WHAT ARE EFFECTIVE STRATEGIES FOR

TEACHING VOCABULARY TO ENGLISH

LANGUAGE LEARNERS?
Why is this important??
There is a large gap in vocabulary knowledge among ELL's and
students who speak English as their native language. Students
need a good vocabulary to read effectively and one of the best
ways to be introduced to new vocabulary is through reading.
ELL's with limited vocabularies struggle to read therefore, they
cannot be introduced to new words through reading, so how else
can we introduce and teach new vocabulary words to ELL's?

"In order to help students remember new words,

teachers can ask ELLS to associate the new words
with things that are already familiar to them, or the
teacher can translate the words into the students’
primary language." (Colorado, 2007)
"Students with smaller
vocabularies are at a greater
disadvantage in learning, and
this lack of knowledge too often
is the main barrier to their
comprehension." (Sibold, 2011)
 STRATEGIES
Strategy #1 - Take Advantage of Students’ First Language
Take advantage of students’ first language knowledge if this language shares cognates with
English. Students can figure out the meaning of new words in English using their cognate
knowledge. Students can make orthographic connections, phonological connections, and
connections based on sound alone to determine new words in English. However, teachers
must be aware of false cognates.
Examples: el radio (the radio), actividades (activities), accidente (accident)
False Cognates: asistir (to attend not to assist), largo (long not large)

Strategy #2 - Repetition For Academic Vocabulary

Repetition is key for learning a new word. Students need to hear a new word 17 times
before it is stored in long term memory. Introduce the students to a new word and attach a
visual along with that word. Have the students repeat the word out loud at least 3 times.
The teacher should then use the word in a sentence and explain its meaning. Then have the
students use the word in the sentence. Continue to present opportunities for the students to
practice using the words.

Strategy #3 - The Power of Games

Games can be a great way to reinforce an ELL's vocabulary. Instead of using flashcards with
word and definition students can play games to get them more engaged. Scrabble or other
teacher created interactive games like a form of Bingo can reinforce a students
understanding of new words and encourage enthusiasm when it comes to learning new
words.
Citations:
August, D., Carlo, M., Dressler, C., & Snow, C. (2005). The Critical Role of Vocabulary Development for English Language
Learners. Learning Disabilities Research and Practice, 20(1), 50–57.

Sibold, C. (2011). Building English Language Learners’ Academic Vocabulary: Strategies and Tips. Multicultural Education, 18(2),
24–28.