Academic Vocabulary

Module Objectives

This module explores the concept of Academic Vocabulary by defining the term, explaining the instructional importance of a well developed academic vocabulary, and offering strategies for building that vocabulary in students. Estimated Time to Complete: 60 to 80 Minutes.

This module is related to NEE Indicator 1.1

At the end of this module, participants will be able to:

  1. Define Academic Vocabulary

  2. Explain why academic vocabulary is important to student success

  3. Identify terms from academic content that would be considered Tier 2 or Tier 3 words

  4. Identify strategies for building academic vocabulary

 


Activities

Review the activities below.

Cognitive Knowledge and Cognitive Engagement link 1
1. What is Academic Vocabulary?
Cognitive Knowledge and Cognitive Engagement link 2
2. Why is Academic Vocabulary Important in Your Content Area?
Cognitive Knowledge and Cognitive Engagement link 3 3. What Instructional Strategies Are Best for Teaching Vocabulary?
Cognitive Knowledge and Cognitive Engagement link 4
4. What Do Teachers Need To Know About Academic Language for English Language Learners?

 


Additional Resources

Developing Academic Vocabulary - a white paper by Beverlee Jobrack, summarizes the conclusions reached from research about teaching and learning academic vocabulary.

A Simple Method for Checking Student Vocab Comprehension During Tests by Dave Stuart Jr.