12 Powerful Words

These words were compiled by educator Larry Bell.  They are prominent on all high stakes tests that we expect students to pass.  Often students who know the material answer incorrectly because they do not understand the vocabulary in the question.  At Kane, we are focusing on these words this year in an effort to give all of our students the tools they need to pass their state tests.  Please use these words in your home to give your child an extra boost.

1.               Trace – to follow from the beginning

2.               Analyze – to break into parts and explain

3.               Evaluate – to give it a grade – What do you think of it?

4.               Infer – to conclude from evidence

5.               Formulate – to create

6.               Describe – to tell what you know

7.               Support – to give reasons – to defend

8.               Explain – to tell about it

9.               Summarize – to put the important stuff in your words

10.         Compare – to tell what things are alike

11.         Contrast – to tell how they are different

12.         Predict – to make a realistic guess