Peter Horton - Educator

Unit 14. The Most Commonly Used English Words

Introduction

To begin with, this curriculum provides the second eight weeks of English Language Arts for 5th grade. It is designed to help students read, speak, spell, and use the 1,000 “Most Commonly Used English Words in the World.”

In addition, the 1,000 words are divided into groups of 25, with each group assigned weekly. Alongside vocabulary, the lessons also cover grammar, language usage, writing, and reading.

Moreover, students will learn these words through different activities such as reading passages, writing sentences, playing games, and taking quizzes. At the same time, they will practice listening, speaking, and grammar skills.

Ultimately, the curriculum aims to build vocabulary, comprehension, fluency, and confidence in English. So now it is time to begin this exciting journey. Are you ready? One, two, go—learn with me!

Table of the 1,000 Most Commonly Used English Words in the World

(Sample only; grouped by days and classes)

the, of, and, a, to, in, is, you, that, it, he, was, for, on, are

as, with, his, they, I, at, be, this, have, from, or, one, had, by, word

she, do, how, their, if, will, up, other, about, out, many, then, them, these, so

some, her, would, make, like, him, into, time, has, look, two, more, write, go, see
…

Practice Passage 1

From the “Most Commonly Used English Words List” we have the following:

Education is the cornerstone of any progressive society. Furthermore, it provides the foundation for critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential in today’s world.

In addition, pursuing knowledge through education is a lifelong journey. It enriches each individual and contributes to the betterment of the community.

Therefore, anyone who values education understands that it is not only about acquiring facts but also about learning how to think, analyze, and innovate. In essence, education was, is, and always will be the key to unlocking human potential and making dreams reality.

Copy the words and sentences above on the lines below.

Practice Passage 2

English is more than just a language—it is a rich tapestry of culture and history. Moreover, it is a dynamic tool for expression and learning that constantly evolves.

For example, you’ll find English everywhere—from books on shelves to movies in theaters. He was once a beginner, but now he is fluent, proving that dedication can lead to mastery.

Finally, English connects us all as part of a global community. Truly, it is the bridge that brings people together.

Copy the words and sentences above on the lines below.

Practice Passage 3

You can be funny, creative, and free when writing. In fact, learning to write is an art that requires patience and practice.

At first, I began this journey at a young age, and it shaped me deeply. From each word, I learned how to express myself. Whether poetry or prose, every word reflects one’s inner world.

Furthermore, I’ve discovered that words can paint vivid pictures when carefully strung together. Writing is not only about rules—it’s about sharing emotions and thoughts.

Above all, the true power of words lies in their ability to connect with others. If you persist and keep writing, you will find your voice. It will stand out, rise above others, and echo long after the conversation ends.

Start your copying:

Passage 1 – English as a Global Language

To begin with, English is more than just a language—it is a rich tapestry of culture and history. Moreover, it is a dynamic tool for learning and expression, always changing and adapting.

For example, we can find English everywhere, from the books on our shelves to the movies we watch in theaters. In fact, many people start as beginners, but with practice, they become fluent.

Finally, English connects us all. Since we are part of a global community, it serves as a bridge that brings people together.

Passage 2 – The Power of Writing

First of all, writing can be fun, creative, and even silly. Yet at the same time, it is an art that requires patience and practice.

Next, every word we choose allows us to share thoughts and feelings. For example, words can paint pictures, whether in poetry or prose.

In addition, good writing is not only about rules. Instead, it is about expressing emotions and ideas in ways that connect with others.

Above all, if you continue writing, you will discover your own voice. It will rise, stand out, and be remembered long after the words are spoken.

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Passage 3 – Creative Writing in Rhythm

To start with, creative writing is like fine art—it stirs the soul like aged wine. In fact, each story or poem is unique, offering truth and meaning.

Furthermore, writers paint worlds through their tales, while poets use rhythm and rhyme to share feelings. Into the night, their words shine like stars.

Likewise, rhymes and verses can guide us into new ideas and fresh beginnings. Therefore, when you write, you grow—and you discover the path forward.

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Passage 4 – Language Usage and Communication

First, language is the water that nourishes the tree of expression. It quenches our thirst for understanding and human connection.

