All three sections have the same basic layout and design. The students become familiar with the format and then can concentrate on learning the new words. A rhythm of learning takes place, and the student progresses. The further along the program, the easier it becomes for the student due to the constant review. This book excels at developing the single most necessary indgredient of good communication: a good vocabulary.
Christine Dawson, a 14 year old who worked through the original books had this to say, "By studying the structure and learning the meanings of the root words, my vocabulary has increased significantly."
There are 3 semesters of work in this book; that's three series of 18 weeks. Each week follows the same format, so only the words are new each week. Each 18 week series uses about 20 roots, so they are repeated over and over again. The constant repetition embeds those roots. Honestly, this is an easy way to learn vocabulary for the student, and it is easy to administer as a teacher. A hints and tips section explains how the book works and how to get the most out of it. A page of common affixes is included along with three pages of basic roots, one page of basic roots per semester. These are to be photocopied and at the ready for the student except on tests. You will need to do the testing, generally on Fridays, what I call Day 5. That is explained in the book. The overall layout of the book is simple. A three word sample is below; normal lessons have twenty words each lesson.
Day 1 - this is the day the student matches definitions with the word by using his knowledge of the meaning sof the roots and affixes.
__ ABDICATE 1. v) to renounce, give up a throne or office formally
__ BISECT 2. v) to cut off, to stop on the way, interrupt
__ INTERCEPT 3. v) to cut in two, divide into two equal parts
Day 2 - this day the student identifies the root in the word and gives the meaning of the root. The words are given in alphabetical order with two columns on the right, one for the root itself and one for the meaning of the root.
Day 3 - this day the student is to figure out the correct word from the roots and affixes given.
________________ two + cut
________________ between + take
________________ away, from + to speak +to make, do
Day 4 - this day the student is to figure out which vocabulary word fits by context in a given sentence.
___________ The prince will __ the throne next Tuesday.
___________ In geometry, one may be asked to __ an angle
___________ The opposing team was able to __ the ball.
Day 5 - you give the test. If you have a number of students, they can exchange papers and correct the tests. If you are a homeschooler or a tutor with one student, you can go over the test with the student as you correct it.
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Look what you get in this book!
F constant repetition for long term retention
F simple format to follow with great results
F four reproducible charts of roots & affixes
F a systematic approach to learning vocabulary
F over 1000 valuable words from basic roots
F practice based on a proven system
F daily and weekly reinforcement
F Latin and Greek based words become easy
F a complete package for individual or classroom
F four types of exercises for each set of words
F easy to follow pattern of instruction
F little or no teacher input after the beginning
F easy scoring and test methodologies
F extensive word parts list for extra help
F not a free lunch but a great meal
F better scores on tests like SAT, CAT, etc.
F easy accountability for teacher and student
F complete answer keys for exercises & tests
F increased ability to intelligently guess new words
F answers to all exercises included for self-scoring
Learn how prefixes, suffixes and roots combine to make all kinds of words.
Learn how to figure out the spelling of a word by the parts that make it up.
Learn how to think in logical fashion about words and their meanings.
Learn a few roots that give you the keys to hundreds of words.
Develop the single most necessary ingredient of good communication: a good vocabulary.
Increase your ability to read and understand as well as express yourself more concisely with these words.
Look at what these folks have to say!
“The students increased their vocabulary scores on the Iowa Test of Basic Skills by 22 percent across the board. That means that all students increased their scores. I was elated.” Tim Moore, classroom teacher
“I have used your vocabulary books for several years. Not only do my children enjoy the books very much, but they are learning and retaining the information.” Karen Locklair, Senior Instructor
“After using Jensen’s Grammar and Vocabulary: Latin I with our 7th grader, his achievement test scores increased 18% in total language and 45% in spelling from his previous scores. Thank you. We love your books.” Derlyze Breitner, homeschooling mom