Words That Work: Vocabulary Skills to Last

In honor of Thesaurus Day, let's revisit one of the most misunderstood tools in a student's academic toolkit. Strong writing begins with word choice, but building vocabulary isn't about memorizing long lists or swapping in the biggest words from a thesaurus. For elementary and middle school students, vocabulary growth works best when it's intentional, age-appropriate, and supported over time.

Why Vocabulary Matters

A well-developed vocabulary helps students read more fluently, write more clearly, and communicate with confidence across subjects. Whether they're responding to a literary passage, crafting a personal narrative, or explaining how they solved a math problem, the words students choose shape how well their ideas come across to others.

Vocabulary plays a central role in academic success. Students with a strong word bank tend to:

• Understand what they read more deeply

• Express ideas with clarity and precision

• Gain confidence participating in class discussion

• Perform better on writing-heavy assessments

When vocabulary is limited, students may rely on vague language, overuse the same words, or struggle to explain their thinking (even when they understand the material). This gap between knowledge and expression can be frustrating for students and parents alike.

The Thesaurus: Tool, Not Shortcut

A thesaurus can be incredibly helpful for students who know how to use it well. Simply replacing a familiar word with a more "advanced" alternative can backfire if the new word doesn't fit the sentence and larger context. Effective thesaurus use means:

• Understanding the original word first

• Comparing multiple alternatives before choosing one

• Learning subtle differences in meaning, tone, and context

• Practicing new words in speaking and writing

When used thoughtfully, a thesaurus becomes a learning tool rather than a quick fix. Students expand their vocabulary while sharpening their awareness of language.

Tutoring for Vocabulary Growth

Vocabulary development isn't one-size-fits-all; it is often dependent on a student's reading level, writing skills, and confidence with language. At ILMS, tutors help students:

• Build vocabulary naturally through reading and discussion

• Learn how to choose words that fit their ideas and voices

• Strengthen writing without sounding forced or unnatural

• Practice use new words across subjects (not just ELA)

Rather than overwhelming students with lists or corrections, ILMS tutors guide them to understand how words work and how to use them effectively. Schedule a free consultation or contact us at (708) 581-8617 or ilms_office@ilmstutor.com to learn more about our tutoring services today. Personalized tutoring provides the structure and encouragement to turn vocabulary practice into lasting skills, helping every student find the right words to succeed!