. It is illegal for gas station owners to
adulterate their gasoline with water
or other liquids.
A. purify
B. cheat
C. weaken
D. strengthen
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Answer Key
Lesson 1: Word Study Notebook, page 1
Try It Yourself
Responses will vary. Students should include the
pronunciation, origins, definition, and a sentence
illustrating the meaning of the word pulchritude,
as follows. They may also include a drawing.
Word: pulchritude
Pronunciation: (p@l> kr@ t2d)
Origins: Middle English, from the Latin pulcher,
meaning beautiful.
Definition: physical beauty
Sentence using the word: Pulchritude is only
skin deep.
Lesson 2: Word Study Skills in Reading,
page 3
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
1. Acerbic means “biting or stinging in tone.”
2. The phrases “acid tongue” and “stinging
barbs” provide clues to the meaning of acerbic.
E x er c ise B
1. Apathetic means having or showing little
emotion. Students may recognize that it
contains the root path, meaning emotion,
plus the prefix a-, meaning “without,” and
the suffix -ic, indicating description.
2. Resounding means sounding loudly or
echoing. Students may recognize that it
contains the prefix re-, meaning “again,”
plus the base word sound and the suffix -ing,
indicating the present participle or gerund.
3. Malediction means a curse. Students may
recognize that it contains the word part
(combining form) mal-, meaning “bad,” and
the root dict, meaning “speech.”
4. Triennial means “occurring every three
years” or “lasting three years.” Students
may recognize that it contains the root
(combining form) tri-, meaning “three,”
along with the root enni, meaning year.
5. Convivial means “fond of feasting, drinking,
and good company.” Students may recognize
that it contains the root viv, meaning “life,”
with the prefix con-, meaning “with.” In
other words, it is similar to “lively.”
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0082-0090_Gr11_vocab&spelling-AK.indd 82
E x er c ise C
Responses will vary. Possible responses are given.
1. In this sentence, affinity means “attraction
to or liking for something.”
2. In this sentence, chestnut means an old,
often-repeated joke or story.
3. In this sentence, discord refers to quarreling
or disagreement.
4. In this sentence, fustian means “highflown
or affected writing or speech.”
5. In this sentence, woof could mean the filling
thread or yarn in weaving or a piece of
woven fabric.
Lesson 3: PAVE, page 6
Try It Yourself
Students’ predictions and contextual sentences
will vary. Definitions are provided for each word.
1. expedite—accelerate the process or progress
of
2. diffident—reserved, lacking self-confidence
3. ambivalence—uncertainty over which path
to follow
4. capitulate—surrender to
5. loquacious—talkative
Time Out for Test Practice, page 8
Word Study Skills
1. A.undertake the risk of
2. D.act of yielding; surrendering
3. B. sly, crafty
4. B. not powerful enough; inadequate
5. C.applying to actions that have previously
transpired
6. A.being independent or self-ruled
7. D.All of the above
8. D.cacophony
Lesson 4: Affixes and Roots, page 9
Try It Yourself
1. deforestation
de-, remove
forest, area with trees
-tion, act or process
meaning: the act or process of removing an
area of trees
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2. retrospective
retro-, backward
spect, see
-ive, tends toward
meaning: (n.) comprehensive exhibition
of an artist’s body of work; (adj.) based on
memory or looking back
3. immutable
im-, not
mut, move
-able, capable of; able to be
meaning: not able to be moved
4. synesthesia
syn-, at the same time
esthe, feel; perceive
-sia, act or state of
meaning: feeling two sensations at the
same time, especially if the sensations are
confused
5. subterraneous
sub-, under
terra, earth
-ous, possessing qualities of
meaning: existing underground
6. transcriber
trans-, across
scribe, write
-er, one who
meaning: one who makes a copy of
something or writes it down
7. concurrent
con-, together
current, flow, happen
meaning: happening at the same time
8. equivocal
equi, equal
voc, voice
-al, having or being
meaning: having two or more (equally valid)
interpretations that are usually used to
mislead or confuse
9. fortitude
fort, strong
-tude, quality or state of
meaning: quality or state of being strong
10. uniformity
uni-, one
form, shape
-ity, quality or state of
meaning: quality or state of having one shape
Lesson 5: Suffixes, page 11
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
Responses will vary. A definition is given for each
word.
