9 Ways to Teach Vocabulary Through Reading in an ESL Class

Teaching vocabulary through reading is a great way to help ESL students learn new words. When students see words used in stories or articles, it helps them understand and remember these words better. This method makes learning more natural and enjoyable.

In this guide, we will show you 9 different ways to teach vocabulary through reading. We will cover techniques like pre-reading activities, games, discussions, and writing exercises. Each method has its benefits and can be adjusted to fit your students’ needs and make vocabulary class fun.

We will also talk about how to choose the best method for your class, track your students’ progress, and manage classes with different ability levels. By using these strategies, you can help your students improve their vocabulary, become more confident, and enjoy learning English.

Let’s explore these methods together to make your ESL classroom a place where students thrive and learn effectively.

What is Vocabulary?

Vocabulary is all the words that a person knows and uses. It includes the words we use to speak, write, read, and understand others. Having a good vocabulary means knowing many words and knowing how to use them correctly in different situations.

What is vocabulary in ESL?

In ESL (English as a Second Language), vocabulary refers to the English words that learners need to know to communicate effectively. This includes understanding the meanings, pronunciations, and correct usage of words in various contexts.

Building a strong vocabulary is essential for ESL students to improve their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in English.

So, how can you teach vocabulary?

Well, there are many ways to teach vocabulary to ESL students, each offering different advantages. One effective way is to teach vocabulary through reading.

This method helps students learn new words by seeing them used in stories or articles, which makes the words easier to understand and remember.

By including vocabulary lessons in reading activities, students can see how words are used naturally and improve their overall language skills.

1. Pre-Reading Activities

Before starting to read, it’s essential to prepare students by introducing key vocabulary. Pre-reading activities help students familiarize themselves with new words and concepts, making the reading process smoother and more comprehensible. This preparation builds confidence and enhances understanding.

Introduction to Key Vocabulary

Before diving into the text, start by introducing key vocabulary words that will appear. Write these words on the board and provide simple definitions. Discuss each word, explaining its meaning and usage in different contexts. This helps students become familiar with the words they will encounter.

Use sentences to illustrate how each word fits into everyday language. For example, if the word is “journey,” you might say, “My journey to the city was long and tiring.” This gives students a practical example of the word in use, making it easier to understand and remember.

Contextual Practice

Encourage students to use the new vocabulary in sentences before they see them in the text. Ask them to predict the meaning of each word based on the title of the reading material and any accompanying pictures. This engages their critical thinking and helps them make educated guesses.

You can also have students work in pairs or small groups to create sentences using the new words. This collaborative activity not only reinforces their understanding but also builds confidence as they practice using the words in a supportive environment.

Vocabulary Games

Incorporate fun and interactive games to reinforce the new vocabulary. Word matching games, where students match words with their definitions, can be very effective. Flashcards are another great tool; they can be used for quick review sessions and help students remember the words through repetition.

You could also try a game of charades where students act out the words while others guess. This physical involvement in learning makes the process enjoyable and memorable, helping students retain the vocabulary better.

2. Context Clues

Teaching students to use context clues is a valuable skill for vocabulary development. By looking at the words and sentences surrounding an unfamiliar word, students can often infer its meaning. This technique empowers them to understand new vocabulary independently.

Teaching Context Clues

Explain to students that they can often figure out the meaning of a new word by looking at the words around it. Context clues are hints in the surrounding text that help identify the meaning of an unfamiliar word. Teach them to look for these clues and use them to make educated guesses about the word’s meaning.

Give examples of different types of context clues, such as definitions, synonyms, antonyms, and examples within the sentence or nearby sentences. For instance, “The arid desert, which was very dry and hot, stretched for miles” uses the phrase “very dry and hot” to help define “arid.”

Practice with Context Clues

Provide sentences or short paragraphs where students can practice using context clues. Highlight or underline the unfamiliar words and ask students to use the surrounding text to infer their meanings. This practice helps students develop the skill of using context clues independently.

