Monday, December 10, 2012
Final Entry/Reflection on Vocabulary Learning
As a final entry, I would like to think upon the previous entries and development of this blog. This final entry will cover the numerous things I have learned by completing the VSS blog.
I noticed that many of the words I decided to include in my blog consisted of words that I had never been exposed to. This really got my mind moving in terms of recognizing new and unfamiliar words. At the Graduate level of education, the level of academic writing is beyond what I have previously been exposed to. With an increase in the quality of writing comes the increase in more difficult and often content-specific words. For a few blogs in a row, I used words from one article, and there were some words I left off of the blog. I also noticed that some of the words I chose were words that I was familiar with, but had never understood, or took the time to understand, what they meant or how to use them. The practice of recognizing unfamiliar words, and then using them accordingly also increased my word consciousness. By being able to self-select words, I was able to become more personally invested in the blog.
I think that in a digital society we are all exposed to numerous types of text, often without knowing it. Even though I included many words from academic work, I noticed that outside of my education, I still have literacy routines- reading for pleasure, texts messaging, Twitter, Instagram, newspapers, list, etc. I have my phone on me all the time and use it when I feel bored or am killing time. Every time I use my phone I am exposed to different literacies. This is an important recognition, and should be a focal point in classrooms today- students need to be aware of the various kinds of literacy they are exposed to, on any level. Having an educational background in English Literature, I am more prone to focusing on how people use language and what they are conveying through that use. This mindset in itself helps me focus on new words, but this assignment has contributed to my word consciousness.
By keeping this blog, I found that I benefited in several ways. First and foremost, I learned how to be more aware of words I am unfamiliar with, whether it is written or spoken word. Often times (before this semester and assignment) I would hear an unfamiliar word and move on without thinking about the word. This assignment not only helped me recognize unfamiliar words in print texts and spoken word, it allowed me to develop a "thirst" for unraveling the word and understanding it. Just last week I was speaking to someone that used a word that I was only slightly familiar with. At the time, the person used the word incorrectly, but with my lack of knowledge, I refrained from saying anything. Afterwards I looked the word up and went back to that person and spoke to them about her usage of the word. This not only benefitted me, it benefitted her as well.
The blog itself was a useful tool in being more word conscious. Additionally, it strengthened my ability to read-to-learn. Now when I am reading, instead of skipping an unfamiliar word, I am more apt to read for context clues to help me understand the word. If this fails, I resort to other means of understanding the word, such as using a dictionary or speaking to someone and seeing if they know the word. This enhanced reading ability lead me to become a more thoughtful reader that reads more slowly in order to understand the text. Furthermore, this blog also helped me to hone in on my ability to write-to-learn. By using the unfamiliar words in my own writing and reflecting on what the words meant to me personally and their importance to my career, allowed me to be a more efficient writer that focuses on "how" to learn and use a word instead of simply "what" the word means.
In terms of the vocabulary tests that were given based on the class' words, I noticed that my preparation level dramatically changed from one test to another. For the first test, I only wrote down definitions and studied those. The results were not up to par. The second test I took a much more in-depth approach. I defined the words, looked up synonyms/antonyms, and used the word in my own sentence. This change in preparation arose from the lack of a good grade on the first test, leading me to be more resilient in my preparation. The results for the second test were much more pleasing. I have always been weary of vocabulary tests and their purpose, but this assignment gave me more insight as to how vocabulary instruction should be self-directed and initiated. At that point, you become more invested in the learning because you personally select words that you want to know about. I certainly look at vocabulary tests with more respect and look forward to using this strategy in my future classrooms.
For future considerations, I will need to make an effort to continue my learning of new words. This assignment required me to select words and reflect on their meaning. The conclusion of this assignment should not suggest that I will end my learning of new words; it does suggest that I will need to be more aware and active in my word learning. I will undoubtedly encounter new and unfamiliar words in the future and will not have to write about them, but I should make a conscious effort to pursue knowledge of that word to expand my vocabulary knowledge.
It has been fun keeping track of my new words and reflecting on the process of uncovering their meaning. I certainly take value in this assignment and can see myself using it further down my career's path.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
12.2- Laudable
Vocab Word: Laudable
Where I found it: While reading Donald Shcon's Reflective Practitioner. "Surely this is a laudable exercise in self-criticism.
Shcon, D. (1983). The reflective practitioner. USA: Basic Books, INC.
Definition: Merriam Webster defines laudable as "worthy of praise/commendable."
Here is the link.
Familiarity: Unfortunately, the word laudable was one of many that i did not understand while reading this book.
Reflective Commentary: I do not think this word, laudable, is too important to know, nor is it connected to teaching in any specific way. It's still a nice alternative to use when speaking of praise.
Where I found it: While reading Donald Shcon's Reflective Practitioner. "Surely this is a laudable exercise in self-criticism.
Shcon, D. (1983). The reflective practitioner. USA: Basic Books, INC.
