Introduction
This WebQuest takes you on an exciting journey to the world of linguistics. The following short task will familiarize you with the ways a word can enter the lexis of a lanuage. Moreover, you will have an opportunity to find definitions for terms related to changes in the meaning of a word. Let's begin!
Task
There will be three tasks. First, you will watch a short video, then answer questions about it. Finally, you will look up definitions using Google. You have to write down your answers in a Word document.
Process
1. Watch a 5-minute TED-Ed video on the subject.
2. Read the following questions, then open a Word document, start the video again, and answer the questions.
- How many words are currently used in the English language?
- What is one of the reasons we may need a new word in a language?
- What ways of creating new words are mentioned?
- How did the word "meme" come to life?
- What does 'autological word' mean?
3. Please do some more research on how the meaning of a word can change. With the help of Google, answer the following three questions in your document.
- What is semantic change?
- What does amelioration mean? (with an example)
- What does pejoration mean? (with an example)
Conclusion
Congratulations. You have completed the task. I hope you enjoyed the lesson.
Please indicate your name in the document, and send it attached to my email address.