Vocabulary Research Assignment
For this assignment I’m asking you to do some research on a group of vocabulary words. Think
about this like you would any sort of research- I want you to learn everything you can about
each word. A few tips as you research:

Try searching the word + “etymology” or “origin”

Try using the following sites: http://www.etymonline.com/, http://www.worddetective.com/, http://www.vocabulary.com

You will probably have to use multiple sources for each word
This assignment should be hand-written (no cut and paste). Below is a list of areas to research.
Word:
Part(s) of speech:
Origin/Root (where did the word come from, and how has it evolved?):
Definition (in your own words):
Words/phrases/ideas it is commonly paired with, usage information, connotations:
Sentence (your own)
Similar words:
Contrasting words:
Sample
Word: Compel
Part(s) of speech: verb
Background, origin/root: pel-‘to drive/force’ – compel (force to act), expel (force out of place),
repel (force back), propel (to force or move forward)
Definition (in your own words): being forced to do something or an irresistible urge to do
something
Words/phrases it is commonly paired with or usage information: Generally, people are
compelled to do things- not objects.
A sentence: Once the protesters began throwing rocks, the riot police were compelled to
disperse.
Similar words: urge, force, drive, move
Contrasting words: reluctant, resistant, unmoved