Teresa Watson

A Professional Development Initiative for Developing Approaches to Vocabulary

Teresa Watson

Vocabulary is one of the most important components in any subject. Until recently, vocabulary was not thought of as important to subjects such as math or science. Proper usage of words, in any subject, can make all the difference in a student’s learning process. Words are a part of everyday life for every individual. Whether we know the correct usage, definition, part of speech, etc. is directly related to our universal knowledge. We make connections to other words from the time we learn to speak and we keep learning throughout our lives. This article helps with identifying strategies to assist struggling learners to deepen their comprehension of words and how to make connections to further their understanding in the learning process. Everyone, including the smartest teachers, need to expand our vocabulary.

I was once told by a supervisor that “the more you know the more valuable you are as an employee”. Vocabulary understanding becomes more evidently needed as you grow in your everyday life. Words at work can have totally different meanings than those in other areas.

Education is the one thing that no one can take from you. Your home, job, family and money can all be taken away, but what you have learned will stay with you forever in some fashion.

?Questions?

Are there other strategies than those mentioned in this article that can be integrated into helping students learn?

How much new vocabulary at one time is too much?

Are there any suggestions for creative ways to incorporate vocabulary into math and science classes?