What technique is effective for retention when studying for the Vocabulary section of the HESI?

Creating sentences with new words to contextualize them is an effective technique for enhancing retention in vocabulary study. This method allows learners to actively engage with new vocabulary, rather than passively memorizing definitions. By forming sentences, students make personal connections to the words, which can help reinforce their meanings and uses in real-life contexts. Contextualization aids comprehension, as it provides the learner with a framework that illustrates how the word fits into language and communication. Additionally, this approach encourages deeper cognitive processing, making it more likely for the words to be recalled in the future.

Other strategies, such as writing long essays or relying solely on memorization, may not facilitate understanding as effectively and might lead to superficial learning. Similarly, using flashcards without any contextual information can limit the ability to apply the vocabulary in meaningful ways. By comparing these techniques, it becomes clear that creating sentences is a superior method for achieving lasting vocabulary retention.