Secondary 2 Vocabulary | Technology & Science in Society

Secondary 2 vocabulary technology work becomes much more useful when students can discuss not only gadgets, but the systems, evidence, risks and social consequences behind them. This guide builds a Secondary 2 vocabulary theme around technology and science in society: innovation, data, privacy, automation, evidence, reliability, access, misinformation, sustainability and the trade-offs that appear when new tools enter everyday life.

Students searching for Secondary 2 vocabulary technology, science vocabulary, technology essay words, Secondary English vocabulary or words for technology in society need a bridge from concrete description to analytical language. “Phones are useful” is too broad. Secondary writing asks what they are useful for, what risks follow, who gains access, how information is verified, what happens to privacy, and whether a benefit is short-term, widespread, unequal or sustainable.

This page therefore teaches technology and science vocabulary through relationships: cause and consequence, evidence and claim, access and inequality, innovation and risk, convenience and dependence, efficiency and sustainability. Use it with the Singapore Vocabulary Guide, the Academic Word List for Sec 1 to 4 and the O-Level vocabulary route.

Quick Read

Level: Secondary 2, with transfer into Secondary 3 discursive writing.
Themes: technology, science, data, privacy, innovation, access, risk and sustainability.
Goal: explain trade-offs and consequences, not merely name devices.
Method: meaning → collocation → evidence → sentence → contrast → transfer.
Best practice: use the same vocabulary in English, Science, Geography and current-affairs reading.

120 Secondary 2 vocabulary words for technology and science in society

Technology and innovation

1. automation

Learn automation through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to technology and innovation. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

2. device

Learn device through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to technology and innovation. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

3. digital

Learn digital through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to technology and innovation. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

4. efficient

Learn efficient through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to technology and innovation. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

5. innovation

Learn innovation through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to technology and innovation. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

6. network

Learn network through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to technology and innovation. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

7. platform

Learn platform through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to technology and innovation. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

8. software

Learn software through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to technology and innovation. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

9. system

Learn system through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to technology and innovation. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

10. technology

Learn technology through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to technology and innovation. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

11. upgrade

Learn upgrade through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to technology and innovation. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

12. virtual

Learn virtual through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to technology and innovation. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

Science and evidence

13. analysis

Learn analysis through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to science and evidence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

14. data

Learn data through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to science and evidence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

15. evidence

Learn evidence through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to science and evidence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

16. experiment

Learn experiment through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to science and evidence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

17. hypothesis

Learn hypothesis through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to science and evidence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

18. method

Learn method through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to science and evidence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

19. observation

Learn observation through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to science and evidence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

20. reliable

Learn reliable through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to science and evidence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

21. research

Learn research through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to science and evidence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

22. result

Learn result through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to science and evidence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

23. variable

Learn variable through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to science and evidence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

24. verify

Learn verify through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to science and evidence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

Information and media

25. algorithm

Learn algorithm through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to information and media. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

26. content

Learn content through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to information and media. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

27. database

Learn database through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to information and media. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

28. information

Learn information through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to information and media. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

29. misinformation

Learn misinformation through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to information and media. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

30. source

Learn source through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to information and media. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

31. search

Learn search through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to information and media. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

32. signal

Learn signal through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to information and media. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

33. stream

Learn stream through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to information and media. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

34. viral

Learn viral through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to information and media. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

35. accurate

Learn accurate through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to information and media. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

36. bias

Learn bias through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to information and media. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

Privacy and security

37. access

Learn access through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to privacy and security. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

38. account

Learn account through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to privacy and security. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

39. consent

Learn consent through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to privacy and security. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

40. data breach

Learn data breach through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to privacy and security. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

41. identity

Learn identity through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to privacy and security. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

42. password

Learn password through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to privacy and security. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

43. permission

Learn permission through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to privacy and security. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

44. privacy

Learn privacy through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to privacy and security. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

45. protect

Learn protect through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to privacy and security. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

46. secure

Learn secure through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to privacy and security. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

47. surveillance

Learn surveillance through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to privacy and security. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

48. track

Learn track through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to privacy and security. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

Benefits and efficiency

49. accessible

Learn accessible through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to benefits and efficiency. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

50. convenient

Learn convenient through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to benefits and efficiency. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

51. efficient

Learn efficient through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to benefits and efficiency. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

52. enable

Learn enable through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to benefits and efficiency. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

