Larry Bell’s Power Words

Who is Larry Bell? 
Dr. Larry Bell is an internationally known educational consultant and author.  He was a classroom teacher who noticed students who were failing standardized tests were getting "tripped up" by certain words and missing the question even though they knew the answer. 

What do we mean by powerful words?
Dr. Bell created a list of 12 Powerful Words that can be incorporated into all classes and daily life to make a positive impact on test scores.  These are power verbs that are frequently used in test questions and stump students.  These words direct learning to concentrating on higher order thinking skills and are beneficial for all students.

What is SBCUSD doing with these words?
Teachers, administrators, and staff will be promoting these 12 powerful words with our students.  The words will be used consistently in the classroom and throughout the school year.  Teachers will incorporate these words into class discussions, daily work, quizzes, and tests.

What can parents/guardians/teachers do?
Review the list of Power Words and use them with your child/student on a daily basis.  By incorporating these words in your child’s/students’ daily lives you will be helping to boost their academic achievement.

• Ask your student(s) to use the words in their written responses to homework. 
• Have your student(s) make up their own questions utilizing these words. 
• Print a copy of the word list.  Post them by the computer, on the refrigerator, inside the agenda and/or anywhere else your student(s) will notice it daily. Both tools for Agenda 12 Powerful Words Poster 12 Powerful Words (one word per page)
• Set the Power Words as your computer's background so your student(s) will see it every time they use the computer
• Create a contest to focus on a Power Word of the week and its usage.
• Point out these words when you notice them used on within text, TV, movies, or if you see the action connect it to the word.
• Reward your student(s)'s use of the 12 powerful words

Other Resources for Teachers

• Lesson to introduce the 12 Powerful Words 
• Set of cards needed for the introductory lesson 
• Set of cards for introductory lesson version 2, also has a sheet where they can list examples