Studying Vocabulary
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Studying vocabulary is probably not your child’s favorite activity. Keeping track of lists and definitions can be tedious and dull. However, improving their vocabulary doesn’t have to be such a dreaded task, and there are ways to make it, dare I say, fun.
With high-stakes tests like the SAT and state tests, studying vocabulary is almost unavoidable. Learning new words is a lifelong process, so it is important to find ways to make it enjoyable. For example, YouTube.com has thousands of videos geared toward learning vocabulary. These videos aim to teach vocabulary while also making the process interactive and lively. Your child will most likely watch a video and be more inclined to keep studying than if they were just given a sheet of paper with words on it.
There are also several free games to play that can be found through google. Everyone learns differently, so it is important to provide your child with alternative ways to learn. If you want a break from the computer, try making studying with flashcards more interesting. Quiz your child with the flashcards, and if they get a certain amount right, choose a reward like not having to do the dishes that night, or whatever you feel is appropriate.
Another way to help them improve their vocabulary is to encourage them to read. Reading is a natural way to learn new words, so they could keep a list of the words they didn’t know while they were reading and then find the definitions. Though not all books have SAT vocab words in them, it’s still great a method to get their brains working and in a way they find entertaining, especially if it’s a book they choose.
Learning new vocabulary is something that is necessary, but doesn’t always have to be so monotonous. Help your child find the method of studying that works for them and make sure it doesn’t always feel like a chore. If they realize that learning new words can be fun, they will have a better chance of continuing to learn even after they finish their tests.
Here are some links to online Vocab games:
Colleen M.
Boston Tutoring Services