Learning new vocabulary

Try to ensure that new vocabulary is topic based and can be linked to or grouped with other words, e.g. living things; plants/animals, types, etc. Start with the big picture first so that the pupil can place the new word within a conceptual framework:

■ Get the class to ‘brainstorm’ links and meanings of the new vocabulary.

■ Link to real-life ‘active’ situations so that the word has meaning for the pupil.

■ Use multi-sensory approaches: color, shape, feel of materials.

■ Encourage the pupil to be aware of the word’s sound structure ‘ha/bi/tat’ and how it looks in written and pictorial formats.

■ Provide opportunities for reinforcement of key words, regular revisiting to test that the pupil has remembered the new words, providing opportunities to use vocabulary in a range of contexts and/or curriculum activities.