Fraction Vocabulary
Ways to Teach Vocabulary
There are several strategies that you can use to work with your student on improving his/her vocabulary skills, both on paper and online. The following is a list that I have compiled to help you aid your child in understanding vocabulary for this unit and other units that we will cover in the future.
References:
Chard, D. (2003). Vocabulary Strategies for the Mathematics Classroom. Houghton Mifflin Math, 4. Retrieved November 20, 2012, from http://www.eduplace.com/state/pdf/author/chard_hmm05.pdf
Yip, F., & Kwan, A. (2006). Online vocabulary games as a tool for teaching and learning English vocabulary. Educational Media International, 43(3), 233-249. Retrieved November 18, 2012, from http://wiki.umd.edu/teamill /images/9/9f/Vicki%27s_article.pdf
- When using vocabulary that is new to your student, be sure to relate it to information that is familiar to him/her. Also, using manipulatives that your child can visualize is beneficial to their understanding as well. For example, if you are introducing the idea of equivalent fractions, showing your student that measuring out 1/2 cup of flour yields the same amount as measuring out 2 1/4 cups of flour.
- Graphic organizers can help your student make connections between vocabulary words. Having your students make personal connections to each vocabulary word will allow them to retain the words and their meanings. It will also greater the chance that they will be able to successfully use the words in later context.
- It is crucial that the appropriate words are used at all times when talking with your child about mathematical concepts and vocabulary. Please make sure that when speaking to your child about these terms, you are using the correct terminology.
- Using online games has been proven to help students retain vocabulary more easily than on paper activities. These games allow for the student to learn the material in a relaxed and fun setting. Therefore, more students are motivated to learn the material if they are learning it in such a setting as within a game. Below I have included such a vocabulary game. Hopefully your child will enjoy playing Word-O-Rama and will benefit from its learning opportunities that it provides.
References:
Chard, D. (2003). Vocabulary Strategies for the Mathematics Classroom. Houghton Mifflin Math, 4. Retrieved November 20, 2012, from http://www.eduplace.com/state/pdf/author/chard_hmm05.pdf
Yip, F., & Kwan, A. (2006). Online vocabulary games as a tool for teaching and learning English vocabulary. Educational Media International, 43(3), 233-249. Retrieved November 18, 2012, from http://wiki.umd.edu/teamill /images/9/9f/Vicki%27s_article.pdf
Online Vocabulary Game
Vocabulary City Word-O-Rama
Retrieved from http://www.spellingcity.com/WordORama-spelling-game.html?listId=4395446
Directions: This game is styled as a game show and the goal is to gain as many points as possible throughout the 10-15 question game. Supported by Spelling City, this game can be completely customizable to include any list of words, so this is a great vocabulary game for any subject or content area for your child. Each of the questions included in this game include either a definition of a vocabulary word, or a synonym/antonym, so your student will be working with a variety of vocabulary skills as well. Choosing the correct word for the specific prompt will yield more points to the total for the game. Your student will have a blast being the game contestant and will be determined to determine the correct vocabulary that matches each prompt.