Definition: Merriam Webster defines laudable as "worthy of praise/commendable."
Here is the link.
Familiarity: Unfortunately, the word laudable was one of many that i did not understand while reading this book.
Reflective Commentary: I do not think this word, laudable, is too important to know, nor is it connected to teaching in any specific way. It's still a nice alternative to use when speaking of praise.
12.1- Corroborate
Vocab Word: Corroborate
Where I found it: I found this word while reading a book by John Dewey. Additionally, during a conversation a couple weeks ago, someone I work with used the word corroborate in an incorrect way.
Dewey, J. (1909). How we think. New York City: D.C. Heath & Co.
Definition: I again used Merriam Webster's website to define the word: to support with evidence or authority : make more certain
Link to definition.
Familiarity: I heard this word before in a legal context. I was sure that my friend misused the word when they spoke it, but I couldn't think of the actual definition.
Reflective Commentary: Based on the definition, with the push of the CCSS and demand for students to support what they think with text-based evidence, we, as teachers, should certainly be aware of this word and it meaning.
Where I found it: I found this word while reading a book by John Dewey. Additionally, during a conversation a couple weeks ago, someone I work with used the word corroborate in an incorrect way.
Dewey, J. (1909). How we think. New York City: D.C. Heath & Co.
Definition: I again used Merriam Webster's website to define the word: to support with evidence or authority : make more certain
Link to definition.
Familiarity: I heard this word before in a legal context. I was sure that my friend misused the word when they spoke it, but I couldn't think of the actual definition.
Reflective Commentary: Based on the definition, with the push of the CCSS and demand for students to support what they think with text-based evidence, we, as teachers, should certainly be aware of this word and it meaning.
11.2- Salience
Vocab Word: Salience
Where I found it: I found this word in the Damico & Baildon article on Relational Cosmopolitanism, page 233- "Explicit in much of this history is the salience of inquiry-based teaching and learning..."
Damico, J., & Baildon, M. (2011). Content literacy for the 21st century: excavation, elevation, and relational cosmopolitanism in the classroom. journal of adolescent & adult literacy, 55(3), 232-243.
Definition: Merriam Webster online dictionary defines salience as "a striking point or feature." Here is the link to definition.
Familiarity: I was not familiar with this word at all. Even in the context of the text, I was wrong. I thought that the word meant "clarity" or something along those lines.
Reflective Commentary: I do not think that this word is particularly important to know. Obviously having a wide-ranged word knowledge is important, but salience does not have any significance.
Where I found it: I found this word in the Damico & Baildon article on Relational Cosmopolitanism, page 233- "Explicit in much of this history is the salience of inquiry-based teaching and learning..."
Damico, J., & Baildon, M. (2011). Content literacy for the 21st century: excavation, elevation, and relational cosmopolitanism in the classroom. journal of adolescent & adult literacy, 55(3), 232-243.
Definition: Merriam Webster online dictionary defines salience as "a striking point or feature." Here is the link to definition.
Familiarity: I was not familiar with this word at all. Even in the context of the text, I was wrong. I thought that the word meant "clarity" or something along those lines.
Reflective Commentary: I do not think that this word is particularly important to know. Obviously having a wide-ranged word knowledge is important, but salience does not have any significance.
11.1- Caveats
Vocab Word- Caveats
Where I found it- Multimodality article from Siegels.
"Nothing may seem more ironic than suggesting that talk about multimodality could be linked to assessment, so I begin with some caveats and clarifications."
Siegel, M. (2012). New times for multimodality? confronting the accountability culture. journal of adolescent & adult literacy, 55(8), 671-680.
Definition- Merriam Webster defines caveats as:
b: an explanation to prevent misinterpretation
c: a modifying or cautionary detail to be considered when evaluating, interpreting, or doing something
Familiarity- I was not familair with this word before looking it up.
Reflective Commentary- I find this word, caveats, interesting and i think that we, as educators, should know what it means. We give our students caveats while we teach everyday, especially when defining caveats as "an explanation to prevent misinterpretations." It's funny that we give kids caveats toi our students but do not actually refer to them as caveats.
Where I found it- Multimodality article from Siegels.
"Nothing may seem more ironic than suggesting that talk about multimodality could be linked to assessment, so I begin with some caveats and clarifications."
Siegel, M. (2012). New times for multimodality? confronting the accountability culture. journal of adolescent & adult literacy, 55(8), 671-680.
Definition- Merriam Webster defines caveats as:
1a: a warning enjoining one from certain acts or practices
Familiarity- I was not familair with this word before looking it up.
Reflective Commentary- I find this word, caveats, interesting and i think that we, as educators, should know what it means. We give our students caveats while we teach everyday, especially when defining caveats as "an explanation to prevent misinterpretations." It's funny that we give kids caveats toi our students but do not actually refer to them as caveats.
