Checking Words with Dictionaries

What are we learning today?

You will learn how to check the meaning of a new word. You will use books and digital tools.

Explanation

• A school book can have a word list for topics, such as animals and plants.
• It can also have a list of irregular verbs and small boxes with definitions.
• A dictionary shows the meaning of a word. It also shows the part of speech and an example sentence.
• You can use a dictionary app or an online dictionary.
• Check two sources, not only one.

Examples

1. Dictionary entry: giraffe (noun): a very tall African animal.
2. Definition box: Climate is the typical weather in a local area.
3. Steps: find the word, read the definition, read the example, write the word with an example.

Remember!

• Read the example sentence. It shows how to use the word.
• Do not take the first meaning without checking the context.

Check yourself

1. Why do you read the example sentence in a dictionary?
2. Name one digital tool for checking a word.
3. How many sources do you check?