53. improve

Learn improve through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to benefits and efficiency. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

54. productivity

Learn productivity through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to benefits and efficiency. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

55. rapid

Learn rapid through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to benefits and efficiency. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

56. reduce

Learn reduce through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to benefits and efficiency. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

57. save

Learn save through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to benefits and efficiency. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

58. simplify

Learn simplify through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to benefits and efficiency. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

59. support

Learn support through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to benefits and efficiency. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

60. useful

Learn useful through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to benefits and efficiency. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

Risks and dependence

61. addiction

Learn addiction through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to risks and dependence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

62. dependence

Learn dependence through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to risks and dependence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

63. distraction

Learn distraction through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to risks and dependence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

64. harmful

Learn harmful through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to risks and dependence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

65. misuse

Learn misuse through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to risks and dependence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

66. overuse

Learn overuse through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to risks and dependence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

67. risk

Learn risk through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to risks and dependence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

68. vulnerable

Learn vulnerable through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to risks and dependence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

69. exposure

Learn exposure through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to risks and dependence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

70. manipulate

Learn manipulate through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to risks and dependence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

71. unsafe

Learn unsafe through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to risks and dependence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

72. unintended

Learn unintended through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to risks and dependence. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

Access and inequality

73. affordable

Learn affordable through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to access and inequality. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

74. accessibility

Learn accessibility through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to access and inequality. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

75. barrier

Learn barrier through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to access and inequality. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

76. digital divide

Learn digital divide through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to access and inequality. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

77. equal

Learn equal through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to access and inequality. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

78. inequality

Learn inequality through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to access and inequality. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

79. infrastructure

Learn infrastructure through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to access and inequality. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

80. opportunity

Learn opportunity through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to access and inequality. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

81. resource

Learn resource through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to access and inequality. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

82. rural

Learn rural through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to access and inequality. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

83. urban

Learn urban through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to access and inequality. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

84. exclude

Learn exclude through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to access and inequality. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

Environment and sustainability

85. energy

Learn energy through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to environment and sustainability. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

86. electronic waste

Learn electronic waste through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to environment and sustainability. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

87. emission

Learn emission through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to environment and sustainability. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

88. resource

Learn resource through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to environment and sustainability. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

89. renewable

Learn renewable through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to environment and sustainability. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

90. recycle

Learn recycle through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to environment and sustainability. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

91. sustainable

Learn sustainable through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to environment and sustainability. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

92. consumption

Learn consumption through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to environment and sustainability. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

93. waste

Learn waste through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to environment and sustainability. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

94. carbon

Learn carbon through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to environment and sustainability. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

95. durable

Learn durable through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to environment and sustainability. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

96. efficient

Learn efficient through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to environment and sustainability. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

Ethics and responsibility

97. accountability

Learn accountability through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to ethics and responsibility. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

98. ethical

Learn ethical through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to ethics and responsibility. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

99. fairness

Learn fairness through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to ethics and responsibility. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

100. harm

Learn harm through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to ethics and responsibility. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

101. responsibility

Learn responsibility through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to ethics and responsibility. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

102. regulate

Learn regulate through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to ethics and responsibility. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

103. transparent

Learn transparent through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to ethics and responsibility. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

104. trust

Learn trust through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to ethics and responsibility. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

105. consent

Learn consent through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to ethics and responsibility. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

106. bias

Learn bias through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to ethics and responsibility. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

107. rights

Learn rights through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to ethics and responsibility. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

108. duty

Learn duty through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to ethics and responsibility. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

Change and society

109. adapt

Learn adapt through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to change and society. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

110. behaviour

Learn behaviour through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to change and society. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

111. change

Learn change through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to change and society. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

112. community

Learn community through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to change and society. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

113. employment

Learn employment through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to change and society. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

114. future

Learn future through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to change and society. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

115. impact

Learn impact through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to change and society. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

116. influence

Learn influence through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to change and society. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

117. replace

Learn replace through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to change and society. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

118. reshape

Learn reshape through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to change and society. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

119. skill

Learn skill through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to change and society. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

120. trend

Learn trend through the relationship it helps express. Define it plainly, add one natural collocation and write one sentence connected to change and society. Then write a second sentence from another domain—school, family, public services, environment or work. Transfer is the test that the word has become more than a one-topic label.

Technology vocabulary should answer five questions

What does the technology do?

