Parents and teachers should promote the 12 powerful words with students consistently with students at every opportunity. The “12 Powerful Words” have been identified as words commonly used on standardized tests that cause students difficulty. Students may feel confused by these words causing them to answer a question incorrectly.

 Powerful Strategies Teachers Can Use to make the 12 Powerful Words a Part of Every Child’s Vocabulary

Taken from 12 Powerful Words by Larry Bell

Powerful Strategies to make the

12 Powerful Words a Part of Every Child’s Vocabulary

• Use them daily otherwise some students will rarely hear them
• Make your students explain what you mean when you use one of the 12 Powerful words
• Re-phrase what students say using a power verb
• Use them as if they are a part of normal, everyday conversation. Start a revolution in the way they think.
• Have a Word of the Day Select a word to focus on each day.
• The word should appear over and over on your blackboard, in verbal communication etc.
• Students must constantly find ways to say and write the word all period or all day long.
• Students can start class telling how the word is a part their everyday life.
• Display a Standard, Professional Poster. The poster is neat, clear and looks the same in every class.
• These serve as a daily reminder to all students.
• The posters also serve as a daily reminder to teachers to use the words.
• Some teachers have students respond to class questions by orally incorporating one of the 12 powerful words in their response.
• Put the 12 Powerful Words on Your Test. If you want students to fear these words on standardized test, they should get used to seeing them on your test.
• Put the “at-promise” friendly phrase or synonym in parenthesis beside the word. The will help students’ minds trigger a meaning every time they see the word.
• Seeing the words constantly can help make the words a part of each student’s vocabulary.
• Have Students Create a Rap Song Using the 12 Powerful Words Teacher Creates a 12 Powerful Word Song Using Existing Songs Use classic song
• Use songs from your childhood you know by heart.
• Use nursery rhymes. This demonstrates your passion for the words.
• Use them on Daily Quizzes
• Have students create tests and quizzes periodically using the 12 powerful words
• Word of the week

12 Powerful Words

1.  trace-an indication that something has been present

2.  analyze-break down into components or essential features

3.  infer-conclude by reasoning

4.  evaluate-estimate the nature, quality, ability or significance of

5.  formulate-prepare according to instructions

6.  describe-give a statement representing something

7.  support-the act of bearing the weight of or strengthening

8.  explain-make plain and comprehensible

9.  summarize-present the main points in a concise form

10.  compare-examine and note the similarities or differences of

11. contrast-the opposition or dissimilarity of things that are compared

12.  predict-tell in advance