Unit 2: Using Your Words
Completing this unit should take you approximately 2 hours.
Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
- define vocabulary in multiple uses based on context;
- recognize and correct word use and phrasing errors in a piece of writing;
- analyze the effect of tone on intended meaning; and
- analyze effect of diction in a piece of writing.
2.1: Using Context Clues to Build Vocabulary
When reading you use clues to help you figure out what is happening. Sometimes, you'll find the meaning of a word hidden in the sentence you're reading. Words and phrases that you already understand can act like clues in a puzzle. Using the clues given to you in a sentence to figure out the meaning of a word or phrase is called using context clues. Watch this video about context clues.
Complete these activities to practice identifying the type of context clue by dragging the correct answer to the box below the example.
Here is a handout to help you use context clues to define words.
2.2: Which Word is Correct?
Even when we use context clues, modifiers, and correct tone, it can be difficult to determine the best way to use a specific word. In English, we frequently encounter specialized and figurative language. These words can mean different things depending on how they are used. For example, specialized words used frequently in app development may not be used in marketing. Or the same words may be used but in very different ways. The videos in this section will help you develop strategies for determining appropriate word use.
Watch the video "Specialized Terminology", then complete the terminology chart below to help you master the specialized terminology for this subject.
Specialized terminology, refers to when we use a word or phrase figuratively to imply something that does not match its precise definition.
Watch the video "Figurative Language", then complete the activity to practice identifying the difference between literal statements and figurative statements.
2.3: Finding Clarity with Tone and Diction
In addition to making sure we're selecting the correct or most appropriate word or phrase, we also need to make sure it's being used in a way the reader will understand. Tone, diction, and syntax (word order) influence how a reader interprets a text. Consider this example: You recently got a new job and are very excited. You want to send two emails letting people know. The first person you want to tell is your best friend. The second person is your current boss. How would those emails differ? If you write in a very formal tone to your friend, they may think you're not excited about the new job. Even worse, they could think you're upset with them for some reason. Alternately, if you use an informal tone with your boss, they may consider you unprofessional. The message may ultimately be the same, but the tone is very different. Review this advice on using tone, diction, and syntax to create an appropriate message.
Getting a clear understanding of your audience is important in communicating effectively. It also enables you to imagine your audience as you write and revise. Read about reader-centered writing and try the revision exercises.
Unit 2 Knowledge Check
In Unit 2, we used context clues to build vocabulary and considered the best word choices based on tone and diction. Now, you'll practice selecting the correct vocabulary to clarify the text for the reader.
Unit 2 Assessment
- Receive a grade
Take this assessment to see how well you understood this unit.
- This assessment does not count towards your grade. It is just for practice!
- You will see the correct answers when you submit your answers. Use this to help you study for the final exam!
- You can take this assessment as many times as you want, whenever you want.