Use function words such as enable, automate, process, connect, analyse, store or distribute.

Who benefits?

Use access, opportunity, convenience, productivity, support, affordability and inclusion.

What could go wrong?

Use risk, misuse, dependence, exposure, vulnerability, misinformation and unintended consequence.

What evidence supports the claim?

Use data, source, research, reliable, verify, result, observation and analysis.

What trade-off follows?

Use privacy, fairness, cost, sustainability, regulation, accountability and responsibility.

From simple statement to analytical statement

Technology is good.

Stronger version: Technology can improve efficiency, but the benefit depends on access, reliability and responsible use. The upgrade comes from specifying mechanism, condition or trade-off, not from adding difficult vocabulary for its own sake.

AI can help students.

Stronger version: Automated tools can support learning by giving rapid feedback, although over-reliance may reduce independent judgement. The upgrade comes from specifying mechanism, condition or trade-off, not from adding difficult vocabulary for its own sake.

The internet has lots of information.

Stronger version: Digital platforms provide wide access to information, but users still need to verify sources and recognise misinformation. The upgrade comes from specifying mechanism, condition or trade-off, not from adding difficult vocabulary for its own sake.

Apps know a lot about us.

Stronger version: Digital services may collect personal data, which creates privacy and consent concerns. The upgrade comes from specifying mechanism, condition or trade-off, not from adding difficult vocabulary for its own sake.

Machines can replace jobs.

Stronger version: Automation may replace some routine tasks while increasing demand for different skills. The upgrade comes from specifying mechanism, condition or trade-off, not from adding difficult vocabulary for its own sake.

New technology is expensive.

Stronger version: High costs can create access barriers and widen the digital divide. The upgrade comes from specifying mechanism, condition or trade-off, not from adding difficult vocabulary for its own sake.

Technology helps the environment.

Stronger version: Some technologies improve energy efficiency, but production and electronic waste can create environmental costs. The upgrade comes from specifying mechanism, condition or trade-off, not from adding difficult vocabulary for its own sake.

People use phones too much.

Stronger version: Heavy device use can become a distraction or dependence when it disrupts sleep, attention or relationships. The upgrade comes from specifying mechanism, condition or trade-off, not from adding difficult vocabulary for its own sake.

Science tells us what is true.

Stronger version: Scientific claims become stronger when evidence is reliable, methods are clear and results can be checked. The upgrade comes from specifying mechanism, condition or trade-off, not from adding difficult vocabulary for its own sake.

Social media changes people.

Stronger version: Digital platforms can influence behaviour by shaping what information users repeatedly see. The upgrade comes from specifying mechanism, condition or trade-off, not from adding difficult vocabulary for its own sake.

The Fencing Method: technology words that are easy to blur

data / information

Data are recorded facts or measurements; information is data organised or interpreted for meaning. Write one sentence for each word and one sentence where confusing them changes the claim.

privacy / secrecy

Privacy concerns control over personal access; secrecy is broader deliberate concealment. Write one sentence for each word and one sentence where confusing them changes the claim.

accurate / reliable

Accurate means correct; reliable means consistently dependable. A source can be reliable yet still contain an occasional error. Write one sentence for each word and one sentence where confusing them changes the claim.

innovation / invention

Invention creates something new; innovation can also improve or apply ideas in new ways. Write one sentence for each word and one sentence where confusing them changes the claim.

automation / artificial intelligence

Automation performs processes with reduced human intervention; AI is a broader set of systems that can perform tasks associated with intelligence. Write one sentence for each word and one sentence where confusing them changes the claim.

bias / misinformation

Bias is a systematic slant or preference; misinformation is false or inaccurate information. Write one sentence for each word and one sentence where confusing them changes the claim.

access / ownership

Access means ability to use or reach; ownership means legal or practical possession. Write one sentence for each word and one sentence where confusing them changes the claim.

risk / harm

Risk is the possibility of harm; harm is the negative outcome itself. Write one sentence for each word and one sentence where confusing them changes the claim.

efficient / sustainable

Efficient uses resources well; sustainable can continue without unacceptable long-term environmental or social cost. Write one sentence for each word and one sentence where confusing them changes the claim.

transparent / public

Transparent means processes or decisions are understandable and open to scrutiny; public simply means available or visible to people. Write one sentence for each word and one sentence where confusing them changes the claim.

