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What is a Tier 3 Vocabulary?

Grade Level:

Class 3

NLP, Law, History, Social Sciences, Literature, Journalism, Communication

Definition
What is it?

Tier 3 Vocabulary refers to words that are very specific to a particular subject or topic. These words are not used often in everyday conversations and you usually learn them when you study a specific subject like Science, History, or Computer Science.

Simple Example
Quick Example

Imagine you're reading about computers. Words like 'algorithm' or 'byte' are Tier 3 words because they are specific to computers. You wouldn't use them while talking about your favourite cricket match or what you had for dinner.

Worked Example
Step-by-Step

Let's say you are reading a chapter on ancient Indian history.

Step 1: You come across the word 'archaeologist'. You might not have heard it in daily talks.
---Step 2: You understand from the context that it's someone who studies old things.
---Step 3: You realise this word is specific to the subject of history or ancient studies.
---Step 4: This makes 'archaeologist' a Tier 3 vocabulary word because it's highly specialised for that field.
---Answer: 'Archaeologist' is a Tier 3 word.

Why It Matters

Understanding Tier 3 vocabulary is crucial for success in specific subjects and higher studies. It helps you grasp complex ideas in fields like Law, Medicine, or Engineering. Doctors use medical terms, lawyers use legal terms, and scientists use scientific terms every day in their work.

Common Mistakes

MISTAKE: Thinking all new words are Tier 3. | CORRECTION: Only words specific to a particular subject (like 'photosynthesis' for biology) are Tier 3. Common words you learn are usually Tier 2.

MISTAKE: Not trying to understand Tier 3 words in context. | CORRECTION: Always try to guess the meaning of a Tier 3 word from the surrounding sentences before looking it up. The context often gives big clues.

MISTAKE: Memorising Tier 3 words without understanding their meaning or use. | CORRECTION: Focus on understanding what the word means and how it's used in its specific subject. This helps you remember it better and apply it correctly.

Practice Questions
Try It Yourself

QUESTION: Is 'democracy' a Tier 3 word when studying Social Science? | ANSWER: Yes, 'democracy' is a Tier 3 word in Social Science because it's a specific political term.

QUESTION: Your science textbook mentions 'gravity'. Is this a Tier 3 word? Why or why not? | ANSWER: Yes, 'gravity' is a Tier 3 word. It's a specific scientific term used to explain how objects are pulled towards each other, especially relevant in Physics.

QUESTION: Identify the Tier 3 word in this sentence: 'The lawyer presented the 'affidavit' to the judge during the court hearing.' | ANSWER: The Tier 3 word is 'affidavit'. It's a legal term specific to the law profession.

MCQ
Quick Quiz

Which of these words is most likely a Tier 3 vocabulary word?

Happy

Run

Photosynthesis

Big

The Correct Answer Is:

C

Photosynthesis is a specific scientific term used in biology, making it a Tier 3 word. The other words (Happy, Run, Big) are common words used in everyday language.

Real World Connection
In the Real World

When you read news about ISRO's space missions, you might encounter words like 'payload' or 'orbit'. These are Tier 3 words specific to space science and engineering. Understanding them helps you fully grasp the amazing achievements of Indian scientists.

Key Vocabulary
Key Terms

SPECIALISED: Meant for a particular purpose or group | CONTEXT: The situation or information around a word that helps you understand its meaning | SUBJECT: A particular area of study, like Science or History | DEFINITION: The meaning of a word

What's Next
What to Learn Next

Now that you understand Tier 3 vocabulary, you can explore Tier 2 vocabulary. Learning about Tier 2 words will help you improve your general understanding of texts and make your writing more interesting.

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