Each 15-word lesson begins with a Word List. The alphabetized list gives pronunciations, parts of speech, and concise definitions, and uses each word in a sentence. Sentences are interesting, engaging, and provide a mnemonic anchor for the word. This selection is followed by a page of comprehension questions that either includes the vocabulary word or asks the students to include the word in their answers. For example, in Exercise D , students read 3 sentences, none of which contains the vocabulary word, and decide which situation described in the sentences suggests the word.
Narratives are about topics more suited for older students, and are in a more complex style.
They are followed by questions that either include the vocabulary words or are designed to elicit them in their answers. The Wordly Wise section, a popular feature of the original Wordly Wise, has been retained in all of the books. In a conversational tone, it deals with correct usage, gives information on interesting word histories, and points out common verbal pitfalls to avoid. Student favorites, the crossword puzzle and the Hidden Message puzzle, have also been retained. They provide a review of words from the preceding lessons.