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