Vocabulary - Mrs Badcock
Literacy-The Big 6
VOCABULARY
Research has shown that there are six key components that contribute to successful reading and because of the importance of these components, they have become known as the 'Big Six’: oral language, phonological awareness, phonics, vocabulary, fluency and comprehension. The reading components of our school reading program focus on the Big Six.
Vocabulary
Vocabulary refers to the knowledge or words, including their structure (morphology), use (grammar) and meanings (semantics). It is fundamental to being an independent and successful reader and writer and is comprised of the words that are heard or read.
How does vocabulary contribute to reading success?
It is suggested that there is a significant correlation between early vocabulary development and later academic success and the link between vocabulary and comprehension also has an important impact on reading success.
Vocabulary at school
There are three Tiers of words that children come to know. Tier 1 words are basic to the English language and are learned by interacting to others. Tier 2 words are used by mature speakers and writers and can be used in a range of contexts and may have multiple meanings. Tier 3 words are those related to specific topics or technical words specific to areas such as Science, Mathematics and History. Instructional approaches to develop vocabulary at school include the following:
- Speaking and listening opportunities.
- Reading a variety of texts.
- Teaching multiple word meanings.
- Teaching vocabulary in word families.
- Focus words of the week.
- Word parts and origins.
- Word sorts.
- Word maps.
- Synonyms and antonyms.
What can parents and caregivers do at home to encourage vocabulary development?
Children's vocabulary and concept development is dependent on consistent, nurturing and interacting learning experiences with adults and peers.
Here are some ways parents and caregivers can encourage phonics:
- Practise reading to and with children to expose them to new words.
- Talk with children.
- Give simple, child friendly definitions to words.
- Say words several times. A child needs to hear a new word 4-12 times before it is added to their vocabulary.
- Encourage children to respond.
- Play word play games.