why is vocabulary important in creative writing

Why Is Vocabulary Important (20 Reasons + Tips to Expand It)

You know when you try to tell someone how you feel or what you think, and you just can’t find the words? It can be such a drag. That’s where having a good set of words, or vocabulary, comes in handy.

A solid vocabulary helps us share ideas, learn new things, and even land our dream job. It’s more than just knowing many words; it’s about using them to open doors to new experiences and opportunities.

But why is expanding your vocabulary so important, and how can it affect your everyday life? Stick around because we’re about to dive into a world where words are the unsung heroes of our stories. Get ready to discover the power of vocabulary, one simple yet impactful word at a time.

Table of Contents

Vocabulary Aids in Conveying Thoughts Precisely

Vocabulary enriches conversation quality, vocabulary strengthens persuasion skills, vocabulary improves cognitive function, vocabulary increases comprehension while reading, vocabulary assists in career advancement, vocabulary enhances academic success, vocabulary fosters better listening skills, vocabulary magnifies the enjoyment of literature, vocabulary boosts creative writing flair, vocabulary encourages curiosity and learning, vocabulary nurtures confidence in debates, vocabulary enhances emotional expression, vocabulary facilitates clearer instruction giving, vocabulary helps in making informed decisions, vocabulary bridges communication gaps, vocabulary bolsters negotiating expertise, vocabulary is fundamental for effective leadership, vocabulary deepens understanding of cultural nuances, vocabulary facilitates social interactions, tips for expanding your vocabulary, frequently asked questions, final thoughts.

Imagine you’re at a job interview, and you’re asked to describe your strengths. Saying  “I’m good at things”  doesn’t pack the same punch as  “I’m proficient in strategic planning and effective team management.”  

The second response paints a clearer picture, doesn’t it? Vocabulary is like the paint you use to create an image in someone’s mind. The better your vocabulary, the more vivid the picture.

A rich vocabulary gives you the words to be specific, whether you’re giving instructions, expressing feelings, or presenting an argument. It helps you say exactly what you mean and avoid misunderstandings.

Engaging in conversation is like dancing—knowing more steps makes it more fun. Vocabulary does that for talking; it adds color, depth, and rhythm to your chats. 

When you have lots of words to pick from, you can say what you mean with a bit more finesse rather than just saying it straight up.

A diverse vocabulary:

• Keeps listeners hooked because you’re not repeating the same words.
• Allows you to connect with people of various backgrounds by appreciating and using a wider range of expressions and references.

Ever been moved by a powerful speech or convinced by a colleague’s compelling presentation? Chances are, it was their choice of words that swayed you. Convincing someone isn’t just about the facts; it’s about packaging them in a way that resonates.

With a solid vocabulary, you can:

• Express your points with confidence and clarity.
• Use emotionally charged words to create impact where needed.
• Choose terms that resonate with your audience, making your argument more persuasive.

For instance, being persuasive is a valuable asset, whether negotiating a contract, presenting a strategy, or leading a team. Having the right words at your disposal is like having the perfect tool for the job—it makes you look and feel more capable. 

Persuasion is often more effectual than force. – Aesop

Think of your brain as a supercomputer. Just like upgrading software makes a computer run better, improving your vocabulary boosts your brain’s performance. 

Words are the tools we use to think, categorize, and understand concepts. When you learn new words, you’re not just memorizing but also exercising your brain, keeping it sharp and flexible. 

Here’s the cool part:

• A strong vocabulary helps with memory retention, as learning new words creates new neural pathways.
• It’s also linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline. Yes, a good word stash might keep your mind fit as you age.

Ever read a passage and felt like you were deciphering an ancient script? I know I have! But here’s where vocabulary steps in to save the day. The more words you recognize, the less you’ll need to pause and look them up, and the smoother your reading experience will become. 

In professional development, understanding the material you read—whether it’s a technical paper, industry article, or even an email—without getting tripped up on unknown words is critical. It lets you absorb information quickly and efficiently, keeping you ahead of the curve. 

Now, let’s talk about moving up the ladder at work. We’ve all heard the phrase,  “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know,”  but I’d argue it’s also  “how you express what you know.”  

For example, if you work in digital marketing, using terms like “ search engine optimization, ” ”  conversion rate, ” and “ pay-per-click advertising ” can accurately showcase your knowledge and make your suggestions more persuasive. 

Your vocabulary can be a key factor in whether you’re seen as a specialist or another team member. It can be the distinguishing feature that gets you that promotion or lands you a lead role on a new project. With the right words, you’re not just a participant in your field—you’re an authority.

When it comes to acing your studies, having a strong vocabulary is your secret weapon. It’s the difference between just grazing the surface and digging deep into the material you’re learning. 

Think about it:  if you understand the words used in lectures and textbooks, you grasp the concepts much more quickly. It’s like showing up to a football game already knowing the plays.

Students with a good grip on vocabulary tend to write better essays, participate more confidently in discussions, and generally perform well across all subjects.

Now, let’s shift from speaking and reading to listening. You might not realize it at first, but understanding a wide range of words greatly improves your ability to listen. It’s like tuning your radio to the right frequency—you start to pick up on signals you would have otherwise missed.

With a broad vocabulary:

• You catch subtle points in conversations and presentations.
• You can decipher complex discussions, even when you’re not familiar with every detail.
• You become more empathetic as a listener, understanding not just the words but the emotions and intentions behind them.

By improving your vocabulary, conversations become less about waiting for your turn to talk and more about truly hearing what’s being said. 

Good listeners, like precious gems, are to be treasured. — Walter Anderson

Have you ever lost yourself in a book so much that you forgot the world around you? A well-stocked vocabulary can transform reading from a simple pastime into a thrilling adventure. With each new word you understand, you unlock a new level of appreciation for the author’s craft. 

When you read with a rich vocabulary:

• You savor the nuances of each sentence and the clever use of language.
• Characters become more real, and their experiences more relatable.

For instance, when reading a classic like “Pride and Prejudice,” understanding words like “ satirical, ” “ taciturn, ” and “ supercilious ” allows you to appreciate Jane Austen’s intricate character portrayals and the subtle humor woven throughout her narrative.

If you’ve ever tried writing, you know the right words can make your story soar. They’re the building blocks of your narrative, the spices in your storytelling stew. Think of vocabulary as your toolkit for crafting precise imagery, compelling dialogue, and memorable characters.

A strong vocabulary allows you to:

• Paint more vivid pictures with your words—the kind that sticks with the reader long after they’ve turned the page.
• Experiment with language, playing with rhythm and flow to make your prose or poetry sing.

For example, you’re writing a story about a sunset. Instead of saying, “ The sun went down, ” imagine describing it as “ the horizon swallowed the sun, and the sky erupted in hues of amber and indigo. ” That’s the magic of vocabulary—it transforms the mundane into the extraordinary.

A bountiful vocabulary opens doors to new worlds— literally . Think of every new word as a portal to a previously unexplored realm of knowledge. 

With every term or phrase you master, a spark of curiosity ignites, leading you to questions you might not have previously considered. It keeps the journey of discovery vibrant and ongoing.

This innate curiosity driven by vocabulary leads to:

• Seeking out new experiences and knowledge.
• The joy of learning for its own sake rather than just as a means to an end.
• A more well-rounded perspective on the world and your place in it.

The realm of debate is where vocabulary truly flexes its muscles. Armed with an expansive dictionary, you step into discussions with quiet confidence. You’ve got the perfect words loaded, ready to clearly express your viewpoints and dismantle opposing arguments.

Good debaters leverage their vocabulary to:

• Present their ideas with authority and persuasive power.
• Respond to counterpoints with suitable rebuttals and concise conclusions.
• Engage the audience or judges, drawing them into the narrative being woven.

In a debate, your words are your weapons, and a greater vocabulary means a better-armed intellect. Knowing you can articulate your thoughts under pressure builds a sense of self-belief.

How we express our emotions can be as complex as the feelings themselves. A rich vocabulary gives you a full spectrum of words to depict your emotional state with nuance and precision. 

It’s like being an artist who doesn’t just have primary colors on their palette but every shade imaginable. Words like “ ecstatic, ” “ melancholic, ” or “ irate ” provide an immediate, vivid sense of what you’re feeling.

This allows you to create connections with others by sharing your emotional experiences more deeply. It fosters empathy and understanding in your personal and professional relationships. 

When you can articulate your emotions effectively, you pave the way for healthier, more sincere interactions.

Effective instruction is all about clarity; a well-chosen word can make the difference between success and confusion. 

When you’re trying to guide someone, whether it’s assembling furniture, baking a cake, or completing a complex task at work, the language you use determines how easily they’ll follow. 

For example, imagine you’re leading a fitness class. Instead of telling participants to “ move around, ” which could mean anything, you say, “ perform a series of high knee sprints, followed by lunges. ” Now they know exactly what to do, thanks to your clear directions.

Let’s break down what it looks like to make informed decisions with the aid of a strong vocabulary. 

Imagine you’re faced with choosing a new software for your business. With terms like “ scalability, ” “ integration, ” “ user interface, ” and “ analytics ” at your disposal, you can accurately evaluate the options. 

A rich vocabulary allows you to ask the right questions, understand the technical responses, and ultimately make a choice that aligns with your business needs. Vocabulary, in this sense, becomes your lens for clearer insight and judgment.

Moreover, having the right words helps you fully comprehend the options and consequences. It means that when you weigh the pros and cons, you understand all the dimensions of what you’re considering. 

Think of those moments when a single word can span the space between misunderstanding and clarity. Especially when addressing a diverse group, whether it’s your team, your clients, or an international audience, a comprehensive vocabulary allows you to:

• Adjust your language to be inclusive and respectful.
• Clarify your message to ensure everyone’s on the same page.
• Translate jargon or specialized terms into accessible language.

By effectively bridging these gaps, vocabulary facilitates stronger connections and nurtures a culture of collaboration and inclusivity.

Negotiation is an art, and words are your brushes. In high-stakes situations, each phrase and term you choose can tip the balance. A skillful negotiator knows the importance of phrasing their proposals just right to appeal to their counterpart’s interests and concerns.

When you enter a negotiation with a comprehensive vocabulary, you:

• Articulate your position more persuasively.
• React to the other party’s arguments with precision.
• Use strategic language that can encourage favorable outcomes.

It’s about more than just the deal at hand; it’s about positioning yourself as competent, prepared, and trustworthy. 

True leadership is about inspiring and guiding others, and language is a leader’s most powerful tool. With a well-honed vocabulary, you can paint a vision, spell out strategies, and encourage teamwork. 

Take, for example, a leader addressing their company during a period of change. Instead of vaguely urging staff to “ do better, ” they articulate a clear vision of what “ better ” looks like, using precise and motivating language that spurs the team. 

In every industry, the leaders who stand out are those who can communicate their thoughts with confidence and finesse. They understand that words have the power to inspire, engage, and drive progress.

A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way. — John C. Maxwell

Each culture has its own set of idioms, colloquialisms, and expressions that reflect its unique way of life. Understanding these subtleties is like being handed a key to unlock the deeper meanings within conversations. 

This understanding fosters stronger connections, greater empathy, and a genuine appreciation for the diversity and complexity of the world’s cultures.

A diverse vocabulary enables you to:

• Appreciate the richness of different cultures through language.
• Connect with individuals on a more personal level by understanding their linguistic expressions.
• Navigate cultural contexts with sensitivity and awareness.

For instance, when someone in the UK says they’re “ feeling peckish ,” knowing they’re talking about being slightly hungry gives you a glimpse into British life’s casual, everyday speech.

Vocabulary lays the foundation for social interactions. When we think about social butterflies, what makes them so engaging is often their way with words. They know how to strike up a conversation that’s both interesting and inclusive. 

Here’s what happens when you’re equipped with a rich vocabulary:

• You’re more adept at storytelling, capturing the interest of your listeners.
• You adapt your language to suit different social settings, whether casual or formal.
• You deftly navigate various topics, making meaningful connections with those around you.

It’s about reading the room and knowing what to say to strike a chord with your audience, making each social interaction more enjoyable and rewarding. Every new word learned opens up new possibilities for connection and understanding.

Alright, so we’ve already talked about the whys, but hang on, let’s turn those whys into hows and start fueling up your communication rocket! Here are some tips to turn vocabulary building from a dull chore into an adventure:

Read, Read, Then Read Some More

Trust me, the more you read, the more words you’ll encounter. It’s like going on a treasure hunt without leaving your couch. No need to dive into the most challenging book right away—start with what grabs you and go from there.

Keep a Word Journal

Stumbled upon a new word? Jot it down in a journal or a note app. I think of it like collecting stamps; the more you have, the richer your collection. Revisit them often, and they’ll stick.

Use the Words in Your Daily Chit-Chat

Try slipping new words into your conversations. Don’t stress about sounding a bit awkward at first. With practice, it’ll become second nature.

Play Word Games

Who says expanding your vocabulary can’t be a blast? Games like Scrabble or Words with Friends are not just fun—they’re like a gym session for your brain’s language center. Before you know it, you’ll be the heavyweight champion of words.

Use Technology

There are heaps of apps and tools out there designed to help you learn new words without making you yawn. Set aside a few minutes each day, and soon, you’ll see your word bank growing faster.

Engage With Media in Different Languages

If you’re feeling adventurous, watch a movie or a show in another language. I mean, with subtitles, of course. Cross-cultural phrases and unique expressions add a new flavor to your vocabulary mix.

As we discussed earlier, investing in your vocabulary is investing in your communication. With practice, expanding your vocabulary can transform your perspective and unlock new opportunities.

Are there any tools or resources available for vocabulary building?

Yes, numerous tools and resources are available to help individuals expand their vocabulary. Some popular options include:

Vocabulary-building apps:  These apps offer daily word challenges, quizzes, and personalized learning plans to help users enhance their vocabulary.

Online dictionaries and thesauri:  Websites like Merriam-Webster and Oxford English Dictionary provide definitions, synonyms, and examples of word usage.

Educational websites and blogs:  Websites such as Vocabulary.com and Wordnik offer various resources, including word lists, quizzes, and articles related to vocabulary development.

Is there a specific age to start focusing on vocabulary development?

Not at all. Vocabulary development can start as early as a child begins to speak and continues throughout life. It’s never too early or too late to work on expanding your vocabulary.

For children, early vocabulary development is crucial for language and cognitive skills, but adults can benefit, too. Think of vocabulary building as a continuous journey—there’s always something new to learn, regardless of age.

How can I measure my vocabulary growth?

Measuring vocabulary growth can be quite satisfying, and there are several ways to do it:

1. Keep track of the new words you learn in a notebook or app, and review the list periodically to see your progress.

2. Use vocabulary tests available online to reassess your level at regular intervals. There are standardized tests and quizzes that can give you a rough idea of the size of your vocabulary.

3. Reflect on your reading and comprehension. If you’re understanding texts more easily and recognizing more words, that’s a clear indicator that your vocabulary is expanding.

4. Pay attention to your writing and speaking. The more comfortably you can express complex thoughts and use diverse words, the more growth you’ve achieved.

Remember, growth isn’t just about quantity; it’s also about how effectively you use and understand the new words in context.

How can I maintain and retain my improved vocabulary over time?

Consistent practice:  Continually use your expanded vocabulary in conversations, writing, and presentations to reinforce your learning and internalize new words.

Lifelong learning:  Make vocabulary development an ongoing process by continuously seeking new words and concepts to learn and incorporate into your language repertoire.

Periodic review:  Revisit the words you’ve learned previously to ensure they remain fresh in your memory and readily available for use.

Engage with diverse content:  Consume a variety of reading materials, watch movies and shows, and listen to podcasts that challenge your vocabulary and expose you to new words and ideas.

Words are much more than just sounds or characters; they’re the building blocks of our thoughts and the mirror that reflects our ideas to the world.

Improving our vocabulary is a powerful step towards being clearer, more persuasive, and more confident in every facet of life. It opens doors to new opportunities and allows us to understand and be understood better.

So, take these simple tips, embrace the joy of learning new words, and watch as your world expands with every term you master. After all, every word is a new tool in your kit, ready to help you build bridges, solve problems, and create a richer, more meaningful life.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

As you found this post useful...

Share it on social media!

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

Robby Salveron

Robby is a multimedia editor at UpJourney with a journalism and communications background.

When she's not working, Robby transforms into an introverted art lover who indulges in her love for sports, learning new things, and sipping her favorite soda. She also enjoys unwinding with feel-good movies, books, and video games. She's also a proud pet parent to her beloved dog, Dustin.

12 Thrilling Ways of Expanding Vocabulary for Writers ✏️

Table of Contents

Vocabulary is really important for writers, just like a paintbrush is for artists. Having a wide range of words helps writers create detailed and profound pieces. Writers can use it to express complex ideas, create strong emotions, and tell captivating stories. Developing a strong vocabulary is crucial for all writers. It brings many benefits and is worth pursuing. In fact, an expanding vocabulary is essential for the success of all authors.

Vocabulary Instruction Through Critical Thinking with Beth Lawrence

What is Vocabulary?

Vocabulary is essential for writers, like a paintbrush for artists. Having a wide range of words helps writers create detailed and meaningful pieces. It empowers writers to express complex ideas, evoke potent emotions, and build vivid, engaging narratives. Having a strong vocabulary is really important for all writers. It’s worthwhile to spend time expanding it because it brings many benefits. In fact, an expanding vocabulary is essential for the success of all authors.

A vocabulary represents a person’s repertoire of words. Every word in a vocabulary is like a unique tool in a toolbox, each with a specific function and purpose.

A person with a larger vocabulary can express complex thoughts and emotions better. Writers need a wide range of words, just like artists have many colors to paint with.

Writers rely on their words to create sentences that share ideas and spark readers’ imagination. A writer can use a wide range of words to make their writing more powerful and emotional.

Erin McKean: Go ahead, make up new words!

Why is Vocabulary Important for Writers?

For a writer, vocabulary is like a color palette that they use to create their stories. It is a tool that aids them in vividly portraying their thoughts, ideas, and stories to the readers. Having a wide range of words helps writers to pick more precise words for their writing. This makes their work more interesting, descriptive, and convincing.

A good vocabulary helps writers express their ideas and emotions clearly and with detail. They can use the right words to express complex ideas, create clear pictures, and evoke strong feelings. They can create sentences that are correct in grammar and meaningful in a rhythmic way. Moreover, a rich vocabulary sets writers apart. It distinguishes their work, defines their style, and establishes their voice. It is a mark of their prowess, a testament to their skill and creativity. A strong vocabulary is not just a tool, but an important part of a writer’s identity.

A vocabulary represents a person’s repertoire of words. Every word in a vocabulary is like a unique tool in a toolbox, each with a specific function and purpose. The wider a person’s vocabulary, the more capable they are of expressing complex thoughts and emotions accurately and effectively. Writers need a wide range of words, like an artist’s palette, to create colorful and vivid descriptions.

Writers need a good vocabulary to write sentences that express ideas and make the reader imagine things. A writer can make their writing more powerful by using a wide range of words that have a strong impact.

Why is Expanding Vocabulary Important for Writers?

Expanding your vocabulary is like an artist getting more colors to paint with. It gives you new ways to express yourself. Writers benefit from having a wide range of words to choose from. This helps them express their thoughts with precision and creativity.

An expanded vocabulary facilitates greater clarity in writing. A writer can express complex ideas better with a wider range of words. This makes their writing easier to understand and more interesting. They can use it to express details, notice small differences, and depict the complexities of human life more accurately.

Furthermore, expanding vocabulary enhances a writer’s adaptability. It equips them to write for different audiences, genres, and contexts. A writer can improve their communication by using the right words for the subject, audience, and purpose. Having a good vocabulary helps with this.

12 Ways to Improve Your Vocabulary

Expanding your vocabulary doesn’t happen overnight. However, it’s a goal that’s absolutely achievable with a bit of effort and the right strategies. Here are 12 effective ways to enhance your vocabulary:

• Read Widely and Regularly : Reading exposes you to a broad array of words and phrases. The more you read, the more words you’ll naturally incorporate into your vocabulary.
• Use a Thesaurus : A thesaurus is an excellent tool for discovering synonyms. It can help you replace overused words with more intriguing alternatives.
• Learn a Word a Day : Make it a goal to learn a new word every day. There are several apps and websites that can help you with this.
• Play Word Games : Games like Scrabble or crossword puzzles can significantly improve your vocabulary in a fun and engaging way.
• Engage in Conversations : Join discussions, forums, or social groups where people use a diverse range of vocabulary.
• Practice Writing : Writing regularly will help reinforce your new words and integrate them into your vocabulary.
• Learn About Word Roots : Understanding the roots of words, as well as prefixes and suffixes, can help you deduce the meanings of unfamiliar words.
• Use Flashcards : They are a classic memorization tool and are especially useful for learning new words.
• Start a Vocabulary Notebook : Keep a note of new words, their meanings, and examples of usage.
• Read the Dictionary : Make it a habit to read a page of the dictionary every day.
• Practice Active Reading : Don’t skim over unfamiliar words while reading. Look them up and try to understand their context.
• Engage with Literature : Classic literature often uses a rich vocabulary and complex sentence structures, offering an excellent source of new words.

With dedication and persistence, these strategies will surely boost your vocabulary in no time.

Vocabulary is Especially Important for Ghostwriters

In ghostwriting , having a big vocabulary is not just helpful, it’s necessary. Ghostwriters write in different voices for their clients, so they need to have a wide vocabulary. High school students need to learn many words to understand what their clients are trying to convey.

A ghostwriter’s vocabulary changes to match their clients’ tone, style, and words. Whether writing for a CEO, a rockstar, or a politician, they should convincingly adopt their voice. High school students can improve their writing by using a wide range of words. This helps them create authentic and true pieces in the client’s voice.

Ghostwriters work on many different projects, each with its own special words. A wide range of words helps people read different types of writing, like scientific papers or novels, because they need to understand different writing styles. It equips them to handle the linguistic challenges of their multifarious assignments.

The Dictionary is a Writer’s Best Friend

A writer loves a dictionary . It’s a source of inspiration, knowledge, and guidance in self-expression. It’s a vital tool for writers to improve their skills, learn new words, and enhance their writing.

Dictionaries provide a lot of information about words – what they mean, how they are used, and how to say them. They are very helpful for writers. They help you choose the right words and use them correctly. By regularly consulting a dictionary, writers can avoid common mistakes, enhancing the quality and accuracy of their writing.

Furthermore, dictionaries are an excellent resource for expanding vocabulary. Writers learn new words, synonyms, antonyms, and phrases to expand their language skills. When you read a dictionary, it’s like going on an exciting adventure. Every page introduces you to new words to learn, explore, and use in your writing.

The Rainbow of Vocabulary: Discover the Spectrum of Words Across Contexts

Language is like a prism that helps us see the world. The words we use are like different colors in this prism. The words used can change based on the situation, like religion, where you live, your job, and more. Each aspect of life has its own specific words and phrases that create a colorful language.

Take, for instance, the domain of religion. Religious texts, practices, and discussions have many specific terms that an outsider might not know. Not every person knows the specific words used in different religions or professions. For example, if you’re not a Christian, you might not know terms like “Epiphany,” “Eucharist,” or “Pentecost.” Just like if you’re not Lawyers use words like “torts,” “writs,” and “affidavits,” while doctors use terms such as “angioplasty,” “hematoma,” and “endoscopy.”

