Vocabulary! Words and Meanings
Why is vocabulary acquisition important? • Achievement Gap (English Learners or low SES students vs. mainstream students) • Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP) • 3rd Tier Content Words
Explicit Instruction (when needed) • Abstract Concepts • Going Deep • Understanding Nuances Comprehension Quadrant (Frayer Model) • What it is.... • What it is NOT... Scaffolding • Examples of.... Sheltered Instruction • Visual
Do our students know what they are saying? “I pledge a lesson to the frog of the United States of American, and to the wee puppet for witches’ hands. One Asian, in the vestibule, with little tea and just rice for all.” ---Shirley Temple Wong, a 5th grade English Learner from China
Choose an academic word from the pledge. • Allegiance • Republic • Indivisible • Liberty • Justice
Can we have some fun now? • Lingo Bingo • Piece of paper • 15-16 vocabulary words • Definitions of words on cards • Loud instruments (optional) • Candy (optional) • Find your Partner • Pairs of cards • Missing word/picture match/definition • People Hunt/Quests • Pre-made handouts • Vocabulary expertly inserted • The need to read, write, listen, and SPEAK!
What do you remember? How will your students best acquire vocabulary?
Independent Reading • Culturally relevant, interesting, and appropriate texts that mirror students’ lived experiences
Where can I find diverse literature? Skipping Stones Honor Books Notable Books for a Global Society PuraBelpré Awards Wolds of Words (wowlit.org) Coretta Scott King Book Awards