Vocabulary refers to the words students must know to communicate effectively. It is a critical element of language instruction (August, Shanahan & Escamilla, 2009). In each unit of Connect, students learn new vocabulary that relates to texts and thematic content. The vocabulary highlighted in the Vocabulary in Context section is selected specifically because of its portability and application across academic areas. Students will practice using new vocabulary in reading, writing, speaking, and listening activities in each unit. The vocabulary terms are presented first with visual supports and example sentences to support meaning. Students have an opportunity to discuss and learn new terms before they encounter them in the context of the unit reading text. Academic vocabulary is also taught throughout the units as it applies to support students’ understanding of cohesion and text structures. References August, D. Shanahan, T., Escamilla, K. (2009) English Language Learners: Developing Literacy in SecondLanguage Learners--Report of the National Literacy Panel on Language-Minority Children and Youth. Journal of Literacy Research, 41(4), 432-452. Instructional routine • Explore and learn Take time to learn about ELs’ families, backgrounds, experiences, and cultures. Capitalize on opportunities to incorporate the knowledge they possess. • Practice Conduct the following steps: 1. Write the new word on the board and on the Word Wall. 2. Read the word aloud as students, first asking students to close their eyes and listen to the sound. 3. Re-read the word, this time indicating to students to read the word silently. 4. Have students repeat the word chorally at least twice. 5. Have students write the word in a vocabulary journal. 6. Define the word for students, offering synonyms and a clear explanation using words they can understand and gestures. Provide visual supports (images) when possible. 7. Have students restate the definition chorally and then ask for volunteers to say the definition in their own words. Use this to check comprehension. 8. If appropriate, give examples and non-examples of the word. 9. If time allows, have students add visuals, the full definition of the word, and the word as used in the sentence in a vocabulary log. NOTE: Keep terms on the word wall posted throughout the year to refer to. Add to the wall each unit. • Communicate Support multilingual learners in making connections between English terms and words from their home languages. Depending on a student’s home language, point out sounds or word parts that are similar or the same in English. Where applicable, point out cognates as they are valuable teaching tools for young learners. Identify word parts that are familiar and bridge between what students know and new information. Give students the opportunity to practice using new terms in context verbally and in writing. • Assess Conduct ongoing informal assessment of students’ progress. Observe students as they are speaking with peers, reading orally, and writing. Make note of observations and use what you see to inform re-teaching and reinforcement of new vocabulary. VOCABULARY Txxiii
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