Geographical location or locale also significantly influences vocabulary. Different regions use language in unique ways, with their own terms, idioms, and slang. Even recreational activities and hobbies come with their lexicon. Each activity, like “checkmate” in chess or “gutter ball” in bowling, brings new words to learn.

Profession-Specific Vocabularies: The Language of Specialized Fields

Every profession has its own special language. This language includes specific words and phrases that only insiders understand. It helps them communicate better. The language used in this field can be difficult for outsiders to understand.

Consider the world of law, for example. If you’re not familiar with terms like “habeas corpus,” “amicus curiae,” or “pro bono,” they might seem like a foreign language. For a lawyer, these terms are what they use every day in their profession. Using acronyms not only helps professionals communicate more accurately and efficiently within their field, but also boosts their credibility.

In the realm of medicine, doctors and healthcare professionals communicate using medical terms, which are often rooted in Latin or Greek. They use fancy terms like “myocardial infarction” instead of saying heart attack, or “cerebrovascular accident” instead of stroke. Knowing and using these medical terms correctly can be crucial for your life.

Just like chefs know words such as “julienne” and “mise en place,” and engineers understand “tensile strength” and “load-bearing capacity,” there are important terms in academia like “peer review,” “citation index,” and “impact factor.” These terms form the backbone of conversations and written communication within these fields.

Therefore, it is crucial to understand that different professions have their own vocabularies. Expanding vocabulary in a specific area can greatly improve how you communicate for work. Furthermore, it can boost their credibility by showing that they know a lot about the subject. If you want to explore a new genre or improve your communication skills, start by learning more words related to your profession.

Locale-Specific Vocabulary: A Journey Through Regional Linguistic Landscapes

Language reflects the culture, history, and unique aspects of a place. Vocabulary plays a crucial role in defining this linguistic identity. Different regions within the same language have their own unique vocabulary, which can vary from language to language as well. This vocabulary unique to the area gives us an interesting glimpse into the life and culture of a place.

Consider American English and British English, for instance. While both regions speak the same language, differences in vocabulary are abundant. In the UK, people live in flats and use lifts to reach their floor. On the other hand, in the US, they live in apartments and take elevators. Just like the British have biscuits with tea, Americans enjoy cookies with coffee.

Within the United States itself, regional vocabulary differences are apparent. People from different regions have different names for a sandwich. In the Northeast, it’s called a “sub,” in the Midwest it’s called a “hoagie,” and in the South it’s called a “po’boy.”

If you move to Australia, you’ll come across a lot of different words and slang in their version of English. An Australian could invite you to a “barbie” (barbecue). If you are thirsty, they may offer you a “coldie” (cold beer).

In India, known for its many languages, English words vary between states. Someone might say “prepone,” which is an Indian English term used to mean the opposite of “postpone.”

Therefore, understanding the local vocabulary is not just about fitting in, but also about gaining a deeper appreciation for the culture, history, and way of life of a place. If you’re a writer, and your story is set in a specific place, learning and using the local words can make your characters feel more real and relatable. (Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level: 7.9) Embrace diverse languages. Take your readers on a journey through different places with your words!

The Writer’s Palette: Harnessing the Power of Diverse Vocabulary in Fiction and Non-Fiction

How can writers use different vocabularies to improve their writing? The approach varies for fiction and non-fiction, but the key is selecting the right words to add depth, authenticity, and color to your writing.

Fiction: Imbuing Characters and Settings with Life

Using specific words related to a profession, place, or context in your fiction can make your story more real and interesting. This technique isn’t just about using fancy words in your writing. It’s about creating a world that feels real to the reader and draws them in.

In Michael Crichton’s novel “Jurassic Park,” the character Dr. Alan Grant is a paleontologist. In his conversations and thoughts, he uses scientific words and ideas. Crichton skillfully uses jargon to show Grant’s professional credibility, without overwhelming the reader. Grant’s language shows he is a scientist, which makes him more believable.

Additionally, using locale-specific vocabulary can transport readers to your story’s setting. Let’s take Tim Winton’s novel “Cloudstreet” as an example. The book is set in Australia. Winton expertly uses Australian English words and local dialect to describe the setting in a vibrant way. Phrases such as “fair dinkum” and “mate” are commonly used in Australia. They provide a glimpse of the local language and bring the Australian characters and setting to life.

Non-Fiction: Clarity, Credibility, and Audience Engagement

In non-fiction, choosing the right words is important. It helps you express your ideas clearly, gain credibility, and keep your audience interested. Choose words that match your topic, so complex ideas are explained clearly and well.

Suppose you are writing a law book. Legal jargon is essential to explaining concepts with precision. John Grisham, a former lawyer, uses legal terms like “post-conviction relief” and “capital murder charge” in his non-fiction book “The Innocent Man.” This helps readers understand how the American legal system works. Grisham’s use of legal terms makes his account more credible and helps readers understand the legal world better.

Similarly, if your work is a travelogue, incorporating locale-specific terms can elevate the reader’s experience. In William Dalrymple’s “City of Djinns: A Year in Delhi,” he skillfully uses Hindi and Urdu words to make his travel story in India more realistic. By integrating local language, he offers readers a more immersive and authentic exploration of Delhi, thereby fostering a deep connection between his readers and his text. Choosing appropriate words is important for any type of writing, whether it’s for a business report or a religious commentary. Using the right vocabulary can help your content connect with your intended audience.

The Art of Inventing Vocabulary: From Middle Earth to Outer Space

In the vast realm of literature and entertainment, the creation of entirely new vocabulary is not just a fascinating aspect but a powerful tool to build immersive universes. When done right, invented vocabulary can elevate a piece of work from ordinary to extraordinary, knitting together unique cultures, races, and realms that resonate deeply with readers and viewers. The following examples provide a glimpse into this remarkable process.

J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” is arguably the most successful work in the history of invented vocabulary. Tolkien, a philologist by profession, created languages such as Quenya and Sindarin for his characters. Words like “mithril,” a precious metal in Middle-earth, and “Ent,” a race of beings, are now recognizable to millions of fantasy lovers worldwide.

Terry Brooks’ “The Sword of Shannara” also incorporates an invented vocabulary that aids in the world-building process. He uses unique terms such as “Ellcrys,” a magical tree, and “Allanon,” a Druid, which imbue the narrative with an added layer of mystique and fascination.

In the science fiction genre, Gene Roddenberry’s “Star Trek” is an iconic example. The Klingon language, created by Marc Okrand, is a fully realized constructed language with its own grammar and vocabulary, such as “Qapla’,” a Klingon term for success or good luck. This language creation not only added depth to the alien race of Klingons but also expanded the “Star Trek” universe in a way that was engaging for viewers.

George Lucas’ “Star Wars” has an equally compelling approach. In the Star Wars universe, unique terms like “Wookiee,” a species of intelligent bipeds, and “Jedi,” a monastic spiritual organization, have gained recognition worldwide. The invented vocabulary has been so influential that “May the Force be with you,” a greeting among the Jedi, has entered into popular lexicon.

Other works of fiction have followed suit. In Frank Herbert’s “Dune,” we encounter terms like “Bene Gesserit,” a secretive and powerful sisterhood, and “Kwisatz Haderach,” a prophesied super-being. George R.R. Martin’s “Game of Thrones” series introduces us to “Dothraki” and “Valyrian,” languages complete with their own grammar and vocabulary.

In J.K. Rowling’s “Harry Potter” series , the invented vocabulary adds a magical touch. From spells like “Expelliarmus” and “Expecto Patronum” to creatures like “Dementors” and “Boggarts,” the use of unique terms enhances the magical ambiance.

Inventing vocabulary is not restricted to literature. In video games, “The Elder Scrolls” series by Bethesda Softworks introduced “Dovahzul,” a language of dragons, complete with its own script.

In summary, inventing vocabulary is a powerful technique for world-building in fiction. Whether it’s a fantasy novel, a science fiction TV series, or a video game, the creation of unique language can deeply enrich the audience’s experience, transporting them to new and exciting universes that linger long in their imaginations.

Check out the following resources to help you with your vocabulary:

• Merriam-Webster’s Vocabulary Quiz – To test and improve your vocabulary knowledge.
• Oxford English Dictionary – The most reputable and comprehensive record of the English language.
• Cambridge English Write & Improve – A tool for practicing and improving English writing skills.
• The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language – A detailed and updated source for English language definitions.
• TED-Ed’s lesson on “The benefits of a bilingual brain” – A reputable source that explains the cognitive benefits of learning more than one language, including an expanded vocabulary.

In conclusion, vocabulary is the lifeblood of writing, and its importance cannot be overstated. It is the tool that enables writers to craft pieces that are clear, engaging, and impactful. Expanding vocabulary is a pursuit that brings numerous benefits – it enhances clarity, boosts creativity, and amplifies the writer’s voice.

For ghostwriters, a comprehensive vocabulary is especially vital. It equips them to emulate their clients’ voices effectively, ensuring the authenticity of their work. Finally, dictionaries serve as invaluable aids in a writer’s quest to broaden their vocabulary. They are constant companions and guides, assisting writers in their ongoing journey of linguistic discovery and self-expression.

Click here to contact The Writing King to discuss your project today!

• Recent Posts

• 12 Reasons Why TikTok Sucks: A Critical Analysis - May 11, 2024
• Writing a How to Book: 10 Powerful Tips - May 11, 2024
• How to be a Book Writer: 8 Powerful Steps - May 10, 2024

14 thoughts on “ 12 Thrilling Ways of Expanding Vocabulary for Writers ✏️ ”

Having a great vocabulary especially when you are a writer is very important to for you to express and share what do you want to say.

English is my second language, and I definitely need to expand my vocabulary. I`m trying to watch more videos and read books in English. I hope it will pay off soon.

Reading this was like getting a friendly tap on the shoulder to level up my word game! Great insights and tips, thanks for sharing!

I also think it is of extreme importance to upgrade your vocabulary as a writer. If there is something readers react bad too it’s bad choice of words or spelling mistakes

This is a good reminder to work on more interesting vocabulary, and to push myself to do better. I am good with vocabulary words, but I have to say I don’t work to use a lot of harder vocabulary in my writing.

This us a superb write up and you provide so many useful hints and tips. These help broaden the mind and word usage for sure x

Great post! I love all your tips on how we can expand our vocabulary. This is very helpful and a great way to help enhance anyone’s communication skills. Love the playing word suggestions!

Writing needs practice too and that’s why I have a new blog to expand my vocabulary (hopefully) thanks a lot for your tips and guides and I think they are very useful.

These are such great tips! I think expanding one’s vocabulary is excellent for everyone, but of course, it’s particularly important for us writers. The more words we have in our arsenal, the better. 🙂

Yes! It’s always a good idea to learn new words and in my own experience, reading has been a great resource for that. Not only do I keep my brain active but I do come across words that I have never heard before. Another thing I love to do is to use a thesaurus. This is helpful in expanding vocabulary!

Maureen | http://www.littlemisscasual.com

Great article! I feel as though my vocabulary has suffered since I finished college – lose it if you don’t use it! I appreciate the tips you provide on how I can improve my vocabulary (especially at my age!).

Expanding one’s vocabulary is indeed a valuable skill, and your article provides some practical and effective strategies for doing just that. I appreciate how you emphasize the importance of reading widely and actively engaging with new words through activities like journaling and playing word games. Your tips on using context clues and word roots to decipher unfamiliar words are particularly helpful for learners at any level. Overall, your insights offer readers a clear roadmap for enhancing their vocabulary and, ultimately, their communication skills. Thanks for sharing these valuable techniques!

Reading all the time and actively trying to understand words are both so HUGE when it comes to expanding your vocabulary. I remember when I was a young reader. I kept my book in my hand and a dictionary beside me so I could understand any unfamiliar words.

I love the great insights on why vocabulary is important for writers and how writers can go about expanding their vocabulary. I should really work on my vocabulary. I particularly appreciate the tips on reading widely, playing word games, and engaging in conversations to improve vocabulary.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

All strong writers have something in common: they understand the value of word choice in writing. Strong word choice uses vocabulary and language to maximum effect, creating clear moods and images and making your stories and poems more powerful and vivid.

The meaning of “word choice” may seem self-explanatory, but to truly transform your style and writing, we need to dissect the elements of choosing the right word. This article will explore what word choice is, and offer some examples of effective word choice, before giving you 5 word choice exercises to try for yourself .

Word Choice Definition: The Four Elements of Word Choice

The definition of word choice extends far beyond the simplicity of “choosing the right words.” Choosing the right word takes into consideration many different factors, and finding the word that packs the most punch requires both a great vocabulary and a great understanding of the nuances in English.

Choosing the right word involves the following four considerations, with word choice examples.

Words can be chosen for one of two meanings: the denotative meaning or the connotative meaning. Denotation refers to the word’s basic, literal dictionary definition and usage. By contrast, connotation refers to how the word is being used in its given context: which of that word’s many uses, associations, and connections are being employed.

A word’s denotative meaning is its literal dictionary definition, while its connotative meaning is the web of uses and associations it carries in context.

We play with denotations and connotations all the time in colloquial English. As a simple example, when someone says “greaaaaaat” sarcastically, we know that what they’re referring to isn’t “great” at all. In context, the word “great” connotes its opposite: something so bad that calling it “great” is intentionally ridiculous. When we use words connotatively, we’re letting context drive the meaning of the sentence.

The rich web of connotations in language are crucial to all writing, and perhaps especially so to poetry, as in the following lines from Derek Walcott’s Nobel-prize-winning epic poem Omeros :

In hill-towns, from San Fernando to Mayagüez, the same sunrise stirred the feathered lances of cane down the archipelago’s highways. The first breeze

rattled the spears and their noise was like distant rain marching down from the hills, like a shell at your ears.

Sugar cane isn’t, literally, made of “feathered lances,” which would literally denote “long metal spears adorned with bird feathers”; but feathered connotes “branching out,” the way sugar cane does, and  lances connotes something tall, straight, and pointy, as sugar cane is. Together, those two words create a powerfully true visual image of sugar cane—in addition to establishing the martial language (“spears,” “marching”) used elsewhere in the passage.

Whether in poetry or prose, strong word choice can unlock images, emotions, and more in the reader, and the associations and connotations that words bring with them play a crucial role in this.

2. Specificity

Use words that are both correct in meaning and specific in description.

In the sprawling English language, one word can have dozens of synonyms. That’s why it’s important to use words that are both correct in meaning and specific in description. Words like “good,” “average,” and “awful” are far less descriptive and specific than words like “liberating” (not just good but good and freeing ), “C student” (not just average but academically average), and “despicable” (not just awful but morally awful). These latter words pack more meaning than their blander counterparts.

Since more precise words give the reader added context, specificity also opens the door for more poetic opportunities. Take the short poem “[You Fit Into Me]” by Margaret Atwood.

You fit into me like a hook into an eye

A fish hook

An open eye

The first stanza feels almost romantic until we read the second stanza. By clarifying her language, Atwood creates a simple yet highly emotive duality.

This is also why writers like Stephen King advocate against the use of adverbs (adjectives that modify verbs or other adjectives, like “very”). If your language is precise, you don’t need adverbs to modify the verbs or adjectives, as those words are already doing enough work. Consider the following comparison:

Weak description with adverbs: He cooks quite badly; the food is almost always extremely overdone.

Strong description, no adverbs: He incinerates food.

Of course, non-specific words are sometimes the best word, too! These words are often colloquially used, so they’re great for writing description, writing through a first-person narrative, or for transitional passages of prose.

3. Audience

Good word choice takes the reader into consideration. You probably wouldn’t use words like “lugubrious” or “luculent” in a young adult novel, nor would you use words like “silly” or “wonky” in a legal document.

This is another way of saying that word choice conveys not only direct meaning, but also a web of associations and feelings that contribute to building the reader’s world. What world does the word “wonky” help build for your reader, and what world does the word “seditious” help build? Depending on the overall environment you’re working to create for the reader, either word could be perfect—or way out of place.

Consider your word choice to be the fingerprint of your writing.

Consider your word choice to be the fingerprint of your writing. Every writer uses words differently, and as those words come to form poems, stories, and books, your unique grasp on the English language will be recognizable by all your readers.

Style isn’t something you can point to, but rather a way of describing how a writer writes. Ernest Hemingway, for example, is known for his terse, no-nonsense, to-the-point styles of description. Virginia Woolf, by contrast, is known for writing that’s poetic, intense, and melodramatic, and James Joyce for his lofty, superfluous writing style.

Here’s a paragraph from Joyce:

Had Pyrrhus not fallen by a beldam’s hand in Argos or Julius Caesar not been knifed to death. They are not to be thought away. Time has branded them and fettered they are lodged in the room of the infinite possibilities they have ousted.

And here’s one from Hemingway:

Bill had gone into the bar. He was standing talking with Brett, who was sitting on a high stool, her legs crossed. She had no stockings on.

Style is best observed and developed through a portfolio of writing. As you write more and form an identity as a writer, the bits of style in your writing will form constellations.

Word Choice in Writing: The Importance of Verbs

Before we offer some word choice exercises to expand your writing horizons, we first want to mention the importance of verbs. Verbs, as you may recall, are the “action” of the sentence—they describe what the subject of the sentence actually does. Unless you are intentionally breaking grammar rules, all sentences must have a verb, otherwise they don’t communicate much to the reader.

Because verbs are the most important part of the sentence, they are something you must focus on when expanding the reaches of your word choice. Verbs are the most widely variegated units of language; the more “things” you can do in the world, the more verbs there are to describe them, making them great vehicles for both figurative language and vivid description.

Consider the following three sentences:

• The road runs through the hills.
• The road curves through the hills.
• The road meanders through the hills.

Which sentence is the most descriptive? Though each of them has the same subject, object, and number of words, the third sentence creates the clearest image. The reader can visualize a road curving left and right through a hilly terrain, whereas the first two sentences require more thought to see clearly.

Finally, this resource on verb usage does a great job at highlighting how to invent and expand your verb choice.

Word Choice in Writing: Economy and Concision

Strong word choice means that every word you write packs a punch. As we’ve seen with adverbs above, you may find that your writing becomes more concise and economical—delivering more impact per word. Above all, you may find that you omit needless words .

Omit needless words is, in fact, a general order issued by Strunk and White in their classic Elements of Style . As they explain it:

Vigorous writing is concise. A sentence should contain no unnecessary words, a paragraph no unnecessary sentences, for the same reason that a drawing should have no unnecessary lines and a machine no unnecessary parts. This requires not that the writer make all his sentences short, or that he avoid all detail and treat his subjects only in outline, but that every word tell.

It’s worth repeating that this doesn’t mean your writing becomes clipped or terse, but simply that “every word tell.” As our word choice improves—as we omit needless words and express ourselves more precisely—our writing becomes richer, whether we write in long or short sentences.

As an example, here’s the opening sentence of a random personal essay from a high school test preparation handbook:

The world is filled with a numerous amount of student athletes that could somewhere down the road have a bright future.

Most words in this sentence are needless. It could be edited down to:

Many student athletes could have a bright future.

Now let’s take some famous lines from Shakespeare’s Macbeth . Can you remove a single word without sacrificing an enormous richness of meaning?

Out, out, brief candle! Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player, That struts and frets his hour upon the stage, And then is heard no more. It is a tale Told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, Signifying nothing.

In strong writing, every single word is chosen for maximum impact. This is the true meaning of concise or economical writing.

5 Word Choice Exercises to Sharpen Your Writing

With our word choice definition in mind, as well as our discussions of verb use and concision, let’s explore the following exercises to put theory into practice. As you play around with words in the following word choice exercises, be sure to consider meaning, specificity, style, and (if applicable) audience.

1. Build Moods With Word Choice

Writers fine-tune their words because the right vocabulary will build lush, emotive worlds. As you expand your word choice and consider the weight of each word, focus on targeting precise emotions in your descriptions and figurative language.

This kind of point is best illustrated through word choice examples. An example of magnificent language is the poem “ In Defense of Small Towns ” by Oliver de la Paz. The poem’s ambivalent feelings toward small hometowns presents itself through the mood of the writing.

The poem is filled with tense descriptions, like “animal deaths and toughened hay” and “breeches speared with oil and diesel,” which present the small town as stoic and masculine. This, reinforced by the terse stanzas and the rare “chances for forgiveness,” offers us a bleak view of the town; yet it’s still a town where everything is important, from “the outline of every leaf” to the weightless flight of cattail seeds.

The writing’s terse, heavy mood exists because of the poem’s juxtaposition of masculine and feminine words. The challenge of building a mood produces this poem’s gravity and sincerity.

Try to write a poem, or even a sentence, that evokes a particular mood through words that bring that word to mind. Here’s an example:

• What mood do you want to evoke? flighty
• What words feel like they evoke that mood? not sure, whatever, maybe, perhaps, tomorrow, sometimes, sigh
• Try it in a sentence: “Maybe tomorrow we could see about looking at the lab results.” She sighed. “Perhaps.”

2. Invent New Words and Terms

A common question writers ask is, What is one way to revise for word choice? One trick to try is to make up new language in your revisions.

If you create language at a crucial moment, you might be able to highlight something that our current language can’t.

In the same way that unusual verbs highlight the action and style of your story, inventing words that don’t exist can also create powerful diction. Of course, your writing shouldn’t overflow with made-up words and pretentious portmanteaus, but if you create language at a crucial moment, you might be able to highlight something that our current language can’t.

A great example of an invented word is the phrase “wine-dark sea.” Understanding this invention requires a bit of history; in short, Homer describes the sea as “οἶνοψ πόντος”, or “wine-faced.” “Wine-dark,” then, is a poetic translation, a kind of kenning for the sea’s mystery.

Why “wine-dark” specifically? Perhaps because, like the sea, wine changes us; maybe the eyes of the sea are dark, as eyes often darken with wine; perhaps the sea is like a face, an inversion, a reflection of the self. In its endlessness, we see what we normally cannot.

Thus, “wine-dark” is a poetic combination of words that leads to intensive literary analysis. For a less historical example, I’m currently working on my poetry thesis, with pop culture monsters being the central theme of the poems. In one poem, I describe love as being “frankensteined.” By using this monstrous made-up verb in place of “stitched,” the poem’s attitude toward love is much clearer.

Try inventing a word or phrase whose meaning will be as clear to the reader as “wine-dark sea.” Here’s an example:

• What do you want to describe? feeling sorry for yourself because you’ve been stressed out for a long time
• What are some words that this feeling brings up? self-pity, sympathy, sadness, stress, compassion, busyness, love, anxiety, pity party, feeling sorry for yourself
• What are some fun ways to combine these words?  sadxiety, stresslove
• Try it in a sentence:  As all-nighter wore on, my anxiety softened into sadxiety: still edgy, but soft in the middle.

3. Only Use Words of Certain Etymologies

One of the reasons that the English language is so large and inconsistent is that it borrows words from every language. When you dig back into the history of loanwords, the English language is incredibly interesting!

(For example, many of our legal terms, such as judge , jury , and plaintiff , come from French. When the Normans [old French-speakers from Northern France] conquered England, their language became the language of power and nobility, so we retained many of our legal terms from when the French ruled the British Isles.)

