Vocabulary


 * Vocabulary **
 * Checklist on Observation Tool 2012-13: **
 * Is content driven (ties to the UEQ or LEQ) ||
 * Is visible in the classroom in an organized/student-friendly way ||
 * Includes graphic representation of each word, when appropriate ||
 * Is previewed at the beginning of the lesson using interactive strategies ||
 * Is used by students throughout the lesson in reading, writing, and/or discussion ||
 * What Makes Vocabulary Instruction Effective? **
 * Students should NOT be given a list of words and be asked to look up definitions and to write sentences for each word. Research shows that this is a non-learning activity.
 * Used to preview new words or terms before instruction, to teach words in their context during instruction, and to summarize what was learned at the end of instruction.
 * Integrated into all content areas so that it becomes an intentional part of instruction.
 * Interactive and social for stimulating connections between new learning and prior knowledge.
 * Creating mental connections that bridge short-term and long-term memory.
 * Should not rely on definitions but on descriptions and examples.
 * Students must represent their knowledge of words in their own words and use graphic representations, pictures and pictographs.
 * Involves the gradual shaping of word meaning through multiple reading, writing and speaking experiences.
 * Teaching word parts (affixes/root words) enhances students’ understanding of terms.
 * Different types of words require different types of instruction and strategies.
 * Students should discuss the terms they are learning, as collaborative pairs, and use them in conversations and in their writing.
 * Students should play with words—games!

**Vocabulary Strategies Power Point from Summer PD 2012**

 * Elementary K-6:**
 * Secondary Combined Vocab/Summarizing:**