http://www.allsands.com/Writing/improvevocabula_pn_gn.htm
Whether you have a college education or never finished high school, below you’ll find six ways to improve your vocabulary. The more words you know, the better you’ll speak, write, and read.
Step One: Reflection
Take some time for reflection. Reflect and discuss your own writing or speech with your friends, family, coworkers, or classmates.
Step Two: Join Toastmasters
Toastmasters is an international organization that meets before work or during the lunch hour. Members give speeches to the group. It’s a great way to improve your speaking skills.
Step Three: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask
If people you know use a word you don’t know, don’t be afraid to ask them what it means. Rather than thinking that you you’re stupid, they’ll admire your courage in wanting to learn new words.
Step Four: Play Word Games
Scrabble is the oldest word board game. It’s played by many people and is a great way to learn new words. There are many other word games available at your local toy, game, or department store.
Step Five: Do Crossword Puzzles and Other Word Games
Start out with an easy book of crossword puzzles and work your way up. Do as many words in the newspaper crossword as you can. Then, wait for the answers and write down the new words you learn. Learn at least one word a day. There are some links to word games and word-a-day sites at the end of this article.
Step Six: Read More Books, Newspapers, and Magazines
When you reading, look up the words you don’t know. Keep a running list and practice using the new words while you’re speaking or writing.
Whatever you do to improve your vocabulary, have fun. Make it something you want to do, and you’ll begin reaping the benefits right away.
