As an educator with nearly 20 years of experience, I realize just how important vocabulary and spelling learning is to our children. It truly is one of the pivotal concepts in preparing a child for reading and especially writing. Children learn vast amounts through the ability to read, however, in conjunction with their reading skills vocabulary learning is paramount.
Children can gain a greater comprehension of subject matter if they incorporate vocabulary drill and practice on that subject. I have seen time and again students who struggle with a topic, turn to vocabulary instruction on that topic, and after they have mastered the terms and understand the definition and can apply them to real life contexts – the student seems to gain mastery over the subject as well!
There are so many great programs out there today to help the homeschooling family with building vocabulary. Many people prefer to learn vocabulary through lists and by the paper and pencil method. Yet, others – like my family – really enjoy using an online vocabulary and spelling tool. We have our lists already entered and each child can work at their own pace mastering the lists that I chose for them. There are great vocabulary word games that your children can play which strengthen their ability to apply the words in context. It’s a cinch and it gives our children a powerful tool for reading and writing!