10.2- Impervious
Wocab Word- Impervious
Where I found it- I heard this word while playing a video game- Assassin's Creed III. One of the charatcers told another character that "the enemy's defense is not impervious to our offenses". This is a long and complex game, so unfortunately i would not be able to give you a specifc location of where this was said, other than towards the beginning of the story line in the game.
This was also a word in Siegel's Multimodality article, but I thought that it would be worth noting that I came across this interesting word twice in a week.
Definition- Merriam Webster defines impervious as:
b: not capable of being damaged or harmed <a carpet impervious to rough treatment>
Familiarity- I have heard this word before in social studies/history classes and knew what the word meant. Given this video game takes place during the American Revolution, it bolstered my understanding.
Reflective Commentary- I just happen to like this word, impervious, but i do not see any reason why it should be a "must-know" word or if it has any real significance to teaching, but it certainly could be used in a educational context.
Where I found it- I heard this word while playing a video game- Assassin's Creed III. One of the charatcers told another character that "the enemy's defense is not impervious to our offenses". This is a long and complex game, so unfortunately i would not be able to give you a specifc location of where this was said, other than towards the beginning of the story line in the game.
This was also a word in Siegel's Multimodality article, but I thought that it would be worth noting that I came across this interesting word twice in a week.
Definition- Merriam Webster defines impervious as:
1 a: not allowing entrance or passage : impenetrable <a coat impervious to rain>
2: not capable of being affected or disturbed <impervious to criticism>
In the context of the story in my game, definition 1b would be most appropriate.
Familiarity- I have heard this word before in social studies/history classes and knew what the word meant. Given this video game takes place during the American Revolution, it bolstered my understanding.
Reflective Commentary- I just happen to like this word, impervious, but i do not see any reason why it should be a "must-know" word or if it has any real significance to teaching, but it certainly could be used in a educational context.
10.1- Verbocentrism (No definition!?!?)
Vocab Word- Verbocentrism
Where I found it- From the article of endless vocabulary words-
Siegel, M. (2012). New times for multimodality? confronting the accountability culture. journal of adolescent & adult literacy, 55(8), 671-680.
Definition- Merriam Webster online dictionary does not have a definition for verbocentrism and neither does Dictionary.com.
Familiarity- Clearly, this word is very unfamiliar. I don't think I have ever come across a word that an online dictionary couldn't help me with. I am baffled by this word.
Reflective Commentary- Due to the unsuccessful journey of finding the meaning of this word has brought me to a complete stop. I even Googled verbocentrism and found nothing, even in the "images" section. I really hope that someone can help me with finding or at least partially understanding what verbocentrism means.
Where I found it- From the article of endless vocabulary words-
Siegel, M. (2012). New times for multimodality? confronting the accountability culture. journal of adolescent & adult literacy, 55(8), 671-680.
Definition- Merriam Webster online dictionary does not have a definition for verbocentrism and neither does Dictionary.com.
Familiarity- Clearly, this word is very unfamiliar. I don't think I have ever come across a word that an online dictionary couldn't help me with. I am baffled by this word.
Reflective Commentary- Due to the unsuccessful journey of finding the meaning of this word has brought me to a complete stop. I even Googled verbocentrism and found nothing, even in the "images" section. I really hope that someone can help me with finding or at least partially understanding what verbocentrism means.
9.2- Neoliberalism
Vocab Word- Neoliberalism
Where I found it- I found this word in Siegel's article on multimodality. We also discussed it in class.
Siegel, M. (2012). New times for multimodality? confronting the accountability culture. journal of
adolescent & adult literacy, 55(8), 671-680.
Definition- I used the online version of the Merriam Webster Dictionary instead of dictionary.com. it defines neoliberalism as "a liberal who de-emphasizes traditional liberal doctrines in order to seek progress by more pragmatic methods."
Click here for URL link to definition.
Familiarity- I had never heard of this word prior to reading the article.
Reflective Commentary- I knew that the prefix "neo" meant "new" and that liberalism is a form of government policy, so my original guess as to what the word meant was "new liberalism". Obviously this is a very simple definition, but i wasn't able to put it into my own words as politics are not my cup of tea. I was able to better understand after Elyse explained it during the reciprocal teaching lesson, and reading this definition really helped me understand the word.
I don't think that this word should be a word we have to know unless you are interested in politics. However i used this word in the blog because it took me three different sources to finally get a full understanding of the word. Multimodality works!
Where I found it- I found this word in Siegel's article on multimodality. We also discussed it in class.
Siegel, M. (2012). New times for multimodality? confronting the accountability culture. journal of
adolescent & adult literacy, 55(8), 671-680.
Definition- I used the online version of the Merriam Webster Dictionary instead of dictionary.com. it defines neoliberalism as "a liberal who de-emphasizes traditional liberal doctrines in order to seek progress by more pragmatic methods."
Click here for URL link to definition.
Familiarity- I had never heard of this word prior to reading the article.
