Competence

To identify the features of the language system taking part in vocabulary, and, to some extent, in grammar.

Presentation

In this unit, we will explore a little bit of the world of words: what they are and some of the different features that they can present. Remember we will be dealing with the most significant issues to be more aware of the elements of the language system, in this case, the ones regarding words.

To be assessed in this unit, you will have to send on due time the portfolio activities, participate in forum discussions, and include your insights on the unit topic in a short essay.

Introduction

You might think that defining the concept of word is very easy. Give it a try…
Have you already come up with an accurate and complete definition of it?...
In this unit, you will realize that word is more difficult to define than one could imagine.
Probably, this is due to the numerous features that words can present, such as word classes, synonymy, style and connotation, among others. Knowing what these numerous features consist in will give you a better idea of what the world of words is like.

Getting started

Instructions:

1. Before you start this unit, try to match the features in column A with the corresponding concepts in column B.
2. Then, check the correct answers.
   • How many did you get right?
   • How many did you get wrong?
   • Focus on the ones you got wrong (if that is the case) and see if you have an idea of why they were wrong.
3. After you finish the unit, try doing this activity again.