PR-6216IRE Reading For Success - Book 1

Vocabulary
Use a rich vocabulary
Developing vocabulary – 1
This may be stating the obvious; however, teachers can do a lot to improve pupil vocabulary by being
conscious of using a rich vocabulary throughout the day and throughout the year. At the beginning of each
month, select several words you would like to incorporate into your everyday language. See Selecting
vocabulary words on pages 133–135 for ideas for choosing vocabulary. For example, you may want pupils
to be aware of the term print. Substitute the word print for words on every opportunity you have to do so.
Read-alouds
Most teachers are already aware of the far-reaching benefits of read-alouds as an important way to develop
vocabulary. By hearing books read aloud, pupils are provided with examples of rich vocabulary used in a
variety of sentences and contexts. An especially useful strategy is to select books related to topics
currently being studied or to select vocabulary from the books being read (see Selecting vocabulary words
on pages 133–135). Pupils gain a better understanding of words as they hear them repeatedly and in a
variety of contexts.
Objects
Bring objects from home into the classroom. By seeing and touching an object, pupils are more likely to
remember the vocabulary word, as well as other information about the object.
Literature-based – Bring an object related to a piece of literature that is being read in class. For
example, bring a stone to school when reading the book Stone soup. Either prior to, or after reading the
story, discuss the word stone. How is a stone different and the same as a rock? Relating objects to a
story helps to develop vocabulary, as well as helping pupils remember the story better.
Curriculum-based – Consider areas in the curriculum from which you can bring objects. For example, if
you are studying plants, bring a variety of types of plants for pupils to
observe. Many children have never seen a cactus or a Venus fly trap.
Observing and learning about these plants helps pupils understand
more about characteristics of plants and provides first-hand
knowledge of these terms.
Usual and unusual objects – There are many objects with which
pupils may have had limited experiences. Many of the objects can be
found right in your own home. Others are easily obtained from a
supermarket. Page 118 provides a list of items for you to consider.
Keep adding to the list.
Viewing sample
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