Finding the right words

I have a tendency to use the same words over and over again when I write. My Language Arts teacher, Mrs. Kratky, calls them echoes—and she says we should try and get rid of/eliminate as many of them as possible.

But sometimes, it’s hard/difficult/challenging to come up with the right words. Am I right?

Of course I am! Unless, of course, you have a secret weapon:

THE THESAURUS

Sunday is National Thesaurus Day (for real!) and in honour, I’ve challenged my family to a game of words, words, words. Ha! What do you think of THAT echo?

Want to play along? Here’s how:

1. On a piece of paper, write 10 adjectives that describe your personality or physical appearance. Eg: Tall.
2. Using a thesaurus, find a synonym (word that is different but means the same thing) for each of the 10 adjectives.
3. If the synonym is a word you don’t know, look it up in the dictionary!
4. Now, switch lists with someone else in your group, and using the new words, write a paragraph about that person.

Working alone? That’s okay! Follow the same steps as above, but instead of switching lists, write the paragraph about yourself using the words you’ve come up with. Challenge yourself to use adjectives that are new to you, as well—vocabulary is super important for good writing!

And, you don’t have to stick to one subject. Use the same rules to write paragraphs about pets, friends, sports…whatever you want! Imagine all of the new words you could learn!?

Gotta jet!

—Chase Superman Duffy