Reflective Commentary- I knew that the prefix "neo" meant "new" and that liberalism is a form of government policy, so my original guess as to what the word meant was "new liberalism". Obviously this is a very simple definition, but i wasn't able to put it into my own words as politics are not my cup of tea. I was able to better understand after Elyse explained it during the reciprocal teaching lesson, and reading this definition really helped me understand the word.
I don't think that this word should be a word we have to know unless you are interested in politics. However i used this word in the blog because it took me three different sources to finally get a full understanding of the word. Multimodality works!
Monday, November 12, 2012
9.1- Incumbent
Vocabulary Word: Incumbent
Where I found it: While listening to a sports talk radio show on ESPN radio (Sirius XM satellite radio). The Mike and Mike show, M-F 6am-10am, had on a special guest from NFL Films top talk some football. His sentence (edited)- "protecting the quarterback is incumbent on the offensive linemen..."
Definition: Dictionary.com defines the word as: "holding an indicated position, role, office, etc." AND "obligatory"
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/incumbent?s=t
Familiarity: I have heard this word before, but seldom use it or hear it used in context. When I heard this I knew, based on the context clues, that incumbent must mean "to rely upon, or is the responsibility of..." In this case I was right!! Score one for the home team!
Reflective Commentary: I think that this word is important for teachers to know. Or at least understand the concept of the word, as many times we are all incumbent for effectively teaching our students. We are responsible for their learning, but need to be aware that we need to also hold students accountable and responsible for their work as well, making the student achievement incumbent on both teachers and students alike.
Where I found it: While listening to a sports talk radio show on ESPN radio (Sirius XM satellite radio). The Mike and Mike show, M-F 6am-10am, had on a special guest from NFL Films top talk some football. His sentence (edited)- "protecting the quarterback is incumbent on the offensive linemen..."
Definition: Dictionary.com defines the word as: "holding an indicated position, role, office, etc." AND "obligatory"
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/incumbent?s=t
Familiarity: I have heard this word before, but seldom use it or hear it used in context. When I heard this I knew, based on the context clues, that incumbent must mean "to rely upon, or is the responsibility of..." In this case I was right!! Score one for the home team!
Reflective Commentary: I think that this word is important for teachers to know. Or at least understand the concept of the word, as many times we are all incumbent for effectively teaching our students. We are responsible for their learning, but need to be aware that we need to also hold students accountable and responsible for their work as well, making the student achievement incumbent on both teachers and students alike.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
8.2- Succinct
Vocabulary Word: Succinct
Where I Found It: I found this word while reading The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown. Fache's briefing of his agents and hour ago had been usually succinct and assured.
Brown, D. (2003). The da vinci code. new york: doubleday.
Definition: Dictionary.com defines the word as: expressed in few words; concise.
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/succinct?s=t
Familiarity: I was not familiar with this word when I came across it. Even in the context of the book, I was not able to figure it out as the were not any context clues.
Reflection Commentary: I think that this word, succinct, is something that we should all be aware of. I'm not saying let's use it all the time, but especially as teachers, we have to make sure that our words are consise and explicit, but not too vague. Succinct means to be clear and use as little words as possible, but we know that this is not effective in the classroom. Yes, we want to be clear, but sometimes students, teacher, parents, and other individuals need to hear an explaination in different ways.
Where I Found It: I found this word while reading The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown. Fache's briefing of his agents and hour ago had been usually succinct and assured.
Brown, D. (2003). The da vinci code. new york: doubleday.
Definition: Dictionary.com defines the word as: expressed in few words; concise.
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/succinct?s=t
Familiarity: I was not familiar with this word when I came across it. Even in the context of the book, I was not able to figure it out as the were not any context clues.
Reflection Commentary: I think that this word, succinct, is something that we should all be aware of. I'm not saying let's use it all the time, but especially as teachers, we have to make sure that our words are consise and explicit, but not too vague. Succinct means to be clear and use as little words as possible, but we know that this is not effective in the classroom. Yes, we want to be clear, but sometimes students, teacher, parents, and other individuals need to hear an explaination in different ways.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
8.1- Multimodality
Vocabulary Word: Multimodality
Where I Found It: I found this word in class when receiving Mo and Elyse's article for the Reciprocal Teaching lesson. This word is found throughout the article and in the title.
Siegel, M. (2012). New times for multimodality? confronting the accountability culture. journal of adolescent & adult literacy, 55(8), 671-680.
Definition: The author defines multimodality as "the social picture of making meaning by combining multiple semiotic resources." My understanding of this definition is recognizing/making meaning from multiple mediums or ways of presenting/experiencing content
Familiarity: I certainly was not completely familiar with this word, but I did have an idea of what it meant. I thought it would have something to do with differentiated instruction and how using various teaching methods and assessments that focus on different senses (visual, audio, etc.) and student learning styles can produce better results.
