Word Origins

English is derived from many languages around the world. Use the following words as examples to illustrate this.

  • typhoon – Chinese
  • wagon – Dutch
  • liberty – French
  • democracy – Greek
  • chipmunk – Native American
  • balcony – Italian
  • education – Latin
  • tomato – Spanish

Have your students use a dictionary to learn the origins of words you provide. In addition to gaining a greater appreciation of the English language, your students will improve their dictionary skills.