Page 131 - Reading Nest - The Supportive Literacy Environment Handbook

Vocabulary development

Development of vocabulary is not implicitly a reading activity yet it requires full attention
because the scope of vocabulary and knowledge are central to understanding the text. Reading

aloud can best expand vocabulary when teachers ask open questions during and after reading,
explain words in the context, expand meaning of words after the reading and give opportunities

for discussions. At least 2 to 3 words a day should be handled and research has shown that reading

and discussing related words are the best method for enhancing infants’ vocabulary.

For the development of speech and thinking, the texts which challenge children to think and

discuss are beneficial. Thus children’s development gains considerably when the teacher not only

reads fairy tales and fiction but also other texts, such as on animals, space, sport and technology.
It may be attractive to explore advertisements, game rules and so on together. A good text inspires

thinking, searching for cause and effect, discussion on meanings of words and comparison of
characters and events in the story with one’s own life. In conversations children share their

thoughts and experiences, debate and deliberate, pick up other children's ideas and see things
from a different point of view.