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Word Aware
Word Aware
As a school, we have been improving the way we teach vocabulary by using the Word Aware Vocabulary Approach (Stephen Parsons and Anna Branagan). This is a structured programme where teachers select the right level of vocabulary and use a range of strategies to help children learn, retain and use the words independently.
We are focussing on vocabulary because words are important
An understanding and use of a wide vocabulary is needed to succeed at school and in life. To progress with reading, children need to understand the words they decode. To write well they need a wide and varied use of words. To understand all subjects including maths, science and social studies they need to understand the words that are used.
Home support for vocabulary makes a difference
Children will learn words at school, but if they also come across these words at home they will learn them faster and better. Home and school, working together, gets to a place neither can on their own.
You can help your child by having fun with words
By playing with words children are also learning about words. We all know that children learn best when they are enjoying themselves. You do not need fancy games or gadgets to develop vocabulary; you just need a little conversation.
It is about talking as much as reading and writing
Speaking and listening are the foundation skills for reading and writing. If your child has the word in their spoken vocabulary, it is much easier to understand when they come across it in reading. Expose your child to spoken words as well as supporting their reading.
Use the words yourself
When talking about words, use comments more than questions so that your child hears you use it.
Children learn words when they listen to stories
