Vocabulary
Vocabulary refers to the words children must know to communicate effectively. In school terms, it can be described as oral vocabulary or reading vocabulary. This section provides information about effective vocabulary instruction, the relationship between vocabulary and comprehension, and practical ways that parents can introduce new, exciting words to their children.
Featured partner:
National Education Association
Featured video
Our shows on PBS
Books for adults
In our blogs
Sound It Out
- Sophisticated words in the classroom
- Do more than read…talk!
- What's good for ELLs is good for all
- Knock, knock. Who's there? Jokes and riddles.
- Mindful of Words
- More...
Page by Page
Top articles
For parents
For teachers
- A Multidimensional Approach to Vocabulary Instruction: Supporting English Language Learners in Inclusive Classrooms
- Linking the Language: A Cross-Disciplinary Vocabulary Approach
- Instruction of Metacognitive Strategies Enhances Reading Comprehension and Vocabulary Achievement of Third-Grade Students
- A Teacher’s Guide to Using Newspapers to Enhance Language Arts Skills
- Using Cognates to Develop Comprehension
Comprehension strategies
Download and print
- Use Words to Teach Words
- Reading Tips for Parents
- Use Summer Fun to Build Background Knowledge
- Talking Counts!
- Reading Aloud to Build Comprehension
- More...
Reading Roundtable
Professional development webcasts
- English Language Learners with Learning Disabilities
- Assessment: On Track for Reading Success
- Establishing an Effective Reading Program
- Reading to Learn: ELL in Grades 4-6
- Make Reading Count: Effective Strategies for Teaching Comprehension
- Teaching English Language Learners to Read
- Comprehension: Helping English Language Learners Grasp the Full Picture
- Assessment of English Language Learners
- Making Parents Partners
- From Babbling To Books
Research
- Reading Storybooks to Kindergartners Helps Them Learn New Vocabulary Words
- Integrated Vocabulary Instruction: Meeting the Needs of Diverse Learners in Grades K-5





