SPEAK with understanding
→ Read or Listen to the passage. Locate all of the meanings of the homonym or heteronym. Studying for a test: limit and time your responses to 30-60 seconds.

HOMONYM: WELL

“At my grandmother’s house, there is an old stone well in the backyard where water is drawn with a bucket. As children, we used to drop pebbles inside and wait to hear the splash. Last month, I caught a cold, and she called to ask if I was feeling well again. I told her I was back on my feet and ready for school. Later that week, I presented a project in class, and my teacher said it was very well done. My friends clapped, and I felt proud. When I started to thank them, I hesitated for a moment and said, ‘Well, I couldn’t have done it without your help.’ Everyone smiled at the pause.”

How many meanings did you find?

List of the different ways that this word can be used.

SPEAK w/ P I E

(Pronunciation Intonation Expression)

  • Pronunciation
    Well = /wɛl/ → sounds like bell

  • Intonation Practice
    “She is feeling well again.”
    “He completed the project very well.”
    “They drew water from the well.”
    “Well, let’s begin the meeting.”

  • Expression Tip
    Remember: The word will be stressed differently depending on how it is being used.

SEVERAL MEANINGS

  1. A deep hole for water.

  2. To be healthy.

  3. Done skillfully or in a good way.

  4. Used to introduce a thought (interjection).

IDIOMS/EXPRESSION

  • Well off – wealthy.

  • As well – also, in addition.

  • All’s well that ends well – if the result is good, the problems don’t matter.