I Am This Woman

I get an insanely huge rush getting these memes and quizzes right! Esp. when it comes to usage and words. Thing is, a couple of these are not as intuitive, as the “correct” usage is heard less often.

Another fun word nerd link that I ran across today (thanks, Emily!) is this column on copyediting from The Washington Post. It says so much to me, and the irony is thick as I leave an editing job for The Next Big Thing.

(And I’m not sure I would call myself an “English Genius.” More like a “Language Expert.” Or an “Educated Woman.” Or Someone Who Reads.)

Your result for The Commonly Confused Words Test…

English Genius

You scored 100% Beginner, 100% Intermediate, 100% Advanced, and 100% Expert!

You did so extremely well, even I can’t find a word to describe your excellence! You have the uncommon intelligence necessary to understand things that most people don’t. You have an extensive vocabulary, and you’re not afraid to use it properly! Way to go!

Thank you so much for taking my test. I hope you enjoyed it!

For the complete Answer Key, visit my blog: http://shortredhead78.blogspot.com/.

Take The Commonly Confused Words Test at HelloQuizzy

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I am still learning how to ask. It’s a very simple lesson. Perhaps such a nuanced one that it requires teaching over a long period of time.

After years of teaching English to first and second-year college students, I still found it amazing that none of them really knew how to ask a question. We spent at least two weeks on Inquiry, which is learning how to ask a question so that the answer will elicit a response that is likely to be useful, helpful, detailed. I had students who not only didn’t know how to ask, but they did not really feel comfortable with the Yellow Pages, the dictionary or a directory of any kind. Little did I realize in early 1990s that the Yellow Pages would soon be replaced by Google, and the method of inquiry was not how good you are with subject headings, but your ability to string together search terms in a little box. (Not knocking that at all, and this soon became part of the curriculum.)

Are we all TALK TALK TALK and very little ask? not enough inquiry? (more…)

Every year, I try to pick a charity to focus my attention on in small ways. It’s usually not a huge outlay of cash or effort, but I do focus positive energy in that direction, and the result is that every small effort builds up and actually does make a difference, a contribution.

It is clear from his tears that the Kid wants to give money and time to the local animal shelter. I will steel myself against bringing home some sweet mophead. No can do. But we can support them in other ways, and I will support the Kid in this.
And as a departure from the usual family solidarity, I am going to support this organization: World Care, esp their books and school supplies program. Holidailies too is getting into the act, so my vote is to designate this group for our little project.