Vocabulary Lists

A strong vocabulary gives your writing power, passion and integrity.  It allows you to "get the in-jokes", to pick up on the hidden meaning.  This year we will work on vocabulary. 

Our primary source for vocabulary development will be Word Within A Word by Michael Clay Thompson, Volume 2. 

MC Thompson designed this course for the AP student.  Each week he introduces 25 new Greek and Latin stems and vocabulary words.  Thompson created a data base of words that most often appear in traditional AP literature,classical works, and on the AP and SAT exams.  In addition he adds one or two words that will challenge even the most elitist vocabulary snobs. 

Those 25 words are added to the list before and by week four, we are testing 100 stems and words each week.  You have to memorize.  You must study.  For those of you used to memorizing vocabulary lists during passing time and being able to Ace a test...you are in for a harsh reality check.  Plan to spend 10 minutes a day reviewing the words and the Greek and Latin stems. 

Below is a testimonial I received last summer.  Pardon the texting voice.  I copied it as it was written. 

Dear Mrs. Miller,  I just wanted to let you know that 8 times this week (i've been counting!) i've seen Word Within the Word words in real life. I signed up for this daily email called Word a Day from Wordsmith.org that gives you a word and it's definition each day, and so far I think there's been four or five WWTW words. I'll randomly see them while watching movies too, it's crazy!  I don't exacltly know why I'm telling you this, but I just felt like telling you teachers to keep using WWTW cause it works!

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