Merriam-Webster's Vocabulary Builder
by Mary W. Cornog, Merriam-Webster
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Book Summary Information
Author: Mary W. Cornog, Merriam-WebsterEdition: Mass Market Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 1998-01
ISBN: 0877799105
Number of pages: 576
Publisher: Merriam-Webster
Book Reviews of Merriam-Webster's Vocabulary Builder
Book Review: A Mixed Bag
Summary: 4 Stars
Were I teaching seventh grade again, I might view this book differently. As an SAT tutor looking for an efficacious, supplementary vocabulary builder, I am somewhat disappointed by the Merriam Webster offering.
Included in this book are two hundred Latin or Greek roots, each root defined and followed by four English words derived from the listed root. Each example word is defined, and provided with pronunciation, example sentence and extended explanation of the word's usage. Also included in the book are self quizzes and sections of phrases or words derived from the Latin or Greek such as: ad hominem, de jure, and modus operandi.
The roots entries are listed randomly; to find a specific root one must search the index for roots listed along with the book's example words.
Likes: I do like that 200 roots are listed and that knowledge of such roots can improve one's vocabulary.
Dislikes: I was hoping for more than four examples per root, but in this book four is the magic number. I also like that each example word is used in a sentence for clarification and reinforcement.
Vocabulary Builder is said to be a "great preparation for standardized tests." It may be good preparation for some high school tests, but I find it lacking as an SAT preparatory medium. Yes, the reader will find worthy words here like olfacatory,sybiosis,solecism, quintile and anachronism. He or she will also find many words like: semicolon, deflect, pedestrian, carnival, induce, dejected, compel, impartial, and sophisticated. Anyone needing to learn such words will find the SAT test to be a formidable challenge.
This is a standard-sized pocketbook that must be read with two hands to keep it from closing. The smallish font against the dull white paper is not easy on the eyes.
Others may find this book useful and edifying. I wish the author had included more examples for each root, fewer nonchallenging words, and exercises with addtional words for the reader to define using his or her knowledge of previously studied roots.
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