Enhancing Student Vocabulary
Using Interactive Read Alouds
Purpose
According to Pressley and Allington (2015) "To increase vocabulary development, surround the child with vocabulary-rich language. Read to a child and talk with a child during storybook reading and during formal vocabulary instruction, prompting the child to think about the to-be-learned vocabulary words in many, many ways".
Omaha Public School's Academic Action Plan includes specific references to vocabulary development with English Language Learners "The teacher uses a combination of rich and varied language experiences, teaches individual words, teaches word-learning strategies, and fosters word consciousness"
Student Created
Students illustrate their understanding of each teacher chosen vocabulary word
A Toolkit
A giant toolkit for students to use for revisiting familiar texts, building comprehensions skills as well as for word choice in their writing
Interactive
Students are actively involved in the story. They practice identifying and defining the teacher chosen words.
The Lesson Plan
- Choose a read aloud of high quality literature (see handout)
- Select 4-5 vocabulary words found in the text. Choose words that are supported by illustrations or can be illustrated by your students, are synonyms/antonyms to familiar words, will enhance your student's understanding of things in his/her world, enrich your student's comprehension of the story
- Show and discuss these words with students and practice a "signal" they will give when they hear it in the story. Pause and check for understanding/connections on the page the word is read.
- Second day, review words, re-read story, have students highlight with highlighting tape and illustrate words.
- Place the book in your classroom library for students to discuss and read with a partner.
- Play games such as "Four Corners" as a review strategy.
- Refer to the vocabulary board when conferencing with students during Writer's Workshop.
- Have fun...they will be excited about their new "Wow" words!