The Art & Science of Vocabulary Instruction

Support emerging readers' vocabulary with a balance of explicit instruction and in-context learning. 

DR. CRISTINA COMPTON
Director of Program Development
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This is the fifth installment in our Science of Reading series

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​Vocabulary is a crucial component of reading comprehension and literacy development. Understanding vocabulary and its significance is essential for educators as they work to support emerging readers on their journey to becoming skilled and proficient readers. In this fifth and final installment focused on the science of reading, we will unpack what vocabulary means, why it is important, and provide three promising practices that teachers can implement to effectively support emerging readers with vocabulary development.

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What is vocabulary in the science of reading?

In the science of reading, vocabulary refers to the collection of words that a reader understands, recognizes, and can use effectively in their reading and writing. It encompasses both oral vocabulary (words we understand and use in speaking) and print vocabulary (words we recognize and understand in reading). Vocabulary development is a multifaceted process that involves word learning, comprehension, and retention.

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Why is vocabulary development important? 

Vocabulary serves as the anchor connecting various critical reading skills, fostering a deeper understanding of phonological awareness, phonics, and fluency. In phonological awareness, it enhances recognition and discernment of sounds within words, ultimately aiding in the decoding and pronunciation processes. When it comes to phonics, a robust vocabulary equips learners with the ability to detect word structures and pronunciation nuances, enabling them to effectively apply phonics rules during reading.

Additionally, vocabulary ensures swift and accurate word recognition, which significantly contributes to reading speed and fluency. But perhaps most importantly, vocabulary enhances reading comprehension by giving readers the capability not only to recognize words, but also to understand their meanings within a text. Without a strong vocabulary, readers will likely encounter difficulties in grasping the core of what they are reading, ultimately hindering overall comprehension.

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Promising practices for vocabulary development

Plenty of vocabulary strategies exist, but issues arise when one approach is excessively emphasized or prioritized, potentially leading to minimal or even neglected use of others. For example, overreliance on explicit vocabulary instruction may lead to isolated word memorization without a deeper understanding of word usage in context. An effective approach strikes a balance between explicit instruction and in-context learning. Below, I present three promising practices, as well as concrete examples of how I implemented these practices in my classroom. I believe these examples encompass various methods for explicitly supporting young readers' vocabulary development. Ideally, teachers will utilize all three practices, at different times, to create a comprehensive and holistic approach to vocabulary instruction. 

Explicit Vocabulary Instruction
Explicit vocabulary instruction refers to a deliberate and systematic approach to teaching vocabulary, where educators directly and clearly teach specific words and their meanings to students. This method emphasizes the direct instruction of words, their definitions, and often includes strategies for using and applying these words effectively in reading, writing, and oral communication.

​This could look like: 

• Word Maps: Word maps involve students creating visual representations of words, including their definitions, synonyms, antonyms, and context sentences. I would often encourage my students to use these maps to deepen their understanding of vocabulary.
• Semantic Mapping: This can look like connecting new words to related concepts or ideas, helping students see how vocabulary fits into a broader context.
• Vocabulary Journals: In my classroom, I had students maintain vocabulary journals where they record new words, their meanings, and sentences using the words. I would encourage them to revisit and use these words in their writing and discussions.

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Contextual Learning
Incorporating in-context vocabulary learning alongside explicit instruction not only deepens comprehension and retention, but also fosters a holistic approach to vocabulary development. Students grasp word meanings better when they see words used naturally in sentences and stories, allowing for a more profound connection to the text.  So, in addition to explicit vocabulary instruction, we want to be sure we are teaching vocabulary as it arises naturally during reading, promoting both comprehension and vocabulary growth simultaneously. We can do this by promoting vocabulary development through context-rich reading experiences.

We can encourage students to: 

• Read Widely: Expose students to a variety of texts, including fiction, non-fiction, newspapers, and digital media. Different genres offer diverse vocabulary, enhancing their word knowledge.
• Infer Word Meanings: Teach students to use context clues to infer the meaning of unfamiliar words. Encourage them to make educated guesses about word meanings while reading. Support them in becoming word detectives​, a practice we explored in article four of this series! 
• Discuss Vocabulary: Engage in discussions about words encountered during reading. Encourage students to share their thoughts on word meanings and their importance in the text.

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Word Play and Games
Word play and games for vocabulary support involve interactive activities that make learning enjoyable and engaging. They encourage active participation, help students apply words in context, reinforce retention through repetition, promote social interaction, cater to various learning styles, and foster a deeper understanding of language. These activities are adaptable and instill a lifelong love for words, making them a strong approach to vocabulary development.

Some of my favorite word play and games include: 

• Word of the Day: I would introduce a new word every day, discuss its meaning, and encourage students to use it in sentences or short paragraphs. The students looked forward to learning the new word and practicing it in conversations and in writing. 
• Word Bingo: Fridays often became our word bingo days. In groups, the students would create bingo cards with vocabulary words and their definitions, and then play bingo with one another. 
• Scrabble and Crossword Puzzles: As part of station work, or choice time, the students would have the opportunity to play Scrabble or engage in crossword puzzles to promote critical thinking and vocabulary development.

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​Vocabulary development is a fundamental aspect of reading and literacy. In the science of reading, understanding what vocabulary is and why it's important is crucial for educators. By implementing explicit vocabulary instruction, contextual learning, and engaging word play and games, teachers can provide effective support for emerging readers, helping them build a strong foundation for successful, lifelong reading.  
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SUPPORTING EMERGING READERS

ELEVATING READING PROFICIENCY

ADVANCING LITERACY INSTRUCTION