Nerdy linguistics aside, etymologies also make for a fun word choice exercise. Try forcing yourself to write a poem or a story only using words of certain etymologies and avoiding others. For example, if you’re only allowed to use nouns and verbs that we borrowed from the French, then you can’t use Anglo-Saxon nouns like “cow,” “swine,” or “chicken,” but you can use French loanwords like “beef,” “pork,” and “poultry.”

Experiment with word etymologies and see how they affect the mood of your writing. You might find this to be an impactful facet of your word choice. You can Google “__ etymology” for any word to see its origin, and “__ synonym” to see synonyms.

Try writing a sentence only with roots from a single origin. (You can ignore common words like “the,” “a,” “of,” and so on.)

• What do you want to write?  The apple rolled off the table.
• Try a first etymology:  German: The apple wobbled off the bench.
• Try a second:  Latin: The russet fruit rolled off the table.

4. Write in E-Prime

E-Prime Writing describes a writing style where you only write using the active voice. By eschewing all forms of the verb “to be”—using words such as “is,” “am,” “are,” “was,” and other “being” verbs—your writing should feel more clear, active, and precise!

E-Prime not only removes the passive voice (“The bottle was picked up by James”), but it gets at the reality that many sentences using  to be are weakly constructed, even if they’re technically in the active voice.

Of course, E-Prime writing isn’t the best type of writing for every project. The above paragraph is written in E-Prime, but stretching it out across this entire article would be tricky. The intent of E-Prime writing is to make all of your subjects active and to make your verbs more impactful. While this is a fun word choice exercise and a great way to create memorable language, it probably isn’t sustainable for a long writing project.

Try writing a paragraph in E-Prime:

• What do you want to write? Of course, E-Prime writing isn’t the best type of writing for every project. The above paragraph is written in E-Prime, but stretching it out across this entire article would be tricky. The intent of E-Prime writing is to make all of your subjects active and to make your verbs more impactful. While this is a fun word choice exercise and a great way to create memorable language, it probably isn’t sustainable for a long writing project.
• Converted to E-Prime: Of course, E-Prime writing won’t best suit every project. The above paragraph uses E-Prime, but stretching it out across this entire article would carry challenges. E-Prime writing endeavors to make all of your subjects active, and your verbs more impactful. While this word choice exercise can bring enjoyment and create memorable language, you probably can’t sustain it over a long writing project.

5. Write Blackout Poetry

Blackout poetry , also known as Found Poetry, is a visual creative writing project. You take a page from a published source and create a poem by blacking out other words until your circled words create a new poem. The challenge is that you’re limited to the words on a page, so you need a charged use of both space and language to make a compelling blackout poem.

Blackout poetry bottoms out our list of great word choice exercises because it forces you to consider the elements of word choice. With blackout poems, certain words might be read connotatively rather than denotatively, or you might change the meaning and specificity of a word by using other words nearby. Language is at its most fluid and interpretive in blackout poems!

For a great word choice example using blackout poetry, read “ The Author Writes the First Draft of His Wedding Vows ” by Hanif Willis-Abdurraqib. Here it is visually:

Source: https://decreation.tumblr.com/post/620222983530807296/from-the-crown-aint-worth-much-by-hanif

Pick a favorite poem of your own and make something completely new out of it using blackout poetry.

How to Expand Your Vocabulary

Vocabulary is a last topic in word choice. The more words in your arsenal, the better. Great word choice doesn’t rely on a large vocabulary, but knowing more words will always help! So, how do you expand your vocabulary?

The simplest way to expand your vocabulary is by reading.

The simplest answer, and the one you’ll hear the most often, is by reading. The more literature you consume, the more examples you’ll see of great words using the four elements of word choice.

Of course, there are also some great programs for expanding your vocabulary as well. If you’re looking to use words like “lachrymose” in a sentence, take a look at the following vocab builders:

• Dictionary.com’s Word-of-the-Day
• Vocabulary.com Games
• Merriam Webster’s Vocab Quizzes

Improve Your Word Choice With Writers.com’s Online Writing Courses

Looking for more writing exercises ? Need more help choosing the right words? The instructors at Writers.com are masters of the craft. Take a look at our upcoming course offerings and join our community!

Sean Glatch

Interesting read. Would have appreciated some exercises to brighten our word choices.

Definitely! This link takes you directly to the word choice exercises: http://writers.com/word-choice-in-writing#exercises

Let us know if you try any of them!

I have written three novels and two children’s books without “To Be Verbs!”

http://www.mysteriousgems.net

E-Prime offers writers and readers more cogent and descriptive language by removing useless irregular verbs as To Be.

Writers have credited me with the first fiction novel ever written in E-Prime. I find it useful, I employ it 100% of the time in my fiction and about 90% in other forms.

[…] suggest looking through the Meaning and Specificity sections of “The Importance of Word Choice in Writing” by Sean Glatch, as these areas of writing will give you a breakdown about denotive and […]

Thank you for posting this excellent essay. It is now stashed in my “favorites”. Also, I loved the poem “In Defense of Small Towns”. Gorgeous writing. I will purchase the collection “Requiem for the Orchard”.

Again. Thank you.

Rebecca Hanley

I’m so glad this article was useful, Rebecca! Thanks for commenting, and I hope you enjoy Requiem for the Orchard.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

25 Ways to Improve Your Writing Vocabulary

Building your vocabulary is one of the easiest ways to improve the power of your writing and make any writing task that much easier, as you will have several synonyms in your repertoire to pull from every time. Developing your vocabulary need not be difficult or painful. Here are 25 ways you can improve your writing vocabulary every day.

Use New Words

Use a word immediately after you learn it. Try to make a game out of using a new word as soon as you learn it. Every day, try to slip in a new word into the conversation, a journal entry, an assignment or an email to a friend. Do this as often as possible, and repeat the word to yourself.

Read Every Day

Once you’re out of school, word drills and assigned reading become things of the past. While these were tools for building your vocabulary repertoire while you were young, it doesn’t mean you should abandon reading. Try to read a well-written and edited essay, magazine article, book or news article every day. Nonfiction and technical books will quickly teach you new ways to think and speak with words you may be unfamiliar with, but any type of reading will help you along.

Learn Roots

Learn the roots of words. Most words in the English language are built from a common root, prefix, and suffix, usually with an origin in the Greek or Latin language. Once you learn a root, you’ll begin to understand more words that use the same root. For example, -duc- (Latin root word) means to lead or to make, such as in the words produce or deduce.

Use a Thesaurus

Keep a thesaurus handy. As you write, keep a thesaurus handy and use it when you find yourself using a word too often, or using a word that you know doesn’t quite convey the right meaning. This will help you better express yourself, and you’ll also learn a new word in the process.

Develop Practical Vocabulary

This means you should start by learning words that express what’s important to you for the task at hand. A good example of this is learning trade language or words you use often in a hobby or vocation. Rather than immediately turning to cliches or jargon that’s tossed around, look for clearer words to express to peers what you’re writing about.

Learn New Words Every Day

To improve your vocabulary quickly, make an effort to learn at least one new word every single day. There are plenty of ways to do this, such as a Word of the Day calendar or email list, or simply picking a word from a thesaurus or dictionary.

Look up Words You Don’t Know

How often do you come across words that are unfamiliar as you read? Don’t just gloss over them; take the time to look them up, and if you don’t have the time right then, write them down and look them up later.

Keep a Journal

Journaling won’t just help you develop your writing style, it will also help you improve your vocabulary. Try to use new or interesting words you’ve learned recently into a journal entry for the day or the week.

Identify Empty Words

You’re probably familiar with empty words in your speech (such as “uh” or “um”), but your writing probably has empty words as well. Look for these empty words in your writing that do not offer any substance to your reader and replace them with something more appropriate. The same principle applies to phrases and sentences, so make sure that you haven’t used six or seven phrases to say something that could be better communicated in one sentence filled with carefully-chosen words.

Diversify Your Reading List

If you tend to read the same sort of things day in and day out, you may not be exposing yourself to a wide enough range of vocabulary. Diversify the topics you read to include natural science, Shakespeare, contemporary literature, politics, history, philosophy or any other topics you think you may enjoy.

Do Word Puzzles

Word puzzles in the newspaper or a magazine aren’t just a fun way to fill time, they’re also perfect for boosting your working vocabulary. Crossword puzzles are a challenge that get your brain working hard to search your memory for words you do know but don’t use, and this can help you move words from your memory banks into your working set of vocabulary which will come across in your writing.

Try Word Board Games

There are plenty of word games on the market designed to improve vocabulary and language skills without being a bore. Some of these games you may have played as a child, so it’s time to break them out again and get to “work.” If you have a friend who could also use some help — or someone with a great vocabulary you think will challenge you — invite them over for a game night.

Practice New Words in Divergent Ways

It takes between 10 and 20 repetitions to make a new word a part of your vocabulary. To help the word settle into your mind and memory, write it down (both the definition and a sentence you make up using the word), use it in conversation, include it in an email or any other way you can think of.

Make up Associations

Start by saying the new word aloud, then relate it to a word you already know. A good example of this is gargantuan, which means “very large” or “gigantic.” Say a sequence aloud: small, medium, large, very large, gargantuan. Then list things you think are gargantuan.

Use Mnemonics

Mnemonic techniques are memory tricks you can use to remember new words. You may remember a word by sounding it out and thinking of a funny sentence that matches the meaning, such as turning egregious (extremely bad) into “Don’t let that smelly rotten egg reach us!”

Visualize New Words

Research shows that visualization is a great way to remember new words and their meanings. A good example of this is the word stratovolcano, which is a high, pointed mountain with a violent explosion. One way to remember this meaning is the fact that the prefix “strato” sounds like “straight-oh,” which may make you think of a straight ruler or a “straight-o-volcano,” which describes the word’s definition.

Make Your Own Vocabulary Tests

Keep a list of the new words you learn each week and incorporate into writing and conversation. At the end of each week, make yourself a quiz using the words to cement them in your memory.

Make Synonym Word Lists

Do you find yourself turning to the same word again and again in your writing? Grab a piece of paper and write it at the top. Next, brainstorm or use a thesaurus to generate a list of ten to twenty new words you can use instead. You can keep these lists in a vocabulary notebook and add to them whenever you learn a new synonym.

Take a Writing Course

There are plenty of online courses as well as in-person classes you can attend to boost your writing vocabulary and learn how to use new words correctly. Try to find a self-paced course that uses assignments and quizzes to hep you increase fluency and brush up on your writing skills. Some classes are aimed at essay writing or creative writing, so you can find a class that will help you improve the style you need the most help with.

Edit Your Own Writing

After you finish writing, be your own editor and go though the piece with a fine-toothed comb to identify overused and nondescript words with something more precise or colorful. Editing is an important process for spotting writing errors, but it’s also great for improving the tone, style, and clarity of your writing. It might help to read the sentences aloud, then note any lack of precision. Search through your memory for more descriptive words, or consult a thesaurus if you need to.

As you replace words, remember that using a large number of complex words won’t necessarily clarify the meaning, and it may just make your writing more pompous. Ask yourself, “Do I know a better word to use instead?” You may replace “use” with “acquire” or “obtain,” or “do” with “perform.”

Move Words from Comprehensive to Expressive Vocabulary

You actually have two types of vocabulary: one is a much larger set of words you understand, even if only vaguely, and the other is a smaller set of words you actually use to express yourself. Moving words from your comprehensive, but passive vocabulary, to your active, expressive vocabulary is easier than you think. To do this, you’ll need to know how to define, pronounce and spell the words. Say them out loud and use them at every opportunity to move them into your active set.

Ask for Feedback

Do you think your writing could use some help? If you’re struggling with your written vocabulary, try asking someone else for help. A second set of eyes can offer a great deal of insight and spot problems you may not notice yourself, including poor word choice. Don’t be afraid to ask a friend, teacher, co-worker or someone online to review your writing for feedback on your vocabulary.

Carry a Dictionary and Thesaurus with You

How often do you find yourself with free time and nothing to do? Carry a pocket thesaurus or dictionary with you and you’ll find time to beef up your vocabulary while you’re waiting for an appointment, commuting to work or waiting for a bus. Whenever you have a few minutes to spare, read a page or two and learn a new word to add to your writing. It’s also a great idea to look up obscure words you don’t quite grasp that come to you on the fly as you go about your day. You can also use the dictionary or thesaurus to look up unfamiliar words you come across in your daily life.

Use College Preparation Tests

College prep tests that use SAT and ACT-type words are a great way to take your writing to the next level. This form of advanced study will challenge your mind and give you a new set of words to use that are practical and offer your writing the clarity it needs. You’ll also get the chance to brush up on the most important Latin and Greek roots and get a new set of words with activities to help move them into your active vocabulary set.

There are tons of non-board games that will help you improve your writing vocabulary while you have fun. Try downloading fun word games onto your phone or computer so you can get some practice while you unwind after a busy day. Some games are designed to build vocabulary skills, but there are plenty of others that will help you practice spelling, phonics, and even typing skills. There are even some designed for college students to prepare for testing and vocabulary-rich exams.

Hopefully, this list has given you an excellent place to start to build your vocabulary a bit at a time. If you think about it, there are opportunities all around you to develop this important skill, so spend time every day reading and listening to take in new words and then develop a system to incorporate these new words in your writing and speech. Before long, you’ll find your vocabulary has grown to a new level and your writing has gained the clarity you need with an ease you didn’t think possible.

Author: Jovell Alingod

(Image courtesy of Michael Coghlan )

One of the way to improve your vocabulary is to take up a vocab challenge.

Having a good vocabulary is more than knowing a large number of words. It is ability to choose words with greater precision and at the appropriate time.

Any type the word challenge to increase vocabulary is a great way to do this. I personally like to find five new words in the dictionary each day that I didn’t know the meaning to before them. I don’t always remember them all, but I do remember some and this helps me build my vocabulary.

Knowing when to use a word appropriately is far more important to knowing what a word means. It’s like all the students who study English and know the definition of the words, but can’t speak English. it’s the same thing here.

i agree with you Pratigya

well, I agree with you on that statement because most of the time my friend who is studying literature would use words that do not feel appropriate sometimes or just feel off

Linguistically there are two techniques for improving your lexical strength (vocabulary) :

Active learning and Passive learning

1. Passive learning: New words are acquired subconsciously, while doing some daily life stuff, like reading a newspaper.

Vocabulary is an abstract skill due to reasons like reading habits, family background, schooling, culture etc. The conventional methods are very generic and are made of masses. They do not allow personalised learning to an individual’s current vocabulary.

2. Active learning: Active learning methodology has become a preferred way to change the traditional teacher oriented classroom into the newer student oriented approach to learning. In active learning, acquisition of new words is done with conscious and great efforts.

Usually active vocabulary building is quite rigorous and boring due to its monotonous nature.

Thank you for this informative reply. I have never considered it in this way, but it makes a lot of sense. Active learning has always been tedious for me, but I really enjoy reading books, and this has helped improve my vocabulary greatly compared to my classmates. While I know I should spend more time actively learning new words, I feel a lot better knowing I’m subconsciously learning new ones everytime I pick up a book.

not clear meaning vocabulary

Reading is good “Passive” way of improving vocabulary, but when you are resorting to making lists, that is “Active” method. Problem with active method of learning words is that it is cumbersome and boring, and you doing retain and unless you use it in writing sentences to apply the word, very little chance is that you increase your lexical size.

I think it’s important to do both passive and active vocabulary learning. It’s true that you are going to have to figure out a way to make active learning interesting so that you can continue to do it long term, but there are ways to do that. I love getting up in the morning and looking at my new word for the day calendar in trying to figure out how I will use that new word sometime during the day. If you can find an easy way to incorporate active learning into your daily life, it can be fun.

You can improve your vocabulary by playing this different Wordgame based on the Oxford dictionary.

Hey Nicklas do you have a brother named Markus??

I’ve been trying to find good ways to improve the writing vocabulary of my students. Techniques to improve passive vocabulary are quite well established – SRS, etc. However, the jury is still out on the best strategies to improve active/writing vocabulary.

Have you found any to be effective since you left this comment? I’m looking for some good ways to improve my vocabulary and if you found some good ones, that might save me a lot of time experimenting until I found a good method. Anyone else who has had success improving their vocab is also welcome to chime in. I would love to get some good methods going.

thank you for these pics. I want to write but dont have many words.i will try to write daily and follow your tips to improve my vocabulary

I’d say, just start writing. You’ll start to learn which words you use are repetitive, and find words to replace them. It helps me to keep writing. Just because you don’t have a well defined vocabulary yet, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t start writing. You learn by positioning yourself to learn, then the waters of knowledge flows.

“the waters… flows.” Waters is your subject and requires a plural verb. Waters…. flow. “of knowledge” is a prepositional phrase and does not impact the verb.

Water is uncountable and it is a universal fact that ,it flows ,hence, i think it is “water flows”.

Exactly dude

This is so important to good writing. If you aren’t improving your vocabulary on a daily basis then you aren’t improving your writing. Thanks for so great suggestions on how to keep those new words coming!

This is something that many writers neglect to their own detriment. You should always be trying to improve your writing and these are some good ideas on how you can improve your vocabulary. Too many writers forget about this, and it shows in their word choices. Don’t forget to spend time improving your craft!!

I agree with this. It’s important to always be trying to improve whatever craft you have chosen to pursue. If your craft has something to do with words for speaking, improving your vocabulary is something that you should spend time doing. But this isn’t limited to just vocabulary. You should be trying to improve other areas of your craft as well.

Yo Starcraft do you play Minecraft???

I try to learn at least one new word every day to improve my vocabulary. I like to read a lot, and I can usually find a word that I’m not familiar with while reading. I will look up this word so that I understand what it means and then try to use it in conversation during the next week. If I don’t find the word while reading, then I’ll just randomly open up my dictionary to find a word that I wasn’t familiar with before.

I think this is a great habit to get into for anyone who wants to improve their vocabulary. If you do this for a while, you begin to love learning new words, and when you love doing something like this, it’s easy to build your vocabulary each and every day.

I’m curious if anyone actively tries to improve their vocabulary each day. If so, how do you do it? I would like to learn tips and tricks on how to improve my vocabulary each day. I look forward to seeing your comments on how I can do this.

I think it’s different for everybody. What will work for one person, won’t work for the next. Chances are you’ll need to experiment quite a bit with a variety of the different suggestions above in the article to find which works best for you. I know that I learned vocabulary very different than my friend does. She does it by rote learning using flashcards. That would drive me absolutely crazy. I like to learn new vocabulary in a more natural way. But each of those ways works for each of us.

I second that! You’ll have to spend time trying different techniques, and using the ones that work well for you. There is no magical answer! There is magic in the word ‘practice’. Allow yourself time to make mistakes, so you do not quit trying. I think often, we do not allow a little wiggle room. You can do this!

This is a pretty extensive list of ways one can improve their vocabulary. I find the best way to increase my vocabulary is to make the conscious effort to use words that I would not normally use in conversation. It takes some work to do this, but a lot of people say I have the best vocabulary of any person that they know. When you begin to learn a lot of new words, you become more articulate and are able to express yourself in ways you might not have been able to do before. I encourage everyone to give it a try.

Also, It pays to converse with people who can articulate outside of your normal word range. I listen to many people speak words that are outside of my range. You’d be surprised at the information that is stored in your subconscious when its time to pull out “that one word”. Try using it even if it sounds silly, others will help you learn too.

Having a big vocabulary isn’t always good, especially if you use it to try and show off like my friend. What’s the use of using words that most people won’t understand just to make yourself feel smarter than others? It’s much better to use words everyone understands so they actually know what you’re trying to say. Don’t act like a pompous jackass.

That’s not having a large vocabulary — that’s simply being an ass. being able to come up with the specifically correct word for a certain situation is a wonderful thing to be able to do. It’s not for trying to show off, but just to be able to express yourself accurately.

Some of us just think it’s fun!! 🙂

The thing that people forget is that it takes a bit of work to improve your vocabulary. It’s better to find ways that are enjoyable like reading books or a “word a day” email than trying to study them which can be boring. If you make it a game, it will be a lot more fun.

I agree that it’s important to find a way to enjoy learning new vocabulary rather than trying to learn it from the list. This is why he did vocabulary in school. All they would do is give you a list of words that you had to memorize. Why can’t teachers figure out a way to make learning new words more enjoyable than just memorizing lists? It seems like it would be a simple thing to do and then students would enjoy English a lot more.

What’s the very best way to learn vocabulary? There are always these lists of different ways, but nobody ever tells you the very best way. I want to know the best way to learn English vocabulary.

daily read English newspaper and magazines.

I not only became better to write and pass examinations at the university but also to improve my colloquial English. In fact, many people do not know even their own language. I’m writing a dissertation and just now I realized that I needed to increase my vocabulary. Without it, a person can not consider himself competent. To write a thesis is important not only choose an interesting topic, but also competently and clearly put down it on paper. Without it your ideas, your thoughts will not be able to understand people and professor – will not be able to evaluate your work. Thesis – that’s what I need, what I have to do for my future. And so I do not regret my time and effort to find more information about thesis writing. I do not cease to learn and improve my skills for my studies, for my future.

Very well said Nancy!

How do you know if you have a good vocabulary or not? Is there a standard number of words you need to know for others to identify you as having a good vocabulary? I think if there was a number of words everyone knows they needed to know, more people would try to reach that goal. As it is now, it’s difficult to know if I have an adequate vocabulary or not.

I’ve been working on improving my vocabulary for the last two months. I found that it was difficult to begin, but once I started, it became much easier. I try to do most of my vocabulary improvement through a lot of reading, but I do make an effort to look up words that I’m not familiar with while I’m reading instead of just passing them over or trying to guess their meaning.

I also try to use new words each day. For me at least, if I use the word I’m able to retain it much better. I would say over this last two months, I’ve been able to learn between one and five words a day and I’ve added well over 100 new words to my vocabulary.

It’s a great or impressive, certainly you made an effort , But me myself I was trying to polish up my Engish for the last months and I attempted to collect and Memorized some of them, but unlucky because I have not the suitable place which I can display my Vacapularies the people of my country do not speak The English Language , Give me your recommendation .

Vocabulary : start with simple words, like house hold, transportation, communication, vegatables, fruits, trees, animals, weekdays, months, numbers.

All basic vocabulary words. It seems like, you are a beginner, dont let people break you down. We are all human, nobody is better than the next.

Sickness and death, reach us all, rich and poor.

I’ve high respect for you mr english i respect your honesty an willingness to help

Does anyone visualize words to help them improve vocabulary? I started doing this a few months ago and it’s help me improve my vocab quite a bit. I’m a visual person, though, so that may be something that applies to me more than others. If you happen to be a visual person, try visualizing new words and you may be amazed at how many you are able to learn over a short period of time.

I like to visualize as well, but I have never done it with vocabulary building. It may be what I’ve been missing. I’m going to give it a try and see if doing so helps me retain more words.

This is something that everyone should be striving to do no matter their age. I think it’s important to teach kids at a young age how interesting words are so they can find value and love within them. Being curious about words and where they came from (and finding the perfect word for what you want to say) is a type of curiosity we’d all be better having.

