Hi, I agree and think we can teach those big words. My 4th grade teachers have all used Beck's vocabulary program (Elements of Reading: Vocabulary) this year and both students and teachers are excited about vocabulary. I think the key is to link vocabulary and literature and to make vocabulary acquisition exciting and engaging. Linda
Bev I think it might unmuddy things a bit is to think of it this way: If we teach those big words to ELLs and anyone else, in an appropriate way...ie with direct experiences...with visuals...with repetitions...with time to practice using the words in oral language through opportunities to turn and talk rather than fill in a vocab worksheet...then I think teaching the sophisticated vocab pays off. It is just making sure that we do vocab in authentic ways. It is keeping the expectations AND the support high that makes this kind of vocab teaching appropriate. The fun of learning big words is that it often feeds a drive for kids to want to learn more of them. Just listen to my below level readers in third grade going around and using "fervent" and using it appropriately! They show off! They want more words like it! In the end, I think that only helps those kids move forward. _______________________________________________ Mosaic mailing list [email protected] To unsubscribe or modify your membership please go to http://literacyworkshop.org/mailman/options/mosaic_literacyworkshop.org. Search the MOSAIC archives at http://snipurl.com/MosaicArchive.
