33 Domain-Specific Vocabulary

Chapter & Discussion

This chapter includes a presentation that can be navigated in a classroom setting or independently. You can access the presentation via the link below.

Science & Social Studies: Domain-Specific Vocabulary

Work through the different sections of the chapter and discuss ideas and topics as they arise. If you’re working independently, take notes instead. Notes and active discussion will be helpful in navigating this week’s assignments.

Overview

One of the challenges of Reading for Information, especially in science and social studies texts, is tackling domain-specific vocabulary.

Reading for Information texts are almost always specific to a field of study. That means that they will include vocabulary from that domain. We’ll study a few skills to deal with this.

First, we’ll practice vocabulary from the domains that matter most: science and social studies. Next, we’ll practice some strategies for figuring out what these terms mean from the context. Usually, these writers try to explain these terms as they go.

We’ll also practice how to decode new fords from their Greek and Latin roots.

Prior Knowledge

Most reading comprehension is built on prior knowledge in some way. This fact can help us to learn new words by anchoring our understanding on things we already know.

Research shows prerequisite vocabulary accelerates content area learning more than any other pre-reading activity. It prevents learning gaps.

So spending time upfront building a “base” vocabulary for science and social studies better equips learners to grasp specialized texts when it’s time to dive into the content area. It streamlines upcoming vocabulary acquisition.

From Context

Learning vocabulary from context is an important skill and reading comprehension strategy. Here are some key reasons why:

• Many new words are learned from context rather than direct instruction.
• Deciphering meaning from context clues allows readers to determine a word’s overall sense and usage without stopping to look it up. This supports fluency.
• Research shows that grasping vocabulary from context is better reinforced in memory over time than straight vocabulary drills.
• Our brains more effectively retain words learned in meaningful contexts.

Using Roots

Practicing Greek and Latin roots can be tremendously helpful when tackling domain-specific vocabulary, especially in subject areas like science and social studies. Here’s why:

Many complex terminology words used across various academic domains are derived from Latin and Greek origins. Recognizing these roots can give you clues to a word’s overall meaning.

Learning common Greek and Latin prefixes, suffixes, and root words equips you with the keys for deciphering unfamiliar words by breaking them down into word parts. It’s like recognizing helpful clues.

Assigned Reading

Here are this week’s readings. Additionally, please read for your own personal enjoyment for 1/2 hour each day. This will be called your “Reading Zone” reading and it will coincide with many upcoming activities.

The Educator’s Science of Reading Toolbox (via the National Center on Improving Literacy)