Literacy
"From Primary to High School: Supporting Your Teen's Vocabulary Development at Home"
As your child progresses through high school, they will gradually transition towards a more independent homework style, leaving behind the traditional methods of primary school such as spelling sheets, sight words, and weekly readers. Despite this growing independence or reluctance to show you their assessments, there are still ways that you can support your teenagers in developing a strong and sophisticated vocabulary.
Vocabulary acquisition is a critical part of your student's education, and as parents, you play a vital role in helping your children engage with this aspect of learning. Studies have shown that adolescents with stronger vocabularies are more likely to succeed both academically and in the job market.
So, how can you help your teenagers engage with learning and strengthening vocabulary at home? Here are three strategies to try:
• Encourage independent reading: encouraging kids to read for pleasure is one of the most effective ways to develop their vocabulary and reading skills. Offer your child chances to encounter books or other literary texts, including magazines or poetry, and allow them time to read. Additionally, teens who read for pleasure are more likely to develop empathy and social skills.
• Incorporate conversations about vocabulary into daily life: try to use new and challenging vocabulary in conversations with your teenager. Play word games together or try a word of the day app. When you read an unfamiliar word together, look up the definition and discuss how it can be used in different contexts.
• Read and discuss the news: viewing, listening to, or reading news articles is an excellent way to expose your teenager to new vocabulary and ideas. Encourage your child to engage with articles from a range of sources, and then discuss the main points and any new vocabulary.
While the era of primary school homework is over, it is essential to recognise that vocabulary acquisition remains a crucial aspect of your children's education. Every word, every page, and every conversation counts towards fostering their ongoing literacy development and paving the way for success.
