Teaching Content Area Vocabulary
Vocabulary Instructional Tools
Cognitive Mapping for Powerful Vocabulary Instruction
When students participate in content area lessons, they need to have a sound cognitive framework for reading and writing using multiple types of vocabulary in order to meet all of the demands instruction brings. Students need to have a bank of known words that relate to a content area such as history, science, etc. that are easily accessible. They need to have problem solving strategies in place to help them get at content related words they do not know. Students need to read and understand content area vocabulary in order to think deeply about what they read, and respond orally or in writing to related tasks. Students that do not have existing cognitive maps that support the learning of a content area may have difficulty learning and retaining information (Harmon et al., 2010). Using visual displays, semantic mapping, word sorts, close reading, and graphic organizers can increase acquisition of vocabulary and vocabulary related concepts (Allen, 1999). Instruction that promotes cognitive mapping is very powerful in that it aids in learning and recalling vocabulary.
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Too Little or Too Much? What Do We Know about Making Vocabulary Instruction Meaningful?
Cognitive Vocabulary Strategies
There are many approaches to vocabulary instruction, however, one model that experts seem to agree on is acquiring vocabulary through the use of cognitive strategies. This approach is designed to promote vocabulary attainment and problem solving strategies through cognitive mapping. Not only do students learn vocabulary, they learn how to learn vocabulary through gaining word learning strategies and "word consciousness,"(Allen, 2014, Harmon et al, 2010 ). Janet Allen, author of, "Tools for Teaching Vocabulary," suggests the use of a comprehensive vocabulary instruction that includes providing a high level of access to language and the time to study and discuss words, teaching individual words, teaching word learning strategies, and engaging students in interacting with words (Allen, 2014).
Visual Displays for Vocabulary Instruction
Students need to create semantic and cognitive maps in their minds for quick recall of vocabulary words. Vocabulary in content areas is often specific to a discipline. Language of any discipline can be very technical. Providing pictures that connect to the vocabulary can help build a cognitive map and make connections with new information. Engaging students in vocabulary study, discussions, and creating visual displays helps students learn and recall vocabulary much easier than skill practice.
Meaningful Vocabulary Instruction
According to Janet Allen, there are four types of vocabulary: general academic, discipline-specific, topic-specific, and passage-critical words (Allen, 1999). Strategies to increase learning in all four types of vocabulary should be fun and promote cognitive mapping. Strategies such as word jars, word sorts, categoizing words, word circles, and expert group topics help ensure that students are engaged and using vocabulary in a meaningful way.
Facts and Questions Ladder
Janet Allen suggests teaching word learning strategies through direct instruction and modeling how to use word learning strategies. Students can build flexibility in word learning and add to their vocabulary through using word parts, using context clues, and using multiple strategies at one time. Allen uses a fact and question ladder to deomonstrate word learning strategies, and engage students in word study.
Want to know more?
There are many resources on the internet for cognitive strategies that aid in vocabulary learning. Janet Allen has instructional Power Points, images, and reports on the internet that are easy to access and serve as excellent tools for learning and classroom use. You can find one of her Power Points at:
TOOLS FOR TEACHING ACADEMIC VOCABULARY
www.slideshare.net/.../tools-for-teaching-academic-vocabulary
Karen Mengel, Title I Reading Teacher
If you would like more information on cognitive vocabulary instructional strategies, you may contact me at the
Email: mengel@marshfield.k12.wi.us
Website: www.marshfield.k12.wi.us
Location: 425 Upham Street, Marshfield, WI, United States
Phone: (715)384-4747