Introduction
In this lesson, we will study writing definitions: how to define words and concepts clearly, according to the Algerian curriculum for 1st Year Middle School. A definition explains what a word or concept means. Knowing how to write good definitions is important for learning new vocabulary, understanding academic texts, and communicating clearly. This lesson will teach you the structure of a good definition and give you practice in defining different types of words.
Main Concepts
A good definition has three parts: 1) The word being defined, 2) The general category or class it belongs to, 3) The specific characteristics that distinguish it from others in its class. Structure: “[Word] is a [category] that/which [distinguishing features].” Examples: “A dog is a domestic animal that is kept as a pet.” “A school is a place where students go to learn.” “Happiness is a feeling of joy and contentment.” “A doctor is a person who treats sick people.” Notice that each definition starts with the word, then states what general category it belongs to, then explains what makes it special or different.
Tips for writing good definitions: Use simple, clear language that is easy to understand. Include the most important characteristics, not every possible detail. Use “is a” or “are” to connect the word to its category. Avoid using the word itself in the definition (circular definition). Use relative clauses (who, which, that) to add specific details. Examples of good and bad definitions: Good: “A pencil is a tool used for writing or drawing.” Bad: “A pencil is a thing you write with.” (too vague). Good: “A library is a building that contains a collection of books for reading and borrowing.” Practice defining everyday objects, animals, professions, feelings and abstract concepts to master this skill.
Examples and Practice
Exercises: Write definitions for the following words: teacher, hospital, river, computer, friendship, winter, bicycle, courage, restaurant, mountain. Check your definitions: Did you include the general category? Did you add distinguishing features? Is your definition clear and complete? Compare your definitions with a partner’s. Working on definitions helps you understand words more deeply and improves your vocabulary skills significantly.
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دروس مشابهة
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- اللغة الإنجليزية — Gerunds and Infinitives: Verbs Followed by V-ing or To + Verb
- اللغة الإنجليزية — Prepositions of movement (مفاهيم أساسية) — السنة الثالثة ثانو
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