The Vocabulary Playbook

Concepts, conversation, collaboration—vocabulary instruction is so much more than lists of words.

More is more when it comes to students’ vocabulary knowledge, and in The Vocabulary Playbook, educators in K-12 get ideas for transforming all children into curious, capable word learners. The key? Put away the word-list mindset, and embrace active modeling, peer work, and independent practice.

Five modules offer direct instruction and effective routines that show how to:

Select and teach only the most high-utility, transferable words that are ripe for discussionUse direct instruction to model word-solving in each content areaTeach morphology in ways that invite students to apply understandings in reading, writing, talk, and listeningTurn academic word-learning into a relevant experience with peer collaboration activitiesCreate a culture of word consciousness by emphasizing concepts, modeling curiosity, and offering "low-risk" routines that make it okay to not yet knowIntentional vocabulary instruction is critical in every grade, and in every content area. With The Vocabulary Playbook, your approach is now tactical, transparent, and fun. Whether you are an administrator executing a school-wide plan or a teacher eager for practical strategies, this is the book that will help students build academic success—word by word.