As I read this chapter I found myself laughing at the examples the author gave in relation to writing and the impact spelling has on the structure. There definitely time when I will restructure a sentence or “dumb it down” if I am unsure of the correct spelling or meaning of a word I thought of using. In cases like that I often look up the word for reassurance but if I don’t have access to a dictionary or thesaurus, either physical or digital, I find myself simplifying my sentences. If I do that this a moderately trained writer I’m sure younger writers adopt similar habits if not more. I agree when assigning a paper, a student should create an outline but they should also create a Pre-Writing Spelling List to practice writing words, topics and ideas they want to include. The pre-writing spelling list also is a great addition if not a starting point to a good outline. Students can create a pool of words and ideas to choose from to expand on in their paper; each word can be the topic for a paragraph. Along with spelling “terminology” was another point made that goes well with creating a word list. “Talk the talk” as the author states. Using the appropriate terminology in a paper provides more depth, credibility.
I agree that a spelling list is a good starting point for an outline or to expand an essay. I wonder though, how many students will use words they do not understand or fully comprehend in context. Many of my students do not have access to a dictionary in class, nor at home, so how, as science teachers, can we push to use more advanced vocabulary other than content science specific terms. What about in class essays? I wonder if students will be able to recall vocabulary without a given list for in class essay assignments or tests
ReplyDeleteInteresting questions/points. I think the trick is to ensure that your students have a firm grasp of the vocabulary they are working with. If not, at least to encourage them to take chances and risks in their writing- even if they're unsure of the vocabulary. Better to try to expand your word database then limit yourself... imho anyway :)
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