Academic Vocabulary
What is Vocabulary and Why is it Important?
Vocabulary development is important because in order to read fluently and comprehend what is written, students need to use not just phonics, but context. It is possible for students to read completely phonetically and not comprehend what they have read because they do not have the vocabulary. Therefore, vocabulary needs to be taught explicitly and be a part of the daily curriculum in addition to learning to read.
How is Vocabulary Explored in Our Classrooms?
Vocabulary is explored though mentor texts in Units of Study as well as developed through readers and writers workshop. Our students learn new words when they read with their teacher in book groups as well as during independent reading. They then put their knowledge of these words into practice in writer's workshop.
Vocabulary is usually structured in three different tiers:
Tier 1- These are words students have been using and hearing from an early age and are most familiar with. These words are commonly used by most students in everyday conversation with friends, family and anyone we come into regular contact with. These words can vary from child to child, but are basically the same. Students have the highest exposure with Tier 1 words.
Tier 2- Unlike Tier 1 words, Tier 2 words are not usually not usually heard or used in conversation so they have to be taught. A key point to understand is that Tier 2 words are often used and found in books and written text. Tier 2 vocabulary words often have multiple meanings. This tier can also be referred to as academic vocabulary words, these are attached below and broken down by month and grade level.
Tier 3- These words have a distinct purpose, usually related to a STEM topic, and are mainly used only when they relate to a specific topic or domain. When we use a Tier 3 word, there is a specific reason to do so, such as when we are learning about plants in a science unit or triangles during math class.
What is Academic Vocabulary?
Academic vocabulary includes words used in academic dialogue and texts. It does not include words students use in general conversation, but academic vocabulary relates to other familiar words that students do use. For example, rather than using the simple verb watch, an academic term would be observe. Academic vocabulary words help students understand oral directions and classroom instructions as well as comprehend text across different subject areas. Many of these words are ones students will encounter frequently in written texts. Tier 2 words will have an important impact on your child's comprehension skills.
Below are the academic word lists for grades K, 1, and 2. These lists are broken down into ten words for each month. Each word has a pronunciation guide, a definition, a visual, and a sentence. Please try to use these words at home with your child.
