Unit 2: How Can I Explain This?
This unit introduces the concept of synonyms and antonyms. Synonyms are words that mean the same thing, while antonyms are words that are opposites. When you are able to find synonyms and antonyms, you grow your vocabulary. When you can use the reading strategy of context clues to uncover synonyms and antonyms, you will understand more of what you read. In this unit you will complete an activity where you will use context clues to search for synonyms and antonyms online.
Completing this unit should take you approximately 2 hours.
Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
- use strategies to enlarge your vocabulary of synonyms and antonyms.
2.1: Synonyms
In English, different words may mean the same or very similar things. These words allow us to use better descriptions when we talk or write. Recognizing synonyms helps you build your vocabulary to better understand what you read and be expressive when you write. Read this page on synonyms.
After you have read the page on synonyms, make a list of five words related to education, then pair each word with a synonym. For example, "grade" and "score" or "test" and "exam". When you finish, post your list in the discussion forum. Read what your classmates posted and see what new words you can learn from their synonym lists.
2.2: Antonyms
English speakers and writers use antonyms to show opposites. Knowing when a word is being used as an antonym can help you understand the meaning of another word or sentence.
After you read the page on antonyms, take the list of five words related to education that you created in the previous section and pair each word with an antonym. For example, an antonym for "educated" is "uneducated" and an antonym for "well-read" is "uninformed". Remember to read what your classmates posted and see what new vocabulary you can learn from their antonym lists.
2.3: Using Context Clues to Find Synonyms and Antonyms
When you read, you use clues to help you figure out what is happening. Synonyms and antonyms are useful as context clues. Recognizing synonyms tells you when something is similar, and recognizing antonyms tells you when something is in contrast. When you don't know a word, use any synonyms or antonyms around it to help you learn its meaning. Read this page on context clues to see how you can use synonyms and antonyms to understand what you read.
2.4: Let's Go on a WebQuest!
- View
We build our vocabulary by learning about things that interest us. In this WebQuest, you will build your vocabulary with synonyms and antonyms related to computer systems. This activity does not count towards your grade. It is just for practice!
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.