What are some ways you
can teach the vocabulary presented within science and social studies?
The vocabulary within the subjects of science and social
studies are much larger and or more words for each unit. It is important for
the students to understand the vocabulary-by understanding the vocabulary the
students can then comprehend the lesson that goes with it. One of the best ways
to learn vocabulary is by creating flash cards. Flash cards are a fast and easy
way to learn new words: it also allows the student identify the word when given
the definition or identify the definition when given the word. Another way to
learn vocabulary is to have the student look up the words in a dictionary then completing
a worksheet; they use the word in a sentence, describe the word in their own
words, or draw a picture representing the word. There are many other ways to
teach vocabulary these are just two strong ways. It’s important to figure out
what works best for the student.
How can you prepare to
teach both of these subject areas?
There are a few ways to prepare for these subject areas. The
first is researching strategies to help implement the lesson. Another is to
understand the subject area it’s and further be able to complete the activity
you are asking the students to complete. This puts you in the frame of mind of
the student. You can also work through any ‘kinks’ that may happen with that
activity. As an educator it is not enough just to teach a lesson you also must
understand the subject area. Makes for a more full rounded educator.
Moving from
same/differences to creating metaphors and creating analogies
This concept can be hard for our DHH students. One way to
help them is by modeling metaphors and analogies. Model through speech but also
visual examples well. Also putting the student in a language rich environment
will help as well.
I agree that flashcards are a great tool for vocabulary. I like that you mentioned flashcards can be used in two ways: the student can give the definition or the student can read the definition and give the word. I like your idea on giving the student a worksheet. Writing down the information on a word can really help the student remember it better. I think it is important that students learn how to gain the information on a word. Doing all of these things for one word will really help it stick in their brains. However this can be time consuming.. but I think it is worth it.
ReplyDeleteI like that you include researching strategies to help prepare. This is very important for teachers to do. There are numerous strategies out there that will help us teach the information to our students. It is important that we see what works for each student individually.
I agree that modeling is a huge part of helping these students with metaphors and analogies. It is going to take a lot of direct teaching and a lot of practice for them to become familiar with these concepts and start using them in their writing. We just need to make sure that we encourage the use of them as much as possible.