Not available to order
Publication date:
16 September 2010Length of book:
232 pagesPublisher
R&L EducationISBN-13: 9781607097280
Teachers are intuitively aware of the connection between academic vocabulary and reading comprehension. Unfortunately, despite what we know about active instruction of vocabulary that will be retained by our students, teachers often assign vocabulary but rarely teach it well. The results are akin to a salesman who says about his product, 'I sold it, but they didn't buy it.' Greenwood provides teachers with the hows and whys of effective vocabulary instruction, through the use of visual organizers, user-friendly appendixes, classroom vignettes, and simple, clear language, encouraging professionals to truly engage their pupils.
The Power of Words is a research-based yet practical book on vocabulary development. Written in an engaging manner and sprinkled with vignettes, Greenwood presents a valuable plethora of what he called "indirect, direct, general, and specific" vocabulary development activities appropriate for the middle and junior high school grades including English Language Learners. Chapter nine, "Word Play/ Vocabulary Activities," is my favorite because it contains activities built around Spoonerisms, puns, idioms, alliterations, etc. that students are sure to have fun with. In addition, the chapter on test preparation explains the various demands of the vocabulary component of high-stakes tests. I learned form this book and will make it required reading for my teacher education students.