Word: projects (noun)

Associations

The word "projects" refers to planned activities or tasks that require effort and resources to achieve a specific goal. It can also mean to present or display something, like an idea or a vision.

• Example 1: "She is working on several projects at her job." This means she has multiple tasks or assignments she is focusing on.
• Example 2: "The school has many projects for students to participate in." Here, it indicates activities or initiatives designed for students.
• Example 3: "He projects confidence when he speaks." In this case, it means he displays or shows confidence to others.

A well-known synonym for "projects" is "assignments." The main difference is that "assignments" usually refers to tasks given by someone, like a teacher, while "projects" can be self-initiated or collaborative.

Substitution

Instead of "projects," you could use:

• "tasks" (more general, not necessarily planned)
• "initiatives" (often implies new or innovative efforts)
• "endeavors" (suggests a more ambitious effort)

These substitutions change the nuance of the meaning. For example, "tasks" may feel more routine, while "initiatives" suggests something new and proactive.

Deconstruction

The word "projects" comes from the Latin root "proicere," which means "to throw forth."

• "Pro-" means "forward"
• "jacere" means "to throw."

Historically, it relates to the idea of throwing forward plans or ideas into action.

Inquiry

• Can you think of a project you have worked on recently? What was the goal?
• How do you feel when you start a new project? Excited, nervous, or something else?
• In what ways do you think projects can help you learn new skills?