Over time, language has evolved into more than symbols—it reflects culture and intelligence. As a result, knowing how to use words well shapes how we see the world and how others see us.

Moreover, strong language skills allow us to share precise ideas and deep emotions. From my own experience, language is the first tool we use to make sense of life.

Now more than ever, the ability to write clearly and creatively is essential. After all, language is the oil that keeps the gears of thought and imagination moving. Finally, every word matters, for each one carries weight and meaning.

Note: it is possible to have a reading and sound devise or tool to help you to read along with and hear the words to work on your reading, listening, vocabulary, grammar, and speaking at the same time. When you use the tool go to each word, following along. Use the following method. See the word, read the word, listening to the word, then say the word with the speaker. You will even improve your grammar because you will see, read, and say the words in the correct grammar order!

The first 25 words: # Word (Part of Speech)

Definition Example Sentence 1 The (article) Used to specify a particular thing that is known or obvious. The cat sat on the mat. 2 Of (preposition) Expressing the relationship between a part and a whole. The sleeve of the shirt was torn. 3 And (conjunction Used to connect words of the same part of speech. She bought apples and oranges. 4 A (article) Used before nouns to refer to a single item that is not specifically known. There is a book on the table. 5 To (preposition) Expressing motion in the direction of a particular location. He went to the store. 6 In (preposition) Expressing the situation of something that is enclosed or surrounded. The pen is in the drawer. 7 Is (verb) Third person singular present of “be.” She is going to school. 8 You (pronoun) Used to refer to the person or people being addressed. You are my friend. 9 That (pronoun) Used to identify a specific person or thing. I know that person. 10 It (pronoun) Used to refer to a thing previously mentioned. It is raining outside. 11 He (pronoun) Used to refer to a male person or animal. He is my brother. 12 Was (verb) Past tense of “be.” She was happy yesterday. 13 For (preposition) Used to indicate the use of something. This place is for eating. 14 On (preposition) Expressing a surface of something. The book is on the table. 15 Are (verb) Second person singular or plural present of “be.” Are you coming to the party? 16 As (preposition) Used to refer to the function or character that someone or something has. He works as a teacher. 17 With (preposition) Accompanied by another person or thing. She came with her friend. 18 His (pronoun) Belonging to or associated with a male person. His car is fast. 19 They (pronoun) Used to refer to two or more people or things. They are playing a game. 20 I (pronoun) Used by a speaker to refer to themselves. I am learning to play piano. 21 At (preposition) Expressing location or arrival in a particular place. Meet me at the mall. 22 Be (verb) Exist; occur; take place. Let be happy. 23 This (pronoun) Used to identify a specific person or thing close at hand. This is my house. 24 Have (verb) Possess, own, or hold. I have a new bike. 25 From (preposition) Indicating the point in space at which a journey starts. She walked away from the school. # Word (Part of Speech) Definition Example Sentence 26 Or (conjunction) Used to link alternatives. You can have tea or coffee. 27 One (pronoun) Referring to a single person or thing. She is the one I told you about. 28 Had (verb) Past tense of have. He had finished his homework. 29 By (preposition) Identifying the agent performing an action. The book was written by Mark Twain. 30 Word (noun) A single distinct meaningful element of speech or writing. Please spell the word correctly. 30 She (pronoun) Used to refer to a female person or animal. She is going to the market. 31 Do (verb) Perform an action. I will do my best. 32 How (adverb) In what way or manner. How did you solve the problem? 33 Their (pronoun) Belonging to or associated with people or things. Their house is right there. 34 If (conjunction) Introducing a conditional clause. If it rains, we will stay inside. 35 Will (modal verb) Expressing future tense. She will visit us tomorrow. 36 Up (adverb) Towards a higher place or position. He climbed up the ladder. 37 Other (adjective) Used to refer to additional people or things. There are other options available. 38 About (preposition) On the subject of; concerning. I was thinking about your proposal. 39 Out (adverb) Moving from inside to outside. Let’s go out for dinner. 40 Many (adjective) A large number of. There were many stars in the sky. 41 Then (adverb) At that time; at the time in question. I lived in Spain back then. 42 Them (pronoun) Used to refer to two or more people or things. I have seen them before. 43 These (pronoun) Used to refer to specific things near in space or time. These cookies are delicious. 