The L Lesson Series - Language

L1 - Talking the Talk: Using subject area words

One of the reasons why your teacher has asked you to write is so that you will use proper subject area words. Each subject has its own kind of language. Your teacher uses this kind of language. You should use the subject area words that your teacher uses.

Words like “things” and “stuff” are fine in speech, and in some writing, but these informal words won't convince your teacher that you really understand the subject.

Think about the kinds of words your teacher uses and the kinds of words that appear in your reading in this subject.

The most powerful words are verbs and nouns.

Verbs often have these endings:

…ize
…ate

Nouns often have these endings:

…ment
…ence
…ance
…ness

Practice: Talking the Talk: Using subject area words

Rx Write is written by Amy Benjamin. © 2004. Eye on Education. Larchmont, New York. Used with permission