1. precariously—in such a way that is
dangerous, or lacks stability
2. earnestness—state of seriousness or sincerity
3. effacement—act of erasing or eliminating
4. fluctuated—shifted back and forth; changed
5. baseless—without a foundation
E x er c ise B
word.
1. realism—the practice of representing things
in art and literature as they appear in reality
2. communism—a doctrine based on Marxist
socialism in which goods are owned
collectively
3. Stoicism—the philosophy of the Stoics, who
believed that a wise person should be free
from passion and unmoved by joy or grief
4. pessimism—the inclination to expect the
worst possible outcome; the idea that the
world is essentially evil
5. racism—prejudice based on race
Lesson 6: Prefixes, page 13
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
Sentences will vary. Possible definitions are
provided.
1. collaboration—working together
2. insensible—not sensible
3. excommunicate—cut out of the
communication; move away from the
community
4. anticlimactic—not climactic; dull
5. introspective—looking inward or within
E x er c ise B
Sentences will vary. Possible explanations are
provided.
1. extraordinary / ordinary—Extraordinary
describes something that goes beyond
the normal or everyday, while ordinary
describes something that is plain or average.
2. underachiever / overachiever—If you are
an underachiever, you achieve less than the
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average, but if you are an overachiever, you
achieve more than the average.
3. quote / misquote—When you quote
someone, you accurately report what he or
she said, and when you misquote someone,
you wrongly report what he or she said.
4. market / supermarket—A market is a regularsized store, while a supermarket exceeds a
market in size and variety of products for sale.
5. culture / subculture—Culture describes
the beliefs, practices, and traits of a certain
group; a subculture is a culture within, or
under, another broader culture.
Recognizing Word Parts
E x er c ise A
1. tongue-in-cheek—adjective
2. blue-collar worker—noun
3. poet laureate—noun
4. photojournalists—noun
5. plowboy—noun
6. counterargument—noun
7. grassroots—adjective or
grassroots poet—noun
8. poetic license—noun
9. nine-day-old—adjective
10. sixteenth-century—adjective
E x er c ise B
Sentences will vary.
Lesson 9: Manipulating Language,
page 21
Try It Yourself
Lesson 7: Archaic Language, page 17
Try It Yourself
1. We must reach the city by nightfall. Hurry
up at once!
2. I would be willing to lend a hand if you need
my aid.
3. Although the story sounds crazy, Lena
speaks truthfully.
4. Approaching the menacing dog, Horace
shouted, “Begone!”
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Lesson 8: Compound Words, page 19
Try It Yourself
1. B. postwar
2. B. retrofit
3. D.heptathlon
4. A.transatlantic
5. C.prediction
6. C.sextuplets
7. A.antiskid
8. C.discredited
9. D.submersible
10. B. interment
11. B. teleconferences
12. C.hydrophobia
13. B. malcontented
14. A.introspection
15. A.synchronize
16. D.allocate
17. B. infractions
18. A.ambidextrous
19. C.superfluous
20. B. semitranslucent
E x er c ise A
5. “This foul attitude doesn’t suit you, my
sweet young daughter,” said Rhianna’s
father after she yelled at him.
6. I found my shoes between the bookcase and
the bedpost.
7. It seems to me that Malcolm would get a
better grade on his paper if he spent more
than two minutes on it.
8. I nearly made that winning basket, but the
buzzer startled me.
9. After he walked under a ladder, he was
plagued by bad luck.
10. Although she was not responsible for the
mess, Ana was asked to clean it up anyway.
Responses will vary. Encourage students to be
creative in their manipulation of language.