Reflective Commentary: My undergrad work at SUNY Brockport gave me opportunities to work in many special education classrooms and lectures and I often learned about and experienced what differentiated instruction is. This idea of multimodality is essentially what differentiated instruction is. This is very difficult to put into practice, as there are many facets to consider when planning a lesson with multimodality in mind. However, I think that a team approach is the best bet for this practice to turn into something fruitful. The team should consist of the teacher, student, social workers or psychologists, parents, administration and any other individual that can provide information about the character of the students. By understanding WHO our students are, we can understand how they best learn. With saying this, I believe that the word multimodality is a term we should all understand and embrace.
Where I Found It: I found this word in class when receiving Mo and Elyse's article for the Reciprocal Teaching lesson. This word is found throughout the article and in the title.
Siegel, M. (2012). New times for multimodality? confronting the accountability culture. journal of adolescent & adult literacy, 55(8), 671-680.
Definition: The author defines multimodality as "the social picture of making meaning by combining multiple semiotic resources." My understanding of this definition is recognizing/making meaning from multiple mediums or ways of presenting/experiencing content
Familiarity: I certainly was not completely familiar with this word, but I did have an idea of what it meant. I thought it would have something to do with differentiated instruction and how using various teaching methods and assessments that focus on different senses (visual, audio, etc.) and student learning styles can produce better results.
Reflective Commentary: My undergrad work at SUNY Brockport gave me opportunities to work in many special education classrooms and lectures and I often learned about and experienced what differentiated instruction is. This idea of multimodality is essentially what differentiated instruction is. This is very difficult to put into practice, as there are many facets to consider when planning a lesson with multimodality in mind. However, I think that a team approach is the best bet for this practice to turn into something fruitful. The team should consist of the teacher, student, social workers or psychologists, parents, administration and any other individual that can provide information about the character of the students. By understanding WHO our students are, we can understand how they best learn. With saying this, I believe that the word multimodality is a term we should all understand and embrace.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
7.2- Plutocrat
Vocabulary Word: Plutocrat
Where I Found It: In an article from the Rochester D&C, page 8A in the Tuesday 10/23/2012 edition of the paper. The article served as a re-cap of the last Presidential Debate between Mitt Romney and Barack Obama. The article stated that Romney "was seen as a plutocrat in the prior debates."
Definition: Dictionary.com defines the word as "a member of a plutocracy." Thanks, dictionary.com
You can find the definition here. After reading this definition, I looked up what a plutocracy is- a government where the wealthy rule.
Familiarity: When I read this, I had no idea that a plutocrat was. Unfortunately, there weren't any context clues to help me understand the word better.
Reflective Commentary: I was intrigued by this word when I first read this as I had never encountered it before. After deciphering the meaning, I thought about how many people I know or work with that could be described as a plutocrat, but I failed to think of anyone. I think that this word is important to know because many of us, being grad school students and working in local schools, are not plutocrats. I think even more importantly, we live in a democracy, so there is no way any of us could be described as a plutocrat, even if some of us may be wealthy. It may be hard to accept that we are not as wealthy as we would like, but important that we stay grounded and know where we come from.
Where I Found It: In an article from the Rochester D&C, page 8A in the Tuesday 10/23/2012 edition of the paper. The article served as a re-cap of the last Presidential Debate between Mitt Romney and Barack Obama. The article stated that Romney "was seen as a plutocrat in the prior debates."
Definition: Dictionary.com defines the word as "a member of a plutocracy." Thanks, dictionary.com
You can find the definition here. After reading this definition, I looked up what a plutocracy is- a government where the wealthy rule.
Familiarity: When I read this, I had no idea that a plutocrat was. Unfortunately, there weren't any context clues to help me understand the word better.
Reflective Commentary: I was intrigued by this word when I first read this as I had never encountered it before. After deciphering the meaning, I thought about how many people I know or work with that could be described as a plutocrat, but I failed to think of anyone. I think that this word is important to know because many of us, being grad school students and working in local schools, are not plutocrats. I think even more importantly, we live in a democracy, so there is no way any of us could be described as a plutocrat, even if some of us may be wealthy. It may be hard to accept that we are not as wealthy as we would like, but important that we stay grounded and know where we come from.
Sunday, October 14, 2012
7.1- Penchant
Vocab Word: Penchant
Where I found it: While reading an article in the NY Daily News- "A North Carolina mom with a penchant for tattoos is finding out the hard way after tattooing her 11-year old daughter because she asked for it, say police."
Definition: Merriam Webster Dictionary defines the word as "a strong and continued inclination."
Familiarity: I had no prior knowledge of this word. Based on the context, my guestimation was pretty close to the actual definition.
Reflective Commentary: I think about this word and how it can be applied to the classroom. I firmly believe that each student, teacher, staff member, faculty, and even support members have some sort of penchant. MY understanding of the word is a strong liking or curiousity in something. I think that every teacher should make an effort to find their student's penchant, or liking. I think that it is important we know our students on a personal level, so that we can connect with them. What better way to connect with a student than to know something that really interests the student or something that they really like? This was we can at least spark up a conversation with them and try to connect. Cahnces are the student is more likely to open up with the teacher if the teacher understands, respects, and even likes the same things the student likes. If we, as teachers, just try a little harder, we may get amazing results when we least expect it.
