What are some ways to learn new vocab words?

Hello everyone. I'm setting goals for myself to learn 5 new words everyday (except weekends), and I'd like some advice. What are some methods you've used to practice new vocabulary words?

I've been writing out dialogues between characters, sort of like a screen play, just making up little scenes. I even use characters from anime sometimes if I don't feel like being creative. But what do you guys do? I think this could be a great thread for beginners like me.

I would suggest to combine your kanji and vocab learning using the DS 'game' for Japanese kids called 'Kakitori kun'. I've used it for years, 15 min everyday and it worked well for me up to approx. 500 kanjis (and loads of related vocab). Now I feel like moving to something else like reading real Japanese material.

Another one: Japanalicious is a vocab building method that a guy I know has just released. You can find it here: Japanalicious. Haven't tried it yet but it looks very good.

Hope that helps!