Lesson 10: Technology-Related Words,
page 23
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
1. e-tail—selling things over the Internet (a
blend of electronic and retail)
2. webcast—broadcast via the web (a blend of
web and broadcast)
3. digirati—people interested or well-versed in
digital media (a blend of digital and literati)
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4. netizen—a citizen of the Internet (a blend of
net and citizen)
5. cyberculture—the culture of cyberspace; the
realm of interconnected computers (a blend
of cyberspace and culture)
E x er c ise B
word.
1. boot—to start up a computer, or more
specifically, to load the first piece of
software that starts a computer; comes from
bootstrap, as in the expression “pull oneself
up by one’s bootstraps”
2. bug—an error or defect in software or
hardware that causes a computer program to
malfunction
3. surf—to move from site to site on the
Internet, browsing for items of interest
4. flame—an e-mail, chat room, or newsgroup
message that is intended to attack or insult
another person
E x er c ise C
1. URL—Uniform Resource Locator (an
Internet address)
2. DSL—Digital Subscriber Line; it is faster to
connect to the Internet through DSL than
through a phone line
3. FAQ—Frequently Asked Questions (and
answers)
E x er c ise D
1. malware—any kind of software designed to
cause harm, such as a virus
2. bookmark—a direct link to a frequently
viewed site that is stored in your browser for
easy reference
3. clicks and mortar—an online store (as
opposed to an actual store made of bricks
and mortar)
Defining Archaic Language and
Technology-Related Words
1. B. mad; wild
2. A.before
3. A.formerly
4. D.lengthwise
5. C.eyes
6. C.separately
7. A.netiquette
8. D.netizen
9. C.webisode
10. A.e-group
Lesson 11: Denotation and Connotation,
page 27
Try It Yourself
Responses will vary. Students’ sentences should
show the subtle differences in connotation.
Lesson 12: Literal vs. Figurative
Language, page 29
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
1. literal
2. figurative
3. figurative
4. literal
5. figurative
E x er c ise B
1. personification
2. simile
3. simile
4. personification
5. metaphor
E x er c ise C
1. We—meaning people—is the tenor; bird is
the vehicle. Spreading one’s wings means
taking off on one’s own. Leaving the nest
means leaving home. The metaphor means
that at some point in our lives we all must
take off and leave home.
2. Responses will vary.
3. Responses will vary.
Lesson 13: Homophones, page 31
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
1. it’s
2. sight
3. Whose
4. site
5. right
6. flair
7. reeks
8. sight
9. your
10. reins
E x er c ise B
Corrected portions of the passage are underlined.
If you have to write a report on a famous person,
you could start by consulting a reference book such
as an encyclopedia or Who’s Who? These resources
will tell you when a person lived, usually the site
of his or her birth, and, for a ruler, the years of his
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or her reign. Your report may be a compilation
of facts, or it may include your opinions about
the person. You can use visual aids to add flair to
an oral presentation. However you present your
report, make sure you cite the resources you used.
Words with Multiple Meanings
2. Students should recall the following
three strategies: use word parts, consult a
dictionary, or ask for help.
