Vocabulary
is a key word that comes to mind when I think of writing. Some people consider
use of ‘big’ words good vocabulary. Some may say comprehension of these words
can be considered good vocabulary and the same for knowing definitions. Chapter
five of the Benjamin text made a very good point, which I agree with. The
ability to comprehend, define and use words in a sentence does not constitute
for vocabulary. I have an analogy for this, which will explain why I agree with
the points in this chapter. Benjamin feels that true vocabulary is
understanding how words are “used in context, its tone, its nuances, its
flexibility. Now, as a Rapper and an avid listener of Rap music I criticize
artists for limited use of vocabulary. I once shook my head in astonishment
when I saw an interview with Multi-Platinum Rap Artist 50 cent. He said “I’m a
writer and I’m making millions of dollars in an industry where you don’t even
have to know how to spell the words, just use them right”.
He
has become successful by using the jargon of his industry in an exceptional
manner. He uses words to create a feeling, vibe, sensation, reaction. That’s
what good vocabulary does. It makes me have a think out the box moment. Could the instrumental be looked at as part
of the vocabulary in Rap music, If we apply the concept of vocabulary??? I
look forward to informing my students about how to think out of the box to
better understand something. If we think of vocabulary from a western
educational aspect the first thing that comes to mind is a list of words.
Compare that to a popular philosophy about 85% of communication being nonverbal
then vocabulary must be more than having a large word bank or knowing the
definition of a word.
Some
of the words in the Katie’s (from chapter 5) list will never “infiltrate” her
vocabulary “academically or socially”. I think that was a strong statement and
may be true because words are not examined closely in school today. Educators
rely on memorization tactics rather that teach the philosophy, purpose and function
of any curriculum.
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