Explicit Vocabulary Instruction for Adults with Reading Difficulties
Vocabulary is one of the strongest predictors of reading success and a critical instructional area to support a wide range of learners, including those with disabilities and those who are multilingual. Vocabulary development plays a key role in building background knowledge and supporting growth in word recognition, comprehension, and oral language. Given the breadth of vocabulary across subject area domains (e.g., math, science, social studies), it can be challenging to identify words to teach and the best instructional approaches to ensure student mastery of key terminology. In this practical session, participants will learn how to select valuable/Tier 2 words and how to deliver targeted vocabulary instruction using four research-validated strategies: inferring meaning from context and morphemic analysis, providing brief explanations, and offering powerful, robust vocabulary instruction.
