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| Image courtesy of http://linguistics.ohio.edu/opie/?page_id=1231 |
One of the most important aspects of learning a new language is becoming familiar with the vocabulary. According to Colorín Colorado (2007), a bilingual site for families and educators or English language learners, "Reading, writing, speaking, and understanding academic English happen in the classroom. Using a combination of [vocabulary] strategies will help ELLs to close the gap."
Below I've listed a few of the vocabulary strategies that I've used in the past, and I would love for you all to add to the toolbox. Understand that vocabulary development is essential for all students and the more tools you have at your disposal, the more effectively you will be able to develop this important skill.
Word Wall
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| Image courtesy of http://fabulousfish-stephanie.blogspot.com/2010/09/classroom-tour.html |
A variety of approaches can be used with this vocabulary development tool. I've had the most success with this activity when allowing students to select which words should be on the word wall. This allows students to take ownership of their own learning, and also seems to help them to learn the words more quickly.
I strive to utilize the word wall daily. One way I achieve this is through a daily "Word Wall Workout." Each day the exercise is different, and the goal is to get students to use the words, manipulate the words, evaluate the words, and synthesize the words.
Here's an example of a typical Word Wall Workout activity:
"Choose any word from the word wall. Pretend that the word is a brand name and design a brand logo. Your logo should reflect the essence or characteristics of the word."
Vocabulary Rating
Before beginning a chapter, story, unit, etc., select key vocabulary and give the words (without definition) to the students. Have students rate each vocabulary word using the following scale:
4- I know this word, and I could teach it to my neighbor.
3- I recognize this word, and I think I know what it means.
2- I've seen this word, but I don't know what it means.
1- I've never seen this word.
As you encounter the word in you story or unit, teach the word as it is used in context. Invite students to explore additional uses for the word.
At the end of the story or unit, have students self-evaluate their learning by having them rate the vocabulary terms again (Perhaps students will wish to add troublesome words to the Word Wall for more practice!).
In your comments, please provide additional vocabulary strategies that can be useful for students in any grade level. Perhaps they are strategies you've used yourself, or maybe you stumble across a strategy you'd like to use in the future. The idea is to build our toolbox!
