Meaningful Use

“Students can gain some word knowledge from definitions, but generally only if they are given other types of information about the word (e.g., examples of how it is used) and opportunities to apply this information in meaningful tasks (Stahl, 1986; Stahl & Fairbanks, 1986).” (Nagy & Scott, 2000)

Engagement Matters.

Students are much more likely to develop deep and lasting knowledge of new words if they use the words in meaningful contexts. By using words to discuss meaningful ideas and issues, students are more likely to remain engaged. They are also more likely to develop a deep sense of what the words mean.

The ideal environment provides activities on a topic of real interest to students and the vocabulary is not the sole focus.

When students encounter and use new vocabulary while engaging in discussion, debate, and writing, they have the opportunity to think actively about what words mean and how new words connect to words they already know.