As a teacher, it is important to be constantly introducing your students to new vocabulary. Research has found that, "lack of vocabulary is a key component underlying school failure for disadvantaged students" (Hart & Risley, 2010, p. 115). It is important for teachers to be introducing new vocabulary both directly and indirectly. During read-alouds as well as during independent reading, students should be constantly learning new words. If the classroom provides ample opportunities to become familiar with new words, children will begin to learn them without even realizing it. One unique way of introducing new vocabulary is creating a "Wonder Words" wall.
When the students are independently reading and come across a word that they do not know, they grab a post it and post the word up on the wonder wall. At the end of reading time, the class comes together and talks about the words that are posted up on the board. The students think of this activity as a scavenger hunt to find unfamiliar words and are learning new vocabulary at the same time! Another clever technique to use during read-alouds is "Picture Walks". Before beginning the book, the teacher goes through the book just examining the pictures on each page with the children. By doing this the children are able to use the photographs to better understand the meanings of the words when the teacher begins to read the story. Ideas such as the two above are great ways to promote vocabulary development while also making it fun!
The Wonder Words Wall is an awesome idea!! It is a great way to help develop a child's vocabulary. I think it would be a good idea if the teacher put the first word up, so that children feel more comfortable not knowing a word.
ReplyDeletePicture walks really are a fabulous avenue to discussing difficult vocabulary before reading a text. It helps children build on their background knowledge and prepare for difficult words they may not know how to read.
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