Why do we need to learn so many different vocabulary words in school??!!?? All I do is spend hours and hours learning new words that I’ll never use when I’m older. It seems so stupid!

Knowing a large number of words will make you much more articulate in your conversations with others. Knowing words can help out in a lot of ways in life. Those hours of learning will pay off. You need to figure out a fun and entertaining way to learn those words.

Before you work on new vocabulary, you should make sure you already understand the basics. There is nothing worse than someone using big words while the small words are being incorrectly used. A sure sign the person thinks big words are important, but has no idea how to use words in general.

I don’t think these two things are exclusive. You can work on the basics and learn new vocabulary at the same time. It isn’t an “either / or” choice. Do both.

It depends on the person who learns the language. If he is a fast learner, he will learn both the basics and big words fast.

Melvin I am also practicing to write English like native speakers.if your English is good then help in writing passage I write a passage on some topic and you will point out my errors.I am so obliged if you help me

Melvin, I too am practicing to write English like native speakers. If your English is better than mine, then would you help me improve my writing. I will write a passage on a topic and if you would point out any errors I make it would help me greatly. I am very thankful for any help you provide.

I am a native English speaker and this is how I would have written the post.

Sure why not?

I am not agree with your ideas Because those people have not english native language Those people how to increase your vocabulary They read english but not understand because english is not whose native language

Please give me some 💡

I want to improve my english vocabulary

start reading books and blogs that you like to read everyday. Consistency is the major key of success in all kind of drills.

then I don’t have time to do something else

yes you said well

you’re are right!

“you’re are right!” ?? = you are are right! Contractions are wonderful when used correctly. There IS a word represented there….

You are so right. I am 40 years old i should know better I’m so rush to high up. In my learning I have a habit of skipping over the small and rush. Myself to the big ones

This looks like a great list of resources/apps. Using a variety of these should make learning vocabulary a breeze.

I don’t understand why so many people don’t like to learn new words. They are so interesting!

I am improve my vocabulary so u tell me why can I do

I am *improving my vocabulary so u *can *advise me *what to do Maybe you should study the Grammar Formation first;before u learn new words.

Woah! That was a little bit savage

No it wasn’t that’s a very good suggestion i myself think i should take go study it.

Hi Louis Alion, “Maybe you should study the Grammar Formation first;before u learn new words” I don’t know the other think. but for me, if you know only the grammar after that you can not make the sentence because of we don’t know new words.

I believe that you should do the same. Practice what you preach. There is always room for improvement, always.

Grammar and Vocabulary, goes hand in hand. Communication and Vocabulary, goes hand in hand.

Dont get confused.

learn vocabulary first

Maybe they have more and better work. Duhhhh!

the power writing is power of vocabulary

for learning the basic knowledge should be complete .every new knowledge need some basic knowledge first

Yes U r right

You are absolutely right Rudra.

Such a thanks for sharing these words and good experience for me ,I saw every point .who became me bold and improve my english skills .today i had built more confidence ,and promise you . I will improve my english as soon as possible Once again Thanks

Thanks for the advice I thing I’ve got an enough idea on how I will improve my grammar and vocabulary. 🙂

When I will summerise the article may be it would be like this, # Increase vocabulary # Read news paper # Play game

Thank’s…

Thanks for writing this wonderful article, I have learned new words while reading the article.

I too learned lots of new words in your Article

It’s really helpful. keep it up!

My vocabulary is vry weak.vocabulary words are vry difficult to learn…

Then you have to study hard.

i really want to improve my vocabulary but ,i always loose concentration whenever i start reading a magazine or a newspaper

Good approach

It is a stepping stone. I am going to improve drastically

game part is not important

Thank for your marevlous explaniation

I enjoy learning new words,but I’m too lazy to do this! Hope that one day I will realize how important it is!

I think reading is quite important. It doesn’t only enrich your vocabulary. But also gives your new knowledges.

thank you for the tips

Hi It is good to know this knowledge.

Thanks, helpful tips. but I don’t understand some things due to my poor education background, wish I could get more explicited ones. But great job though

Great article!

I will give the IELTS test two month later as English isn’t my own language and I will be confused that what am l doing There are a lot of references and books and I don’t have a plan for test Please tell me what am l doing?

Like im in school, so this wasnt that useful. Thank u though about the thesaurus and stuff!

When I see a new word, I looking for a root of that and try to find it on some film and article and know the synonyms and how we can use it I myself use some applications like Word Up which is so useful for me because at the first you can see the root of word, meaning of that, synonym and also some film which help me alot. l recommend you to use it once 😊

Thank you for your valuable suggestions.

This tell how important on reading books or any materials that fully satisfy your vocabulary. And Verily important notice or learning to us, are keep reading books and love it. Specially in this new technological era where people really sucks on gadgets and any technologies . This article help me more.Thanks a lot. And keep it up!!

I want to prove my writing power and also professional email power.

I might try these!

I can say it depends on the person who is learning the language, because even though you are good at vocabulary, if you are poor in grammar your English will never be good, so if you ask me learn both of them at the same time….

Reading is life

Very helpful practical advice thanks

Hello everyone! This is a platform to learn and or improve one’s English speaking and writing abilities, so I think it would be best to help yourself as best as you can. I say this because, going through the comments, I noticed quite a handful of comments written in funny contractions. examples; ‘U’, ‘ur’, ‘re’, and the likes of which literally do not exist anywhere but the “Social media world”. No offense to anyone, but I think his will be a step toward improvement. Thank you!

This simple description sounds to be quite useful. I will try using these tips for my students.

Amazing ideas for a beginner

Best ways to improve self and others in speaking and writing , making choices of words to communicate in dynamic and vibrant manners.

I do appreciate the way you explained, how to improve Vocabulary! In fact, I was not at all comfortable with English Language but some how I managed to start communicating in English, as it was basic need to go ahead with my career. I am still facing issues in writing as my vocabulary is not that good. I will keep trying to get it improved everyday by adopting the ways you explained. Thank You!

I love to learn English how to read, speak and write Vocabularies

I think new words can be practicing by speaking and writing daily on going situation in world . Otherwise native environment in common atmosphere will never be much helpful to learn English quickly . Secondly seeker must have to think in English. Thirdly student must have to write his or her basic routine in English . That what he was doing in entire day on his diary

It is very essential or Vital to follow for the instruction and I will apply and abide by it in order to polish up my English Language.

my son, in junior high, asked his English teacher, “do you know another word for thesaurus? “

Don’t think that only big words is very important and useful but some small words is also there who can improve your vocabulary though there are small words

I get that but don’t big words make our vocabulary grow?

thanks that was very good example

It’s time to break the limits to become limitless and bending the reality.

Thanks very helpful

Very good indeed to have this opportunity to read the 25 way of improvement

I just almost glass over the word itself. Then I use google to find its meaning

It really nice. I’m perfect sure it will help me through the help of God. Thanks

Popular Posts

• The Top 10 Most Difficult-to-Spot Writing Mistakes
• 4 Simple Tips for Great Writing
• Avoiding Wordiness: 330 Examples & What to Use Instead
• The Oxford Comma: The Splice of Life
• Who vs. Whom
• Affect vs. Effect
• How to Take Notes: The 10-Step Guide to Note-Taking (Infographic)
• CMOS vs. AP – Recent Changes & Comparison (Updated 1. Nov. 2021)
• The Daily Word Counts of 19 Famous Writers
• The Ideal Length of Everything You Write Online ( Infographic)

Recent Comments

• Trilby on Avoiding Wordiness: 330 Examples & What to Use Instead
• Trilby on Words Everyone Seems to Hate
• Julie Retallack on Words Everyone Seems to Hate
• Cat on Who vs. Whom
• Cat on The Oxford Comma: The Splice of Life

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

• English Speaking Course
• Uncategorized

The importance of vocabulary in English and how to expand it

Have you ever struggled to express your thoughts or ideas in English? Perhaps you’re searching for that perfect word to describe a feeling, but it seems to elude you. This common frustration is often rooted in a limited vocabulary. A strong vocabulary is vital for effective communication and language proficiency.

Welcome to the dynamic world of English vocabulary learning! Whether you’re a student, a professional, or an individual seeking to enhance your language skills, mastering English opens doors to opportunities and connections across the globe. From  English Conversation Classes  to an  Online English Speaking Course , we’ll delve into these valuable resources designed to boost conversational fluency and refine spoken English skills. 

Why is Vocabulary Important?

• Enhances Communication: Vocabulary is the backbone of effective communication. The more words you know, the better equipped you are to express yourself clearly and precisely. A diverse vocabulary lets you choose words accurately, conveying your intended meaning and leading to clearer and more engaging conversations.
• Boosts Reading Comprehension: A wide-ranging vocabulary is crucial for understanding written texts. When encountering unfamiliar words while reading, having a strong language enables you to infer their meanings from context. This enhances your comprehension and allows you to delve into a broader range of literature and written materials.
• Improves Writing Skills: Writing is an art that relies heavily on vocabulary. The ability to select appropriate words and use them effectively in writing can greatly enhance the quality of your compositions. A varied vocabulary lets you express your thoughts more precisely, create vivid descriptions, and engage your readers.
• Enhances Critical Thinking: Vocabulary is vital in critical thinking and problem-solving. Expanding your vocabulary gives you access to a wider range of concepts, ideas, and perspectives. This expanded mental toolkit allows you to analyze and evaluate information more effectively, leading to better decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
• Enhances Academic Performance: A strong vocabulary is closely linked to academic success. Students with an extensive vocabulary have an advantage in various subjects, including language arts, social sciences, and standardized tests. A broad range of vocabulary allows students to grasp complex concepts, understand academic texts, and express their ideas more precisely in essays and presentations.
• Builds Confidence: A rich vocabulary empowers individuals to express themselves with confidence. When you have a wide array of words, you feel more comfortable engaging in conversations, participating in debates, and delivering presentations. Trust in your language abilities can positively impact personal and professional interactions.
• Enables Cultural Understanding: Language is intertwined with culture, and vocabulary plays a significant role in understanding different cultures. Expanding your vocabulary gives you access to words and expressions specific to various cultures, allowing you better to comprehend their traditions, values, and perspectives. This fosters empathy, cultural sensitivity, and effective communication across diverse communities.
• Facilitates Career Advancement: Effective communication skills are highly valued in many professional fields. A robust vocabulary enables you to articulate your ideas, persuade others, and convey professionalism. Moreover, specialized industries often use technical jargon and terminology, and having a strong vocabulary in those domains can give you a competitive edge in your career.
• Enhances Language Learning: Vocabulary acquisition is essential to learning any language. As you expand your vocabulary in English, you’ll notice that many words have similarities or connections to words in other languages. This can facilitate your learning of new languages, as you can draw upon your existing vocabulary to make connections and infer meanings.

Tips to Expand Your Vocabulary:

We offer a range of online courses to cater to learners at different proficiency levels. Our English Speaking Course Online is designed to enhance your spoken English skills through interactive lessons, practice exercises, and personalized feedback. If you’re looking to improve your English proficiency, our Advanced English Courses Online provide comprehensive instruction in complex grammar concepts, advanced vocabulary, and advanced communication strategies. Join AffluentEnglish.com today and unlock your full potential in the English language.

• Read Widely: Reading is one of the most effective ways to improve vocabulary. Choose a variety of genres and styles, including fiction, non-fiction, newspapers, and magazines. When you encounter unfamiliar words, please make a note of them and look up their meanings. Try to understand the words in context to solidify their usage.
• Use Context Clues: Contextual clues are powerful tools for deciphering unfamiliar words. Consider the surrounding words, sentences, and paragraphs when encountering a new comment. Often, the context provides hints about the word’s meaning. Over time, you’ll improve at inferring purposes and expanding your vocabulary organically.
• Create a Word Journal: Maintain a personal journal or notebook to record new words you come across. Include the word, its definition, and a sentence demonstrating its usage. Regularly review your word journal to reinforce your learning. You can also use digital tools or vocabulary-building apps for convenience.
• Play with Words: Engage in word games and puzzles to make learning vocabulary enjoyable. Crossword puzzles, word association games, and online quizzes can be fun and interactive ways to expand your word repertoire. You can also use new words in everyday conversations or writing to solidify your understanding and increase your usage.
• Use a Thesaurus: A thesaurus is valuable for discovering synonyms and antonyms. It helps you find alternative words with similar or contrasting meanings. This expands your vocabulary and adds depth and nuance to your language usage. Use a thesaurus to explore different word choices and improve linguistic flexibility.
• Engage in Conversations: Converse with native English speakers or language exchange partners. Engaging in discussions exposes you to new words and phrases while allowing you to practice using them in context. Be bold and ask for explanations or clarifications when encountering unfamiliar vocabulary during conversations.
• Word of the Day: Challenge yourself to learn a new word daily. Many online platforms and mobile applications offer “word of the day” features that introduce you to a new word and its definition and usage examples. Incorporate these words into your daily conversations or writing to reinforce your learning.
• Join Vocabulary-Building Communities: Engage with online forums, social media groups, or language-learning platforms focusing on expanding vocabulary. Participating in these communities allows you to share new words, discuss their meanings, and learn from others. Collaborating with fellow language enthusiasts can make vocabulary building more enjoyable and rewarding.
• Read Vocabulary-Building Books: There are numerous books available that are specifically designed to enhance vocabulary. These books often provide lists of words, definitions, and exercises to practice their usage. Consider investing in such resources to supplement your vocabulary-building efforts and gain targeted knowledge in specific areas of interest.
• Watch and Listen to English Content: Expand your exposure to English by watching movies, TV shows, and documentaries and listening to podcasts or audiobooks. Pay attention to the language used, particularly unfamiliar words or phrases. Subtitles or transcripts can be useful tools for understanding the context and meanings of these words, allowing you to incorporate them into your vocabulary.
• Explore Word Roots and Prefixes: Many English words share common roots, prefixes, and suffixes. By understanding these linguistic elements, you can decipher the meanings of unfamiliar words and even create new words. Familiarize yourself with common prefixes like “pre-” or “anti-” and suffixes like “-able” or “-tion.” This knowledge will help you make connections and expand your vocabulary systematically.
• Use Vocabulary in Writing Prompts: Practice using new vocabulary by engaging in writing exercises. Look for writing prompts or create your own, and challenge yourself to incorporate a certain number of unique words into your compositions. This exercise will reinforce your understanding of the words and improve your ability to use them in context.
• Set Vocabulary Goals: Establish specific goals for expanding your vocabulary. For example, you aim to learn a certain number of new words each week or focus on acquiring vocabulary related to a specific industry or field of interest. Having clear objectives helps you stay motivated and track your progress as you work towards a more extensive language.
• Review and Reinforce: Regularly review the words you have learned to reinforce your vocabulary. Set aside dedicated study sessions to revisit your word journal, flashcards, or digital vocabulary tools. Repetition and practice are key to solidifying new words in your long-term memory and integrating them into everyday language usage.

The Power of Word Choice:  

When communicating in English, your chosen words can significantly impact how your message is perceived. Using precise and varied vocabulary allows you to convey your thoughts more accurately, evoke specific emotions, and create a lasting impression. By consciously selecting words with the desired connotations and nuances, you can tailor your language to suit different contexts and effectively communicate your intended meaning.

Building a Foundation: Core Vocabulary: While expanding your vocabulary is essential, building a solid foundation of core vocabulary is also crucial. Core vocabulary consists of the most frequently used words in a language, and mastering these words provides a strong base for language proficiency. Focus on high-frequency words, such as articles, pronouns, prepositions, and common verbs, which form the backbone of everyday communication. Online resources and vocabulary textbooks often provide lists of core vocabulary words to help you prioritize your learning.

Are you looking to improve your conversational skills in English? Our Online English Conversation Classes provide the perfect platform to practice and enhance your spoken English abilities. Engage in interactive discussions, role-plays, and group activities with our experienced instructors and fellow learners. For a comprehensive approach to spoken English, our Online Speaking English Course offers a structured curriculum, interactive lessons, and personalized feedback to help you develop fluency, pronunciation, and communication skills. Join our virtual classroom today and boost your confidence in speaking English!

Incorporating Vocabulary-Building Activities into Daily Routine:  

Expanding your vocabulary doesn’t have to be a separate and tedious task. Instead, integrate vocabulary-building activities into your daily routine. Label objects in your environment with their English names, practice describing daily activities using new vocabulary, or engage in word games with friends or language partners. By making vocabulary expansion a natural part of your everyday life, you’ll enhance your learning experience and find that new words effortlessly become part of your active vocabulary.

Remember, vocabulary acquisition is an ongoing process, and consistency is key. Embrace a lifelong love for words and languages, and continually challenge yourself to expand your vocabulary. With dedication and practice, you’ll gradually unlock the full potential of your English language skills and experience the joys of effective communication in a rich and diverse language.

The importance of vocabulary in English cannot be overstated. A strong vocabulary enhances communication, boosts reading comprehension, improves writing skills, and fosters critical thinking. Expanding your vocabulary gives you the power to express yourself with precision and confidence, opening doors to academic success, career advancement, and cultural understanding.

To embark on your vocabulary-building journey, visit AffluentEnglish.com. This comprehensive online platform offers many resources and tools to help you expand your vocabulary effectively. Whether you’re a language learner, a student, or a professional, AffluentEnglish.com provides interactive exercises, word lists, and engaging activities to make vocabulary acquisition an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Start today and unlock the full potential of your English language skills at AffluentEnglish.com!

No Comments

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Recent Posts

• 10 Common Body Language Mistakes to Avoid in Professional Settings
• Benefits of Job Interview Preparation Courses Online
• Advantages of English-speaking Courses for Homemakers | Housewives | Housewife
• English Fluency: Easy Tips to Achieve Your Language Objectives
• Engaging the Audience: Strategies for keeping your audience’s attention and actively involving them in your presentation.

Learning English Through Movies And TV Shows

Back to blog, online english exams: how to preparing for success in language proficiency tests, scan and pay.

You can send money using this QR code. Use any UPI app to make transactions.

Using Ambitious Vocabulary for 11+ Creative Writing Success

As a writer, it's essential to have a strong vocabulary that can help you express your ideas and evoke emotions in your readers. Ambitious vocabulary refers to the use of sophisticated and impressive words in writing. Using ambitious vocabulary can help you stand out from the crowd and make your writing more engaging and memorable.

In this article, we will explore what ambitious vocabulary is, provide examples of ambitious vocabulary, discuss techniques for incorporating it into your writing, and highlight common mistakes to avoid.

What is Ambitious Vocabulary?

Ambitious vocabulary refers to words that are not commonly used in everyday language but are more complex and sophisticated. These words can include sensory words, vivid verbs, similes and metaphors, personification, and alliteration. Using ambitious vocabulary can help you create a vivid and memorable image in your reader's minds and engage them in your story.

Examples of Ambitious Vocabulary

Using Sensory Words

Sensory words can help create a sensory experience for your readers. By using words that describe how things look, smell, sound, taste, or feel, you can transport your readers to the scene you're describing. For example, instead of saying "the flowers were beautiful," you can say "the delicate petals of the vibrant flowers swayed in the gentle breeze, releasing a sweet, intoxicating fragrance."

Using Vivid Verbs

Vivid verbs can help you create a more active and engaging sentence. Instead of using generic verbs like "walked" or "ran," you can use verbs that are more descriptive and specific. For example, instead of saying "he walked to the store," you can say "he sauntered down the street, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling city."

Using Similes and Metaphors

Similes and metaphors can help you make your writing more descriptive and interesting by comparing two seemingly unrelated things. For example, instead of saying "the sunset was beautiful," you can say "the sky was ablaze with fiery colors, like a canvas painted by a master artist."

Using Personification

Personification involves giving human characteristics to non-human things. This technique can help you make your writing more creative and engaging. For example, instead of saying "the wind was blowing," you can say "the mischievous wind whispered secrets as it danced through the trees."

Using Alliteration

Alliteration involves using the same sound at the beginning of multiple words in a sentence. This technique can help you make your writing more rhythmic and memorable. For example, instead of saying "the rain was heavy," you can say "the relentless rain rattled against the roof."

Techniques to Incorporate Ambitious Vocabulary in 11 Plus Creative Writing

Understanding the Context

Understanding the context is crucial when using ambitious vocabulary. Make sure the words you use to fit the tone and style of your writing. Using overly complex words can confuse your readers and make your writing feel forced.

Reading Widely

Reading widely can help you expand your vocabulary and give you inspiration for using ambitious vocabulary in your writing. Try to read a variety of genres and styles to expose yourself to different writing styles and techniques.

Using a Thesaurus

A thesaurus can be a valuable tool for finding synonyms for commonly used words. However, be careful not to overuse it or use words that you're not familiar with.

Practicing Writing Prompts

Practicing writing prompts can help you incorporate ambitious vocabulary into your writing in a low-stress environment. Use prompts to experiment with different writing styles and techniques and try incorporating ambitious vocabulary into your writing.

Editing and Revising

Editing and revising your writing can help you identify areas where you can use more ambitious vocabulary. Go back through your writing and look for opportunities to replace common words with more sophisticated and impressive ones. Remember, editing and revising are essential steps in the writing process and can help you refine your work.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While using ambitious vocabulary can enhance your writing, it's essential to avoid common mistakes that can detract from your work. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:

Overusing complex words

Using too many complex words can make your writing difficult to read and understand. Use ambitious vocabulary sparingly and only when it adds to the tone and style of your writing.

Using words you're not familiar with  

Using words you're not familiar with can make your writing feel forced and inauthentic. Make sure you understand the meaning and context of the words you use.

Using the wrong word  

Using the wrong word can change the meaning of your sentence and confuse your readers. Make sure you use words that fit the context and meaning of your writing.

Using ambitious vocabulary can help you elevate your writing and make it more engaging and memorable. By using sensory words, vivid verbs, similes and metaphors, personification, and alliteration, you can create a more descriptive and engaging narrative. Remember to understand the context, read widely, use a thesaurus, practice writing prompts, and edit and revise your work. Avoid common mistakes like overusing complex words, using words you're not familiar with, and using the wrong word. By incorporating ambitious vocabulary into your writing, you can gain full marks in 11 plus creative writing and make your work stand out from the crowd.

Dear Parent, Before You Leave...

Subscribe to Newsletter

** Get 10% off coupon code on your first order, valid sitewide.

PiAcademy Partners

Follow us on

More than 20,000 registered members!

Exam papers.

© 2014 - 2024 PiAcademy Limited, All Rights Reserved

List of Topics

SfC Home > Communication > Writing >

Importance of a Good Vocabulary in Writing

by Ron Kurtus (updated 25 June 2023)

Whether you are writing professionally, at work or for reports in school, you should have a vocabulary that will provide for clear communication of your ideas and thoughts.

You need to know the type and level of your audience and adjust your vocabulary accordingly. It is worthwhile to constantly work at improving your knowledge of words.

Questions you may have include:

• Are long words necessary?
• What about industry-specific words?
• How can I improve my vocabulary?

This lesson will answer those questions.

Don't need long words

Television commentator William S. Buckley has a tremendous vocabulary and would often overpower his debate opponents through the use of long words, whose definitions only highly literate people would know. He wouldn't win on logic of argument but on frustrating his opponents.

