“Building Robust Vocabulary” provides a sample mini-unit of how to teach vocabulary using lessons from Bringing Words to Life, by Beck, McKeown, and Kucan (New York: The Guilford Press, 2002). It offers strategies to introduce the words, Do Nows, a game, homework, and a quiz. Many thanks to Jessica Majerus at Greater Newark Charter School for sharing these helpful models!
Another idea: WORD-COLLECTING, AKA "Make Your Own Dictionary."
To capitalize on teachable moments, have students collect new words as they emerge during class discussions. Establish a set of guidelines for what students should record each time: e.g., the word, a sentence using the word in context, and a user-friendly definition.
IN THE DOWNLOAD ZONE for Building Robust Vocabulary:
NOTE: For more information on how to teach ROOTS, see the “Root of the Week” category in the READING section. |
