A Novel Technical Vocabulary-Improvement Technique

Abstract

A novel technical vocabulary-building technique for technical writing students as well as other engineering students is described. The technique is based on "brain storming" and can be utilized by teachers of engineering and science writing or technical writing as an adjunct to their regular course material. It is brief (15 minutes or less per session) and can be inserted at any convenient time during the instruction period. About 200 new science and engineering terms can be conveniently acquired per semester by the average student. Sample vocabulary sheets (which also serve as reference lists) are included in the appendix to this paper as guides for instructors. Blackboard and chalk are the only materials and equipment required. The technique is also believed to be instrumental in stimulating creative writing through beginning with a random set of technical words on a subject, then organizing the words into categorical ideas, which in turn can permit a variety of conceptual approaches as well as depth of writing on a subject.