If the reader cannot understand the words, you may seem intelligent, but the message you are trying to deliver is lost. Modern day readers do not posses the vocabulary that people had in the previous generation. Studies have shown that high school students know only 2/3 of the words the average student knew 20 years ago.

Use caution with the words you employ to make sure the audience understands them.

Industry-specific words

Likewise, you must be careful when using industry-specific words. Each industry has its own special jargon and words they like to use. Sometimes those words have other meanings outside that industry or may seem meaningless to the average reader.

When writing for a special group, you can use their industry-specific words, but you still should include the real meanings. It is surprising the number of people within an industry who don't know the true meanings of their jargon.

Improving your vocabulary

Writers should love words. There are simple words and complex words. I will often use a dictionary to look up the meaning of a word I see or hear, as well as using a thesaurus to find alternate words. Even the simple thesaurus in your word processor is handy for this.

I feel that paying attention to words used around you is the best way to increase your working vocabulary. If you are really into improving the number of words you know, you can use such vocabulary-improvement lessons as are in the Reader's Digest.

Word games and crossword puzzles often help strengthen your mental vocabulary muscles. Hangman Game to test your vocabulary skills. -->

A good vocabulary does not mean you know many long or difficult words. Instead, it means that you know how to express yourself so that the reader will understand your material. Sometimes is it necessary to use industry-specific jargon, but you still must make sure everyone understands what you are writing. It is worthwhile to constantly work at improving your knowledge of words.

Use your writing abilities to help others understand

Resources and references

Ron Kurtus' Credentials

Writing Resources

(Notice: The School for Champions may earn commissions from book purchases)

Students and researchers

The Web address of this page is: www.school-for-champions.com/writing/ importance_of_good_vocabulary.htm

Please include it as a link on your website or as a reference in your report, document, or thesis.

Copyright © Restrictions

Where are you now?

School for Champions

Writing topics Importance of a Good Vocabulary in Writing

Writing topics

Beginning considerations.

• Motivations for Writing
• Affirm Your Esteem as a Writer

Basics of writing

• Improve Skills with a Journal
• Write the Book You Would Love to Read
• Getting the Reader's Interest
• Importance of Good Vocabulary
• Grammar Checkers

Creative methods

• Outlining Enhances Creativity
• Using Graphical Outlines
• Writing by Dictation

Selling writing

• Routes in Professional Writing
• Book Royalties
• Making Money Writing Fiction
• Writing Survey Results
• Fiction Writing
• Technical Writing
• Speech Writing
• Public Speaking

Let's make the world a better place

Be the best that you can be.

Use your knowledge and skills to help others succeed.

Don't be wasteful; protect our environment.

You CAN influence the world.

Live your life as a champion:.

Take care of your health

Seek knowledge and gain skills

Do excellent work

Be valuable to others

Have utmost character

Be a Champion!

The School for Champions helps you become the type of person who can be called a Champion .

• Workshop Calendar
• The 5 Critical Classroom Strategies
• Supporting EAL/D Students
• Supporting Students in Reading
• Prep to Year 6 Reading 'The Big Six'
• Year 3-6 Reading 'The Big Six'
• The Science of Reading
• Introduction to the 6 Traits of Writing
• All Workshops

In-school Services

Consultancy services, demonstration lessons.

We demonstrate lessons with students while your teachers and support staff observe. Modelled teaching supports educators to action the teaching approaches discussed at workshops.

Build a common understanding of approaches to teaching literacy across the primary school. Assist educators to extend their knowledge and expertise to produce the best possible outcomes for students.

Face-to-face delivery customized for your school

Practical Strategies for Teaching Comprehension

Angela Ehmer will deliver 'Practical Strategies for Teaching Comprehension' to Teachers' Aides on 22 March 2023

• Webinar Calendar
• Intervention Strategies (R & W)
• Prep to Years 6 Reading: 'The Big Six'
• The Six Traits of Writing
• Introduction: 6 Traits of Writing
• The Art of Teaching Writing

Video Presentations

• Guided Reading
• Guided Writing
• Prep to Year 3 Reading: 'The Big Six'
• Primary Writing Workshop
• Teachers' Aides Reading
• Teachers' Aides Writing
• The Writing Process
• Top Level Structures

Short Courses

• Literature Circles
• Reading Stamina
• Shared Reading

Angela Ehmer, presenting the Top Level Structures component of the Primary Writing Workshop.

• Mind Maps, Organisers & Planners for Writing
• Multiple Intelligences Response Cards
• Planners and Organisers for Writing
• Supporting Readers and Writers
• The Bookmark Book
• The Daily Chat
• The Daily Write
• The Daily Write (Early Years)
• The Task Card Book
• The Comprehension Toolkit (5-8)
• Mind Maps & Organisers Reading
• Comprehension Charts
• Top Level Structures: Graphic Organisers
• Top Level Structures: Signal Words
• Writing TEEL or PEEL Paragraphs
• Writing: Text Types
• Writing: Reviewing and Editing

Prompt Cards

• Active Reader Cards
• Comprehension Card Set
• Literature Circle Role Cards
• Reciprocal Teaching
• Vocabulary Activities
• Vocabulary Cards

Six Traits of Writing

• Blank anchor charts - Ages 5-11
• Blank anchor charts - Ages 9-16
• Detailed Wall Charts - Ages 5-11
• Detailed Wall Charts - Ages 9-16
• Six Traits Overview
• Picture Charts - Ages 5-11
• Picture Charts - Ages 9-16
• Rubric Scorer (App)
• Simple Chart Set - Ages 5-11
• Simple Chart Set - Ages 9-16
• Single Chart - Ages 5-11
• Single Chart - Ages 9-16
• Sorting Task Headings
• Sorting Task Prompts
• Sensory Details Chart

Other Resources

• Bookmarks (high frequency words)
• Book Reviews
• Literacy Glossary
• Popular Rhymes
• Read Aloud Books (Recommended)
• Reading Strategy Bookmarks
• Reading Strategy Bookmarks for Younger Readers
• Short videos to support parents
• Tic Tac Toe: Games
• Transition words

Lesson Guides

• 'Have Your Say' Writing Prompts
• Compare / Contrast

The Comprehension Toolkit (Ages 5-8)

The Comprehension Toolkit (Ages 5-8) is a 240 page publication including more than 80 reading lessons to help busy teachers deliver high quality comprehension lessons.

Literacy survey closes today!

In-Person Services

• Consultancy Services Overview
• Demonstration lessons We demonstrate lessons with students while your teachers and support staff observe. Modelled teaching supports educators to action the teaching approaches discussed at workshops.
• Coaching Build a common understanding of approaches to teaching literacy across the primary school. Assist educators to extend their knowledge and expertise to produce the best possible outcomes for students.
• Workshops Face-to-face delivery customized for your school

Online Learning

Home > Blog >

Why vocabulary matters to reading and writing success

Monday, 27 april 2020 at 3:46 pm.

Research studies identify strong links between the working vocabularies of young children and their subsequent reading achievement levels. There is widespread agreement that vocabulary is one of the keys to reading. Not only is it a valuable predictor of reading success in the early years, but it continues to impact achievement levels well into secondary school. It is critical not only to being able to predict words to solve them more easily, but also correlates strongly to comprehension. Bromley (2007) asserts that understanding word meanings contributes as much as 70-80% to comprehension.

Background experiences

For many, vocabulary is acquired from natural exposure to conversation and interaction, books and media. Frequent exposure to words in context helps to build individual word meaning, as well as to learn what words mean when they are used in phrase units or sentences. For example, the word ‘fence’ has a clearly defined meaning, but when it is accompanied by other words a more meaningful context is created. When placed in a phrase such as ‘on the fence’ it means something quite different to ‘behind the fence’. For many, learning vocabulary in context is all that is required to build an effective working vocabulary for one’s age. However, this is not the case for all. Some students arrive at school with limited vocabularies. It has been well documented that children from lower socio-economic backgrounds know around half the words of those from higher socio-economic upbringings and that a range of other factors contribute to vocabulary knowledge.

In classrooms it is common to observe a range of word knowledge amongst students. These are categorised by Beck, McKeown & Omanson (1987) across four levels:

• The student is unfamiliar with the word.
• The student has heard the word, does not know what it means, but may have a general sense of it having a positive or negative connotation.
• The student controls receptive knowledge of the word and can offer some reasonable suggestions or associations about its meaning.
• The student controls receptive and productive knowledge and not only understands the word but can also use the word.

The final stage highlights the critical link between vocabulary and writing. One can only write using words one knows. A broad vocabulary which includes a high volume of complex words provides greater scope to express ideas than a more limited vocabulary. Vocabulary, therefore, also impacts achievement in writing and speaking.

Explicit teaching

So, what can teachers do about the disparity which currently exists and to ensure we extend the vocabularies of all learners?

Reviews of research into vocabulary suggest implicit instruction is insufficient for students with limited vocabularies and in fact, all students benefit from explicit vocabulary instruction. Beck & McKeown (2002) highlight the importance of ‘rich and robust’ vocabulary instruction for all students, particularly those in the early years. An effective sequence for focused vocabulary instruction (Manyak, Von Guten, Autenrieth, Mastre-O’Farrell, Irvine-McDermott, Baumann & Blachowicz: 2014) includes:

• Highlighting the word in context
• Providing a child-friendly definition
• Giving multiple examples of how the word might be used
• Prompting students to think of the word across other contexts
• Representing the word using images
• Prompting thinking about how the word is used in the context it appeared
• Telling a story without the target word, but which includes a context for the word and having students identify the context

Maintain the profile of target words

Following instructional episodes, it is important to provide frequent and ongoing opportunities to see and use target words in context. Maintaining a high profile and active interest in target vocabulary is essential for increasing uptake and usage. Placing students on high alert for the target words when reading and in classroom interactions, encouraging students to use the word frequently, and apply them in writing and across a range of classroom activities will ensure these words maintain a high profile and are regularly heard and used.

Vocabulary discussion cards

More than 100 vocabulary discussion cards to support early learners and ESL students are available.

• Baumann, J. F. & Kameenui, E. J. (1991). Research on vocabulary instruction: Ode to Voltaire. In J. Flood, J.D. Lapp & J.R. Squire (Eds.), Handbook on research on teaching the English language arts (604-632). Macmillan, New York.
• Beck, I., & McKeown, M.G. (2007). Increasing young low-income children’s oral vocabulary repertoires through rich and focused instruction. Elementary School Journal , 107(3), 251–271.
• Beck, I.L., McKeown, M.G. & Kucan, L., (2002). Bringing Words to Life: Robust Vocabulary Instruction. Guildford Press, New York.
• Beck, I.L., McKeown, M.G. & Omanson, C.F. (1987). The Effects of Long-Term Vocabulary Instruction on Reading Comprehension: A Replication. Journal of Literacy Research . 15 (1), 3-18.
• Bromley, K. (2007). Best practices in teaching writing. In L.B. Gambrell, L.M. Morrow & M. Pressley (Eds.), Best practices in literacy instruction. Guildford Press, New York.
• Cunningham, A. E., & Stanovich, K.E. (1997). Early reading acquisition and its relation to reading experience and ability 10 years later. Developmental Psychology, 33 (6), 934–945.
• Graves, M., & Slater, W. (1987, April). The development of reading vocabularies in rural disadvantaged students, inner-city disadvantaged students, and middle-class suburban students . Paper presented at the annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association, Washington, DC
• Hart, B., & Risley, T. R. (1995). Meaningful differences in the everyday experience of young American children . Paul H Brookes Publishing.
• Manyak, P.C., Von Gunten, H., Autenrieth, D., Gillis C., Mastre-O’Farrell, J., Irvine-McDermott, E., Baumann, J.F., Blachowicz, C.L.Z. (2014). Four practical principles for enhancing vocabulary instruction. The Reading Teacher , 68(1), 13-23.
• Nagy, W., Herman, P., & Anderson, R. (1985). Learning words from context. Reading Research Quarterly , 20, 233-253.
• Rinaldi,L., Sells, D., & Mclaughlin, T.F.(1997). The effects of reading racetracks on the sight word acquisition and fluency of elementary students. Journal of Behavioral Education , 7(2), 219–233.
• Stahl, S., & Fairbanks, M. (1986). The effects of vocabulary instruction: A model-based meta-analysis. Review of Educational Research , (56),72-110.
• Tomeson, M. & Aarnoutse, C. (1998). Effects of an instructional programme for deriving word meaning. Educational Studies , 24(1), 107–222.
• White, T. G., Graves, M.F., & Slater, W. H. (1990). Growth of reading vocabulary in diverse elementary schools: Decoding and word meaning. Journal of Educational Psychology, 82 (2), 281–290.

by Angela Ehmer

This entry was posted on Monday, April 27th, 2020 at 3:46 pm and is filed under Reading , Writing . You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

Comments are closed.

Search our blog archives

Entries (RSS) and Comments (RSS) .

9 Reasons Why Improving Your Vocabulary Is Important

Have you ever contemplated how important vocabulary is in our daily lives?

Vocabulary is the foundation of all language, providing us with the necessary building blocks to express ourselves, connect with others, develop critical thinking and confidence, and build life skills and personal relationships.

Even with a limited grasp of grammar, we can still communicate effectively through vocabulary alone. As British linguist, David A. Wilkins noted, “without grammar, very little can be conveyed; without vocabulary, nothing can be conveyed.”

If you’re not convinced yet, consider how children acquire language. They start with single words like ‘duck,’ ‘ball,’ and ‘teddy,’ yet are still able to communicate their wants and needs effectively. As their oral language abilities develop, their ability to communicate effectively also improves.

In this post, we’ll explore nine reasons why improving your vocabulary is important and how it can benefit you in various facets of life. 

Let’s dive in!

1. Vocabulary increases reading comprehension

Reading is an essential piece of our daily lives, whether it’s for entertainment or education. However, reading can become a frustrating experience if we come across too many unfamiliar words. 

Hence, improving your vocabulary words is crucial if you want to enhance your reading comprehension.

One such study in 2010 discovered that vocabulary size accounted for 64% of the variance in reading scores .

Another study done in 2000 found that kids need to grasp 98% of the words they read in order to comprehend what they’re reading.  

That is a significant percentage that shows clearly the importance of having a diverse vocabulary and learning new words every day. 

A solid vocabulary will help you appreciate the written word, read between the lines, and comprehend words’ literal and metaphorical implications. It’s similar to possessing a secret decoder ring that reveals the meaning of a text.

2. Vocabulary skills enhance a person’s ability to communicate

A solid vocabulary can help enhance your communication skill, but it is more than just about using fancy or complicated words to impress others. It’s about having an expanded vocabulary to communicate your thoughts.

When you have a good vocabulary, you can better find the right words that concisely and correctly communicate the exact thought you want to share instead of fumbling around and stringing together a collection of words that incorrectly expresses an opinion.

Focusing on your vocabulary development will ensure you have a variety of words at your disposal to convey your thoughts. It allows you to choose the proper term for the right context and express yourself more effectively and accurately at any time. 

In essence, it’s like having a communication toolbox in your memory bank, with every word serving as a tool to be used correctly at the right time.

3. Learning new words improves your reading and writing skills

If you don’t have good word power, it becomes challenging to appreciate the written word, understand the nuances of language, and read between the lines.

Reading contributes to your word power as you encounter new words and phrases you may not have otherwise encountered. And the more words you get exposed to, the better your reading and oral vocabulary. Reading is a great way to find out new word meanings.

In addition, a more extensive vocabulary can also greatly benefit your writing skills. With a more comprehensive selection of words, you can better express yourself and convey your thoughts, feelings, events, or ideas. 

An excellent tool you can use to improve your reading, writing, and vocabulary is a speed reading tool dubbed AccelaReader by Iris Reading . 

This tool will help you learn to read fast and develop a better vocabulary quickly. The more words you read and get acquainted with, the more words you can add to your word bank .

4. Vocabulary helps develop critical thinking skills

A strong vocabulary enhances communication skills and helps you develop critical thinking abilities because words are the building blocks of thought and ideas, and a limited vocabulary can hinder one’s ability to think and reason effectively.

As Henry Hazlitt said, “A man with a scant vocabulary will almost certainly be a weak thinker. The richer and more copious one’s vocabulary and the greater one’s awareness of fine distinctions and subtle nuances of meaning, the more fertile and precise is likely to be one’s thinking.”

When we have a wider range of words and a deeper understanding of their meanings, we can express our thoughts and ideas more clearly and precisely. This, in turn, helps us to think more critically and analyze information more effectively.

Read about: What Are the Signs of High Intelligence? (Answered!)

5. Vocabulary knowledge increases the probability of academic success

Research shows that students with larger vocabularies are more likely to graduate from college and receive higher incomes.   A strong vocabulary correlates with a better comprehension of textbooks and lectures and, consequently, with better academic achievement. 

Conversely, students who lack good vocabulary knowledge struggle to understand and fall behind in their studies. 

This is even more apparent in entrance exams where your background knowledge is not only tested but your reading comprehension and essay writing skills as well. For instance, many foreign universities require applicants to submit a statement of purpose, which necessitates excellent writing skills.

You may also like: Creative and Fun Ways to Increase and Strengthen Your Vocabulary Daily

6. Good vocabulary opens up career advancement opportunities

In addition to academic performance, the importance of vocabulary skills is evident in the workplace. 

Effective communication is crucial in all professions, and your vocabulary indicates your ability to express yourself clearly and persuasively.

Employers seek out candidates who can communicate their ideas effectively and are more likely to offer promotions to those with excellent communication skills.

Several studies also back the above point. For example, the researcher Johnson O’Connor’s conducted extensive vocabulary tests and found that a person’s vocabulary level is the best predictor of occupational success. 

In his test, he carefully isolated variables such as scholarship level and age to ensure that it was indeed vocabulary, not something related, that correlated with success.

O’Connor’s findings are particularly relevant for knowledge workers, as professional success depends heavily on thinking and communication skills. Those who master words as tools for thought and communication have a greater chance of success. 

So, whether you are a student, an engineer, an executive, or any other knowledge worker, investing time and effort into building your own vocabulary can pay off in your professional life.

Are you looking to advance your career? Irisreading has a course that will help you grow in your career. You’ll learn how to improve your communication, networking, and social skills so you can find a job you’re passionate about and reduce your anxiety in social situations.

Check out: How to Talk to Anyone to Advance Your Career.

7. Vocabulary helps develop life skills

It may astonish you to know that having a solid vocabulary can help you develop life skills like problem-solving, leadership, self-expression, active listening, and the aptitude to adapt to different situations or environments.

For example, a good vocabulary enables you to define problems better, seek innovative solutions, and express your ideas persuasively, facilitating collaboration and finding effective resolutions.

This problem-solving skill is also needed in leadership. With a robust word bank, a  leader can succinctly communicate and convey his thoughts and ideas to get results. Without a solid vocabulary, it is harder to fully take on leadership roles or adapt to an environment outside your comfort zone.

You may also like: 5 Essential Life Skills Anyone Can Learn .

8. Having an extensive vocabulary helps to persuade others

One key aspect of persuasion is the ability to present your argument clearly and logically. This is where an expanded vocabulary can come in handy.

A more extensive vocabulary, equip you to choose more precise and impactful words, allowing you to convey your ideas and arguments more effectively. 

Additionally, an expanded vocabulary can help you sound more confident and knowledgeable, further enhancing your ability to persuade others.

So, if  you have been trying to convince your boss to approve your project proposal or simply trying to persuade your friends to try a new restaurant, now is good time to work on your vocabularies so you can step up your ability to persuade others.

9. Vocabulary increases your confidence level

The ability to express oneself coherently can help effectively convey one’s thoughts, ideas, and opinions. This means that having a strong vocabulary and being able to articulate clearly, are all essential components of communication skills that can lead to greater confidence.

Furthermore, with improved communication skills, you can easily approach people with your proposals, stand up in a meeting and confidently explain your objections, which will help you earn respect from others and build your self-esteem.

An improved vocabulary makes your communication skills more effective, allowing you to connect with others, form meaningful relationships and collaborations, and get more positive outcomes.

Takeaway: Improving your vocabulary can enhance your life!

Improving your vocabulary is a simple but powerful way to enhance your life in various ways. It forms the foundation for language skills, enhances critical thinking, and strengthens writing abilities.

By developing a rich vocabulary, you can become a more effective communicator, informed, engaged citizen, and thoughtful and empathetic person. 

As mentioned, one of the fastest methods for improving vocabulary skills is to expose yourself to more unknown words. You do that by learning to read fast, which helps you maximize your memory and improves your productivity in many other aspects of your life.

If you want to enhance your vocabulary further, we invite you to explore our Maximizing Memory Course. It provides valuable insights and practical techniques for improving your memory to comprehend information faster and storing new information or words longer.

Get started with our Maximizing Memory Course.

Click here to cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The Benefits of Creative Writing

Nanowrimo , blog.

To some, creative writing is a fun hobby that has little benefit, and can in fact serve as a time sink wherein nothing is accomplished other than words being spewed onto a page. To others, creative writing is a vital way of expressing oneself. It can be difficult to say which group is correct, but there are some definitive benefits to engaging in creative writing.

One of the first benefits is that it helps to develop creative problem solving skills. Creative writing is an exercise in solving problems, either for the characters within the story or for the author themselves. Characters within stories need to be navigated through a series of difficulties, and if the problems take place in the real world, then the solutions must also be real-world solutions. If the problem is a literal dragon that needs slaying, there’s somewhat less need for it to mimic a real-world solution, since that’s not typically a problem that we have. By navigating fictional characters through difficult times in their lives, either emotionally or financially, writers can learn how to handle those problems in the real world as well, without the stress of trying to figure it out when they’re already in the middle of the situation.

Another benefit of creative writing, particularly if the writer is involved in a formal class or writing group, is that it gives the writer experience in both taking and giving constructive criticism. The first time someone hears that there’s something wrong with their writing can be difficult, but over time, it does get easier. Trust me. I’ve had my fair share of critical remarks, and I’d like to think I’ve gotten better about responding to them. I no longer cry and throw things, so that’s a definite bonus. Taking criticism well is a vital skill, especially in the workplace, because employers often have feedback for their employees that might not necessarily be what the employee wants to hear. Giving criticism that is also constructive is another incredibly valuable skill. If someone believes they are just being torn down, they will not listen to a piece of criticism that might genuinely be designed to help. For this reason, it is important to understand that there are ways to provide tips for improvement without ripping someone’s work apart. Working in a workshop or a creative writing class will help improve these skills.

Creative writing helps to build vocabulary. Do you know how many types of swords there are? I don’t either, actually, but I know many of them. Do you know how many ways there are to say mean? Well, there’s mean, of course, but there are also words like malevolent and malicious and cruel, which all help to paint a more accurate picture of whatever it is that the writer is trying to portray. Once the writer knows these words, they aren’t likely to ever be forgotten. At the very least, the next time the writer is trying to describe someone as mean, they might remember that there are two other, more impressive sounding words that start with ‘m’ that might be used to describe said person.

Creative writing helps to improve outlining skills, which are vital for any kind of large project. Without an outline, creative writers might find themselves bogged down in details they didn’t intend to get lost in, or might lose track of vital plot threads that they’ll need to remember for later in this story. This is also true for any kind of large project, whether it be academic or professional. Presentations made without an outline in place can meander and get lost in themselves, making them difficult to understand or follow. For this reason, outlining is a good skill to pursue, and can be learned or improved upon through the use of creative writing.