Where I found it: While reading an article in the NY Daily News- "A North Carolina mom with a penchant for tattoos is finding out the hard way after tattooing her 11-year old daughter because she asked for it, say police."
Definition: Merriam Webster Dictionary defines the word as "a strong and continued inclination."
Familiarity: I had no prior knowledge of this word. Based on the context, my guestimation was pretty close to the actual definition.
Reflective Commentary: I think about this word and how it can be applied to the classroom. I firmly believe that each student, teacher, staff member, faculty, and even support members have some sort of penchant. MY understanding of the word is a strong liking or curiousity in something. I think that every teacher should make an effort to find their student's penchant, or liking. I think that it is important we know our students on a personal level, so that we can connect with them. What better way to connect with a student than to know something that really interests the student or something that they really like? This was we can at least spark up a conversation with them and try to connect. Cahnces are the student is more likely to open up with the teacher if the teacher understands, respects, and even likes the same things the student likes. If we, as teachers, just try a little harder, we may get amazing results when we least expect it.
Sunday, October 7, 2012
6.2
Vocab Word: Lollapalooza
Where I Found it: When i was looking up definitions on Dictionary.com, there was a question asking the definition of this word.
Definition: "an extraordinary person, thing, or event"
Familiairty: I am very aware of the concert event known as Lollapalooza, but never knew that it was an actual word. I was immediately interested in finding out what th word meant when i saw it.
Reflective Commentary: I know the concert and remember my dad going to one of them when i was younger. I am happy that i decided to find out what the actual word means because it real definiton of the word matches up well with the actual event. Concerts are usually extraordinary, like the time i won backstage passes and autographs from my favorite band, that was special. Additionally, a classroom is and extraordinary place because of the different personalities, skills, and abilities that each person brings to the room, so in essence, a classroom is a lollapalooza!
Where I Found it: When i was looking up definitions on Dictionary.com, there was a question asking the definition of this word.
Definition: "an extraordinary person, thing, or event"
Familiairty: I am very aware of the concert event known as Lollapalooza, but never knew that it was an actual word. I was immediately interested in finding out what th word meant when i saw it.
Reflective Commentary: I know the concert and remember my dad going to one of them when i was younger. I am happy that i decided to find out what the actual word means because it real definiton of the word matches up well with the actual event. Concerts are usually extraordinary, like the time i won backstage passes and autographs from my favorite band, that was special. Additionally, a classroom is and extraordinary place because of the different personalities, skills, and abilities that each person brings to the room, so in essence, a classroom is a lollapalooza!
6.1
Vocab Word: Explication
Where I Found it: I found this in the "friendly-text" article by Dreher and Singer on page 100.
Definition: Dictionary.com broke the cardinal rule of defining a word while using the word: "the act of explicating" (very frustrating). But further down the page, it is defined as "analysis or interpretation" and "comprehensive exposition or description."
Familiarity: I had never heard this word prior to reading it in the text, although I am familiar with the root word- explicate.
Reflective Commentary: This term was used in the article to describe how "explicit" or direct the text of a textbook was in providing information about a topic. I think this word can be used as an example in a classroom of how to define a word based on it root word. I knew that the word had something to do with explaining or describing because i knew the root word, but to get the full definition based on the context, i had to look it up. Students should be taught how to recognize root words, prefixes, and suffixes, as well as use context clues to help define words in text that they are not familiar with.
Where I Found it: I found this in the "friendly-text" article by Dreher and Singer on page 100.
Definition: Dictionary.com broke the cardinal rule of defining a word while using the word: "the act of explicating" (very frustrating). But further down the page, it is defined as "analysis or interpretation" and "comprehensive exposition or description."
Familiarity: I had never heard this word prior to reading it in the text, although I am familiar with the root word- explicate.
Reflective Commentary: This term was used in the article to describe how "explicit" or direct the text of a textbook was in providing information about a topic. I think this word can be used as an example in a classroom of how to define a word based on it root word. I knew that the word had something to do with explaining or describing because i knew the root word, but to get the full definition based on the context, i had to look it up. Students should be taught how to recognize root words, prefixes, and suffixes, as well as use context clues to help define words in text that they are not familiar with.
5.2
Vocab Word: Audacious
When and Where I found it: I found this word again in a Twitter feed.
Definition: Dictionary.com defines the word as "extremely bold or daring".
Familiarity: I was unfamiliar with this word, although I remember hearing or reading this word before.
Reflective Commentary: I think that this word is applicable to current classroom idealogies. The word's definition can be applied to the classroom because I think that both teachers and students need to be audacious, or brave/daring. Allow me to explain. Teachers need to try new things and find new paths of getting to their end goal, like an audacious explorer. There are many tried and true methods of teaching, but as we know, these ways are not always the most effective. Teachers need to be bold and daring and try new things in their classroom so that they meet the needs of all students of all levels. Now that the teacher is being more audacious, hopefully the students can learn to be bold and daring in what they are doing. Many times students are only comfortable with strategies or skills that they are familiar with, but these skills/strategies may not be working as well as another one could. In this sense, students need to follow their teacher's lead and be more daring and bold in the work that they take on, whether it be the way they get the work done, or the content itself.
