Tier 2 words

English

Definition

High-utility academic words that appear frequently across many subjects but are not everyday conversational words. Unlike Tier 1 words (basic words like 'happy') or Tier 3 words (domain-specific terms like 'mitosis'), Tier 2 words like 'analyze,' 'contrast,' and 'significant' are essential for academic success across all classes.

Examples

  • 'Evaluate' — used in science, math, and English to mean assess or judge
  • 'Conclude' — used across subjects to mean draw a final judgment
  • 'Justify' — used in math proofs and essay arguments alike

Related Terms

Cross-curricular terms Vocabulary strategies Act vocabulary High-frequency sat words

Study This Concept

Practice Tier 2 words with free review games in these units:

Vocabulary Unit 5: Academic Vocabulary