Vocabulary Overview
Vocabulary Lessons: Introduction
Vocabulary refers to the words that one must know to communicate effectively by listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Vocabulary knowledge is important because it encompasses words necessary for accessing background knowledge, expressing and communicating ideas, and learning about new concepts.
Vocabulary instruction must also include indirect instructional methods, such as exposing students to many new words and having students read a variety of texts.
Vocabulary knowledge is an essential component of comprehension, language proficiency, and reading growth for all students. Research has consistently demonstrated a strong predictive relationship between vocabulary knowledge and reading comprehension.
These vocabulary activities are designed to enhance the instruction of all teachers of reading and to meet the learning needs of all students, as indicated by data.