Why vocabulary instruction matters

The home environment lays the groundwork Words should be shared… Children who grow up in homes where books and conversation are valued, generally do better in school. Additionally, children who grow up with adults who enjoy reading are more likely to read for pleasure. Reading to your child daily has a direct and positive impact on their vocabulary and this is further enhanced if you read to them in an interactive way. This means delving into the content of the story, and encouraging them to ask questions and make predictions.

When reading aloud, images, humor, tone of voice, exaggerated facial expressions, and gestures all strengthen understanding and retention. And vocabulary games are always a fun way to mix things up. Sources for further reading: [1] Neuman, S. Wright All About Words.

Increasing Vocabulary in the Common Core Classroom. Bringing words to life: Robust vocabulary instruction. New York: Guilford Press. Research on vocabulary instruction: Ode to Voltaire. Flood, J. Squire Eds.

New York: MacMillan. By continuing to use our site, you agree that we may store and access cookies on your device. Like this:. Ask them to talk about why they chose certain words. Most importantly, clarify and discuss the meaning of each word as you write it. Once the words are on display, challenge students to use the words in their own written and oral language.

Each day, add new words and spend a few minutes reading through and discussing previous additions. Digital tools and resources can also help in teaching words based on context and meaning, and make it easier to differentiate vocabulary instruction and practice.

For example, one digital solution called Vocabulary A-Z lets teachers choose from premade vocabulary lessons and word lists and connect them to their current topics of study or popular reading series. In addition, online and mobile game-based activities can be used to motivate students and extend their learning outside of the classroom.

Above all, activities like these develop in students a fascination with words that will last a lifetime. Timothy Rasinski, Ph. He also holds the Rebecca Tolle and Burton W.

Gorman Endowed Chair in Educational Leadership. He has written more than articles and has authored, co-authored, or edited 50 books or curriculum programs on reading education. He is past-president of the College Reading Association, which awarded him the A. Herr and Laureate Awards for his scholarly contributions to literacy education. In , he was elected to the International Reading Hall of Fame. Like this article?

Duy Dinh. Why is it important to have a rich vocabulary? Prev Next. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Close Privacy Overview This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website.

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