Lesson 5: Using New Vocabulary in Speaking & Writing
From Knowing to Using
You have learned many great strategies and have a notebook full of new words. But do you use them? The final and most important strategy is to turn your "passive vocabulary1" (words you understand) into "active vocabulary2" (words you actually use). This lesson is about taking that final step: production3!
Why is Using New Words So Important?
- It Creates the Strongest Memory: The act of finding a word in your memory and using it in a new sentence is the most powerful way to make it permanent.
- It Builds Fluency: Fluency is not just about knowing words; it's about being able to use4 them quickly and easily in conversation. This only comes from practice.
- It Boosts Confidence: Every time you successfully use a new word, your confidence as an English speaker grows.
- It's the Real Goal: The goal of learning vocabulary is not just to pass a test; it's to communicate with people.
Simple & Safe Ways to Practice Production
It can feel scary to use a new word. Here are some safe and easy ways to start.
1. Start with Writing (Low Pressure):
- Write a "Sentence of the Day": Choose one new word from your notebook each day. Your only goal is to write one perfect, personal sentence using that word.
- Keep a Simple Journal5: Write two or three sentences every night about your day. Try to include one new vocabulary word. (e.g., "Today was exhausting. The weather was terrible.")
2. Move to Speaking (Low Pressure):
- Talk to Yourself: This sounds strange, but it works! Describe what you are doing out loud. (e.g., "I am preparing dinner. This soup smells delicious.")
- Find a Language Buddy: Practice speaking with a friend who is also learning. It's okay to make mistakes together!
The 3-Time Rule: When you learn a new word, try to use it in speaking or writing three times in the next week. After that, it will start to feel natural.
In Conversation
Srey is talking to Bora about her vocabulary practice.
Srey: Bora, I have so many words in my vocabulary notebook, but when I talk, I always use the same simple words like 'good' and 'big'.
Bora: I have the same problem! My teacher says we need to move from passive to active vocabulary.
Srey: What does that mean?
Bora: It means we have to force ourselves to use the new words. For example, instead of 'big', I tried to say 'enormous' yesterday. It felt strange, but my friend understood me!
Srey: So you just have to be brave and try?
Bora: Yes! I also try to write a short journal entry every night. I choose one new word, like 'exhausted', and write about my day: "I worked for 10 hours today, so I was exhausted."
Srey: That's a great idea! It's a low-pressure way to practice production. I will try that tonight.
quiz Check Your Understanding
1. Words that you understand when you read but don't use yourself are called ______ vocabulary.
- a) active
- b) passive
- c) written
Click to see the answer
Answer: b) passive
2. What is the main goal of practicing speaking and writing?
- a) To make your notebook look full.
- b) To turn passive vocabulary into active vocabulary.
- c) To learn more grammar rules.
Click to see the answer
Answer: b) To turn passive vocabulary into active vocabulary.
3. What is a good, low-pressure way to start practicing writing with new words?
- a) Write a 10-page essay.
- b) Write a simple journal entry each day.
- c) Only write on the computer.
Click to see the answer
Answer: b) Write a simple journal entry each day.
edit Your Mission
- My Journal: Tonight, before you go to sleep, write two or three sentences in English about your day. Use at least one new B1-level word you have learned this week.
- My Speech: Choose one interesting word from a past lesson. Prepare to explain it to someone. Say what it means and use it in an example sentence.
- Speak: Your mission is to use one B1-level word you have learned in a conversation this week. Be brave! (e.g., "The weather is miserable today!" or "That movie was excellent.")
book Lesson Glossary
- Passive Vocabulary (noun phrase) - Khmer: វាក្យសព្ទអកម្ម (veakysap a-kam) - Words that you can understand when you read or hear them, but that you do not use yourself. ↩
- Active Vocabulary (noun phrase) - Khmer: វាក្យសព្ទសកម្ម (veakysap sa-kam) - Words that you understand and can use comfortably in your own speaking and writing. ↩
- Production (noun) - Khmer: ការផលិត (kaa phɔl-lĭt) - In language learning, the act of producing language by speaking or writing. ↩
- to Use (verb) - Khmer: ប្រើ (praə) - To do something with an object, a word, or a skill for a particular purpose. ↩
- Journal (noun) - Khmer: សៀវភៅកំណត់ហេតុ (sievphow kɑmnât haet) - A notebook in which you write about your personal experiences and thoughts. ↩