Collocations Matter
Teach a subject term together with the words it naturally combines with in the required response.
Worked model: Collocations Matter
View the illustrated activity card
- 1Teach a subject term together with the words it naturally combines with in the required response
- 2Identify which words regularly work together
- 3Compare a plausible but inappropriate combination with the model
- 4Use the phrase to express a new subject idea
We draw a conclusion, support a claim and conduct an investigation. “Do a conclusion” may be understandable but does not provide the expected academic combination.
Teach the move
Prepare · 5 minutes
Choose a term and the verbs or nouns it naturally combines with in this task.
- 1
Teach a subject term together with the words it naturally combines with in the required response.
- 2
Identify which words regularly work together.
- 3
Compare a plausible but inappropriate combination with the model.
- 4
Use the phrase to express a new subject idea.
EAL upgrade
Remove the matching list and retrieve the complete phrase in context.
Keep the subject challenge. Offer one model, visual or language prompt where needed, then check a fresh independent response.
Try it tomorrow
Choose a term and the verbs or nouns it naturally combines with in this task.
Teach a subject term together with the words it naturally combines with in the required response. Identify which words regularly work together.
Ask learners to choose and use a phrase for a new result or source.
Remove the matching list and retrieve the complete phrase in context.
What to look for
Ask learners to choose and use a phrase for a new result or source.
Teacher language
Adapt these prompts to the task and your learners.
Our purpose is: Teach a subject term together with the words it naturally combines with in the required response.
Show the relationship and explain the choice you made.
Try the new case on your own. Show the detail or reasoning that supports your answer.
Which support do you still need, and which part can you now do independently?
Across subjects
Maths: solve an equation, calculate a mean. Humanities: challenge an interpretation, cite a source.
Adjust language support
Use a small word bank, visuals and partner rehearsal when needed. Extend with precise explanations and qualifications. Judge the support from the response to this task.