One of the most subjective benefits to pursuing creative writing is the way that it can benefit the writer’s emotional well-being. I was skeptical about this one for a long time, because I love writing, but found it to be more stressful than anything else when I did indulge in writing. However, I have found that as I’ve adopted a regular writing schedule and have stuck to it, my mood has begun to improve greatly. I have had friends tell me that I’m happier now, and I do genuinely feel it. But I’m definitely willing to acknowledge that the same might not be true for other people

Creative writing is incredibly beneficial to burgeoning writers, and to students of all kinds. It requires effort, yes, but the more effort someone puts into it, the more likely they are to reap the benefits of it.

27 March, 2017 by McDaniel College Writing Center

• Flashes Safe Seven
• FlashLine Login
• Faculty & Staff Phone Directory
• Emeriti or Retiree
• All Departments
• Maps & Directions

• Building Guide
• Departments
• Directions & Parking
• Faculty & Staff
• Give to University Libraries
• Library Instructional Spaces
• Mission & Vision
• Newsletters
• Circulation
• Course Reserves / Core Textbooks
• Equipment for Checkout
• Interlibrary Loan
• Library Instruction
• Library Tutorials
• My Library Account
• Open Access Kent State
• Research Support Services
• Statistical Consulting
• Student Multimedia Studio
• Citation Tools
• Databases A-to-Z
• Databases By Subject
• Digital Collections
• Discovery@Kent State
• Government Information
• Journal Finder
• Library Guides
• Connect from Off-Campus
• Library Workshops
• Subject Librarians Directory
• Suggestions/Feedback
• Writing Commons
• Academic Integrity
• Jobs for Students
• International Students
• Meet with a Librarian
• Study Spaces
• University Libraries Student Scholarship
• Affordable Course Materials
• Copyright Services
• Selection Manager
• Suggest a Purchase

Library Locations at the Kent Campus

• Architecture Library
• Fashion Library
• Map Library
• Performing Arts Library
• Special Collections and Archives

Regional Campus Libraries

• East Liverpool
• College of Podiatric Medicine

Creative Writing: Poetry: Diction

• Introduction
• Lineation & Syntax
• Rhetoric & Mode
• Meter & Prosody
• Stanza & Rhyme
• Analysis, Criticism & Reference

The selection of words in a literary work. A work's diction forms one of its centrally important literary elements, as writers use words to convey action, reveal character, imply attitudes, identify themes, and suggest values. We can speak of the diction particular to a character, as in Iago's and Desdemona's very different ways of speaking in Othello. We can also refer to a poet's diction as represented over the body of his or her work, as in Donne's or Hughes's diction (Glossary of poetic terms, 2002).

Resources for Diction

Distinguishing Words offers a unique alternative to traditional vocabulary books by approaching vocabulary acquisition through the study of synonym groups rather than words lists or through Greek and Latin roots, prefixes, and suffixes.By learning new vocabulary through the study of synonym groups, readers relate new words to a centrally shared meaning, learn the definition of each individual word in the group, and compare meaning between the words. This structure allows readers to distinguish between words to make critical, correct vocabulary choices whenever they speak, read, or write. Each chapter presents a list of synonymous nouns, adjectives, and verbs as new words for study. Utilizing lessons, exercises, readings, and discussion questions, Distinguishing Words gives readers the tools they need to not only sharpen their vocabularies but also to decipher shades of meaning.For those interested in developing their vocabulary skills.

Web Resource

• << Previous: Lineation & Syntax
• Next: Trope >>
• Last Updated: Jul 6, 2022 2:22 PM
• URL: https://libguides.library.kent.edu/c.php?g=278016

Street Address

Mailing address, quick links.

• How Are We Doing?
• Student Jobs

Information

• Accessibility
• Emergency Information
• For Our Alumni
• For the Media
• Jobs & Employment
• Life at KSU
• Privacy Statement
• Technology Support
• Website Feedback

Change location

• Connecticut
• District of Columbia
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Puerto Rico
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia
• Contact Sales

Programs by Grade

Literacy suite.

• SCIENCE OF READING PROGRAMS
• Amplify CKLA (PreK–5)
• Boost Reading (K–5)
• mCLASS (K–6)
• mCLASS Intervention (K–6)
• Amplify Tutoring (K–6)
• SPANISH LITERACY PROGRAMS
• Amplify Caminos (K–5)
• Boost Lectura (K–2)
• mCLASS Lectura (K–6)
• MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAMS
• Amplify ELA (6–8)
• Boost Close Reading (6–8)

MATH & SCIENCE SUITE

• MATH PROGRAMS
• Amplify Desmos Math (K–A2)
• Desmos Math 6–A1
• mCLASS Math (K–3)
• MATH PLATFORM
• Desmos Classroom (6–A1)
• SCIENCE PROGRAM
• Amplify Science (PreK–8)

High-Quality Materials

• STIMULUS HUB
• 5 Fundamentals
• Amplify on EdReports
• Science of Reading podcast
• Science of Reading resource Site
• Dyslexia and the Science of Reading
• Teacher-administered assessment
• Principles of Middle School ELA
• Math Teacher Lounge podcast
• Desmos Classroom
• Future of Math
• Social, problem-based math
• 5 Practices research findings
• Science Connections podcast
• Phenomena-based learning
• Literacy-rich instruction
• Science blog
• Science success stories
• RESEARCH HUB
• Amplify CKLA & Amplify Caminos
• Amplify ELA
• Amplify Science
• Boost Reading & Boost Lectura
• mCLASS & mCLASS Lectura

Blog and webinar library

• Literacy blog
• Webinar library
• Literacy webinar library
• Math webinar library
• Science webinar library

Media & events

• Podcast hub
• PRESS RELEASES
• Media highlights
• Upcoming events
• Ordering and payment
• Amplify science - Randome search result

The importance of vocabulary in effective literacy instruction

When it comes to learning to read, vocabulary is a very important word. Let’s find out exactly what it means and how to help students build their own.

When you learn to read, you don’t learn just to pronounce words—you learn to understand them, and how they work together to convey meaning. In fact, it almost goes without saying that vocabulary is an essential, non-negotiable building block of literacy. 

But there’s actually a lot to say about vocabulary. And in the context of literacy instruction, it’s about much more than memorizing and amassing words and definitions. 

If there’s one word we need to better understand to explore the importance of vocabulary, it’s… vocabulary . So let’s explore the word’s full definition, as well as how it fits into best practices in literacy instruction.

Why is teaching vocabulary important? 

Vocabulary is one of the five foundational skills in reading and a key strand in the Reading Rope . As a word, it refers to the collection of words that we understand and use in language. 

Vocabulary includes both the words we recognize and comprehend when reading or listening (receptive vocabulary) and the words we can use accurately and effectively when speaking or writing (expressive vocabulary) . 

But our vocabulary isn’t just a list of words and their definitions. “Words are interrelated,” says Nancy Hennessey, former president of the International Dyslexia Association, on Science of Reading: The Podcast . “We’re storing words in networks of meaning.”

Entwined in those networks is background knowledge. We can memorize words in a vacuum, but they’re not really part of our vocabulary until and unless they’re grounded in what we know.

“Background knowledge and vocabulary are the main support beams in the comprehension house,” says Hennessey. 

How to teach vocabulary as students grow

First, it’s important to note that tactics and emphasis can and should shift as readers develop skills. As Hennessey notes, we can measure vocabulary in terms of both breadth and depth. These elements play distinct yet complementary roles in literacy development.

Vocabulary breadth refers to the sheer number of words a reader knows and recognizes. A broad vocabulary enables readers to understand a wide range of texts and communicate effectively in various contexts.

In the early stages of reading development, educators might emphasize increasing vocabulary breadth—exposing readers to diverse texts, books, conversations, and experiences. In this way, new readers start building a foundation of familiar words that they can understand and use.

As students learn more, instruction can shift from breadth to depth . Here’s where educators dig into the intricacies of word meanings—exploring synonyms, antonyms, contexts, and connotations. A deep vocabulary allows readers to grasp subtle nuances in language and engage in more sophisticated forms of expression and comprehension.

Vocabulary activities and instruction

Hennessey has developed a four-pronged approach to vocabulary instruction, grounded in the Science of Reading . The four prongs are:

• Intentional instruction : explicitly teaching the meaning of specific words.
• “Incidental-on-purpose” instruction : helping students understand new words as they come up.
• Intentional teaching of independent word learning strategies : giving students tools to help them determine the meaning of words on their own (e.g., using morphology, context clues, or even glossaries).
• Development of “word consciousness” : getting students interested in how words work to convey meaning, uses of figurative language, etc. 

“These approaches are based on the fact that we know we need to explicitly teach words,” Hennessey says, “but we also need to continue developing vocabulary through oral experience and reading, because we can’t teach all the words that our students need to know.”

In the context of literacy development, vocabulary instruction is not rote memorization of lists of words. And, according to Hennessey, that’s not the way kids relate to it either. Students bring natural interest and curiosity to exploring figurative language, playing with palindromes, and finding and learning what she calls “$20 words.” 

When we integrate these activities into incidental or incidental-on-purpose instruction, Hennessey says, “we can embed this excitement and understanding of how words play such an important role in our lives.”

More to explore 

• Deconstructing the Rope: Vocabulary with Nancy Hennessy
• The Reading Rope: Breaking it all down
• Science of Reading: Your guide to making the shift

Download our Reading Rope placemat

Related resources.

Science of Reading: The Podcast

Science of Reading: The Podcast delivers the latest insights from researchers and practitioners in early reading.

The importance of decoding in effective phoni...

Phonics is one of the five foundational reading skills, and it’s closely connected to decoding. Find out how the two work together to build skilled, confident r...

The #1 foundational skill for the Science of...

There are five foundational skills that open up the infinite possibilities of reading. In this post, learn more about phonemic and phonological awareness.

Sed posuere consectetur est at lobortis. Aenean eu leo quam. Pellentesque ornare sem lacinia quam venenatis vestibulum.

Teaching creative writing in primary schools: a systematic review of the literature through the lens of reflexivity

• Open access
• Published: 17 June 2023

Cite this article

You have full access to this open access article

• Georgina Barton   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0003-2703-238X 1 ,
• Maryam Khosronejad 2 ,
• Mary Ryan 2 ,
• Lisa Kervin 3 &
• Debra Myhill 4  

5744 Accesses

2 Citations

Explore all metrics

Teaching writing is complex and research related to approaches that support students’ understanding and outcomes in written assessment is prolific. Written aspects including text structure, purpose, and language conventions appear to be explicit elements teachers know how to teach. However, more qualitative and nuanced elements of writing such as authorial voice and creativity have received less attention. We conducted a systematic literature review on creativity and creative aspects of writing in primary classrooms by exploring research between 2011 and 2020. The review yielded 172 articles with 25 satisfying established criteria. Using Archer’s critical realist theory of reflexivity we report on personal, structural, and cultural emergent properties that surround the practice of creative writing. Implications and recommendations for improved practice are shared for school leaders, teachers, preservice teachers, students, and policy makers.

Similar content being viewed by others

ChatGPT in higher education - a synthesis of the literature and a future research agenda

A systematic narrative synthesis review of the effectiveness of genre theory and systemic functional linguistics for improving reading and writing outcomes within K-10 education

How should we change teaching and assessment in response to increasingly powerful generative Artificial Intelligence? Outcomes of the ChatGPT teacher survey

Avoid common mistakes on your manuscript.

Introduction

Creative writing in schools is an important part of learning, assessment, and reporting, however, there is evidence globally to suggest that such writing is often stifled in preference to quick on-demand writing, usually featured in high-stakes testing (Au & Gourd, 2013 ; Gibson & Ewing, 2020 ). Research points to this negatively impacting particularly on students from diverse backgrounds (Mahmood et al., 2020 ). When teachers teach on-demand writing typical pedagogical traits are revealed, those that are often referred to as formulaic (Ryan & Barton, 2014 ). When thinking about creative writing, however, Wyse et al. ( 2013 ) noted that it involves the absence of structure and teaching creative writing requires an ‘open’ pedagogical approach for students to be given imaginative choice. By this, they mean that teachers need to consider less formulaic ways to teach writing so that students can experience different opportunities and ways to write creatively. They argued that if students are not given the flexibility to experiment through writing then their creativity might be stifled. Similarly, Barbot et al. ( 2012 ), who carried out a study with a panel of 15 experts of creative writing, posited that creative writing is when students draw on their imagination and other creative processes to create fictional narratives or writing that is ‘unusually original’. They also noted that creative writing is important for the development of students’ critical and creative thinking skills and ways in which they can approach life in creative ways.

Creative writing is defined in various ways in literature. Wang ( 2019 ) defined creative writing as a form of original expression involving an author’s imagination to engage a reader. Other definitions of creative writing involve the notion of children’s imagination, choice, and originality and much research has explored the concept of creativity within and through the writing process.

While creative writing is defined in various ways, and the many ways that it is treated in literacy education, this article is not concerned with the nature of the term per se. Rather, it focusses on research about creative writing and creativity in writing to understand how research unpacks the personal and contextual characteristics that surround creative writing practices. To this aim, we adopt a broad definition of creative writing as a form of original writing involving an author’s imagination and self-expression to engage a reader (Wang, 2019 ). Creative writing is important for children’s development (Grainger et al., 2005 ), allowing them to use their imagination and broaden their ability to problem-solve and think deeply. Creativity in writing refers to specific aspects within a writing product that can be deemed creative. Some examples include the use of senses and how a writer might engage a reader (Deutsch, 2014 ; Smith, 2020 ).

International research on teaching writing has indicated a loss in innovative or creative pedagogical practices due to the pressure on teachers to teach prescribed writing skills that are assessed in high-stakes tests (Göçen, 2019 ; Stock & Molloy, 2020 ), often resulting in specific trends including teaching a genre approach to writing (Polesel et al., 2012 ; Ryan & Barton, 2014 ). A comprehensive meta-analysis by Graham et al ( 2012 ), designed to identify writing practices with evidence of effectiveness in primary classrooms, found that explicitly teaching imagery and creativity was an effective teaching practice in writing. In addition, a review of methods related to teaching writing conducted by Slavin et al. ( 2019 ) included studies that statistically reported causal relationships between teacher practice and student outcomes. Common themes in Slavin et al’s ( 2019 ) quest for improving writing included comprehensive teacher professional development, student engagement and enjoyment, and explicit teaching of grammar, punctuation, and usage. While they did not specifically cite creativity, motivating environments and cooperative learning were important characteristics of writing programs.

This systematic literature review aims to share empirical international research in the context of elementary/primary schools by exploring creativity in writing and the conditions that influence its emergence. It specifically aims to answer the question: What influences the teaching of creative writing in primary education? And how can reflexivity theorise these influences? The review shares scholarly work that attempts to define personal aspects of creative writing including imagination, and creative thinking; discusses creative approaches to teaching writing, and shows how these methods might support students’ creative writing or creative aspects of writing.

Writing is a complex process that involves students making decisions about word choice, sentence, and text structure, and ways in which to engage readers. Such decisions require a certain amount of reflection or at times deeper reflexive judgments by both teachers and students. Consequently, we draw on Archer’s ( 2012 ) critical realist theory of reflexivity to guide our review as research shows that reflexive thinking in practice can improve writing outcomes (Ryan et al., 2021 ). Archer ( 2007 ) highlights how reflexivity is an everyday activity involving mental processes whereby we think about ourselves in relation to our immediate personal, social, and cultural contexts. She suggests we make decisions through negotiating the connected emergences of personal properties (PEPs) related to the individual, structural properties (SEPs) related to the contextual happenings and cultural properties (CEPs) related to ideologies, each of which is influenced by the other developments. These decisions influence, and are influenced by, our subsequent actions. In applying reflexivity theory to writing (see Ryan, 2014 ), we cannot simply focus on the writing product, but should also interrogate the process of writing, that is, the influences on decision-making and design which are enabled or constrained through pedagogical practices in the classroom. Writing practices and outputs are formed through the interplay of personal, structural, and cultural conditions. Student decisions and actions about writing ensue through the mediation of personal (e.g. beliefs, motivations, interests, experiences), structural (e.g. curriculum, programs, testing regimes, teaching strategies, resources), and cultural (e.g. norms, expectations, ideologies, values) conditions. Therefore, teachers play an important role in facilitating the interplay of these conditions for their students and recontextualising curricula and policy (Ryan et al., 2021 ). For example, by enabling students’ agency and creating an authentic purpose for writing, teachers can balance the personal conditions of students (such as their motivation and interest) against the structural effects of the curriculum requirements. Using a reflexive approach to investigating the literature on creative writing we aim to reveal the personal, structural, and cultural conditions surrounding the study and the practice of creative writing. We argue that it is through the understanding of these conditions that we can theorise how a. students might make their writing more creative and b. how teachers might establish classroom conditions conducive to creativity.

The approach taken for this paper was guided by the PRISMA method (Moher et al., 2009 ) for conducting systematic literature reviews (see Table 1 ).

Our electronic search involved several databases: researchers’ library online catalogue, EBSCO host ultimate, ProQuest, Eric, Web of Science, Informit, and ScienceDirect. Using the following search terms: creativ* AND (‘teaching methods’ OR pedagog*) AND writing AND (elementary OR primary) to search titles and abstracts as well as limiting the search to peer-reviewed articles written in English within a 10-year timeframe (2011–2020), we initially retrieved 172 articles. Information about all 172 articles was input into a data spreadsheet including author, article title, journal title, volume and issue number, and abstract. Once completed, these articles were divided into two equal groups and two researchers were assigned to review the articles for relevancy against the following inclusion criteria:

Studies were peer-reviewed empirical research published in English;

Participants were primary students and/or teachers;

Students were not specifically English as a Second or Additional Language/Dialect learners (samples of culturally and linguistically diverse students in primary classrooms were included);

Studies were not carried out in curriculum areas other than English; and

Studies did not have a specific focus on digital technologies in the classroom.

For this systematic review, we were interested in the ways in which teachers thought about, understood, and taught the ‘creative’ aspect of writing.

The 25 studies that met the inclusion criteria were synthesised to review what influences the improvement of creative writing in primary education. We analysed the papers for how creative writing and/or creative aspects in writing were viewed as well as how teachers might best support students to develop reflexive capacities to improve the creative aspects of writing. We also identified any personal, structural, and/or cultural emergences that might impact on the effectiveness of students’ creative writing. Two of the authors read the entire articles and identified four main categories of research which were (1) understanding creative writing; (2) creative thinking and its contribution to writing; (3) creative pedagogy; and (4) what students can do to be more creative in their writing. These were cross-checked by the entire research team. Some of the papers fit more than one of these themes. In the next section, each theme is introduced and defined and then the articles that fall within the theme are reviewed.

Overall a total number of 25 articles had overlapping themes that included various personal and contextual aspects. Figure  1 shows what we have identified as the key themes under each category. In the next sections, we represent papers based on their main theme.

The personal, structural, and cultural conditions surrounding creative writing

Personal emergent properties

A total number of 13 articles were about what students can do to be more creative in their writing (Mendelowitz, 2014 ; Steele, 2016 ) and how teachers’ and students’ personal characteristics relate to the development of creative writing. These articles were mainly focussed on the personal emergent aspects of writing (Alhusaini & Maker, 2015 ; Barbot et al., 2012 ; Cremin et al., 2020 ; DeFauw, 2018 ; Dobson, 2015 ; Dobson & Stephenson, 2017 , 2020 ; Edwards-Groves, 2011 ; Healey, 2019 ; Lee & Enciso, 2017 ; Macken-Horarik, 2012 ; Ryan, 2014 ). The personal aspects identified in our review were (1) personal views about creative writing, (2) creative thinking, (3) writer identity, (4) learner motivation and engagement, and (5) knowledge and capabilities.

Personal views about creative writing

From our systematic review, we identified three articles exploring views about what creative writing is, and more specifically the role that it plays and the elements that make creative writing, in primary classrooms. One of these studies was focussed on the views and experiences of experts in writing (Barbot et al., 2012 ), whereas the other two investigated students’ perspectives and experiences (Alhusaini & Maker, 2015 ; Healey, 2019 ). Barbot et al’s ( 2012 ) work, for example, recognised that creative writing involves both cognitive and metacognitive abilities. This was determined by the expert panel of people whose work related to writing including teachers, linguists, psychologists, professional writers, and art educators. The panel were asked to complete an online survey that rated the relative importance of 28 identified skills needed to creatively write. Six broad categories were identified as a result of the responses and the rank given to each factor by the expert groups (See Table 2 ). They acknowledged that these features cross over various age groups from children to professional writers.

Findings suggested that each independent rater weighted different key components of creative writing as being more or less important for children. Overall, the findings showed.

a global ‘consensus’ across the expert groups indicated that creative writing skills are primarily supported by factors such as observation, generation of description, imagination, intrinsic motivation and perseverance, while the contributions of all of the other relevant factors seemed negligible (e.g. intelligence, working memory, extrinsic motivation and penmanship). (p. 218)

One factor that was ranked as critical by most respondents, but underemphasised by teachers, was imagination. Teachers’ work in classrooms around creative writing is complex due to the difficulty in defining imagination (Brill, 2004 ). Teachers also under-rated other aspects related to creative cognition.

Another study that explored students’ creativity in writing was conducted by Alhusaini and Maker ( 2015 ) in the south-west of the United States. Participants included 139 students with mixed ethnicities including White, Mexican American, and Navajo. This study involved six elementary/primary school teachers judging students’ writing samples of open-ended stories. To assess the work a Written Linguistic Assessment tool, which was based on the Consensual Assessment Technique [CAT] (Amabile, 1982 ) was implemented. According to Baer and McKool ( 2009 ), The CAT involves experts rating written artefacts or artistic objects by using their ‘sense of what is creative in the domain in question to rate the creativity of the products in relation to one another’ (p. 4). Interestingly, Alhusaini and Maker ( 2015 ) found the CAT to be effective in relation to interrater reliability. The authors do not share what the Judge’s Guidelines to Assess Students’ Stories entail. They mention the difference between technical quality and creativity and note that assessors were able to distinguish the differences between the two, but the reader is not made aware of the aspects of each quality. Overall, the study revealed that one of the most challenging problems in the field of creativity and writing is trying to measure creativity across cultures by using standardised tests. Such studies could have implications for other students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds as teachers become more aware of cultural nuances in constituting ‘creative’ in creative writing.

The final study we identified in this category was by Healey ( 2019 ). Healey employed an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) and explored how eight children (11–12 Years of age) experienced creative writing in the classroom. He shared how children’s writing experiences were based on ‘the affect, embodiment, and materiality of their immediate engagement with activities in the classroom’ (p. 184). Results from student interviews showed three themes related to the experience of writing: the writing world (watching, ideas from elsewhere, flowing); the self (concealing and revealing, agency, adequacy); and schooled writing (standards, satisfying task requirements, rules of good writing). The author stated that children’s consciousness shifts between their imagination (The Writing World) and set assessment tasks (Schooled Writing). Both of these worlds affect the way children experience themselves as writers. Further findings from this work argued that originality of ideas and use of richer vocabulary improved students’ creative writing. Vocabulary improvement included diversity of word meanings, appropriate usage of words, words being in line with the purpose of the text; while originality of ideas featured creative and unusual (original) ideas—which in many ways is difficult to define.

