Learning to Spell: A Manual for Teachers Using the Aldine Speller

by Catherine T. Bryce; Arthur W. Kallom; Frank J. Sherman

Dictionary Work

Not only does the work in synonyms in this grade provide excellent dictionary work, but there are still other opportunities for the teacher to give the right kind of practice in the use of that book. No lessons on antonyms have been given, but it is an excellent practice to have pupils look up antonyms as well as synonyms. Many additional paragraphs may be dictated by the teacher and the pupils required to look up both synonyms and antonyms.

Nothing more wooden or deadening can be conceived than the practice of requiring the pupils to look up every word in the dictionary and to write a definition for each and every one. This monotonous practice should never be followed. Put life and interest into the lesson by variety, and let the children see that the building up of a vocabulary can be an exciting game.