44 So (conjunction) Introducing a clause of result. It was late, so I went home. 45 Some (pronoun) An unspecified amount or number. Could I have some water, please? 46 Her (pronoun) Used as the object of a verb or preposition to refer to a female person. I gave her the book. 47 Would (modal verb) Past of will, used to express the future in past sentences. I knew that she would succeed. 48 Make (verb) To cause to exist or happen. Let’s make a cake for the party. 49 Like (preposition) Similar to; in the same way or manner as. He runs like the wind. 50 Him (pronoun) Used to refer to a male person or animal. I told him the news. 51 Into (preposition) Expressing movement or action with the result that someone or something becomes enclosed or surrounded. She turned into the driveway. 52 Time (noun) The indefinite continued progress of existence and events. Time goes by so quickly. 53 Has (verb) Third person singular present of have. She has a new bicycle. 54 Look (verb) To direct one’s gaze. Look at the stars. 55 Two (noun) The number equivalent to the sum of one and one. I have two cats. 56 More (adjective) A greater or additional amount or degree. I need more time to finish the work. 57 Write (verb) To mark letters, words, or other symbols on a surface. Please write your name here. 58 Go (verb) To move from one place to another. Let’s go to the park. 59 See (verb) To perceive with the eyes. Can you see the bird in the tree? 60 Number (noun) An arithmetical value. My phone number is listed in the directory. 61 No (adverb) Not any. There is no milk left in the fridge. 62 Way (noun) A method, style, or manner of doing something. This is the way we’ve always done it. 63 Could (modal verb) Past tense of can. I could see the mountains from my window. 64 People (noun) Human beings in general. People all over the world celebrate New Year’s. 65 My (pronoun) Belonging to or associated with the speaker. My favorite color is blue. 66 Than (conjunction) Used to introduce the second element in a comparison. She is taller than I am. 67 First (adjective) Coming before all others. He won the first prize in the contest. 68 Water (noun) A colorless, transparent, odorless liquid. We need to drink plenty of water every day. 69 Been (verb) Past participle of be. I have been to that city before. 70 Call (verb) To cry out; to name or address. Please call me when you arrive. 71 Who (pronoun) Asking for information about a person. Who is going to the party? 72 Oil (noun) A viscous liquid derived from petroleum. We use oil for cooking. 73 Its (pronoun) Belonging to or associated with a thing previously mentioned. The cat licked its paw. 74 Now (adverb) At the present time or moment. We must leave now. # Word (Part of Speech) Definition Example Sentence 75 Find (verb) To discover or perceive by chance or unexpectedly. I will find my keys eventually. 76 Long (adjective) Measuring a great distance from end to end. The meeting was long and tiring. 77 Down (adverb) Towards a lower place or position. He walked down the hill. 78 Day (noun) A period of 24 hours. It was a sunny day. 79 Did (verb) Past tense of do. She did her homework last night. 80 Get (verb) To come to have or hold. He will get a new pet soon. 81 Come (verb) To move or travel towards the speaker or with the speaker. Please come to the party. 82 Made (verb) Past tense of make. She made a delicious cake. 83 May (modal verb) Expressing possibility. It may rain later today. 84 Part (noun) A piece or segment of something. He played a part in the school play. 85 Over (preposition) Above or higher than something. The bird flew over the trees. 86 New (adjective) Not existing before; made, introduced, or discovered recently. I bought a new car. 87 Sound (noun) Vibrations that travel through the air and can be heard. The sound of the waves was relaxing. 88 Take (verb) To lay hold of something with one’s hands. Please take a seat. 89 Only (adjective) Alone in a category. She is the only one who knows the secret. 90 Little (adjective) Small in size or amount. He ate a little bit of cake. 91 Work (noun) Activity involving mental or physical effort. He has a lot of work to do. 92 Know (verb) To be aware of through observation, inquiry, or information. I know the answer to the question. 93 Place (noun) A particular position or point in space. This is the place where I grew up. 94 Year (noun) The time taken by the earth to make one revolution around the sun. It has been a year since we met. 95 Live (verb) To have one’s home in a particular place. They live in New York City. 96 Me (pronoun) Used by a speaker to refer to themselves. Can you help me? 97 Back (adverb) In return to an earlier or normal condition. He gave the book back to the library. 98 Give (verb) To present voluntarily without expecting something in return. Please give me your attention. 99 Most (adjective) Greatest in amount or degree. She has the most experience in our team. 100 Very (adverb) In a high degree. I am very happy to see you. 101 After (preposition) In the time following an event. After the movie, we went to dinner.  

