test scores upset

[tmkclscroggins]

We just got our CAT test scores in and I am very disappointed in my middle son's scores. His vocabulary scores were horrible. I think he got 8 out of 20 correct.

Can someone suggest a way to boost his vocabulary power? He has always had a hard time remembering things. The only time he does well in subjects like history or science or latin is if we go over everything we've learned every day. He needs that repitition but I don't always find the time to do that.

He will be taking Biology next fall and I think the vocabulary is going to kill him. How on earth do you find time to go over and over things?

I bought IEW"s poetry memorization cd and plan to use that - my thought process was maybe that part of his brain hasn't developed yet.

 

HELP!!!Getting desperate..He will be in 8th grade next year.

 

Thanks,

Melissa

[magic]

I do not know what you currently use. My boys have learned most of their vocabulary with Wordly Wise. They really enjoy it and look forward to doing their lessons.

[Carol in Cal.]

I would start with VV right now, and try to get through it quickly. Keep reviewing those roots and start working in the science ones. This program is reasonably priced and covers both Latin and Greek roots.

[Kisa in CA]

My son needs lot of repetition and Wordly Wise does repeat the same words for a week. You may look at it. In the past my son has had high vocabulary scores (who knows about this year!).

 

HTH!

Kisa

[LadyAberlin]

I think that he is getting to the age that he can review on his own. For biology he will need to make flashcards for the vocabulary and go over it everyday himself. I also think vocabulary vine is a good idea too.

[Stacia]

I just bought the book Vocabulary Cartoons at a curriculum fair last weekend. I think it looks great & it uses mnemonics to help aid retention. I think this will be a great book for us.

 

That doesn't specifically address your concerns about biology, etc... vocab. But, if mnemonics would work for him, perhaps you & he could do your own vocab study by creating some mnemonics for some of the words he is having trouble with....

 

BTW, you could print some of the sample pages (gr. 3-6 book) or here (gr. 7-12 book I), and then use them w/ your ds to see if they work/he likes & retains info from them before deciding whether or not to purchase.

[summer]

You could also try supplimenting with things that have software that might be more fun like Word Roots by Critical thinking press.

[summer]

I will add that I found out that Wordly Wise has computer games online for free that reinforce what you learn so Wordly Wise might be your best bet.

[frogpond1]

made me realize the amount of Latin in those words. I'd go more for a roots program or Latin to strengthen the vocabulary. I also think reading aloud older, more vocabulary rich books works wonders too.

[magic]

The new version of Wordly Wise has added some latin and greek origins as well as more indepth word study. My boys are looking forward to the new format.