This week we are reading Chapter 6 from Tompkins in hopes of discovering useful methods for developing vocabulary in the classroom. When you are reading this chapter, you should try to keep in mind different strategies for vocabulary development that was linked to a Book Club. Also, when reading Tompkins trying to develop a definition of critical literacy, as well as teaching for social action. Happy reading!
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In my placement this year my CT uses weekly spelling tests and word walls to increase student vocabulary and spelling proficiencies. Unfortunately she administers these spelling tests toward the end of the day so I have been unable to observe how they work. So I asked her and she said they get a list at the beginning of the week and they have time to look the words up and complete various worksheets both spelling the words and using them in sentences. She said she has been using this method for a few years and it seems to get results. It seems relatively straight forward and it involves many of the characteristics of effective teaching like repetition, connection to background knowledge, strategy learning and meaningful use. However, I am curious if the children are actually learning these words. Or do they merely remember them for the test on Friday and then completely forget about them?
I haven’t seen any Basal reading books in our classroom. However my CT does conduct small reading groups (based on the children reading ability). And for these reading and discussion groups there are short story books and pre-made handouts. These have the characteristics of a basal reading program and often come with a basal-like supplement for the teacher. These include teaching strategies and approaches as well as alternate activities. I actually had lead one of these reading/discussion groups the other day with moderate success. The children and I talked about difficult words in the reading (vocabulary), they summarized and predicted what would happen next and they connected the reading their previous knowledge. I was content with how my first reading/discussion group went. Have anyone else had an opportunity like this?
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