Create worksheets or digital activities where students match words to their inferred meanings based on context clues. This can be done individually or in groups to encourage collaboration and discussion.

Real-World Examples

Read a passage aloud to the class and pause whenever an unfamiliar word appears. Ask students to identify the context clues and discuss their guesses about the word’s meaning. This live practice helps reinforce the strategy and shows how it can be applied in real reading situations.

Encourage students to keep a vocabulary journal where they note down new words and the context clues they used to infer their meanings. Reviewing these journals regularly helps solidify their understanding and makes it easier for them to recall the words later.

3. Read Aloud and Discuss

Reading aloud and discussing the text allows students to hear and practice new vocabulary in context. This method provides an opportunity for immediate clarification and reinforcement of new words. It also engages students actively in the reading process.

Reading Aloud

Start by reading the text aloud to your students. This allows them to hear the correct pronunciation of words and helps them follow along with the flow of the text. Hearing the words in context can also aid in understanding their meanings and usage.

Pause occasionally to check for comprehension and discuss any challenging vocabulary. This not only helps students understand the new words but also keeps them engaged and actively thinking about the text.

Discussing New Vocabulary

During the read-aloud session, stop when you come across a new or difficult word. Ask students if they know what the word means. If not, explain the word using simple language and provide examples of how it can be used in different sentences.

Encourage students to ask questions about any words they do not understand. This promotes a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable seeking clarification and learning from their peers’ questions as well.

Using the New Words

After explaining the new vocabulary, ask students to use the words in their own sentences. This practice helps reinforce their understanding and enables them to remember the words better. You can do this orally or as a quick written activity.

Additionally, discuss the importance of these words in the context of the text. Explain how understanding these words enhances their comprehension of the overall story or information being conveyed. This ties the vocabulary learning directly to their reading experience.

4. Vocabulary Lists

Creating and reviewing vocabulary lists is a structured way to ensure students learn and retain new words. By focusing on essential vocabulary from the reading material, students can build a strong foundation of useful words and phrases that enhance their comprehension and expression.

Creating Vocabulary Lists

After selecting a reading passage, create a list of important vocabulary words from the text. Write these words on the board or provide a printed list for students. Include definitions and example sentences for each word to give students a clear understanding of how the words are used.

Make sure to choose words that are crucial for understanding the text and that students are likely to encounter again in future readings. This helps them build a strong foundation of essential vocabulary.

Reviewing Vocabulary Lists

Review the vocabulary lists regularly with your students. Go over the words, their meanings, and example sentences. You can do this as a class activity or in small groups, depending on the size of your class and the level of your students.

Incorporate different activities like matching games, flashcards, or quizzes to make the review sessions engaging. The goal is to reinforce the students’ understanding and help them retain the new words.

Using Vocabulary in Context

Encourage students to use the new vocabulary words in their speaking and writing activities. Assign tasks where they have to write sentences or short paragraphs using the words from the list. This practical application helps them remember the words and understand how to use them correctly.

Create opportunities for students to use the new vocabulary in discussions or presentations. This not only boosts their confidence but also reinforces their ability to use the words in real-life situations.

5. Graphic Organizers

Graphic organizers, such as word maps and semantic webs, are visual tools that help students understand and remember new vocabulary. These tools illustrate the relationships between words and their meanings, making vocabulary learning more engaging and effective.

Using Word Maps

Introduce word maps as a tool to help students understand and remember new vocabulary. A word map is a visual organizer that shows the relationships between a word and its meanings, synonyms, antonyms, and examples. Start by writing the new word in the center of the map.

Around the word, create branches for its definition, synonyms, antonyms, and an example sentence. Encourage students to fill in these branches. This visual representation helps students see how the word connects to other words and concepts, making it easier to remember.

