Writing, for many students is a painstaking chore that they would rather not do. Many teachers complain that students do not even know how to write an introduction, let alone a whole essay.
For many students writing a term paper, the complications begin with vocabulary they need to use to convey their thoughts and ideas. Using adjectives, adverbs and pronouns become a problem if the student doesn’t know the definition nor their usage.
A student that needs to write a descriptive and coherent paper, should be able to use an array of words that are not repetitive, or boring.
How can you help?
Working with your student, try to use synonyms that will make the writing easier to read and will expand the student’s vocabulary. Choose words that are synonyms but are not as widely used. For example, the list below shows an abridged list of some adjectives that will make your student’s writing more mature without making it too difficult for him/her to write. Start with these simple changes, and your student will begin writing a better paper in the future with little difficulty.
|
Use This |
Instead of this |
| Dreadful, rough | bad |
| Pleasant | nice |
| Extreme | real |
| Worthwhile | good |
| Vicious | mean |
| Raging | Very strong |
| Spacious | large |
| Tiny | Very little |
| strenuous | hard |
| Courteous |
nice |
What if the vocabulary is not the problem? Writing can become a habit and you can make it happen. Setting a specific time to do writing every day can start the change and become an enjoyable subject for your student. Writing essays, letters and short stories can give your student the needed practice he needs. Choose topics that seem to trigger a positive response from your student, then you can change those topics to more complex ones. Begin slowly, with perseverance you and your student will achieve your goals.