Date of Award
6-1-1989
Document Type
Practicum
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Center for the Advancement of Education
Advisor
Dr. Joan Horn
Keywords
college entrance exams, content area reading, context clues, generative vocabulary, honors sophomore students, keyword method, learning styles, mnemonics, parent information letter, reading, student extension activities, student performance, surveys, verbal development, verbal learning, vocabulary acquisition, vocabulary development, vocabulary improvement project, vocabulary retention, vocabulary tests, word games, word study, words
Abstract
Test scores, surveys, and student performance indicated that the target group of 62 honors sophomore students was not acquiring substantive vocabulary skills. A program incorporating the elements of an effective comprehension-based strategy involving definition knowledge with context, writing, student-generated vocabulary choices, and multiple exposures to the words was developed to improve vocabulary acquisition and retention. The results indicated a considerable gain in vocabulary acquisition, a good rate of retention, and positive student attitude toward the use of the varied strategies. Appendices include surveys, the pre and post-teat, strategy guidelines, parent information letter, analysis of scores, a examples assignment, and student extension activities.