VOCABULARY

VOCABULARY

01

TIER 1 VOCABULARY

Words encountered in everyday speech.

02

Words referred to as “general academic words.”

TIER 2 VOCABULARY

Teach explicitly

03

Words that are "domain-specific."

TIER 3 VOCABULARY

Teach implicitly

Lemov, D. (2015, June 19). From reading reconsidered: On teaching vocabulary. Teach Like a Champion. https://teachlikeachampion.org/blog/reading-reconsidered-teaching-vocabulary/

EXPLICIT VOCABULARY INSTRUCTION

Explicit instruction focuses on teaching a small set of new words in depth rather than briefly introducing multiple words. It emphasizes true mastery, requiring students to use words accurately in different contexts, adapt their forms, and understand their connotations. This approach ensures students gain a deeper and more flexible understanding of vocabulary.

IMPLICIT VOCABULARY INSTRUCTION

Implicit Vocabulary Instruction helps students absorb new words encountered during reading by using intentional strategies to increase retention and understanding. Unlike Explicit Instruction, which directly teaches specific words, Implicit Instruction focuses on maximizing word acquisition through exposure in context.

TIER 2 VOCABULARY

Tier 2 words are used across content areas and are important for students to know and understand in everyday life. Examples include:

• Fortunate
• Maintain
• Merchant
• Justify
• Explain
• Expand

• Summarize

TIER 3 VOCABULARY

Tier 3 words refer to content-specific vocabulary: words that are often defined in textbooks or glossaries. Examples include:

• Continent
• Atom
• Carnivore
• Isotope
• Tectonic plates
• Carcinogens
• Mitosis

TIER 1 VOCABULARY

Tier 1 vocabulary words are words that students encounter on a daily basis and typically enter school knowing. These include words like: clock, baby, happy, family, big, and small.