Final answer:
A less intimidating term for 'drill' is 'practice', which is more inclusive and emphasizes the educational purpose of the activity without the rigid connotations. Other synonymous terms like 'exercise', 'repetition', and 'training' can also serve this purpose, each with a slightly different focus.
Step-by-step explanation:
To select a less intimidating term for the word 'drill', one could choose practice. This term is neutral and suggests a non-threatening, routine activity aimed at improving skills or knowledge. In contrast to 'drill', which may evoke a rigid or intense connotation, 'practice' implies a more relaxed and repetitive activity that enables one to become proficient in a subject or skill.
In educational contexts, teachers or tutors might use words like 'exercise' or 'training' to describe activities designed to reinforce learning or to build competence in a particular area. For example, music teachers often refer to playing scales as an 'exercise' to improve students' technical abilities. In this sense, 'exercise' is a term that serves to lessen the pressure students may feel, while emphasizing the educational purpose of the activity.
Some students may find specific academic terms daunting, particularly if English is not their first language. Thus, it is helpful to use synonyms that are more accessible without altering the meaning. This strategy can foster a more inclusive learning environment and encourage students to engage more fully with the material. 'Repetition' and 'training' are other terms that could also serve this purpose, each with a slightly different emphasis - 'repetition' focusing on doing something over and over, and 'training' highlighting a program or course designed to develop skills.