[StephR]

Does anyone have a list of "powerful verbs"? Words like aggravates, concur, noticed, discovered, etc...Things that when the kids use them they make the writing more powerful. I am sure there is a list floating around out there and I thought I would ask here before I began a search!

I don't have a powerful verbs list, but here's what I did last year with my 6th graders:

- Give examples of verbs that are overused/dull (said, look, etc.).
- Have each student come up with at least 2 of his/her own.
- List all the verbs on the board and together come up with synonyms that would be better. You can incorporate the thesaurus to help you.
- After the list is made, you can print a copy and give it to each student. You can also post it on the wall as a year long reference.

This takes a while, but the students do the work, so it's easier on you

[Write Girl]

Thanks so much for the idea for teaching kids to use more interesting verbs! I will definitely do this with my 4th graders.