CoreIn almost every paper that tests this subjectAbout 45 seconds a question in the test
The big idea
A wide vocabulary helps in comprehension, verbal reasoning and creative writing. Read widely and keep a word journal.
Use prefixes and roots to work out unfamiliar words: bene- (good), mal- (bad), -phobia (fear), omni- (all).
Tips that save marks
Learn five new words a week and use them in sentences.
Test yourself on synonyms and antonyms together.
Replace “said”, “nice”, “big” with precise words in your writing.
Now try five
Try each one before you look at the answer: answering from memory is what makes it stick. Tap an option to check it. Most children get three or four right at first; five out of five means move on to the next topic.
Question 1Aim for about 45 seconds
What does the word “deceive” mean?
Show the worked answer
Answer: C, to make someone believe something untrue
How to work it out
“Deceive” (verb) means to make someone believe something untrue.
For example: The spy tried to deceive the guards with a disguise.
Question 2Aim for about 45 seconds
What does the word “accurate” mean?
Show the worked answer
Answer: A, correct in every detail
How to work it out
“Accurate” (adjective) means correct in every detail.
For example: Her drawing of the map was so accurate that we never got lost.
Question 3Aim for about 45 seconds
What does the word “legible” mean?
Show the worked answer
Answer: D, clear enough to read
How to work it out
“Legible” (adjective) means clear enough to read.
For example: Please make your handwriting legible.
Question 4Aim for about 45 seconds
What does the word “elegant” mean?
Show the worked answer
Answer: B, graceful and stylish
How to work it out
“Elegant” (adjective) means graceful and stylish.
For example: The elegant swan glided across the lake.
Question 5Aim for about 45 seconds
What does the word “evident” mean?
Show the worked answer
Answer: A, clear and obvious
How to work it out
“Evident” (adjective) means clear and obvious.
For example: From the muddy boots, it was evident he had been outside.
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