Term

2007

Capstone

Restricted Access Thesis

Degree Name

MAESL

Abstract

Is the rich and intensive approach to vocabulary instruction effective in accelerating vocabulary acquisition among ELL students? Explicit vocabulary instruction is necessary, but methods targeting ELLs are rare. This capstone adapts Beck, McKeown, and Kucan’s rich and intensive method for vocabulary instruction in a general population (2002) to a curriculum designed for ELL students. The new curriculum involved reading and correlated vocabulary instruction strategies such as multiple exposures to words, and activities engaging higher thinking skills in and outside the classroom. Criterion- referenced classroom research included test scores indicating the method appeared to be highly successful with ELLs, despite language barriers. They showed measurable vocabulary acquisition, indicating that ELLs need multiple exposures and multi-faceted explanations of vocabulary words. Applications of rich and intensive vocabulary instruction show particular promise for ELLs.

dc_type

text

dc_publisher

DigitalCommons@Hamline

dc_format

application/pdf

dc_source

School of Education Student Capstone Theses and Dissertations

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