102 Thing (noun)

An object that one need not, cannot, or does not wish to give a specific name to. There is a thing in my shoe. 103 Our (pronoun) Belonging to or associated with the speaker and one or more other people. Our team won the game. 104 Just (adverb) Exactly. I just finished my homework. 105 Name (noun) A word or set of words by which a person or thing is known. My name is John. 106 Good (adjective) To be desired or approved of. She did a good deed. 107 Sentence (noun) A set of words that is complete in itself. The sentence was hard to understand. 108 Man (noun) An adult human male. The man walked his dog. 109 Think (verb) To have a particular opinion, belief, or idea about someone or something. I think it’s going to rain. 110 Say (verb) To utter words so as to convey information, an opinion, or a feeling. What did you say? 111 Great (adjective) Of an extent, amount, or intensity considerably above average. We had a great time at the party. 112 Where (adverb) In or to what place or position. Where are you going? 113 Help (verb) To make it easier or possible for someone to do something. Can you help me with my homework? 114 Through (preposition) Moving in one side and out of the other side of. We walked through the park. 115 Much (adjective) A large amount. I don’t have much time left. 116 Before (preposition) During the period of time preceding a particular event. Wash your hands before eating. 117 Line (noun) A long, narrow mark or band. Draw a straight line on the paper. 118 Right (adjective) Morally good, justified, or acceptable. You made the right choice. 119 Too (adverb) To a higher degree than is desirable. It’s too hot outside for a walk.

