Using Word Maps to Learn Vocabulary

The most used words in Academic Writing

analyze approach area assess assume authority available benefit concept consist	constitute context contract create data define derive distribute economy environment	establish estimate evident export factor finance formula function identify income
indicate individual interpret involve issue labor legal legislate major method	occur percent period policy principle proceed process require research respond	role section sector significant similar source specific structure theory vary

Here's a list of links to online dictionaries:

Dictionaries

• Acronym Finder
• American Heritage Dictionary
• British National Corpus
• Encarta World English Dictionary
• Idiom Connection
• Lexicool
• Oxford English Dictionary
• Roget’s Thesaurus
• Rhyming Dictionary
• Synonym Dictionary

• Thesaurus.com

Expressways suggests you use a mindmap to learn new words. You can use online tools to make mind maps. Here is a link to two of my favorite online mind mapping tools:

• Bubbl.us
  
• Wise Mapping
  

Here is Expressways advice on how to use a mind map to learn a new word:

You can find a copy of the mindmap being discussed here:

• Word Map

Using Word Mapping

Word mapping is a visual method of expanding your vocabulary. It involves examining a word in detail by considering its meanings, synonyms (words similar in meaning), antonyms (words opposite in meaning), part(s) of speech, word parts, and usages. A word map is a form of word study. By the time you have completed the map, you will find that you have learned the word and are ready to use it in your speech and writing.

On the following page is a sample map for the word “intercepted.”

Use the following steps in completing a word map:

1. When you find a word you don’t know, locate the entry for the word in a dictionary.

Write the sentence in which the word appeared at the top of the map.

Figure out which meaning fits the context and write it in the box labeled “Meaning (as used in reading).” Fill in the word’s part of speech as used in this context.

2. Study the dictionary entry to discover other meanings of the word.

Fill those in on the map in the box labeled “Other Meanings.”

3. Find or think of two synonyms (words similar in meaning).

You might need to use a thesaurus for this.

4. Write two sentences using the word.

5. Analyze the word’s parts. Identify any prefixes, roots, and suffixes.
Write the word part and its meaning in the box labeled “Word Parts.”

6. In the box labeled “Other,” include any other interesting information about the word.
You might include antonyms, restrictive meanings, or the word’s history or derivation).