When and Where I found it: I found this word again in a Twitter feed.
Definition: Dictionary.com defines the word as "extremely bold or daring".
Familiarity: I was unfamiliar with this word, although I remember hearing or reading this word before.
Reflective Commentary: I think that this word is applicable to current classroom idealogies. The word's definition can be applied to the classroom because I think that both teachers and students need to be audacious, or brave/daring. Allow me to explain. Teachers need to try new things and find new paths of getting to their end goal, like an audacious explorer. There are many tried and true methods of teaching, but as we know, these ways are not always the most effective. Teachers need to be bold and daring and try new things in their classroom so that they meet the needs of all students of all levels. Now that the teacher is being more audacious, hopefully the students can learn to be bold and daring in what they are doing. Many times students are only comfortable with strategies or skills that they are familiar with, but these skills/strategies may not be working as well as another one could. In this sense, students need to follow their teacher's lead and be more daring and bold in the work that they take on, whether it be the way they get the work done, or the content itself.
5.1
Vocab Word: Evicerated
When and Where I found this: I actually found this word from a Twitter feed from a sportscaster. "Michael Morse just evicerated a ball."
Definition: Dicitonary.com defines the word as to remove the entrails from/ to deprive of vital parts. Based on the context of the tweet, the guy making the comment used the word to describe a very long home run hit by a MLB player.
Familiarity: I had never heard this word prior to reading the tweet.
Reflective Commentary: I am sure that the majority of education professionals, unless they are a science teacher/major, will not be using this word in an everyday context. I think it is important to have a wide range of vocabulary words that can be used when speaking and writing. Especially when technical or higher level vocab words like this one can be used. When speaking, reading, and writing we need to be aware of these higher level words as they can be used to be more direct and specific in your language use. In this regard, people may take you more seriously or will have an easier time taking your ideas with more respect as you are able to use higher level language.
When and Where I found this: I actually found this word from a Twitter feed from a sportscaster. "Michael Morse just evicerated a ball."
Definition: Dicitonary.com defines the word as to remove the entrails from/ to deprive of vital parts. Based on the context of the tweet, the guy making the comment used the word to describe a very long home run hit by a MLB player.
Familiarity: I had never heard this word prior to reading the tweet.
Reflective Commentary: I am sure that the majority of education professionals, unless they are a science teacher/major, will not be using this word in an everyday context. I think it is important to have a wide range of vocabulary words that can be used when speaking and writing. Especially when technical or higher level vocab words like this one can be used. When speaking, reading, and writing we need to be aware of these higher level words as they can be used to be more direct and specific in your language use. In this regard, people may take you more seriously or will have an easier time taking your ideas with more respect as you are able to use higher level language.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
4.2
Vocab Word: Ubiquitous
When and Where I found this word: A growing trend- I found this in my reading of Fisher & Frey BK.
Definition, based on context: found everywhere, well known. The text is discussing different terms that are very well known in the education realm, but no so outside of the profession.
Familiarity: I have seen the word before, but was not familiar with the meaning prior to this blog.
Reflective Commentary: I recall my previous blog's (4.1) reflection on synonyms. Although I stated knowing synonyms is important, but the last word "bemoaning" was not something people HAD to know. With "ubiquitous", i think that people, especially students, should know what this word means and should know how to use it correctly. Knowing and using a word like ubiqutious can help increase ones knowledge and make you sound smarter.
When and Where I found this word: A growing trend- I found this in my reading of Fisher & Frey BK.
Definition, based on context: found everywhere, well known. The text is discussing different terms that are very well known in the education realm, but no so outside of the profession.
Familiarity: I have seen the word before, but was not familiar with the meaning prior to this blog.
Reflective Commentary: I recall my previous blog's (4.1) reflection on synonyms. Although I stated knowing synonyms is important, but the last word "bemoaning" was not something people HAD to know. With "ubiquitous", i think that people, especially students, should know what this word means and should know how to use it correctly. Knowing and using a word like ubiqutious can help increase ones knowledge and make you sound smarter.
4.1
Vocab Word: Bemoaning
When and Where I found this word: I found this word in the Fisher & Frey Chapter 1 of Background Knowledge.
Definition, based on context: to express discontent or sorrow for something. The text describes how teachers have been found "bemoaning" how students are given many opportunities to learn how to use a strategy in school, but then do not complete a given assignment or task that is based on the taught strategy.
Familiarity: I am not very familiar with this word. I know what "moan" means and used that prior knowledge and the context to figure out what the word meant.
