The new school year is just around the corner, and it is normal to feel a little overwhelmed as you prepare to get back to school. There is so much to think about – new classes, new teachers, and maybe even a new school.

One of the challenges can be getting used to all the new words and terms you will hear every day and avoiding mistakes. Whether it’s understanding your schedule, figuring out what your teachers expect, or just keeping up with your homework, knowing the right words can make everything a lot easier.

That is why a list of the top 24 back-to-school vocabulary words has been put together to help you feel more confident. So, take a deep breath and get ready to dive into the new school year with confidence. Let these back-to-school vocabulary words be your guide to survive the new school year.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL VOCABULARY

General School Terms

1. Assignment

Meaning:  The first back-to-school vocabulary means a piece of work given to students.

Example: I have a lot of assignments to complete today and I have to finish them before Monday.

2. Curriculum

Meaning: The subjects studied in a school, college, etc., and what each subject includes.

Example: The school’s curriculum includes a wide range of subjects, such as Math, Science, English, etc.

3. Extracurricular

Meaning:  Activities that are not part of the usual school course.

Example: Extracurricular activities at this school cost parents a lot of money.

4. Group project

Meaning:  An assignment where students work together to achieve a common goal.

Example: Group projects allow us to work together and have a better understanding of our friends.

5. Recess

Meaning:  A break between classes for relaxation and play.

Example: During recess, his favorite activity is playing sports.

6. Report card

Meaning:  A document showing a student’s grades and progress in school.

Example: The whole class will receive their report cards today, showing grades and teachers’ comments about their performance. 

7. Schedule

Meaning:  A plan of times when events are supposed to happen; in school, it is also called a timetable.

Example: This is my final year at high school, and the schedule will be hectic.

8. Semester

Meaning:  Next back-to-school vocabulary describes half of the school year.

Example: By the end of the semester, she had completed all her assignments.

9. Syllabus

Meaning:  A document outlining the topics and expectations for a course.

Example: This is my final year at high school, and the schedule will be hectic.

Learning Tools

10. Chalkboard

Meaning:  A black or green board for writing on with chalk.

Example: Nowadays, teachers avoid writing on chalkboards since it is not good for their lungs.

11. Online learning platform

Meaning:   A website or app where students can find courses, homework, etc. on the Internet. 

Example: During COVID-19, all students were allowed to stay at home and learn via online learning platforms. 

12. Projector

Meaning:  A device that shows images or videos on a screen or wall.

Example: The projector is turned on to start presentations.

13. Textbook

Meaning: A book that shows information about a subject for people who are studying that subject.

Example: I forgot all my textbooks at home. Now I have nothing to learn. 

People at School

14. Class monitor

Meaning:  A student who is selected by the teacher as the leader in the class. 

Example: Being a class monitor means extra responsibilities. 

15. Classmate

Meaning: This is a back-to-school vocabulary for students who study in the same class. 

Example: I have 40 classmates, which makes it extremely difficult to remember all their names.

16. Counselor

Meaning: A staff member who gives students advice when they have problems. 

Example: The school now has a counselor to help students with academic and emotional problems.

17. Janitor

Meaning: The person who cleans and takes care of the school building and grounds.

Example: The janitor cleans all the classrooms before the lessons start. 

18.Principal

Meaning: This back-to-school vocabulary describes the person in charge of a school.

Example: Our English club needs to ask for the principal’s permission to hold a contest for the students. 

19. Teaching assistant (TA)

Meaning: A person who helps the teacher in teaching the students in classes. 

Example: From this school year, every class will have a teaching assistant to improve the learning experience.

Emotions and Attitudes

20. Motivation

Meaning: The final back-to-school vocabulary shows the need or reason for doing something.

Example: My motivation to go to school every day is that I can meet my friends.

21. Peer Pressure

Meaning: A feeling when you feel pressured to do something because your friends are doing it.  

Example: There is huge peer pressure to get high grades among students at this school. 

22. Self-discipline

Meaning: The ability to control your behavior and stay focused on your goals.

Example: Self-discipline will help you catch up with the new school year soon.

School Events

23. Assembly

Meaning: A gathering of all students and staff, often to say something important.

Example: There will be an assembly at the beginning of the new school year. 

24. Parent-Teacher Conference

Meaning:  This back-to-school vocabulary shows a meeting between parents and teachers to talk about how students perform at school.

Example: During the parent-teacher conference, the head teacher praised students with great grades in the first semester. 

Ready to Ace the School Year?

Now that you have these essential back-to-school vocabulary words, you’re ready to tackle the new school year with confidence. These terms will help you understand classroom instructions, participate in discussions, and stay organized. With this vocabulary in hand, you will be well-prepared to handle any challenges and make the most of the upcoming year. 

But do not stop there—boost your English skills even more with ELSA Speak! This back-to-school season, ELSA Speak is offering special deals to help you improve your back-to-school vocabulary, pronunciation, and speaking skills. Whether you are prepping for a presentation or just want to sound more fluent in class, ELSA Speak is the perfect companion to make this school year your best one yet. Do not miss out on these great offers – start practicing today and make every word count!

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