Distributed by Learning A-Z, the paper shares guidelines for effective, engaging, and intentional vocabulary instruction
Tucson, AZ—June 2, 2020—Research shows that understanding word meaning accounts for as much as 80 percent of reading comprehension. However, the traditional approach of teaching vocabulary through rote memorization is not highly effective, with many students quickly forgetting the words they “learned.” In a new white paper titled “Vocabulary Instruction: Essential for Proficient Reading,” Dr. Timothy Rasinski, a professor of literacy education at Kent State University and director of its award-winning reading clinic, explains how vocabulary instruction can be made more engaging and effective.
The paper, which is published by Learning A-Z, discusses the challenges as well as the importance of vocabulary instruction. It also points out the correlation between ineffectual vocabulary instruction and students’ ongoing lack of literacy progress nationwide. “Inadequate vocabulary acquisition is very likely one of the reasons that U.S. student reading achievement has not progressed for the last 30 years despite numerous national and state literacy initiatives,” said Rasinski.
“Vocabulary Instruction: Essential for Proficient Reading” expands the concept of vocabulary instruction beyond teaching new words or teaching words in isolation. It encourages teachers to weave vocabulary instruction into what students are already reading or studying in different content areas. It describes how teachers can help students learn new meanings for words they already know, and explore the meanings and uses of figurative language. Additionally, the paper details the principles of effective, engaging, and intentional vocabulary instruction to guide educators in developing or choosing an effective vocabulary curriculum.
Rasinski holds the Rebecca Tolle and Burton W. Gorman Endowed Chair in Educational Leadership in the School of Teaching, Leadership, and Curriculum at Kent State University. He has written over 200 articles and has authored, co-authored, or edited 50 books or curriculum programs on reading education. He is past-president of the College Reading Association, which also awarded him the A. B. Herr and Laureate Awards for his scholarly contributions to literacy education. In 2010, Dr. Rasinski was elected to the International Reading Hall of Fame.
For a free copy of “Vocabulary Instruction: Essential for Proficient Reading,” visit: https://www.learninga-z.com/site/resources/research-and-efficacy/rasinski-vocabulary-instruction.
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Cambium Learning Group is an award-winning educational technology solutions leader dedicated to helping all students reach their potential through individualized and differentiated instruction. Using a research-based, personalized approach, Cambium Learning Group delivers SaaS resources and instructional products that engage students and support teachers in fun, positive, safe and scalable environments. These solutions are provided through Learning A-Z (online differentiated instruction for elementary school reading, writing and science), ExploreLearning (online interactive math and science simulations, a math fact fluency solution, and a K–2 science solution), Voyager Sopris Learning (blended solutions that accelerate struggling learners to achieve in literacy and math and professional development for teachers), and VKidz Learning (online comprehensive homeschool education and programs for literacy and science). We believe that every student has unlimited potential, that teachers matter, and that data, instruction, and practice are the keys to success in the classroom and beyond.
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