Lesson 15: Providing Context Clues in
Your Writing, page 37
Try It Yourself
1. C.hack
2. A.bargain
3. B. field of study
4. D.greater in rank or importance
5. D.perceived
6. C.enrolled
7. A.firmly
8. C.stuck
9. D.sudden inclinations
10. A.waves
11. B.limb of a quadruped with the adjacent parts
E x er c ise A
Homophones
Using Context Clues: Synonyms
1. B. It’s
2. A.reign
3. B. you’re
4. A.chord
5. A.flair
6. A.cite
7. B. their
8. A.right
9. C.They’re
10. B. rite
11. C.They’re . . .
their
12. B. write . . . right
13. D.cite . . . rights
14. D.Write . . . site
15. B. sight . . . their
Lesson 14: Context Clues, page 35
Try It Yourself
1. querulous—whining, complaining
2. grabble—grope, search with one’s hands
3. fibula—a bone in the leg
4. cumulus—type of cloud
5. lagniappe—gift
E x er c ise B
1. perfidy—disloyalty
2. spelunking—exploring caves
3. gregarious—sociable
4. impecunious—penniless
5. consentaneous—done by consent of all
E x er c ise C
1. sangfroid—cold-blooded, able to stay calm
in difficult situations
misadventures—mishaps
exigent—requiring immediate action
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E x er c ise B
Responses will vary. Paragraphs should include
specialized language for a particular activity
along with clues that help the reader understand
specialized terms.
1. B. coherently
2. D.cowardly
3. B. ever-changing
4. D.active during
the day
5. A.gaunt
6. C.conflict
7. C.indecision
8. B. talkative
9. A.extremely poor
10. B. give in to
11. B. contrast
12. A.apposition
13. D.cause and
effect
14. A.comparison
15. C.cause and
effect
16. B. example
17. D.example
18. B. contrast
Lesson 16: Spelling Review, page 41
E x er c ise A
Responses will vary. Sentences should contain
context clues that indicate the meaning of the
given word.
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
1. decisively
2. nonnative
3. personally
4. fancily
5. irregularities
E x er c ise B
1. proceeds
2. deceive
3. concede
4. interceded
5. seized, grief, friend’s, succeed
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Lesson 17: Contractions, page 43
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
Corrected words are underlined.
1. Do you know whose bag is blocking the
door?
2. Despite the dog’s many attempts, it’s not
able to get its bone.
3. They’re wasting their time with you and
your house.
4. Who’s watching the kids after school?
5. I think you might be displeased with your
results because you’re too picky.
E x er c ise B
Words that replace contractions are in bold.
I cannot be responsible for the decline of my
grade point average. Who among you has not
encountered a stressful time that caused you to
lose focus on your goals? It is complicated, so I
would rather not discuss the situation further.
I hope this does not affect my acceptance into
the university. I have been waiting to attend the
university all my life and I hope that you will
accept my application.
Lesson 18: Common Spelling Errors,
page 45
Try It Yourself
Responses will vary.
Spelling Patterns
1. A.concede
2. D.unnecessary
3. A.relieved
4. B. noticeable
5. C.dissatisfied
6. C.pastime
7. B. supersede
8. C.pierced
9. C.misspelled
10. B. sincerely
11. A.succeed
12. D.cheerily
13. B. unnoticed
14. D.occasionally
15. A.rearranged
16. D.fulfillment
17. B. illuminating
18. B. embarrassed
19. D.inconceivable
20. A.irrelevant
Lesson 19: Borrowed Words, page 49
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
E x er c ise B
Responses may vary. Students may classify the
words as follows:
Plants, Animals, and People: bamboo,
bonsai, corgi, gnu, kiwi, koala, mamba, guru,
intelligentsia, tycoon
Food and Drink: chutney, curry, ketchup,
sauerkraut, tea
Places and Buildings: bazaar, bungalow, fjord,
kiosk, sauna
Objects: boomerang, caravan, easel, gong, lei
Lesson 20: Greek and Latin Words,
page 51
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
E x er c ise B
1. apathy—from the Greek word apatheia,
from apathēs, meaning “without feeling,”
from a- + pathos, meaning “emotion”
2. circumvent—from the Latin word circumventus, from circum- + venire, meaning “to come”
3. dwindle—probably from dwine, meaning “to
waste away,” from Middle English, from the
Old English word dwīnan; akin to the Old
Norse word dvīna, meaning “to pine away,”
or deyja, “to die”
4. effigy—from the Middle French word effigie,
from the Latin word effigies, from effingere,
meaning “to form,” and from ex- + fingere,
meaning “to shape”
5. ravine—a French word, from the Middle
French words rapine and rush; from the
Latin word rapina
Lesson 21: French and Spanish Words,
page 53
E x er c ise A
E x er c ise B
1. vigilante—person who takes the law into his
or her own hands
2. incommunicado—out of touch, not
communicating
3. renegade—person who rejects lawful behavior
4. pronto—right away
5. aficionado—devotee, person who
appreciates and knows about a subject
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E x er c ise C
1. faux pas—social error
2. carte blanche—full power with no
restrictions
3. bon voyage—farewell; have a good trip
4. tour de force—feat of skill, strength, or
ingenuity
5. joie de vivre—good spirits; love of life
Lesson 22: Native American Words,
page 55
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
Responses will vary. Students should look up
five words from the preceding list and give the
etymology of each.
