Peter Horton - Educator

Unit 10: What is Vocabulary?

What is the most essential part of learning a language? Is it Speaking, Reading, Listening, Writing, Grammar, or Vocabulary? First, can you please read the story on page one of my book? Then, can you tell me about the grammar points at the bottom of page one? Also, can you share what you think of the story?

Moreover, the book above is an E-Book. What is the author trying to tell you about the book? However, if you don’t see the words, maybe you can’t speak a language without them. What do you think? For example, if you know only 20 words, can you write a book? Similarly, if you know 100 words, are you able to write a book? In fact, a person needs 650 words to understand 65% of everyday English.

Next, how about you write a story for my book using 100 words? So, what are you going to write about?

Why Learn English?

I want to express the following thoughts about letters and words:

Firstly, letters of the alphabet represent images in our minds.

Additionally, letters can convey emotions.

Furthermore, letters are the foundation of languages.

Also, letters can express different cultures.

Consequently, words are made up of letters and can express various things, such as ideas, beliefs, feelings, attitudes, and more.

Therefore, words are the foundation of a language, just as bricks are the foundation of a house.

Moreover, words shape people’s lives, beliefs, customs, likes, loves, countries, and power.

Finally, words have the power to influence people.

In addition, sentences are made up of words and must be constructed correctly to express ideas, opinions, feelings, desires, wants, needs, and more. Thus, the correct usage of words is crucial in conveying the intended message.

What are your thoughts on one word and words that go together? Please tell me.

The Magic of Letters and Words

Imagine, a world where each alphabet letter is a key, unlocking images and stories in our minds. Furthermore, these keys, or letters, are like the colors on a painter’s palette, each capable of conveying a rainbow of emotions. Similarly, they are the first notes in the symphony of languages, the fundamental sounds from which all words spring forth. Just as a key opens a door to a new world, a word opens the door to a new idea, a new image, or a new story. Therefore, they are the tools of our imagination, allowing us to explore new worlds and understand new perspectives.

Moreover, letters, like the DNA of cultures, hold a piece of history, a breath of tradition, and a glimpse into the souls of people. For instance, the elegant curves of an ‘S’ or the bold lines of a ‘T’ are not just simple shapes; they are the characters of countless tales and the echoes of ancient civilizations. Additionally, the letter ‘A’ symbolizes the beginning in many languages, marking the start of countless stories. Similarly, the letter ‘B’ represents the concept of duality, reflecting the complex nature of human existence. Thus, these examples show how letters are not just abstract symbols but living entities that have shaped our understanding of the world.

Now, let’s talk about words. Words are the building blocks of our language, much like bricks are to a house. Just as bricks are laid one on top of the other to form the walls of a house, words are strung together to form the structure of our language. Consequently, they come together to form the walls of our conversations, the rooms of our stories, and the roofs of our songs. In this way, each word is a brick, laid with precision and care to construct the grand edifice of communication.

Furthermore, words are not just tools; they are catalysts of change. For example, they can shape destinies and mold beliefs. Similarly, they can whisper love or shout defiance. In addition, they can build bridges between hearts or walls between nations. Therefore, we can share our deepest feelings, wildest dreams, and most cherished hopes with words. Ultimately, in our hands, they become the architects of our world.

Consider, for instance, the word ‘freedom.’ It’s more than just seven letters strung together; it’s a concept that has ignited revolutions and soothed souls. Similarly, it goes hand in hand with words like ‘justice,’ ‘equality,’ and ‘peace,’ forming a mosaic of ideals many strive for. Likewise, the word ‘love’ encapsulates many emotions and experiences, from love between friends to a parent’s love for their child. Thus, these examples show how words can carry a wealth of meaning, and by exploring these meanings, we can deepen our understanding of the world.

In conclusion, letters and words are the essence of our expression. They are the tools we use to explore the depths of the human heart and the heights of the human mind. Therefore, cherish each letter, savor each word, and celebrate the magic they create when they come together. Remember, every sentence you craft is a brushstroke in the masterpiece of your communication.

Making Culture with Language

Think of all the different letters and words from worldwide languages as threads. When you weave these threads together, you get a beautiful picture of all the different ways people live. For example, the fancy writing in Arabic, known as calligraphy, shows us a lot about the art and buildings in places where people speak Arabic. Similarly, the characters in Chinese, such as ‘福’ (meaning ‘fortune’) and ‘囍’ (meaning ‘double happiness’), tell us a lot about the deep thoughts and traditions in Chinese culture.

Moreover, words, like tiny vessels, carry the extraordinary aspects that define each culture. For instance, the Japanese word “wabi-sabi” encapsulates the beauty found in imperfection and impermanence. Consequently, such words offer a glimpse into the intricate thoughts and emotions of different cultures, sparking a sense of wonder and appreciation.

Furthermore, languages have unique words for what people do and how they do them. For example, in English, when we say “queue,” we talk about standing in line nicely. Similarly, in German, ‘schadenfreude’ means taking pleasure in someone else’s misfortune. Thus, many languages have their own words for things that are important to their way of life.

In addition, language and words are extremely powerful because they help shape culture and customs. Furthermore, the people, food, and objects we use influence the country and its customs. For instance, some languages have different words for boys and girls, which can change how we perceive things. Therefore, language not only reflects life but also affects how we understand and interact with it.

Finally, languages, like the people and cultures they belong to, are constantly changing. As a result, they adapt, evolve, and grow as new ideas are born and shared. For example, English has embraced words from various other languages, which shows its diverse influences. Thus, letters and words are more than a way to talk or write—they are alive, carrying the history and hopes of the people who use them.