Improving Vocabulary

Many students believe that if they are reading Harry Potter or have read all the Harry Potters that there is nothing left to read. But that would be a mistake.

Students are struggling more than ever when it comes to demonstrating the breadth of their vocabulary. NAPLAN, GATE and now the even the GAMSAT, test students on their knowledge of words. And while Harry Potter offers readers a reasonable vocabulary, not one novel or series employs all the words in the English language.

The trick then is to read widely and read often. This can be as simple as starting to take an interest in the ingredients on the side of the cereal box in the morning, reading an old fairy tale to a younger sibling, or beginning to take an interest in newspapers and magazines.

If students get stuck, they should not be afraid to ask mum and dad; or better yet, look the word up in the dictionary. And if students start now, no word will ever be beyond them!

For further tips and tricks on how to improve vocabulary CONTACTIntuition today!