McREL publishes "road map" for systematic vocabulary instruction
April 17, 2008
Denver—A booklet published by Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning (McREL), Remove Limits to Learning with Systematic Vocabulary Instruction, provides teachers with help in creating and implementing a systematic approach to vocabulary instruction.
The 20-page booklet, written by McREL consultants Bj Stone and Vicki Urquhart, offers research-based principles to guide effective vocabulary instruction and strategies for translating the research into classroom practice.
Research shows that a student's vocabulary is foundational to success in school and, later, in the workforce. "Students' lack of everyday and academic vocabulary ultimately translates into shallow interaction with the print and spoken word, fewer job opportunities, and less income," the writers explain.
At the school level, variances in achievement among student subgroups can be partly attributed to differences in background knowledge, of which vocabulary is a "pivotal component," the authors write. Research indicates that vocabulary instruction, therefore, can help close the achievement gap, especially for students who are economically disadvantaged, are second language learners, or have learning disabilities.
Recommended strategies include identifying the terms and phrases critical for students to know, using a five-step method for direct vocabulary instruction, helping students organize and keep track of the words they're learning, and using effective assessments.
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McREL is a nationally recognized, private, nonprofit organization located in Denver, Colo., dedicated to improving education for all students through applied research, product development and service. In 2006, McREL provided research-based guidance to educators and policymakers in 42 states across the U.S.