Semantic Webs

Semantic webs are another type of graphic organizer that can help students grasp the meaning of new vocabulary. Write the new word in the center of the web and draw lines connecting it to related words and concepts. This could include categories, functions, or situations where the word might be used.

For example, if the word is “ecosystem,” the web might include branches for “plants,” “animals,” “environment,” and “interactions.” This helps students see how the word fits into a larger context and understand its broader significance.

Practical Application

Have students create their own word maps or semantic webs for the new vocabulary words. This can be done individually or in small groups. Encourage them to be creative and add illustrations or colors to make their organizers more engaging.

Review the completed graphic organizers together as a class. Discuss the connections and examples that students have come up with. This collaborative review reinforces their learning and provides an opportunity for students to learn from each other’s ideas.

6. Interactive Activities

Interactive activities like word-matching games, flashcards, and Bingo make vocabulary learning fun and engaging. These activities provide repeated exposure to new words in a playful context, helping students remember and use them more effectively.

Word Matching Games

Word matching games are a fun way to reinforce vocabulary learning. Create cards with vocabulary words and separate cards with their definitions. Students can work in pairs or small groups to match the words with their correct definitions. This activity encourages collaboration and helps students remember the meanings of the words.

You can also turn this into a timed competition to add excitement. The group that matches all the words correctly in the shortest time wins. This playful approach makes vocabulary practice more engaging and less monotonous.

Flashcards

Flashcards are a classic tool for vocabulary learning. Create flashcards with the vocabulary word on one side and the definition and an example sentence on the other. Students can use these cards for self-study or pair up to quiz each other.

Digital flashcards are also effective and can be created using apps like Quizlet. These apps often include interactive features like games and quizzes, making the learning process more dynamic and enjoyable.

Vocabulary Bingo

Vocabulary Bingo is another interactive game that helps reinforce new words. Create Bingo cards with vocabulary words in the squares. Call out the definitions, and students must find the matching word on their card. The first student to get a line of words marked off wins.

This game encourages active listening and quick recall, helping students solidify their understanding of the new vocabulary. It also adds a fun, competitive element to the learning process, making it more engaging.

7. Reading Comprehension Questions

Incorporating vocabulary into reading comprehension questions reinforces understanding and usage. By answering questions that include new vocabulary, students practice using the words in context, enhancing both their comprehension and retention.

Using Vocabulary in Questions

When creating reading comprehension questions, incorporate the new vocabulary words. This forces students to think about the words in context and use them to answer questions. For example, if the new word is “predict,” a question might be, “What does the character predict will happen next?”

This method not only tests their understanding of the text but also reinforces their grasp of the vocabulary. It helps students see how the words function within sentences and narratives, making their learning more practical.

Discussion-Based Questions

Pose open-ended questions that require students to use the new vocabulary in their answers. For example, ask, “How would you describe the protagonist’s journey?” This encourages students to use words like “arduous,” “exciting,” or “challenging,” which they have learned in the context of the text.

Encourage students to discuss their answers in pairs or small groups before sharing with the class. This allows them to practice using the new words in conversation, further reinforcing their understanding and ability to use them correctly.

Written Responses

Assign short written responses where students have to use the new vocabulary. For example, ask them to summarize a paragraph from the reading using at least three of the new words. This practice helps students incorporate the vocabulary into their writing, reinforcing both their understanding and retention.

Review these written responses together, highlighting effective uses of the vocabulary and providing feedback on any errors. This constructive feedback helps students improve their usage and boosts their confidence in using new words.

8. Writing Exercises

Writing exercises allow students to use new vocabulary actively. By writing sentences, paragraphs, and creative pieces, students practice incorporating new words into their writing. This helps solidify their understanding and improves their ability to use the vocabulary accurately.

Sentence Writing

Encourage students to write sentences using the new vocabulary words. Provide them with a list of the words and ask them to create sentences that clearly demonstrate their meanings. This practice helps students understand how to use the words correctly in different contexts.