Reflective Commentary: I have always enjoyed learning new synonyms for words that I know. Know that I have learned what :bemoaned" means, i can begin to use it where applicable. I think that students need to learn synonyms for words that they regularly use. "Bemoaning" may not be something students need to learn now, but having the knowledge of various synonyms helps students become better writers. When I began college, my writing often suffered from repeating words that were too generic or basic. As I grew as a college level student, I found that the better work I produced included numerous synonyms that displayed a wide range of knowledge on a given topic. Students should be aware that words have synonyms (and antonyms) and they should seek to learn them and use them whenever possible.
**I could not find a picture or image that would help with this word. But it may help if you think of someone crying or whining about something.
When and Where I found this word: I found this word in the Fisher & Frey Chapter 1 of Background Knowledge.
Definition, based on context: to express discontent or sorrow for something. The text describes how teachers have been found "bemoaning" how students are given many opportunities to learn how to use a strategy in school, but then do not complete a given assignment or task that is based on the taught strategy.
Familiarity: I am not very familiar with this word. I know what "moan" means and used that prior knowledge and the context to figure out what the word meant.
Reflective Commentary: I have always enjoyed learning new synonyms for words that I know. Know that I have learned what :bemoaned" means, i can begin to use it where applicable. I think that students need to learn synonyms for words that they regularly use. "Bemoaning" may not be something students need to learn now, but having the knowledge of various synonyms helps students become better writers. When I began college, my writing often suffered from repeating words that were too generic or basic. As I grew as a college level student, I found that the better work I produced included numerous synonyms that displayed a wide range of knowledge on a given topic. Students should be aware that words have synonyms (and antonyms) and they should seek to learn them and use them whenever possible.
**I could not find a picture or image that would help with this word. But it may help if you think of someone crying or whining about something.
3.2
Vocab Word: Neuroanatomy
When and Where I found this word: In the Fisher & Frey article for Chapter 1 of Background Knowledge.
Definition based on context: the anatomy of the nervous system. The text discusses background knowledge and uses an excerpt from a neuroanatomy text to establish a point.
Familiarity: I have never heard or read this word. This encounter was my first time being exposed to the word, so I am not familiar with the word at all.
Reflective commentary: I know that this is a Tier 3 vocabulary term as it is highly specialized term that would be recognizable by medical students/staff. I do not believe this is a word that should be known unless a person is studying the nervous system or is being treated for an issue with the nervous system. However, I am happy that I took the time to find out what this word means as it may be the answer to a trivia question.
When and Where I found this word: In the Fisher & Frey article for Chapter 1 of Background Knowledge.
Definition based on context: the anatomy of the nervous system. The text discusses background knowledge and uses an excerpt from a neuroanatomy text to establish a point.
Familiarity: I have never heard or read this word. This encounter was my first time being exposed to the word, so I am not familiar with the word at all.
Reflective commentary: I know that this is a Tier 3 vocabulary term as it is highly specialized term that would be recognizable by medical students/staff. I do not believe this is a word that should be known unless a person is studying the nervous system or is being treated for an issue with the nervous system. However, I am happy that I took the time to find out what this word means as it may be the answer to a trivia question.
Blog 3.1
Vocab Word: Melodramatic
When and Where I found the word: I found this word in the first two sentences of the Fisher & Frey article from Background Knowledge.
What word means, based on context: Overly exaggerated, appealing to emotions. The text discusses how background knowledge may be the "savior" of the next generation of readers and uses the term to acknowledge the potential over exaggeration of the phrase, although the author does believe it may hold some truth.
Familiarity: I have heard and read this word several times and am fairly familiar with it. I wanted to "renew" my knowledge of what exactly the word means and I attempted to define it while reading and could not do so.
Reflective Commentary: This word stuck out to me because of two reasons: 1.) I was unclear of why the author used this term and 2.) I have been described as melodramatic when telling stories. Now that I am more familiar with the word and understand how it can be used, I want to use it more, when applicable. I think that people should be aware of this word because it is not used enough, but in a fast-paced, status update-friendly technological society, people need to be aware when others are being melodramatic and differentiate it from seriousness.
When and Where I found the word: I found this word in the first two sentences of the Fisher & Frey article from Background Knowledge.
What word means, based on context: Overly exaggerated, appealing to emotions. The text discusses how background knowledge may be the "savior" of the next generation of readers and uses the term to acknowledge the potential over exaggeration of the phrase, although the author does believe it may hold some truth.
Familiarity: I have heard and read this word several times and am fairly familiar with it. I wanted to "renew" my knowledge of what exactly the word means and I attempted to define it while reading and could not do so.
Reflective Commentary: This word stuck out to me because of two reasons: 1.) I was unclear of why the author used this term and 2.) I have been described as melodramatic when telling stories. Now that I am more familiar with the word and understand how it can be used, I want to use it more, when applicable. I think that people should be aware of this word because it is not used enough, but in a fast-paced, status update-friendly technological society, people need to be aware when others are being melodramatic and differentiate it from seriousness.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)