1. Focusing QuestionFocusing Question | Mini Lesson | Writer’s Work Time | Lesson SummaryMini LessonWriter’s Work TimeLesson Summary Use Electronic Reference Tools Objective: Students will use the thesaurus and dictionary tools within Microsoft Word to replace overused words with more descriptive ones. Focusing Question: How can you use online reference tools to identify unique or vivid words to use in your writing? Strategy: To improve the clarity of writing by using Microsoft Word’s thesaurus and dictionary tools.

2. Focusing QuestionFocusing Question | Mini Lesson | Writer’s Work Time | Lesson SummaryMini LessonWriter’s Work TimeLesson Summary Mini Lesson Using dictionaries and thesauruses helps strengthen writing. The thesaurus is a tool that helps writers find better choices in words by providing lists of synonyms.

3. Focusing QuestionFocusing Question | Mini Lesson | Writer’s Work Time | Lesson SummaryMini LessonWriter’s Work TimeLesson Summary Writer’s Work Time 1.Reread your draft and identify ordinary or tired words. 2.Right-click those words to access the Synonyms option and lists of possible alternatives. 3.Think about the meaning you want to communicate when you review the lists of synonyms. 4.Use the dictionary function (Look Up) to find the definitions of any words you are unsure of. 5.Make any additional revisions that you have planned. 6.Resave your work in the Online Classroom.

4. Focusing QuestionFocusing Question | Mini Lesson | Writer’s Work Time | Lesson SummaryMini LessonWriter’s Work TimeLesson Summary What did the dictionary help you with? What did the thesaurus help you with?