The Language Foundry: Vocabulary - 2nd/3rd Grade

Vocabulary is one key element in building a strong reader. A large vocabulary enhances a learner's communication in all areas: reading comprehension, writing, speaking, and listening. The goal of this class is for learners to study four high-level vocabulary words in each class, and which in turn, will enhance their overall understanding and application of the English language!

➡ What can you expect in each class? ⬅

I will begin each class by introducing myself, welcoming each learner to the classroom, and quickly going over my class expectations. I will have colorful, attractive, age-appropriate slides that we will use to facilitate our learning. Each class will follow the same systematic approach to learning and challenge your learner to apply the vocabulary words through whole group instruction, interactive discussions and activities, as well as independent practice.

The following process will be used to study all four vocabulary words. I will introduce each word, its definition, synonyms/antonyms, and an example of it in a sentence with a related picture. Learners will record their learning using a WORD MAP (on a regular piece of paper or the provided worksheet printed at home):

1. Word
2. Synonyms
3. Antonyms
4. Learner definition in their own words
5. Learner sentence using the new word
6. Picture representing the new word

*Please note that I will encourage all learners to record how they learn best - whether that is drawing a meaningful picture to represent the word, using the word in their own sentence, or copying a synonym or definition. If your learner prefers to copy everything on their word maps, they may not have enough time to do so during class. However, screenshots of all word maps (with notes from class) will be sent following each meeting! :)

While each learner completes their word map, I will be guiding them and recording on the screen to support as needed! In addition, I will be asking questions relating to the new word to have learners begin using and applying the new words in their speaking.

To deepen our understanding of each word while making connections to other words, the class will play an interactive game through Nearpod. Here, the learners will work together to climb the mountain by using the new words in sentences, deciding which word doesn't fit with the others, naming synonyms or antonyms, etc!

At the end of each class, I try to allow a few minutes for show and tell so learners can get to know one another better!

After class each week, I will send the Nearpod link to continue practicing these new words at home, as well as screenshots of each word map!

➡ What can you expect from the teacher? ⬅

✨ First and foremost, you can always expect a smile on my face. I have received so many compliments over the years of what a kind and patient teacher I am. 

✨ My goal during each and every class is to effectively teach the vocabulary words of each lesson, but also guide your learner to deepen their understanding and make connections of these words through fun and engaging activities. I try to provide as much guidance as needed to meet your learner’s needs, and challenge each learner as I see fit. I do so by giving each and every learner an equal amount of opportunities to actively participate during class. 

✨ Please note that your learner is always welcome to ‘pass’ if they choose, and I will return to them a bit later with another question/task! 

✨In addition, I will sometimes mute learners/the whole class to minimize the background noise during class. This can easily happen during class which can be distracting and make learning difficult for everyone. I will guide learners to unmute themselves, if needed, when it is their turn to talk. 

✨Also, the chat will be open for another form of communication with me, the teacher. Also, please know that the chat is only viewable by me and not other classmates. This helps reduce distractions and allows your learner a way to privately communicate with me if needed!

➡ What can you expect after class? ⬅

After every class, I will send a class summary with screenshots from class. I will also send a link to the Nearpod game for extra practice at home! The class recording will also be available.

➡ Examples of words we will learn! ⬅

Week 1: fragile, thesis, passion, specific
Week 2: redundant, clutch, loathe, convey
Week 3: precise, swiftly, rare, heap
Week 4: acknowledge, diverse, oppose, rival

Further weeks will be added.