Break up medical terminology into word parts (i.e., prefix, root, suffix) and abbreviations. This technique is especially effective when learning long and complex words such as "Esophagogastroduodenoscopy." The beginning part of a medical term typically relates to size and color, whereas the middle part typically refers to a function or part of the human body and the end typically refers to an actual problem.
Teach word roots. For example, explain that when "oste" is found within a medical term, it means "bone." Do the same for "myo," which means muscle; "neur," which means nerves; and "derm," which means "skin." Have students look for examples of root words in the Medline Plus dictionary or encyclopedia.
Use word associations. For example, associate the word "gastro" with gas-a common symptom of digestion. Include common words, not just medical words, so your students can make a clear association. Use flash cards, if possible, for greater effectiveness.
Learn how terminology for tests and procedures are put together. Create a list of common beginnings and endings for tests and procedures. For example, "ectomy" means to remove something and is the suffix for "hysterectomy" as well as mastectomy." Instruct students to use beginning or ending word parts to determine the type of test or procedure that is being done.
Bring together the beginning of a medical term with its root and suffix to learn the complete meaning. Explain that "echo" is the prefix for ultrasonic waves and when used together with "cardio" and "gram" means to use ultrasonic waves to monitor the heart (echocardiogram). Have the student practice this technique.
Use flash cards to put several word parts together to create word meanings. Start with simple words parts such as "colo" (colon) and "ostomy" (gaping). Write each word part on a flash card. Ask for the definition of the first word part. Combine the first word part with the second word and help the student combine the two for the final definition. For example, colostomy is the making of a hole in the colon.