Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Marzano 1
Marzano, in Chapter 11 Teaching Specific Types of Knowledge, stresses the importance of teaching vocabulary to students even though there seems to be resistance to that idea. I, for one, adamantly agree with him, especially when it involves the study of history. The study of history is, essentially, the study of words - words that describe events, emotions, and thoughts. If we do not have an understanding of how words and phrases are used then we we be severely limited in our attempts to understand the written thoughts and recordings of those who have gone before us. This is why I include activities which develop vocabulary for my students in every unit of instruction. Each set of vocabulary words - as well as the vocabulary activities - is time period-sensitive, and the glossary I am developing includes the varied uses of each word in that glossary. The feedback I have received from students has been very positive, influencing me to continue - and enhance - my efforts in this area. I feel strongly enough about this to encourage all of you, my colleagues and peers, to do something of the same nature for your students.
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As our schools have increased so dramatically with ELL students, it is even more important that we teach our students vocabulary. Social Studies would definately included language that is not familiar to ELL learners--especially because even our non-ELL students would not be familiar with all the vocab. When I became ESL endorsed, it seemed like it really focused on best practices, which is what Marzano also focuses on. I agree that teaching vocabulary is important for all students.
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