How does explicit instruction of academic vocabulary benefit students?

The explicit instruction of academic vocabulary is particularly beneficial because it helps students to not only learn the meanings of words but also to understand their usage within different contexts. This method fosters deeper processing of vocabulary, which is vital for retention. When students engage with vocabulary through explicit teaching, they are more likely to form connections, utilize words in their writing, and recognize them in reading, leading to long-term retention.

Additionally, explicit instruction often includes teaching word roots, prefixes, and suffixes, giving students tools to decipher unfamiliar words. This comprehensive approach supports vocabulary development in a way that is more impactful than incidental learning or simply exposing students to the words in texts. As a result, students can apply their vocabulary knowledge across various subjects and disciplines, enhancing their academic performance overall.