S Terms

Words in red should not be used. Alternatives are provided.

The terms below are preferred in material Cultivate Learning produces, except when a specific project or funder calls for different terms.

school

Unless referring to a program housed in a school, or a school – use early learning environment or program. 

school-age children

self

Words beginning with self are hyphenated, such as self-assessment, self-coaching, self-concept, self-efficacy, self-regulation, and self-regulate.

shoot

Avoid this word, especially in phrases like “shoot a photo or video.” Use “record video.” Photograph can be used as a strong verb, as well.

show-and-tell

Hyphenate.

smartphone

Avoid specific brand names like iPhone, Samsung, Google Pixel.

social emotional learning (SEL)

Lowercase. In most contexts SEL is acceptable on subsequent references.

spokesperson

Not spokeswoman or spokesman.

states

Washington State, but state of Washington; New York State, state of New York. Washington and New York often need the word state to distinguish them from Washington, DC, or New York City. However, if the context is clear, state can be omitted. Other states such as Oregon or California, can stand alone unless state is part of the proper name of a department or agency.

When using Washington State in any academic publication, be sure the context is clear, so it is not confused with Washington State University.

STEAM Trunk™

student

Use participant in adult learning courses. Use child or infant to refer to someone in an early childhood program. Use participant to refer to educators enrolled in a class or training.

student response systems (SRS)

Spell out in first reference. Let the context and audience dictate whether to use the initialism on subsequent references (See the section on acronyms and initialisms).