Nourishing Vocabulary: Balancing Words and Learning

All children need a strong verbal foundation in order to participate fully in school experiences. Aligned with findings from the National Reading Panel Report, Nourishing Vocabulary emphasises the importance of supporting students' academic development with targeted vocabulary instruction that includes a wide range of language forms and words.

The authors provide sound theory and practical techniques to help teachers bridge the achievement gap by strengthening vocabulary, deepening literacy skills, and raising performance levels for all children. This rich resource includes a wealth of specific strategies for:

• Vocabulary acquisition
• Read-alouds and independent reading
• Decoding unknown words
• Helping students distinguish between language patterns at home and at school.

When fully explored, a literacy program focused on vocabulary building, problem solving strategies, word consciousness, and an appreciation for oral language can result in meaningful, complex learning experiences that contribute to students' academic and real-world success.

Table of Contents

Foreword

Acknowledgments

About the Authors

Introduction

An Overview of the Vocabulary Pyramid

The Nature of Word Learning

Developing an Overall Vocabulary Plan

Planning Instruction for Primary Students

Planning Instruction for Upper Elementary Students

Planning Instruction for Secondary Students

Differentiating Instruction for English Learners and Students With Special Needs

Vocabulary Assessment and Evaluation

Programmatic Change

Reference Materials for Teaching English

Reproducible Materials

References

Index

"Goes to the next level by focusing on increasing the number of vocabulary words taught and teaching the students so that they can become more independent vocabulary learners-the end goal of all learning. You can develop a complete, holistic vocabulary program for your school."
- Karen Landress, Speech/Language Pathologist

"This book addresses not only the need for vocabulary development, but also tools to use in the classroom. I liked how easy the tools and strategies were to work into everyday classroom activities and across the curriculum. Very practical."
- Stephanie Malin, Elementary Instructional Coach

"If you want a well-researched, complete, easy-to-use resource filled with effective strategies for teaching vocabulary, look no further. Lubliner and Scott have done an excellent job of marshalling the best ideas on vocabulary development and teaching. This book will definitely be on my bookshelf."
- Dana L. Grisham, Interim Associate Dean

"I was intrigued by the innovative strategies for the older student. The book addresses the difficult realities with secondary students who come into the US educational system with little or no English instruction."
- Jana Perkins, ESL Teacher and Literacy Coach

"Provides effective, doable strategies to promote vocabulary development. The variet of activities and strategies gives students, especially English Language Learners, balanced vocabulary instruction."
- Patricia Preut, Reading Specialist and Educational Consultant