Overall, when concerned with personal views and attitudes in creative writing, the two studies by Healey ( 2019 ) and Barbot et al. ( 2012 ) show contrasting findings about ‘imagination’ captured through the view of students and teachers, respectively. While Healey’s ( 2019 ) study suggests that children shift between their imagination and set assessment tasks in creative writing, Barbot et al. ( 2012 ) highlight the lack of attention to imagination among their participated teachers. Although these results cannot be generalised, they highlight the significance of understanding personal emergent properties that both students and teachers bring to the classroom and the way that they interact to affect the experience of creative writing for learners. From this theme, we suggest the importance of educators acknowledging students’ imagination through their definition of creative writing as well as providing quality time for students to choose what they write through imaginative thought. We now turn to creative thinking and related pedagogical approaches to teaching creative writing from the research literature.

Creative thinking

We identified two articles that were focussed on creative thinking and its contribution to writing (Copping, 2018 ; Cress & Holm, 2016 ). Copping ( 2018 ) explored writing pedagogy and the connections between children’s creative thinking, or a ‘new way of looking at something’ (p. 309), and their writing achievement. The study involved two primary schools in Lancashire, one in an affluent area and one in an underprivileged area. Approximately 28 children from each school were involved in two, 2-day writing workshops based on a murder mystery the children had to solve. Findings from this study revealed that to improve students’ writing achievement (1) a thinking environment needs to be created and maintained, (2) production processes should have value, (3) motivation and achievement increase when there is a tangible purpose, and (4) high expectations lead to higher attainment.

Cress and Holm’s ( 2016 ) study described a curricular approach implemented by a first-grade teacher and their class comprised 13 girls and 11 boys. The project known as the Creative Endeavours project aimed to develop creative thinking by (1) creating an environment of respect with a positive classroom climate. (2) offering new and challenging experiences, and (3) encouraging new ideas rather than praise. The authors argued that through peer collaboration and the flexibility to choose their own projects, children can become more authentically engaged in the writing process. The children wrote about their experiences and their choices, and reflected upon the projects undertaken. In this study, it was revealed that the children showed diversity in their writing assignments including presentation through sewing, photography, and drama. While there were only two papers in this particular theme, their findings are supported by systematic reviews (Graham et al., 2012 ; Slavin et al., 2019 ) that emphasise not only new ways of exploring a range of concepts for learning but also the creation of motivating environments for improving writing (Copping, 2018 ). In addition to the significance of positive and encouraging learning environments, these two studies suggest that setting ‘high expectations’ or ‘challenging experiences’ are conducive to creative thinking however, teachers would need to set appropriate, reflexive conditions for this to occur.

Writer identity

Studies in this category revolve around choice and learner writer identity. The study carried out by Dobson and Stephenson ( 2017 ) focussed on developing a community of writers involving 25 primary school pupils from low socio-economic backgrounds. The project was offered over 2 weeks and featured a number of creative writing workshops. The authors applied the theoretical frameworks of practitioner enquiry and discourse analysis to explore the children’s creative writing outputs. They argued that the workshops, which promoted intertextuality and freedom for the children as writers, enabled a shifting of their ‘writer’ identities (Holland et al., 1998). Dobson and Stephenson ( 2017 ) showed that allowing students to make decisions and choices in regard to authentic writing purposes supported a more flexible approach. They recommend stronger partnerships between schools and universities in relation to research on creative writing, however, it would be important for these relationships to be sustainable.

The second paper on this theme is by Ryan ( 2014 ) who noted that writing is a complex activity that requires appropriate thinking in relation to the purpose, audience, and medium of a variety of texts. Writers always make decisions about how they will present subject matter and/or feelings through all of the modes. Ryan ( 2014 ) suggested that writing is like a performance ‘whereby writers shape and represent their identities as they mediate social structures and personal considerations’ (p. 130). The study analysed writing samples of culturally and linguistically diverse Australian primary students to uncover the types of identities students shared. It found that three different types of writers existed—the school writers who followed teacher instructions or formulas to produce a product; the constrained writers who also followed instructions and formulas but were able to add in some authorical voice; and the reflexive writers who could show a definite command of writing and showed creative potential. Ryan ( 2014 ) argued that teachers’ practices in the classroom directly influence the ways in which students express these identities. She stated that when students are provided choices in writing, they are more able to shape and develop their voices. Such choices would need to include quality time and support to be reflexive in the decisions being made by the students.

The Teachers as Writers project (2015–2017) was conducted by Cremin, Myhill, Eyres, Nash, Wilson, and Oliver. In a recent paper ( 2020 ), the team reported on a collaborative partnership between two universities and a creative writing foundation. Professional writers were invited to engage with teachers in the writing process and the impact of these interactions on classroom teaching practices was determined. Data sets included observations, interviews, audio-capture (of workshops, tutorials and co-mentoring reflections), and audio-diaries from 16 teachers; and a randomised controlled trial (RCT) involving 32 primary and secondary classes. An intervention was carried out involving teachers writing in a week long residence with professional writers, one-on-one tutorials, and extra time and space to write. They also continued learning through two Continuing Professional Development (CPD) days. Results showed that teachers’ identities as writers shifted greatly due to their engagement with professional authors. The students responded positively in terms of their motivation, confidence, sense of ownership, and skills as writers. The professional authors also commented on positive impacts including their own contributions to schools. Conversely, these changes in practice did not improve the students’ final assessment results in any significant way. The authors noted that assuming a causal relationship between teachers’ engagement with writing workshops and students’ writing outcomes was spurious. They, therefore, developed further research building on this learning.

Knowledge and capabilities

The role of knowledge and capability is central to the articles in this category. In Australia, Macken-Horarik ( 2012 ) reported on the introduction of a national curriculum for English. This article drew on Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) by investigating the potential of Halliday’s notion of grammatics for understanding students’ writing as acts of creative meaning in context. Macken-Horarik ( 2012 ) argued that students needed to know deeply about language so that they could make creative decisions with their writing. She outlined that a ‘good enough’ grammatics would assist teachers in becoming comfortable with ‘playful developments in students’ texts and to foster their control of literate discourse’ (p. 179).

A project carried out by Edwards-Groves in 2011 highlights the role of knowledge about digital technologies in writing practices. 17 teachers in primary classrooms in Australia were asked to use particular digital technologies with their students when constructing classroom texts. Findings showed that an extended perspective on what counts as writing including the writing process was needed. Results revealed that collaborative methods when constructing diverse texts required teachers to rethink pedagogies towards writing instruction and what they consider as writing. It was argued that technology can be used to enhance creative possibilities for students in the form of new and dynamic texts. In particular, it was noted that teachers and students should be aware that digital technologies can both constrain and/or enable text creation in the classroom depending on a number of variables including knowledge and understanding, locating resources and logistical issues such as connectivity and reliability.

In addition, Mendelowitz’s ( 2014 ) study argued that nurturing teachers’ own creativity assisted their ability to teach writing more generally. She noted several ‘interrelated variables and relationships that still need to be given attention in order to gain a more holistic understanding of the challenges of teaching creative writing’ (p. 164). According to Mendelowitz ( 2014 ), elements that impacted on these challenges include teachers’ school writing histories, conceptualisations of imagination, classroom discourses, and pedagogy. Documenting teachers’ work through interviews and classroom observations by the researcher, the study found that teachers need to be able to define imagination and imaginative writing and know what strategies work best with their students. She noted that the teacher’s approaches to teaching writing ‘powerfully shaped by the interactions between their conceptualisations and enactments of imaginative writing pedagogy’ (p. 181) and that these may either limit or create a space for students to be more creative with their writing.

Such Personal Emergent Properties show that individual attributes of both teachers and students are important in learning creative writing. The next section of the paper explores the articles that shared various structural and cultural properties.

Structural emergent properties

In the subset of structural emergent properties, we mainly identified pedagogical approaches for creative writing that explored primary school learning and teaching (Christianakis, 2011a ; Christianakis, 2011b ; Coles, 2017 ; DeFauw, 2018 ; Hall & Grisham-Brown, 2011 ; Portier et al., 2019 ; Rumney et al., 2016 ; Sears, 2012 ; Steele, 2016 ; Southern et al., 2020 ; Yoo & Carter, 2017 ). These pedagogical approaches were aimed at addressing issues related to personal emergent properties such as motivation and engagement, and confidence in writing. The two categories of writing pedagogies were those that engaged professional authors and artists in teaching about creative writing, and the approaches that involved play(ful) activities, and use of visual arts, and drama.

Engaging professional authors and artists

Interestingly, many of the studies used literary forms and/or professional creative authors to spike interest and motivation in the students. Coles’ ( 2017 ) study, for example, used a garden-themed poetry writing project to support 9–10-year-old children’s creative writing in a London primary school. The 5-week project partnered with a professional creative writing organisation that facilitated the Ministry for Stories (MoS) writing centres across the USA. The study found that the social relationships created through this partnership allowed for a more inclusive and socially generative model of creativity. This meant that teachers should not just include creative aspects in assessment rubrics but rather recognise that creativity is encouraged through imagination and working with others. The researchers found improvements in the children’s participation in classroom writing activities as well as diversity in the ways they expressed their writing. The approach valued ‘rich means of expression rather than a set of rules to be learnt’ (p. 396). They also acknowledged issues associated with school–community partnerships including the sustainability of the practice.

Similarly, Rumney et al. ( 2016 ) found that using creative multimodal activities increased students’ confidence and motivation for writing. The study implemented the Write Here project with over 900 children in 12 primary and secondary schools. The study involved the children visiting local art galleries to work with professional authors and artists. Case studies were presented about pre-writing activities, the actual gallery work and post-gallery follow-up sessions. It aimed to improve students’ social development and literacy outcomes through diverse learning activities such as visual art and play in different contexts such as art galleries and classrooms. Like Coles’ ( 2017 ) study, this project showed that creative activities (e.g. talking about and acting out pictures; using story maps; backwards writing and planning) engaged students more than just teaching skills.

In addition, DeFauw’s ( 2018 ) study had student-centred learning and leadership at the core when working with a children’s book author for one year. The collaboration involved three face-to-face sessions with the author as well as online communication through blog posts. Data included recorded interactions, readings and pre and post interviews with teachers ( n  = 9), students ( n  = 36), and the author. The partnership showed that students’ interest was activated and sustained due to the situational context as well as the extended time given to students to interact with the author. The project improved students’ interest in and motivation to write as a result of engaging with authors and hearing about their own experience and writing strategies. It also found that teachers gained more confidence to support students’ exploration of writing in more creative ways. The creative pedagogies were also used in addressing issues related to creative writing outcomes for students, including teachers’ lack of confidence about pedagogies (Southern et al., 2020 ). Through a creative social enterprise approach, the authors facilitated professional development and learning involving artist-led activities for students. The program called Zip Zap had been implemented in schools in Wales and England, and data were collected through focus groups with teachers, students, and parents/carers. Observations of some of the professional development workshops were also video recorded. Third space theory was used to describe the collaborative practice between educators and artists that supported students’ creative writing outcomes. It was noteworthy that involving ‘creative’ practitioners largely focussed on the specific strategies that could be used in classrooms, to which our next section now turns.

Play(ful) activities, visual arts, and drama

Much research explores how to best support students who find writing difficult. Sears’ research ( 2012 ) is a case in point. The author shared how visual arts may be an effective way to improve struggling students with writing. They argued that the visual arts can provide ways of ‘accessing and expressing [student] ideas and ultimately opening a world of creative possibilities’ (p. 17). In the study, six third-grade students engaged with drawing and painting as pre-writing strategies, leading to the creation of poems based on the artworks. The students’ final poems were assessed and showed improved knowledge of all 6 technical categories in writing: ideas, organisation, fluency, voice, word choice, and conventions. The author also argued that students’ motivation to write increased as a result of the visual art activities.

A study by Portier et al. ( 2019 ) investigated approaches to teaching writing that were motiving and engaging for students. Involving 10 northern rural communities in Canada, the project implemented collaborative, play(ful) learning activities alongside sixteen teachers and their students. Interestingly, the study, like many others in our review, found a disconnect ‘between the achievement of curricular objectives and the implementation of play(ful) learning activities’ (p. 20); an approach valued in early childhood education. The students were supported through action research projects in creating texts with different purposes. Students’ motivation as well as samples of work were analysed and showed that student interest areas and collaborative approaches benefited both teachers and students. Further research on how reflexive thinking might have influenced these benefits is recommended.

Similarly, Lee and Enciso ( 2017 ) highlighted the importance of motivation and engagement in their study. In a collaboration with Austin Theatre Alliance, Lee and Enciso ( 2017 ) investigated how dramatic approaches to teaching, such as through expanded imagination and improvisation, can improve students’ story writing. They argued that the students’ motivation to write was also increased. The study was carried out through a controlled quasi-experimental study over 8 weeks of story-writing and drama-based programs. 29 third-grade classrooms in various schools, located in an urban district of Texas, were involved. The study also pre- and post-tested the students’ writing self-efficacy through story building. The study found that students were more able to use their cultural knowledge such as ‘culturally formed repertoires of language and experience to explore and express new understandings of the world and themselves…’ (p. 160) for creative writing purposes but needed more quality resources to support opportunities such as the Literacy for Life program. A most important finding was that for children who experience poverty, drama-based activities developed and led by teaching artists were extremely powerful and allowed the students to express themselves in entertaining ways. We do note that ‘entertainment’ and or engagement might mean different things for different students so reflexive approaches to deciding what these are would be necessary.

Steele’s ( 2016 ) study also looked at supporting teachers’ work in the classroom. Involving 6 out of 20 teacher workshop participants in Hawaii, this exploratory case study utilised observations, interview, and portfolio analyses of teacher and student work. Findings from the study showed that some teachers relished moving away from everyday ‘typical’ practice and increased student voice and choice. Other teachers, however, found it difficult to take risks and hence respond to student needs and ideas.

Dobson and Stephenson’s ( 2020 ) study focussed on the professional development of primary school teachers using drama to develop creative writing across the curriculum. The project was sponsored by the United Kingdom Literacy Association and ran for two terms in a school year. Researchers based the research on a collaborative approach involving academics and four teachers working with theatre educators to use process drama. Data sets included lesson observations, notes taken during learning conversations, and interviews with the teachers. The findings showed that three of the four teachers resisted some of the methods used such as performance; resulting in a lack of child-centred learning. The remaining teacher could take on board innovative practice, which the researchers attributed to his disposition. The study argued that these teachers, while a small participant group, needed more support in feeling confident in implementing new and creative approaches to teaching writing.

The final study, identified as addressing creative pedagogies for creative writing, was carried out by Yoo and Carter ( 2017 ) as professional development for teachers. Data included teacher survey responses and field notes taken by the researchers at each workshop (note: number of workshops and participants is unknown). The program aimed to investigate how emotions play a role in teachers’ work when teaching creative writing. The researchers found that intuitive joint construction of meaning was important to meet the needs of both primary and secondary teachers. A community of practice was established to support teachers’ identities as writers (see also Cremin et al., 2020 ). Findings showed that teachers who already identified as writers engaged more positively in the workshop.

These studies presented some approaches for teachers to consider how to teach creative writing. For example, the need to value unique spaces for students to write, including authentic connections with people and places outside of school environments was shared. Further, the need for quality stimuli and time for writing was acknowledged. Several other studies identified that blended teaching approaches to support student learning outcomes in the area of creative writing is important for schools and teachers to consider. We do acknowledge there may be other methods available to support students in creative writing, however, understanding what types of SEPs are impacting on teaching creative writing is an important step in determining improvements in schools.

Cultural emergent properties

Christianakis ( 2011a , 2011b ) wrote two papers about children’s creative text development with an emphasis on the cultural aspects. The first was an ethnographic study across 8 months with a year five class in East San Francisco Bay. The study included audio recording the students’ conversations and analysing over 900 samples of work. In the classroom, students were involved in a range of meaning-making practices including those that were arts-based and multimodal. The conversations with the students involved the researcher asking questions such: tell me more about this drawing, how did you come up with the idea? or why did you make this choice? The study found that there was a need for schools to reconceptualise the teaching of writing ‘to include not only orthographic symbols, but also the wide array of communicative tools that children bring to writing’ (p. 22). The author argued that unless corresponding institutional practices and ideologies were interrogated then improved practice was unlikely.

Christianakis’ ( 2011b ) second article, from the same project, explored more specifically the creation of hybrid rap poems by the children. She explicated how educators needed to negotiate and challenge dominant practices in primary classroom literacy learning. Like many studies before, a strong recommendation was to be more inclusive of youth popular cultures and culturally relevant literacies for students to be more engaged in creative writing practices. For Christianakis, culturally relevant literacies meant practices that embraced diversity in class and race and accounted for, and challenged, the dominant hegemonic curriculum that ‘privileges a traditional canon’ (p. 1140).

In summary, we found several themes under PEPs that could be considered for further research including those outlined in Table 3 below.

Discussion and implications for classroom practice

From this systematic literature review, several positions were exposed about the personal, structural, and cultural influences (Archer, 2012 ; Ryan, 2014 ) on teaching creative writing. These include limited teacher and student knowledge of what constitutes creative writing (Personal Emergent Properties [PEPs]), and no shared understanding or expectation in relation to creative writing pedagogy in their context (Cultural Emergent Properties [CEPs]). The negative impact of standardised testing and trending approaches on how teachers teach writing (CEP; Structural Emergent Properties [SEPs]) could also be considered (see AUTHORS 1 and 3, 2014 for example). In addition, teachers’ poor self-efficacy in terms of teaching creative writing (PEP); a paucity of quality professional development about teaching and assessing creative writing (SEP); and issues related to the sustainability of creative approaches to teach writing (SEP; CEP) need to be considered by leaders and teachers in schools. Our literature review advances knowledge about creative writing by revealing two interconnected areas that affect creative writing practices. Findings suggest that a parallel focus on personal conditions and contextual conditions—including structural and cultural—has the potential to improve creative writing in general. Below, we share some implications and recommendations for improved practice by focussing on both (1) personal views about creative writing and (2) the structural and cultural aspects that affect creative writing practices at schools.

Focussing on personal views about creative writing

School leaders and teachers must clearly define what creative writing is, what key skills constitute creative writing.

From our search it was apparent that schools and their educators often do not have a clear idea or indeed a shared idea as to what constitutes creative writing in relation to their own context. Without a well-defined focus for creative writing students may find it difficult to know what is required in classroom tasks and assessment. In addition, when planning for creative writing in school programs, teachers should consider flexible learning opportunities and choice for their students when developing their creative writing skills. Such flexibility should also involve choice of topic, ways of working (e.g. peer collaboration, individual activities etc.), and open discussions led by students in the classroom as shown throughout this paper. It would also be important for leaders and teachers to interrogate current approaches to teaching writing which we argued in the introduction to be formulaic and genre based.

Improve teacher self-efficacy, confidence, and content knowledge in teaching writing

Many of our studies showed that teachers who lacked confidence about writing themselves had less knowledge and skills to teach writing than those that may have participated in projects encouraging ‘teachers as writers’. Further, improved knowledge of grammar (as highlighted in Macken-Horarik’s, 2012 work); talk about writing in the classroom and other spaces (Cremin et al., 2020 ) and the writing process (see Ryan, 2014 ) could assist teachers in becoming more confident to take risks in the classroom with their students. Above all being playful about writing through extended conversations and practices is required.

Focussing on the structural and cultural resources

Improve training and further professional development and learning about teaching and assessing creative writing.

In order for the above personal attributes to be improved, further professional development and learning are required. Many of the papers presented throughout this review demonstrated the powerful impact of immersive professional learning for teachers. Working alongside professional authors, researchers, drama practitioners, visual artists, poets, for example, provided positive opportunities for teachers to learn about writing but also to feel more confident to teach it without imposing strict boundaries on students. We argue for professional development to be both formal and informal including such approaches as coaching and mentoring in the classroom. Demonstrated practice alongside the teacher is also recommended. This, in turn, would address the ongoing issue of creative writing being stifled for students in the classroom context.

Consider sustainability of creative pedagogic approaches and spaces for creative writing in curriculum planning

Many of the studies throughout this paper shared creative approaches to teaching writing but there were concerns that some of these methods may not be sustainable. It is important for school leaders to support the work of teachers in relation to teaching creative writing. We acknowledge that there is increasing uncertainty and scrutiny surrounding teachers’ everyday work (Knight, 2020 ), however, continued engagement in learning about and participating in creative pedagogy for writing is highly recommended. In addition, the studies suggested the provision of appropriate and authentic spaces in which students could creatively write and these often included spaces outside of the normal classroom environment and arts-based approaches implemented in such spaces. Teachers should be encouraged to collaborate and take risks rather than follow predetermined strategies for every lesson. A whole of school practice can be developed with important conversations about the ideologies that inform the school’s approach to writing.

Schools should not stifle creativity in the classroom due to the infiltration of standardised and/or trending approaches to teaching and assessing writing

It is evident that pedagogical approaches to teaching writing have been stifled by more formulaic methods aiming to meet expectations of standardised tests despite other evidence showing the benefits of more productive, engaging, and creative approaches to teaching writing as highlighted above. This can be particularly the case for students from non-dominant backgrounds where writing about cultural and life experiences through innovative practices has been proven to empower their voices (Johnson, 2021 ). The research shows that when students are offered rigid structures of texts, no choice of genres, and indeed word lists, their own decisions about writing are diminished (Ryan & Barton, 2013 ). It has been proven that students’ engagement and motivation to write can increase when they are able to write directly from their own experience or in social groups. It is therefore recommended that school leaders and teachers reconsider their ideologies about writing and explicitly indicate the importance of real-world purposes for writing—not just formulised, quick writing as usually included in external tests—but also those that encourage students’ growth in imagination, creativity, and innovative thought.

This systematic review used a lens of reflexivity to situate writing as a process of active and creative design whereby students make conscious decisions about their writing, with guidance from their teachers. As explained, we see creative writing as writing that engages a reader and, therefore, requires knowledge of authorial voice and appropriate word choice. This involves reflexive decisions relating to personal, structural, and cultural emergent properties. Predominant in the literature was the striking influence of CEPs or the values and expectations ascribed to writing, which in turn influence the strategies and resources (SEPs) and the experiences and motivations of students and teachers in the classroom (PEPs). Writing is about more than a series of perfectly formed sentences in a recognisable structure, which dominates conceptions of writing through high-stakes testing globally. It is about engagement with the expressive self, emergent identities, and relationships to places and people and above all communicating to and/or entertaining a reader. Without quality education in creative writing, society is at risk of losing an art form that is important for cultural practice and expression (Watson, 2016 ).

