Word: didactic (adjective)

Associations

"Didactic" means something that is intended to teach, especially in a way that is meant to instruct or give a lesson. It often has a sense of being educational but can sometimes feel a bit too instructive or preachy.

• Example 1: A didactic story teaches a moral lesson, like a fable.
• Example 2: A didactic teacher explains things clearly to help students learn.
• Example 3: A didactic tone in writing means the author wants to teach the reader something important.

Synonym: "educational" is similar but more neutral and positive, while "didactic" can sometimes imply the teaching is a bit too forceful or boring.

Substitution

You can use words like "educational," "instructive," or "informative" instead of "didactic," but:

• "Educational" is more general and positive.
• "Instructive" focuses on giving instructions or information.
• "Didactic" often suggests a lesson with a moral or a clear purpose to teach.

Deconstruction

• Root: from Greek "didaktikos," meaning "apt at teaching."
• Prefix/suffix: No separate prefix or suffix here; it's a direct borrowing from Greek.
• Historical context: Originally used to describe works meant to teach, especially in literature or art.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a book or movie that was didactic? What lesson did it try to teach?
• How do you feel when someone is too didactic? Does it help you learn or feel bored?
• Can teaching be effective without being didactic? How?