• Unit 3: Reading to Improve

    In ESL002, we learned about using a thesaurus to learn synonyms and antonyms. We also learned about the importance of matching the meaning of new words to the context in which they're used. This unit in ESL003 will review some vocabulary strategies that help you best use all the new words you have learned. Be sure to complete the practice activities to learn how to continue to develop these skills.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 2 hours.

    • Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

      • classify vocabulary as specific or general; and
      • distinguish between denotative and connotative meanings of words.

    • 3.1: Vocabulary Choice

      • Multiple Meanings: Denotation and Connotation Page
        Working with new words you find will help you increase your vocabulary and improve your understanding of what you read and hear. This lesson will review some vocabulary strategies to help you better understand the words you read.
      • Word Choice: Specific or General Page
        As we learned in ESL002, a dictionary or thesaurus can be a helpful tool to learn about and use new vocabulary. Nobody knows every word in English and its different uses and meanings. So, all writers, whether they are beginners or experts, can find dictionaries helpful.

    • 3.2: Vocabulary Choice – Let's Practice

      These activities  give you a chance to see how well you understand the use of a dictionary or thesaurus to check the denotative meaning of vocabulary. You'll also have a chance to practice working with specific words and connotative meanings. If you have a difficult time working with word choice, you may return to review the information presented in the Let's Study section and then try these practice activities again.

      • Vocabulary Choice Practice Book

        Now that we understand the difference between specific and general vocabulary, let's put this knowledge into practice.

    • 3.3: Vocabulary Choice – Let's Apply

      Now that you know more about denotation, connotation, and specific, vivid vocabulary, you can use those strategies more confidently to express your ideas in English.

      • Let's Discuss Vocabulary Forum

        For this discussion, identify general or negative connotation words in these sentences and replace them with specific, concrete, or positive connotation words. Remember to use a dictionary or thesaurus.

        Then, share your answers and see what kind of sentences your classmates selected. Reply to your classmates with feedback or suggestions about their word choice.

        1. Maria crawled out of the pool at the end of her twenty laps.
        2. I put my clothes somewhere and can't find them.
        3. I smelled something strong when I opened the refrigerator door.

    • 3.4: Putting It All Together

      You have learned some vocabulary strategies to help you communicate more clearly and accurately in English. This section will help you review what you have learned in Unit 3.

      • Let's Review Unit 3 Page

        Go through the video presentations, which provide a review of the vocabulary skills you have learned about in this unit.

    • Unit 3 Assessment

      • Unit 3 Assessment Quiz
        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.