ESL Lesson Plan

...you hear a word, or see it on a website, you should confirm that it is a legitimate word.

I coin and use words in my classroom, and even sometimes in my writing to get across an idea or concept where there might not be an existing term or individual word.

This is alright as long as those you are addressing are clear about both the meaning and the context. The whole purpose, after all, for communicating in general is to get your message across. If you are not doing that, you are not communicating.

A word only makes sense if everyone either already does or can easily look up or find the meaning.

If you hear or see a word and can't find it in any established print or online resources, here's a good place to check on it - http://www.copyediting.com/fact-checking-new-word-part-1?goback=.gde_1609797_member_150142395.

And if you want to keep on top of emerging words, keep an eye on this website - http://wordspy.com/. I like websites like this so I can use new words as models for how words come into being and make their way into common use. Those ancient Roman and Latin word roots still have a lot of influence on current words that we use - and will be using in the future!

Let us know what word-related links or other resources you find useful or encouraging. We are all learning and making new connections all the time and sharing makes our journey much richer.

About the author of this entry:

Morf has a B.A.from the Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington and an MAT (Master's in Teaching English) from the University of Washington (Seattle). Morf currently teaches English and writing for a local technical/vocational college with many international students. Morf prefers international and independent films, foods he can't pronounce, music no one else likes and unlikely and ridiculous situations. And if you want him to visit your school or program, you can contact him at mmorf@mail.com.