Memrise, if you're not already familiar with it, is an amazing tool to help people learn anything from science facts to a foreign language more
quickly using fun associations to make
new words or ideas stick (I've used it personally and absolutely endorse it for memorizing
new vocabulary especially).
Introducing
new words and using full sentences («yes, we do need to put on our raincoats» rather than «yes, sure») also expands
vocabulary, which not only helps students when they are first learning to read at around the ages of five and six, but also later in elementary school when they take the next steps and work on comprehension and fluency — the ability to read text accurately and
quickly.
The following are common characteristics of gifted children, although not all will necessarily apply to every gifted child: • Has an extensive and detailed memory, particularly in a specific area of interest • Has advanced
vocabulary for his or her age; uses precocious language • Has communication skills advanced for his or her age and is able to express ideas and feelings • Asks intelligent and complex questions • Is able to identify the important characteristics of
new concepts and problems • Learns information
quickly • Uses logic in arriving at common sense answers • Has a broad base of knowledge; a large quantity of information • Understands abstract ideas and complex concepts • Uses analogical thinking, problem solving, or reasoning • Observes relationships and sees connections • Finds and solves difficult and unusual problems • Understands principles, forms generalizations, and uses them in
new situations • Wants to learn and is curious • Works conscientiously and has a high degree of concentration in areas of interest • Understands and uses various symbol systems • Is reflective about learning • Is enraptured by a specific subject • Has reading comprehension skills advanced for his or her age • Has advanced writing abilities for his or her age • Has strong artistic or musical abilities • Concentrates intensely for long periods of time, particularly in a specific area of interest • Is more aware, stimulated, and affected by surroundings • Experiences extreme positive or negative feelings • Experiences a strong physical reaction to emotion • Has a strong affective memory, re-living or re-feeling things long after the triggering event
The
new standards have also prompted him to be more deliberate about using ambitious
vocabulary in class, and he has been surprised at how
quickly the students echo his word choices.