E x er c ise B
Responses will vary. Students should look up
five words from the preceding list and give the
etymology of each.
Lesson 23: Eponyms and Toponyms,
page 57
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
Responses will vary slightly.
1. Asperger syndrome—In 1944, Hans
Asperger, a pediatrician in Austria,
described children in his practice who
lacked nonverbal communication skills and
demonstrated limited empathy toward their
peers.
2. Marxism—An ideological system named
after the German political economist Karl
Marx.
3. Salisbury steak—An early health-food
advocate, Dr. James H. Salisbury advised
his patients to eat this food three times a
day and limit their intake of vegetables and
starches.
4. Ferris wheel—George Washington Gale
Ferris, Jr. invented this amusement ride for
the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago.
5. Parkinson’s disease—A disease not formally
recognized or documented until 1817, when
James Parkinson wrote An Essay on the
Shaking Palsy.
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E x er c ise B
1. Louisiana—Named after Louis XIV of
France
2. Washington—Named after George
Washington
3. Pennsylvania—Named after William Penn,
with an ending that is Latin for “woodland”
4. Vermont—French for “green mountain”
5. Montana—Spanish for “mountain”
6. Idaho—Shoshone for “light on the
mountain”
7. Minnesota—Dakota Sioux for “sky-colored
water”
8. Rhode Island—Dutch for “red clay”
9. Massachusetts—Algonquian for “place of
the big hill”
10. Hawaii—Hawaiian for “homeland”
Borrowed Words
1. D.adios . . . bon voyage
2. B. parka . . . slalom
3. B. siesta . . . plaza
4. A.Tango . . . hula
5. D.laissez-faire . . . embargo
6. D.faux pas . . . savoir faire
7. C.aficionado . . . haiku
8. C.tête-à-tête . . . incommunicado
9. D.guerillas . . . coup d’état
10. B. tycoon . . . yacht
Lesson 24: Register, page 60
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
Responses will vary. Students should write one
description of a movie or book using formal
English and one using informal English.
E x er c ise B
1. We would like to join with several other
agencies to start a youth program for teens
and preteens. The program would provide
fun, positive activities for young people
and would help make the community
safer. Students could be referred to us from
schools.
2. Please look over the contract mentioned
earlier (a copy of it is included in this letter,
along with a map).
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3. Our company has illegally polluted the
environment.
Lesson 25: Colloquial Language,
page 62
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
1. Rima could no longer tolerate Priti’s
constant tardiness.
2. What is bothering you?
3. Martine was dumbfounded by Dillon’s
demands.
4. The pecan pie is out of this world.
5. No way!
6. Louis was steamed when Laurel criticized
him.
E x er c ise B
Responses will vary. The first dialogue should
include colloquialisms and slang. The second
dialogue should convey the same information
using standard English.
Lesson 26: Academic Language, page 64
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
1. fact
2. opinion
3. opinion
E x er c ise B
E x er c ise C
Responses will vary. For each essay prompt,
students should write a thesis statement and
outline the points they would make to support
their thesis.