# Word Definition (Part of Speech) Model Sentence

120 mean To intend to convey or refer to (Verb) “When she said she was busy, she meant she didn’t want to go.” 121 old Having lived for a long time; not new (Adjective) “He gave his old toys to his younger cousin.” 122 any One or some; whichever (Determiner) “Do you have any questions about the topic?” 123 same Identical; not different (Adjective) “We have the same idea about where to go on vacation.” 124 tell To communicate information (Verb) “Could you tell me the time, please?” 125 boy A male child or young man (Noun) “The boy ran across the field to catch the ball.” 126 follow To go or come after a person or thing (Verb) “Please follow the instructions carefully.” 127 came Past tense of ‘come’ (Verb) “She came to the party despite feeling unwell.” 128 want To have a desire to possess or do something (Verb) “I want to learn how to play the piano.” 129 show To display or allow to be seen (Verb) “The museum will show the new exhibit next week.” 130 also In addition; too (Adverb) “She bought a dress and also a matching bag.” 131 around Located or situated on every side (Adverb) “The garden has a fence all around it.” 132 form The visible shape or configuration of something (Noun) “The artist loved the form of the human figure.” 133 three Equivalent to the sum of one and two; a number (Number) “She has three dogs at home.” 134 small Of a size that is less than normal or usual (Adjective) “The kitten was so small it could fit in the palm of my hand.” 135 set Put, lay, or stand something in a specified place or position (Verb) “Please set the table for dinner.” 136 put Move to or place in a particular position (Verb) “He put the book on the shelf after reading it.” 137 end A final part of something, especially a period of time, an activity, or a story (Noun) “At the end of the movie, everyone clapped.” 138 does Perform or execute (Verb) “She does her homework every evening.” 139 another An additional person or thing of the same type (Determiner) “Could I have another slice of cake, please?” 140 well In a good or satisfactory way (Adverb) “She performed well in the competition.” 141 large Of considerable or relatively great size, extent, or capacity (Adjective) “They live in a large house with a beautiful garden.” 142 must Be obliged to; should (Verb) “You must wear a helmet when riding a bike.” 143 big Of considerable size, extent, or intensity (Adjective) “He was a big man, towering over everyone else.” 144 even Flat and smooth; level (Adjective) “Make sure the surface is even before painting.” 145 such Of the kind or degree described or implied (Determiner) “It was such a surprise to see her there.” 146 because For the reason that (Conjunction) “Because it was raining, the match was postponed.” 147 turn Move in a circular direction around an axis or point (Verb) “She turned the key in the lock to open the door.” 148 here In, at, or to this place or position (Adverb) “Please sit here next to me.” 149 why For what reason or purpose (Adverb) “Why are you so late?” 150 ask Say something in order to obtain an answer or some information (Verb) “If you’re unsure, ask the teacher for help.” 151 went Past tense of ‘go’ (Verb) “She went to the store to buy groceries.” 152 men Plural of ‘man’; adult human males (Noun) “The men worked together to lift the heavy object.” 153 read Look at and comprehend the meaning of written or printed matter (Verb) “He read the letter aloud to everyone.” 154 need Require something because it is essential or very important (Verb) “I need to finish this report by tomorrow.” 155 land The part of the earth’s surface that is not covered by water (Noun) “After days at sea, they finally saw land.” 156 different Not the same as another or each other (Adjective) “Each artist has a different style of painting.” 157 home The place where one lives permanently (Noun) “After a long trip, there’s no place like home.” 158 us Used by a speaker to refer to himself or herself and one or more other people (Pronoun) “They invited us to their wedding.” 159 move Change position (Verb) “The player moved his pawn on the chessboard.” 160 try Make an attempt or effort to do something (Verb) “I will try to answer all of your questions.” 161 kind Having or showing a friendly, generous, and considerate nature (Adjective) “She was very kind to offer us a place to stay.” 162 hand The end part of a person’s arm beyond the wrist (Noun) “He held the pen in his hand.” 163 picture A painting or drawing (Noun) “The picture on the wall is a family heirloom.” 164 again Another time; once more (Adverb) “It was great to see you, let’s meet again soon.” 165 change to make or become different I need to change my clothes before we go out 166 off away from a place or position He took his hat off and bowed to her. 167 play to engage in an activity for fun or recreation The children love to play in the park. 168 spell to name or write the letters of a word Can you spell your last name for me? 169 air the invisible mixture of gases that surrounds the earth We need fresh air in this room. 170 away to or at a distance from a place or person She ran away from home when she was 16. 171 animal a living creature that is not a human or a plant A dog is an animal, but a tree is not. 172 house a building where people live They bought a new house in the suburbs. 173 point a location or position What is the point of this exercise? 174 page one side of a sheet of paper in a book or magazine Please turn to page 10 and read the first paragraph. 175 letter a written or printed symbol that represents a sound in a language The letter A is the first letter of the alphabet. 176 mother a female parent She loves her mother very much. 177 answer a response to a question or a problem He gave the wrong answer on the test. 178 found past tense and past participle of find She found a wallet on the street. 179 study to learn about a subject by reading, researching, or practicing He needs to study more for the exam. 189 still not moving or making a sound She sat still and listened to the teacher. 190 learn to acquire knowledge or skill through instruction or experience She wants to learn how to play the piano. 191 should used to indicate obligation, duty, or correctness You should brush your teeth twice a day. 192 America a continent that consists of North and South America He traveled across America by car. 193 world the earth and all the people and things on it There are many different cultures in the world. 194 high having a great or considerable extent or reach upward or vertically The mountain is very high. 195 every used to refer to all the members or parts of a group or collection He knows every word of the song. 196 near close to or at a short distance from a place or person The school is near my house. 197 add to join or unite so as to increase in size, quantity, or degree If you add 2 and 3, you get 5. 198 food any nutritious substance that people or animals eat or drink He likes spicy food. 199 between in or into the space that separates two or more things or people She sat between her two friends. 200 own belonging to or done by a particular person or thing This is my own room. 201 below at a lower level or layer than something The temperature was below zero. 202 country a nation with its own government and territory She was born in a different country. 203 plant a living organism that typically grows in the ground and has leaves, stems, roots, and flowers She watered the plant every day.