As a social studies teacher I am always looking for new vocabulary building strategies. Here is a list of 10 simple vocabulary building strategies that any teacher can use regardless of subject area or grade level:

1. Use key words and concepts from textbooks and required readings to create vocabulary lists and make sure students have several opportunities to be exposed to each list of vocabulary words before formally assessing their knowledge of these words.

2. Create a word wall in your classroom.

3. Use prefixes and suffixes to expand the students’ vocabulary.

4. Play games with the vocabulary words such as Jeopardy, Scrabble etc.

5. Have students create their own games based on the vocabulary lists.

6. Have students create skits or “act-it-outs” with vocabulary words.

7. Require students to use vocabulary words in their writing assignments such as journal entries, letters, and dialogues.

8. Give students class time to use dictionaries and thesaurus as some students may not have access to these tools at home.

9. Have students make flash cards in class and provide review time during class.

And maybe the most important tip of all…

10. Tell students WHY they need to know the selected words and how this knowledge will help them in the “real” world.

By using these vocabulary building strategies in your classroom on a regular basis you will see a definite improvement in vocabulary comprehension.

Best Wishes,
Adam Waxler
http://www.TeacherInterviewTips.com
http://www.TeachingTeacher.com
http://www.52TeachingTips.com

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