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.
Heteronym: SEPARATE
“In science class, we used a filter to separate sand from water. Later, during group work, the teacher asked us to sit in separate tables to focus better. That afternoon, two friends had a small argument and decided to take separate walks to cool down. When I got home, I opened my drawer and saw three separate compartments for socks, shirts, and accessories. Hearing the word ‘separate’ reminded me that it can describe something divided, or it can be the action of dividing things.”
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
Separate (adjective) = /ˈsɛpɚət/ → “different, apart.”
Separate (verb) = /ˈsɛpəˌreɪt/ → “to divide.”
Intonation Practice
“We used separate bags.”
“The teacher asked us to separate into groups.”
“They live in separate houses.”
Expression Tip
Pay attention: separate as an adjective is shorter, while the verb is longer with three syllables.

SEVERAL MEANINGS
Adjective: apart, not joined.
Verb: to divide or split.
IDIOMS/EXPRESSION
Separate ways – to go in different directions.
Separate the truth from lies – to distinguish.
Separate but equal – historical phrase (use with context).