Evidence-Based Vocabulary Instruction

Pre- During Post

Reading Reading Reading

Word Meaning Graphic Organizers X X X

There are many graphic organizers that will help students better
understand word relationships and meanings. Examples
include: Frayer Models, Word Webs, Tree Charts, and Venn
Diagrams

Knowledge Rating Guide X

Students self-monitor by listing vocabulary they are learning and
then recording whether they 1) know it and can use it, 2) can
describe it but do not use it, and 3) don't know it and don't know
how to use it.

Semantic Feature Analysis X X

Students use a table to analyze features of vocabulary words
and compare words based on these categories. Good for
review.

Triple-Entry Vocabulary Journal X

Students divide paper into three columns: 1) word in context, 2)
definition in my own words, and 3) Picture/Memory Aid/Phrase

Word Sort X
Students cluster teacher-generated list of vocabulary words
using teacher categories or student generated categories.
Require students to provide reasoning and evidence for their
decisions.

Word Study X X
Engage in the structural analysis of the words (roots, prefixes,
suffixes) combined with contextual analysis.

List-Group-Label X X
A fun word association activity that gets students making
associations and working in small groups.

Possible Sentences X X
Pair students, give them vocabulary words from the text. Ask
them to 1) define the words then 2) write sentences based on
the definitions. Return to these sentences after reading to see
how well their sentences match the actual sentences from the
text and why they may differ.

Interactive Word Wall X X X

Students build sight word recognition and get support for their
writing by having a wall containing systematically displayed
words. Students interact with the wall by adding to it, changing
the organization of words, and using it as a reference tool.

Quick Write X X
Students free-write for no less than 3 and no more than 5
minutes about a word or related words before and/or after the
reading.