Avoiding the Dead Words

Jane Crouse

Purpose: Students will learn to identify words that are overused in the English language, making them ineffective in text. By learning and using more interesting words, students will be able to improve their writing.

Objectives: Sixth Grade

Competency Goal 6: The learner will apply conventions of grammar and language usage.

6.01 Demonstrate an understanding of conventional written and spoken expression by:

• determining the meaning of unfamiliar vocabulary words by using context clues, a dictionary, a glossary, a thesaurus, and/or structural analysis (roots, prefixes, suffixes) of words.
• extending vocabulary knowledge by learning and using new words.
• exploring the role and use of dialects and of standard English to appreciate appropriate usage in different contexts.

NCTE Standards:

4. Students adjust their use of spoken, written, and visual language (e.g., conventions, style, vocabulary) to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences and for different purposes.

12. Students use spoken, written, and visual language to accomplish their own purposes (e.g., for learning, enjoyment, persuasion, and the exchange of information).

Materials Needed:

List of Dead words

Overhead Transparency of “Dead Words”

Overhead Projector

Approximate time required: 25 minutes

Script: It is important to use colorful language when writing to keep the reader’s attention. Many words in the English language are overused. We will call them “dead words.” Let’s look closely at some of these words and see if we can think of better words or alternatives to use when writing. I have given each of you a list of “dead words.” As we go over the list together, write in words that you can use to better express yourself.

The first word is also. Can anyone tell me another word for also? [too, moreover, besides, as well as, in addition to] What about the words awesome, cool ,and rad? What words could you use that better express the meaning of these words? [fine, wonderful, marvelous, great, fantastic] Do you use the word scared when you write? Tell me other words that mean the same thing as scared. [afraid, fearful, terrified, frightened]

(Teachers, Continue through the rest of the list of “dead words” in the same way, allowing the students to make suggestions of words that will express the same meaning in a more effective way in their writing.)

You will place this reference list in your writer’s notebook. As you find other “dead words,” add them to your list. By reviewing the list often, you will begin to use more colorful language and your writing will improve.

Activity: The students will create their own list of interesting words that they will use in place of the overused “dead words.” The list will be an ongoing one that the student will keep in their writer’s notebook.

Dead Words

Many words in the English language are overused. We will call them “dead words.” Let’s look closely at some of these words and see if we can think of better words or alternatives to use when writing.

also

awesome, cool, rad

scared

have to

very

like

kid

mad

got, get

then

nice

lots

so

fun

good

but

awful

great

funny

big

awful

great

funny

big

said

happy