Tips for learning and studying AWL vocabulary Using tools and resources Developing strategies

#1 Divide the list Using a system of some kind, divide the 30 words into 3 categories:  Words you are SURE you already know  Words you THINK you know  Words you are sure you DON’T know

#2 Prioritize Spend the most time with the words you don’t know. Add to the information you already have about your ‘unsure’ words. Double-check your knowledge about your ‘sure’ words.

#3 Fill in the chart In your handout, you have a chart that asks for all of the basic information about the AWL words. Using your own knowledge, details from dictionaries, and information from informants, fill in the chart….completely.

#4 Gather as much info as possible Part of speech Definition Pronunciation Translation Spelling Other words in family Example in context Grammar information Other words that often come together with it

#5 Use multiple sources Use a bilingual dictionary. This gives you a general idea…but there may be more than one translation of a word. This can sometimes be helpful but also confusing. Use an English/English dictionary. Looking at the definition in English should tell you which of the translations is the closest. Use a second dictionary to compare definitions.

#6 Teach Find a friend or classmate and try to teach him or her the word. Can she use it correctly?

#7 Quiz yourself Make flashcards or lists and cover up some of the information. Can you recall the information?

#8 Use websites The AWL handout has a few. The class wiki has a few. The Learning Center has a long collection of useful websites.

#9 Study with a friend You can quiz each other on: – Definitions – Pronunciation – Spelling

#10 Ask a tutor The tutors in UCB 485 are a great resource. They can: – Tell you about the connotation of the word. – About situations where they might use the word. – Add to a textbook definition with their own explanation. – Quiz you

#10 Visit Errin’s office hours Your teacher (s) can: – Tell you about the connotation of the word – About situations where they might use the word – Add to a textbook definition with their own explanation – Quiz you