Collocations for technology and science writing

1. analyse data

Retrieve analyse data as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

2. reliable source

Retrieve reliable source as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

3. verify information

Retrieve verify information as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

4. protect privacy

Retrieve protect privacy as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

5. gain access

Retrieve gain access as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

6. digital platform

Retrieve digital platform as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

7. scientific evidence

Retrieve scientific evidence as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

8. conduct research

Retrieve conduct research as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

9. ethical concern

Retrieve ethical concern as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

10. unintended consequence

Retrieve unintended consequence as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

11. rapid innovation

Retrieve rapid innovation as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

12. technical limitation

Retrieve technical limitation as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

13. security risk

Retrieve security risk as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

14. personal data

Retrieve personal data as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

15. digital divide

Retrieve digital divide as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

16. equal access

Retrieve equal access as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

17. sustainable technology

Retrieve sustainable technology as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

18. energy consumption

Retrieve energy consumption as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

19. electronic waste

Retrieve electronic waste as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

20. regulate technology

Retrieve regulate technology as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

21. transparent process

Retrieve transparent process as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

22. biased algorithm

Retrieve biased algorithm as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

23. misleading content

Retrieve misleading content as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

24. automated system

Retrieve automated system as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

25. improve efficiency

Retrieve improve efficiency as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

26. increase productivity

Retrieve increase productivity as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

27. reduce cost

Retrieve reduce cost as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

28. public trust

Retrieve public trust as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

29. responsible use

Retrieve responsible use as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

30. long-term impact

Retrieve long-term impact as a natural chunk. Then use it in one sentence that gives a benefit and one sentence that gives a limitation. This builds balanced secondary writing rather than one-sided slogan language.

How to write about evidence without overstating it

Technology and science topics tempt students to make large claims: “AI will replace all jobs”, “social media makes everyone addicted”, “technology saves the environment”. Stronger writing uses calibrated language: may, can, tends to, in some cases, evidence suggests, one risk is, a potential benefit is. These phrases control certainty and make the argument more credible.

Evidence vocabulary should match evidence strength. Suggests is weaker than demonstrates; associated with does not automatically mean caused by. This distinction is useful across English and Science.

How to write about trade-offs

A trade-off occurs when gaining one benefit creates a cost elsewhere. More convenience may require more data collection. Faster automation may improve productivity while disrupting jobs. Cheap devices may increase access while encouraging short replacement cycles and electronic waste. Students who can name trade-offs move beyond “good or bad” writing.

Use a simple frame: benefit → condition → cost → judgement. Example: “Online learning can improve access for students who cannot travel easily, but the benefit depends on reliable internet access and may disadvantage households without suitable devices.”

A 10-week Secondary 2 learning plan

Week 1: Technology systems

Core targets: automation, platform, network, device, software, system, digital, innovation. Build sentence pairs that show a benefit and a limitation. Retrieve older terms every session so the vocabulary becomes a system rather than ten separate weekly lists.

Week 2: Evidence

Core targets: data, evidence, reliable, verify, research, method, result, analysis. Build sentence pairs that show a benefit and a limitation. Retrieve older terms every session so the vocabulary becomes a system rather than ten separate weekly lists.

Week 3: Information

Core targets: source, misinformation, bias, algorithm, content, accurate, database, viral. Build sentence pairs that show a benefit and a limitation. Retrieve older terms every session so the vocabulary becomes a system rather than ten separate weekly lists.

Week 4: Privacy

Core targets: consent, access, privacy, surveillance, track, protect, secure, identity. Build sentence pairs that show a benefit and a limitation. Retrieve older terms every session so the vocabulary becomes a system rather than ten separate weekly lists.

Week 5: Benefits

Core targets: convenient, efficient, productivity, enable, improve, rapid, save, simplify. Build sentence pairs that show a benefit and a limitation. Retrieve older terms every session so the vocabulary becomes a system rather than ten separate weekly lists.

Week 6: Risks

Core targets: misuse, dependence, distraction, harmful, exposure, vulnerable, unintended, risk. Build sentence pairs that show a benefit and a limitation. Retrieve older terms every session so the vocabulary becomes a system rather than ten separate weekly lists.

Week 7: Inequality

Core targets: digital divide, affordable, barrier, access, inequality, infrastructure, opportunity, resource. Build sentence pairs that show a benefit and a limitation. Retrieve older terms every session so the vocabulary becomes a system rather than ten separate weekly lists.

