8 Characteristics of Effective Vocabulary Instruction Name: Bill Dalton 1. Effective vocabulary instruction does not rely on definitions What have I done with this characteristic in my instruction? 2. Students must represent their knowledge of words in linguistic and nonlinguistic ways What have I done with this characteristic in my instruction? Linguistic: Write down term definitions Non Linguistic: Projects, Power points, and lesson activities. 3. Effective vocabulary instruction involves the gradual shaping of word meanings through multiple exposures What have I done with this characteristic in my instruction? 4. Teaching word parts enhances students’ understanding of terms What have I done with this characteristic in my instruction? 5. Different type of words require different types of instruction What have I done with this characteristic in my instruction? 6. Students should discuss the terms they are learning What have I done with this characteristic in my instruction? 7. Students should play with words What have I done with this characteristic in my instruction? 8. Instruction should focus on terms that have a high probability of enhancing academic success. What have I done with this characteristic in my instruction?