Register, Colloquialisms, and Academic
Language
1. A.formal
2. A.formal
3. B. informal
4. A.formal
5. B. informal
6. B. informal
7. D.Continue working hard!
Lesson 27: Synonyms and Antonyms,
page 68
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
1. altruistic—charitable, benevolent, humane
2. amicable—friendly, neighborly, peaceable
3. musing—pondering, deliberating,
ruminating
4. nomadic—itinerant, roving, vagabond
5. solace—comfort, cheer, consolation
E x er c ise B
1. careful—careless, sloppy
2. healthy—unhealthy, sickly
3. broken—unbroken, complete
4. relevant—irrelevant, unrelated
5. respectful—disrespectful, rude
E x er c ise C
8. C.I’m not equipped to succeed.
9. A.argue
10. B. stylish
11. B. All of you
12. D.rushed
13. A.consider its characteristics and organize
the information into categories.
14. D.None of the above
15. B.Eighty-two percent of local households
cancelled their subscriptions.
16. D.None of the above
1. acrimony—harsh or biting sharpness,
especially in words, manner, or disposition
2. intrepid—fearless
3. scurrilous—containing slander
4. vigilant—watchful
5. laconic—concise, using a minimum of
words
6.–10. Responses will vary. Students should write
two sentences using each of the given
words. The first sentence should contain
a synonym and comparison context
clue and the second should contain an
antonym and a contrast context clue.
For example, the response for question 6
might be as follows:
My brother’s obloquy stung, but I had
grown accustomed to hearing such
abusive language from him.
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for the older term, gravedigger); beautician
or cosmetologist for hairdresser; sanitary
engineer for garbage hauler; postal worker for
mail carrier; day care provider for babysitter;
and administrative assistant for secretary.
The zealous fan shouted praise to the
home team, then screeched an obloquy at
the opponents.
Lesson 28: Semantic Families, page 70
E x er c ise B
Try It Yourself
Responses will vary. Verify whether the student
completed the semantic feature analysis chart
correctly.
Lesson 29: Celestial Words, page 72
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
Students should have filled out the three charts.
Each chart should include the word stem, a visual
clue, and a verbal clue.
E x er c ise B
Sentences will vary.
Lesson 30: Varying Word Choice,
page 74
Try It Yourself
1. bold—daring, audacious, intrepid
2. rude—discourteous, abusive, inconsiderate
3. unique—original, unmatched, irreplaceable
4. small—miniature, tiny, little
5. hungry—ravenous, famished, starving
E x er c ise B
E x er c ise C
Lesson 31: Euphemisms, Doublespeak,
and Clichés, page 76
Try It Yourself
1. Common euphemisms related to death
include pass away, go to sleep, in his or her
final resting place, gone to a better place, left,
departed, gone, late, and at rest.
2. Euphemisms for job titles include
mortician for funeral director or undertaker
(undertaker being in turn a euphemism
Am Tradition
1. Howard was terribly ill after he caught the
flu.
2. Mrs. Carrington kept her house as clean and
sterile as an operating table.
3. Imana worked on her paper all day long.
4. Napoleon sought to reign over all of Europe,
but controlling such a large empire was a
monumental task.
5. Harriet Tubman faced many dangers, but
she was quite shrewd and always remained
calm and focused under pressure.
Lesson 32: Expanding Your Word
Knowledge, page 78
E x er c ise A
Responses will vary. Students should complete
a word study notebook entry for the word
senectitude.
E x er c ise B
Students should write a speech using ten words
from their word study notebook. Encourage
them to use humor.
90
E x er c ise C
Try It Yourself
E x er c ise A
E x er c ise A
Synonyms
1. B. horrified
2. C.required
3. D.scold
4. B. insatiable
5. B. follower
6. A.instill
7. C.destructive
8. D.overwhelm
9. A.forged
10. B. flattering
Antonyms
1. C.decisive
2. A.vulnerable
3. D.permanent
4. B. unlimited
5. B. lush
6. A.purify
7. B. inter
8. C.explicit
9. D.malediction
10. A.clear
4/15/09 12:48:58 PM

American Tradition

Transcription

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