Remedial

/rɪˈmiːdiəl/ adjective

Definition

Designed to fix or improve a problem, especially in education when someone needs extra help to catch up.

Etymology

From Latin 'remedium' (remedy, cure) combined with the adjective suffix '-ial.' The root 'rem-' relates to 'remittere' (to send back), so originally meant 'sending back to health.' First used in English in the 16th century.

Kelly Says

Remedial classes have changed in purpose over time—they used to be purely about fixing deficiencies, but modern educators recognize that different learning styles mean 'remedial' isn't always about being 'behind' but sometimes just needing a different approach.

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