Modeling Academic Language

Model Academic Language

Definition: The act of using academic vocabulary when teaching, when practicing the relevant skill, and in any generally applicable situation.

Purposes:

  • To teach academic vocabulary
  • To teach academic sentence structures


Step 1.
In lesson planning, make sure to note all of the required vocabulary needed for learning prior to the lesson and needed for testing after the lesson.

Step 2.
During the lesson and activities:

  • Provide written vocabulary lists, word walls, or another visual example of the vocabulary words.
  • Use the words orally in teaching mini-lectures and/or providing class instruction.
  • Include the language as part of expectations for student writing and/or speaking.


Step 3.
After the lesson and activities:

  • Review any words that are important to the subject matter.
  • Provide a glossary for self-monitoring and reviewing outside of class.
  • Be sure to incorporate general usage of academic language outside of the lesson.


This strategy focuses on advancing academic communication. Do not be afraid to sound intelligent in front of students, and don’t be afraid to challenge your students' language. Just because our students are young does not mean that we should talk to them as if they were less intelligent. That is to say, don’t talk to your kids like children, so to speak.

For information about modeling academic language, check out https://www.edutopia.org/blog/8-strategies-teaching-academic-language-todd-finley 


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