Week 8: Environment

Core targets: sustainable, consumption, electronic waste, recycle, emission, renewable, durable, energy. Build sentence pairs that show a benefit and a limitation. Retrieve older terms every session so the vocabulary becomes a system rather than ten separate weekly lists.

Week 9: Ethics

Core targets: ethical, fairness, rights, accountability, regulate, transparent, trust, responsibility. Build sentence pairs that show a benefit and a limitation. Retrieve older terms every session so the vocabulary becomes a system rather than ten separate weekly lists.

Week 10: Mixed discussion

Core targets: combine benefits, evidence, risk, ethics and trade-offs in unfamiliar topics. Build sentence pairs that show a benefit and a limitation. Retrieve older terms every session so the vocabulary becomes a system rather than ten separate weekly lists.

30 transfer drills

Drill 1

Discuss AI in homework. Use one evidence word, one benefit word, one risk word and one ethics or access word. Then rewrite the paragraph from the opposite perspective without changing the factual vocabulary inaccurately.

Drill 2

Discuss facial recognition. Use one evidence word, one benefit word, one risk word and one ethics or access word. Then rewrite the paragraph from the opposite perspective without changing the factual vocabulary inaccurately.

Drill 3

Discuss social media recommendations. Use one evidence word, one benefit word, one risk word and one ethics or access word. Then rewrite the paragraph from the opposite perspective without changing the factual vocabulary inaccurately.

Drill 4

Discuss online shopping. Use one evidence word, one benefit word, one risk word and one ethics or access word. Then rewrite the paragraph from the opposite perspective without changing the factual vocabulary inaccurately.

Drill 5

Discuss self-driving vehicles. Use one evidence word, one benefit word, one risk word and one ethics or access word. Then rewrite the paragraph from the opposite perspective without changing the factual vocabulary inaccurately.

Drill 6

Discuss smart homes. Use one evidence word, one benefit word, one risk word and one ethics or access word. Then rewrite the paragraph from the opposite perspective without changing the factual vocabulary inaccurately.

Drill 7

Discuss medical technology. Use one evidence word, one benefit word, one risk word and one ethics or access word. Then rewrite the paragraph from the opposite perspective without changing the factual vocabulary inaccurately.

Drill 8

Discuss digital payments. Use one evidence word, one benefit word, one risk word and one ethics or access word. Then rewrite the paragraph from the opposite perspective without changing the factual vocabulary inaccurately.

Drill 9

Discuss remote learning. Use one evidence word, one benefit word, one risk word and one ethics or access word. Then rewrite the paragraph from the opposite perspective without changing the factual vocabulary inaccurately.

Drill 10

Discuss renewable energy. Use one evidence word, one benefit word, one risk word and one ethics or access word. Then rewrite the paragraph from the opposite perspective without changing the factual vocabulary inaccurately.

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Frequently asked questions

Should Secondary 2 students learn technical computer terms?

Some are useful, but broad analytical vocabulary has greater cross-subject value than rapidly changing product jargon.

Is technology vocabulary only for English?

No. Data, evidence, systems, variables, reliability and sustainability recur across Science and Humanities.

How can students avoid one-sided essays?

Build every topic around benefits, limitations, evidence, affected groups and conditions.

Should students use words such as algorithm and automation if they cannot explain them?

No. A word is not ready for writing until the learner can explain it and use it accurately.

How do parents practise this?

Choose one everyday technology and ask five questions: function, benefit, risk, evidence and trade-off.

How do teachers diagnose weak vocabulary?

Check whether the student understands mechanism, certainty, collocation and the difference between related concepts.

What is the best revision method?

Short spaced retrieval plus current-affairs or subject-reading application.

What shows mastery?

The student can discuss an unfamiliar technology with precise, balanced language rather than a memorised topic paragraph.

Final principle

Secondary 2 technology vocabulary should help students think, not just label. The strongest words describe relationships: evidence supports a claim, systems process information, access creates opportunity, risks create conditions, regulation creates boundaries, and innovation creates both benefits and trade-offs. When students learn those relationships, they can handle new technologies even when the product names change.

Return to the Singapore Vocabulary Guide for the complete vocabulary map.

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Secondary 2 Vocabulary Theme: Technology and Science in Society