We do foresee several limitations with such a review, largely related to the positive nature of the studies in relation to creative approaches to teaching writing as well as the relatively small numbers of participants in some of the studies. Most of the studies reported favourably on the approaches taken by teachers to influence student motivation towards writing with limited comments about adverse effects. In terms of contributions, the notion that students need to draw on creative thought and ideas when writing means that teachers and leaders must think about diverse ways to teach writing. We argue, on the basis of the findings, that inquiry-based and reflexive professional learning projects about creativity are crucial for primary classrooms: what creativity means in different contexts and for different writers; how it is enabled; and the decisions and actions that emerge when creative and reflexive design guide our approach to classroom writing. Without quality knowledge and understanding of what creative writing is and how it is taught, we would be at risk of diminishing students’ self-expression and ability to communicate meaning to others in literary forms.

Alhusaini, A. A., & Maker, C. J. (2015). Creativity in students’ writing of open-ended stories across ethnic, gender, and grade groups: An extension study from third to fifth grades. Gifted and Talented International, 30 (1–2), 25–38.

Article   Google Scholar  

Amabile, T. M. (1982). Children's artistic creativity: Detrimental effects of competition in a field setting. Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin , 8 (3), 573–578.

Archer, M. (2007). Making our way through the world: Human reflexivity and social mobility . Cambridge University Press.

Book   Google Scholar  

Archer, M. (2012). The reflexive imperative in late modernity . Cambridge University Press.

Au, W., & Gourd, K. (2013). Asinine assessment: Why high-stakes testing is bad for everyone, including English teachers.  English Journal , 14–19.

Baer, J., & McKool, S. (2009). Assessing creativity using the consensual assessment technique . IGI Global.

Barbot, B., Tan, M., Randi, J., Santa-Donato, G., & Grigorenko, E. L. (2012). Essential skills for creative writing: Integrating multiple domain-specific perspectives. Thinking Skills and Creativity, 7 (3), 209–223.

Brill, F. (2004). Thinking outside the box: Imagination and empathy beyond story writing. Literacy, 38 (2), 83–89.

Christianakis, M. (2011a). Children’s text development: Drawing, pictures, and writing. Research in the Teaching of English, 46 (1), 22–54.

Google Scholar  

Christianakis, M. (2011b). Hybrid texts: Fifth graders, rap music, and writing. Urban Education, 46 (5), 1131–1168.

Coles, J. (2017). Planting poetry: Sowing seeds of creativity in a year 5 class changing english. Studies in Culture and Education, 24 (4), 386–398.

Copping, A. (2018). Exploring connections between creative thinking and higher attaining writing. Education, 46 (3), 307–316.

Cremin, T., Myhill, D., Eyres, I., Nash, T., Wilson, A., & Oliver, L. (2020). Teachers as writers: Learning together with others. Literacy, 54 (2), 49–59.

Cress, S. W., & Holm, D. T. (2016). Creative endeavors: Inspiring creativity in a first-grade classroom. Early Childhood Education Journal, 44 (3), 235–243.

DeFauw, D. L. (2018). One school’s yearlong collaboration with a children’s book author. Reading Teacher., 72 (30), 355–367.

Deutsch, L. (2014). Writing from the senses: 59 exercises to ignite creativity and revitalize your writing . Shambhala Publications.

Dobson, T. (2015). Developing a theoretical framework for response: Creative writing as response in the Year 6 primary classroom. English in Education, 49 (3), 252–265.

Dobson, T., & Stephenson, L. (2017). Primary pupils’ creative writing: Enacting identities in a Community of Writers. Literacy, 51 (3), 162–168.

Dobson, T., & Stephenson, L. (2020). Challenging boundaries to cross: Primary teachers exploring drama pedagogy for creative writing with theatre educators in the landscape of performativity. Professional Development in Education, 46 (2), 245–255.

Edwards-Groves, C. (2011). The multimodal writing process: Changing practices in contemporary classrooms. Language and Education, 25 (1), 49–64.

Gibson, R., & Ewing, R. (2020). Transforming the curriculum through the arts . Springer.

Göçen, G. (2019). The effect of creative writing activities on elementary school students’ creative writing achievement, writing attitude and motivation. Journal of Language and Linguistic Studies, 15 (3), 1032–1044.

Graham, S., McKeown, D., Kiuhara, S., & Harris, K. R. (2012). A meta-analysis of writing instruction for students in the elementary grades. Journal of Educational Psychology, 104 (4), 879.

Grainger, T., Goouch, K., & Lambirth, A. (2005). Creativity and writing: Developing voice and verve in the classroom . Routledge.

Hall, A. H., & Grisham-Brown, J. (2011). Writing development over time: Examining preservice teachers' attitudes and beliefs about writing. Journal of Early Childhood Teacher Education, 32 (2), 148–158.

Healey, B. (2019). How children experience creative writing in the classroom. The Australian Journal of Language and Literacy, 42 (3), 184–194.

Johnson, T. (2021). Identity placement in social justice issues through a creative writing curriculum . Unpublished Masters thesis. Hamline University.

Knight, R. (2020). The tensions of innovation: Experiences of teachers during a whole school pedagogical shift. Research Papers in Education, 35 (2), 205–227.

Lee, B. K., & Enciso, P. (2017). The big glamorous monster (or Lady Gaga’s adventures at sea): Improving student writing through dramatic approaches in schools. Journal of Literacy Research, 49 (2), 157–180.

Macken-Horarik, M. (2012). Why school English needs a ‘good enough’ grammatics (and not more grammar). Changing English: Studies in Culture and Education, 19 (2), 179–194.

Mahmood, M. I., Mobeen, M., & Abbas, S. (2020). Effect of high-stakes exams on creative writing skills of ESL learners in Pakistan. Research Journal of Social Sciences and Economics Review, 1 (3), 169–179.

Mendelowitz, B. (2014). Permission to fly: Creating classroom environments of imaginative (im)possibilities. English in Education, 48 (2), 164–183.

Moher, D., Liberati, A., Tetzlaff, J., Altman, D. G., The PRISMA Group. (2009). Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses: The PRISMA statement. PLoS Medicine, 6 (7), e1000097.

Polesel, J., Dulfer, N., & Turnbull, M. (2012). The experience of education: The impacts of high stakes testing on school students and their families . The Whitlam Institute.

Portier, C., Friedrich, N., & Stagg Peterson, S. (2019). Play(ful) pedagogical practices for creative collaborative literacy. Reading Teacher, 73 (1), 17–27.

Rumney, P., Buttress, J., & Kuksa, I. (2016). Seeing, doing, writing: The write here project. SAGE Open, 6 (1).

Ryan, M. (2014). Writers as performers: Developing reflexive and creative writing identities. English Teaching: Practice & Critique, 13 (3), 130–148.

Ryan, M., & Barton, G. M. (2013). Working towards a ’’thirdspace' in the teaching of writing to middle years students. Literacy Learning: The Middle Years , 21 (3), 71–81.

Ryan, M., & Barton, G. (2014). The spatialized practices of teaching writing in Australian elementary schools: Diverse students shaping discoursal selves.  Research in the Teaching of English , 303–329.

Ryan, M., & Daffern, T. (2020). Assessing writing: Teacher-led approaches. Teaching Writing: Effective approaches for the middle years.

Ryan, M., Khosronejad, M., Barton, G., Kervin, L. & Myhill, D. (2021). A reflexive approach to teaching writing: Enablements and constraints in primary school classrooms. Written Communication.

Sears, E. (2012). Painting and poetry: Third graders’ free-form poems inspired by their paintings. Journal of Inquiry and Action in Education, 5 (1), 17–40.

Slavin, E. R., Lake, C., Inns, A., Baye, A., Dachet, D., & Haslam, J. (2019). A quantitative synthesis of research on writing approaches in years 3 to 13 . Education Endowment Foundation.

Smith, H. (2020). The writing experiment: Strategies for innovative creative writing . Routledge.

Southern, A., Elliott, J., & Morley, C. (2020). Third space creative pedagogies: Developing a model of shared CPDL for teachers and artists to support reading and writing in the primary curricula of England and Wales. International Journal of Education and Literacy Studies, 8 (1), 24–31.

Steele, J. (2016). Becoming creative practitioners: Elementary teachers tackle artful approaches to writing instruction. Teaching Education, 27 (1), 1037829. https://doi.org/10.1080/10476210.2015.1037829

Stock, C., & Molloy, K. (2020). Where are the students?: Creative writing in a high-stakes world. Idiom, 56 (3), 19.

Wang, L. (2019). Rethinking the significance of creative writing: A neglected art form behind the language learning curriculum. Cambridge Open-Review Educational Research, 6 , 110–122.

Watson, V. M. (2016). Literacy is a civil write: The art, science, and soul of transformative classrooms.  Social Justice Instruction: Empowerment on the Chalkboard , 307–323.

Wyse, D., Jones, R., Bradford, H., & Wolpert, M. A. (2013). Teaching English, language and literacy . Routledge.

Yoo, J., & Carter, D. (2017). Teacher emotion and learning as praxis: Professional development that matters. Australian Journal of Teacher Education, 42 (3), 38–52.

Download references

Open Access funding enabled and organized by CAUL and its Member Institutions. The project that informed this systematic review was on the teaching of writing and funded by the Australian Research Council. The views expressed here are in no way reflective of the ARC.

Author information

Authors and affiliations.

School of Education, University of Southern Queensland, Springfield, QLD, Australia

Georgina Barton

Australian Catholic University, Sydney, NSW, Australia

Maryam Khosronejad & Mary Ryan

Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia

Lisa Kervin

Centre for Research in Writing, The University of Exeter, Exeter, UK

Debra Myhill

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Georgina Barton .

Ethics declarations

Conflict of interest.

There are no conflicts of interest regarding this paper.

Etical approval

Not applicable.

Additional information

Publisher's note.

Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Rights and permissions

Open Access This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, which permits use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons licence, and indicate if changes were made. The images or other third party material in this article are included in the article's Creative Commons licence, unless indicated otherwise in a credit line to the material. If material is not included in the article's Creative Commons licence and your intended use is not permitted by statutory regulation or exceeds the permitted use, you will need to obtain permission directly from the copyright holder. To view a copy of this licence, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ .

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Barton, G., Khosronejad, M., Ryan, M. et al. Teaching creative writing in primary schools: a systematic review of the literature through the lens of reflexivity. Aust. Educ. Res. (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13384-023-00641-9

Download citation

Received : 19 July 2022

Accepted : 26 May 2023

Published : 17 June 2023

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/s13384-023-00641-9

Share this article

Anyone you share the following link with will be able to read this content:

Sorry, a shareable link is not currently available for this article.

Provided by the Springer Nature SharedIt content-sharing initiative

• Creative writing
• Primary classrooms
• Teaching writing
• Find a journal
• Publish with us
• Track your research

The benefits of creative writing

As you learn to clarify your thoughts and emotions more efficiently and accurately, through creative writing, you will communicate more effectively; a skill that’s exceedingly important in all areas of life.

Practising creative writing is about a lot more than just improving your grammar, spelling and vocabulary; it will allow you to develop your own unique voice and share your perspective without limitations, expressing how you feel about the worlds inside and outside of your head. When you engage in creative writing you’re stimulating your imagination and thinking outside the box, which teaches you how to think more innovatively and push boundaries. Both are valuable skills.

Creating a pretend universe will often mean assembling personalities, emotions, and places that might be totally alien to your own life experiences. This is an effective way to build on your capacity to feel empathy and understanding for people who may have had very different life experiences to your own. Your perspectives and philosophies can be mirrored or explored by your characters or their setting. With practise you’ll find yourself becoming more comfortable in asserting your opinions and values in real life.

Expressive writing can bring a range of mental, emotional, and physical health benefits.

If you engage with creative writing when you’re dealing with difficult emotions, it can help you explore why you’re feeling what you’re feeling, allowing a direct insight to your mindset. It’s an opportunity to work through whatever discomfort we’re experiencing so we can get back to whatever we want to achieve today; a healthy way to alleviate the negative thoughts and emotions we experience on a day-to-day basis.

Of course, creative writing exercises can also expand your vocabulary and provide a better understanding of the mechanics of the written word. You’ll learn to distinguish when grammar works and when it doesn’t. With practise, your writing will flow better for the reader.

According to clinical psychologist Karen A.Baikie and psychiatrist Kay Wilhelm, writing creatively about traumatic, stressful or emotional events has been found to improve both physical and psychological health. In a clinical trial, participants who wrote about difficult life events for 20 minutes, on a handful of occasions, had significantly better physical and psychological outcomes compared to those who wrote about neutral topics. Baikie and Wilhelm concluded that expressive writing has real potential as a therapeutic tool for survivors of trauma and in mental health treatment settings.

By Grant J Everett, Panorama magazine

Talk to us today

For more information, contact us on  1300 779 270  or  make an enquiry now .

Read all news

Give the Gift of Hope

There are young mums in need who you can help to provide a safe, happy home and bright futur...

How psychosocial disability fits into the NDIS

What is psychosocial disability? Mental health and psychosocial disability are two sides of...

The flu and you

The flu can hit you like a freight train. Suddenly, you feel like you’ve been body slammed b...

Creative Writing: What It Is and Why It Matters

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on Published: January 13, 2023  - Last updated: January 15, 2023

Categories Writing

Writing can be intimidating for many people, but creative writing doesn’t have to be. Creative writing is a form of self-expression that allows writers to create stories, characters, and unique settings. But what exactly is creative writing? And why is it important in today’s society? Let’s explore this further.

How We Define Creative Writing

Creative writing is any form where writers can express their thoughts and feelings imaginatively. This type of writing allows authors to draw on their imagination when creating stories and characters and play with language and structure. While there are no boundaries in creative writing, most pieces will contain dialogue, description, and narrative elements.

The Importance of Creative Writing

Creative writing is important because:

• It helps us express ourselves in ways we may not be able to do with other forms of communication.
• It allows us to explore our creativity and think outside the box.
• It can help us better understand our emotions by exploring them through storytelling or poetry.
• Writing creatively can also provide much-needed escapism from everyday life, allowing us to escape into a world of our creation.
• Creative writing helps us connect with others by sharing our experiences through stories or poems they can relate to. This way, we can gain insight into other people’s lives while giving them insight into ours.

Creative Writing: A Path to Mental and Emotional Wellness

Writing is more than just a way to express your thoughts on paper. It’s a powerful tool that can be used as a form of therapy. Creative writing has been shown to improve emotional and mental well-being.

Through creative writing, we can gain insight into our emotions, develop self-expression and communication skills, cultivate empathy and understanding of others, and boost our imagination and creativity.

Let’s examine how creative writing can relieve stress and emotional catharsis.

Stress Relief and Emotional Catharsis

Writing has the power to reduce stress levels significantly. Writing about our experiences or about things that are causing us anxiety or distress helps us to release those complicated feelings constructively. By expressing ourselves through creative writing, we can work through the emotions associated with stressful situations without having to confront them directly.

This is especially helpful for people who struggle to share their emotions verbally or in person.

Improved Communication and Self-Expression

Creative writing is also beneficial for improving communication skills. Through creative writing, we can explore our thoughts and feelings more intensely than by speaking them aloud. This allows us to think more clearly about what we want to say before actually saying it out loud or in written form, which leads to improved self-expression overall.

Additionally, writing out our thoughts before speaking aloud allows us to articulate ourselves better when communicating with others—which is essential for healthy personal and professional relationships.

Increased Empathy and Understanding of Others

Through creative writing, we can also increase our empathy towards others by exploring different perspectives on various topics that may be unfamiliar or uncomfortable for us—such as racism, homophobia, sexism, etc.—and allowing ourselves the opportunity to see the situation from someone else’s point of view without judgment or bias. This helps us become better communicators and more understanding individuals overall.

The Professional Benefits of Creative Writing

Creative writing is a powerful tool that can help you communicate better and more effectively in the professional world. It can also help you develop various skills that prove invaluable in many industries. Whether you’re looking to build your résumé or improve your communication, creative writing can effectively achieve both.

Let’s take a closer look at how creative writing can benefit your career.

Preparing Students for Careers in Writing, Editing, and Publishing

Creative writing is the perfect foundation for anyone interested in pursuing a career in writing, editing, or publishing. It teaches students the basics of grammar and composition while allowing them to express their ideas in imaginative ways.

Creative writing classes also allow students to learn from professionals who have experience as editors, agents, and publishers. They can use this knowledge to learn creative writing, refine their craft and gain valuable experience before entering the job market.

Improving Skills in Storytelling and Marketing for Various Careers

Creative writing teaches students to think critically about stories and craft compelling narratives that draw readers in. This skill is precious for those who wish to pursue careers outside traditional writing roles—such as marketing or advertising—where storytelling is key.

People who understand the fundamentals of creative writing will be able to create persuasive copy that resonates with readers and effectively conveys a message.

Enhancing Team Collaboration and Leadership Skills

Creative writing isn’t just about expressing yourself through words; it also provides an opportunity to practice working collaboratively with others on projects. Many creative writing classes require students to work together on group projects, which helps them develop essential teamwork skills such as communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.

As they work together on these projects, they will also gain confidence in their ability to lead teams effectively—an invaluable asset no matter what industry they pursue after graduation.

Uncovering the Power of Creative Writing

Creative writing has become an increasingly powerful force in shaping our society. Creative writing has many uses, from preserving cultural heritage to promoting social change.

Preserving Cultural Heritage with Creative Writing

Creative writing has long been used to preserve and share cultural heritage stories. This is done through fictional stories or poetry that explore a particular culture or group’s history, values, and beliefs. By weaving these stories in an engaging way, writers can bring a culture’s history and traditions to life for readers worldwide. This helps bridge cultural gaps by providing insight into what makes each culture unique.

Promoting Social Change & Activism with Creative Writing

Creative writing can also be used for activism and social change. Writers can craft stories that help promote awareness about important issues such as poverty, race relations, gender equality, climate change, and more.

With the power of words, writers can inspire readers to take action on these issues and work towards creating positive change in their communities.

Through creative writing, writers can raise awareness about important topics while fostering empathy toward individuals who may be facing difficult or challenging situations.

Fostering Creativity & Innovation with Creative Writing

Finally, creative writing can foster creativity and innovation in various fields. For example, businesses can use creative copywriting techniques to create compelling content that captures the attention of customers or potential investors.

Aspiring entrepreneurs can use storytelling techniques when pitching their ideas or products to potential partners or investors to make their cases more persuasive and memorable.

By harnessing the power of words through creative writing techniques, businesses can create content that resonates with their target audience while inspiring them to take action on whatever message they’re trying to convey. It often aids the overall creative process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of creative writing.

Creative writing has many benefits, both for the writer and the reader. For the writer, it can be therapeutic, helping them to explore their emotions and better understand themselves. It can also be used as entertainment or communication, allowing them to share their ideas with the world. For the reader, creative writing can provide enjoyment, escapism, and insights into the human condition.

How can I improve my creative writing skills?

There are several ways you can improve your creative writing skills. Firstly, make sure you allow yourself time to write regularly. Use a writing prompt to inspire a short story. Secondly, read as much as you can; great writers are also great readers. Thirdly, experiment with different styles and genres to find one that suits you best. Fourthly, join a writers’ group, writing workshop, or creative writing program to get feedback from other writers. Finally, keep a journal to track your progress and reflect on your work as a creative writer.

What is the importance of imagery in creative writing?

Imagery is an important element of creative writing, as it helps to create a more vivid picture for the reader. By using sensory and descriptive language, writers can transport readers into their stories and help them relate to their characters or themes. Imagery can bring a scene alive with detail and evoke emotion by helping readers create strong visual images in their minds. Furthermore, imagery can help make stories more memorable by giving readers a deeper connection with the characters or setting.

What are the elements of creative writing?

The elements of creative writing include plot, character, dialogue, setting, theme, and point of view. The plot is the structure or main storyline, while the character is the personage involved in this story. Dialogue includes conversations between characters to give insight into their emotions and relationships. Setting refers to the place or time in which a story takes place, while theme explores deeper meanings behind a story’s narrative. Finally, point of view defines how readers experience a story through first-person or third-person omniscient narration.

What’s the difference between creative writing and other types of writing?

The main difference between creative writing and other types of writing is that it allows the writer to create their own story, characters, settings, and themes. Creative writing also encourages writers to be inventive with their style and use descriptive language to evoke emotion or bring stories alive in readers’ minds. Other academic or technical writing types typically involve more research-based information and are usually more objective in their presentation. Additionally, most forms of non-creative writing will have stricter rules regarding grammar, structure, and syntax.

What is the golden rule of creative writing?

The golden rule of creative writing is to show, not tell. It’s the core creative writing skill. When it comes to creative writing, it’s essential to use descriptive language that immerses readers in the story and allows them to experience the events through their emotions and imaginations. This can be done through metaphors, similes, sensory language, and vivid imagery.

How important is creativity in writing?

Creativity is essential in writing as it allows writers to craft a unique story and evoke emotion from the reader. Creativity can bring stories alive with fresh perspectives and exciting plot lines while creating an escape for readers and giving them more profound insights into the human condition. Writers who combine creativity with technical aspects such as grammar, structure, language usage, and flow will create pieces that capture their audience’s attention and provide an enjoyable reading experience.

Importance of Vocabulary for Your Writing Skills

Most college and university assignments and assessments require the student to present written work. Essays, dissertations , and exams all rely on linguistic skills for the expression of the ideas and provision of relevant answers. Strong vocabulary is essential as it will impact on the way work is presented and understood in terms of accuracy and completeness, ease of reading avoidance of misunderstandings, as well as a demonstration of knowledge, as long as excessive verbosity is avoided.

Increased Accuracy

In all assignments, including spoken assignments such as presentations, as well as written assignments, require accurate use of language to communicate effectivity. Words are used to convey ideas or information; when used correctly, the effectiveness of the communication is increased concurrently reducing the potential for misunderstanding. Accuracy may also be enhanced when specific technical or specialised terms are used correctly within assignments , which will demonstrate knowledge of the topic and the application of learning.

Broad but appropriate use of vocabulary will enhance the understanding of ideas or information presented. Many terms may have similar meanings but indicate subtle differences; good vocabulary skills will allow the most appropriate words to be chosen which will increase accuracy of the communication. For example, a task may be hard to complete, but merely saying it is hard only provides an ambiguous description which lacks detail. The use of different words, such as complex, intricate, or problematic implies the task may be hard but provide greater insights regarding how or why the task for difficult.

When an individual has an extensive vocabulary to use, they have more words which may be selected which can increase the precision. In addition, the use of the correct terms or words can also reduce the number of words or length of a sentence needed to express an idea; a factor which may also be important for students writing assignments with a limited word count as well as aiding with ease of reading.

Ease of reading

The use of a good vocabulary should aid a reader understanding of a paper. Using appropriate words can impact on the way ideas or concepts are expressed and subsequently interpreted, especially in augmentative papers were a writer may use negative terminology to indicate which ideas are not favoured, and positive terminology to engender support. A good vocabulary will allow the reader to formulate more interesting sentences and avoid repetition of the same words in one sentence or paragraph. The ability to vary the phrasing and use alternate terms can result in a more interesting sentence or paragraph that is easier and more pleasant to read.

Using the correct terms and lounge in an appropriate can enhance an assignment, but it is also necessary to remember that it is possible to become too verbose, using complex words where they are not needed and or creating unnecessarily long sentences. Excessive use of unusual or complex words can be counterproductive, making a sentence harder to read and potentially evidencing a lack of knowledge on the part of the student is used incorrectly.

• academic paper
• academic work
• academic writing

Theme: Illdy .