Objective:
To help intermediate-level English speakers deepen their understanding of commonly confused or nuanced words through context-based learning, synonyms, and application.
Format: One-on-One Online Interactive Session
Step 1: Fill-in-the-Blank Sentences
- Instructor Role: Provide a sentence with a blank and offer three word choices. Only one fits the context.
- Learner Role: Choose the correct word and explain why it is the best choice.
Examples:
- “The little boy was ___ when he got a new puppy.”
a) Excited
b) Confused
c) Nervous - “She is very ___; she always shares her food with everyone.”
a) Generous
b) Angry
c) Quiet
Step 2: Pair the Meaning
- Instructor Role: Provide two words that are similar or often confused. Ask the learner to:
- Define each word in their own words.
- Use each word in a sentence.
- Learner Role: Explain the difference between the two words.
Examples:
- Borrow vs. Lend
- Start vs. Begin
Step 3: Guess the Word
- Instructor Role: Provide a sentence that describes the meaning of a word without naming it. The learner must guess the word.
- Learner Role: Identify the word and explain their reasoning.
Examples:
- “This word means to say you are sorry for something you have done.”
- “This word is used when something happens that you did not expect.”
Step 4: Synonym Speed Round
- Instructor Role: Say a simple word and ask the learner to quickly provide a synonym or near-synonym.
- Learner Role: Respond within 5 seconds.
Examples:
- Word: “Happy”
- Word: “Big”
- Word: “Fast”
Step 5: Sentence Rewrites
- Instructor Role: Provide a simple sentence and ask the learner to rewrite it using a synonym for a specific word.
- Learner Role: Replace the word while keeping the meaning of the sentence the same.
Examples:
- Sentence: “The car is very fast.”
- Sentence: “She is a kind person.”
Debrief and Review
- End the session by reviewing words the learner found challenging.
- Suggest additional practice with similar words or provide real-life examples where the words are commonly used.
This exercise ensures active engagement, reinforces vocabulary knowledge, and allows the learner to practice practical applications in a relaxed, conversational setting.