Review the sentences as a class or in small groups, providing feedback and corrections where necessary. This collaborative review helps reinforce the correct usage of the words and allows students to learn from each other’s examples.

Paragraph Writing

Assign short paragraph writing exercises where students must use several of the new vocabulary words. For example, ask them to write a paragraph about a recent trip, incorporating words like “adventure,” “explore,” and “memorable.” This helps students practice using the vocabulary in a more extended context.

Encourage students to share their paragraphs with the class or in small groups. This gives them an opportunity to see how others use the same words and get feedback on their writing. It also builds their confidence in using new vocabulary in their writing.

Creative Writing

Incorporate creative writing exercises that require the use of new vocabulary. For example, ask students to write a short story or a dialogue between characters using the vocabulary words. This type of exercise allows students to use their imagination while practicing new words.

Review these creative pieces together, highlighting effective uses of the vocabulary and providing constructive feedback. This helps students see how the words can be used in various contexts and styles, reinforcing their learning.

9. Repeated Exposure

Repeated exposure to new vocabulary words is crucial for retention. Encountering words multiple times in various contexts helps move them from short-term to long-term memory. This technique ensures that students can recall and use the vocabulary effectively over time.

Multiple Encounters

Ensure that students encounter new vocabulary words multiple times in different contexts. This can be achieved through various activities, such as reading different texts that use the same words, listening exercises, and writing assignments. Repeated exposure helps students internalize the words and enhances their recall.

Use the vocabulary words in different subjects or themes. For example, if the word is “ecosystem,” you might find it in science texts, environmental articles, and even in stories about nature. This shows students how the word can be used in multiple contexts.

Spaced Repetition

Incorporate spaced repetition into your teaching. Review the vocabulary words periodically over several days or weeks rather than cramming all at once. This technique helps move words from short-term to long-term memory, improving retention.

Create a review schedule where you revisit the vocabulary words weekly or bi-weekly. Use quick activities like flashcards, quizzes, or sentence writing to reinforce the words. This regular practice ensures that students retain the vocabulary over time.

Contextual Variety

Present the vocabulary words in various contexts to help students understand their versatility. Use them in different types of sentences, paragraphs, and discussions. This helps students see the range of meanings and usages for each word.

Encourage students to use the new vocabulary in their daily conversations and writing. The more they practice using the words in different scenarios, the more comfortable they will become with them. This practical application solidifies their understanding and retention.

Choosing the Right Method for Your Learners

With so many methods to teach vocabulary through reading, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to use. The best method often depends on the specific needs and learning styles of your students. Here’s how to choose the most effective strategies for your class.

Assessing Student Needs

Begin by assessing the proficiency levels of your students. Are they beginners, intermediate, or advanced learners? For beginners, simpler methods like pre-reading activities and vocabulary lists might be more effective. Intermediate and advanced learners can benefit from more complex strategies like context clues and interactive activities.

Consider the specific challenges your students face. Do they struggle with pronunciation, retention, or usage in context? Identifying these areas will help you select methods that address their particular needs.

Learning Styles

Take into account the different learning styles in your classroom. Visual learners might benefit more from graphic organizers and flashcards, while auditory learners might find read-aloud sessions and discussions more helpful. Kinesthetic learners, who learn best through movement and activity, might enjoy interactive games and presentations.

Use a mix of methods to cater to different learning styles. This not only keeps the lessons engaging but also ensures that all students have the opportunity to learn in a way that suits them best.

Classroom Dynamics

Consider the size and dynamics of your class. For large classes, methods like vocabulary lists and context clues can be more manageable. For smaller groups, interactive activities and discussions can be more effective and engaging.

Also, think about the time you have available. Some methods, like repeated exposure and writing exercises, require more time and ongoing practice, while others, like pre-reading activities, can be incorporated into shorter sessions.

Flexibility and Adaptation

Be flexible and ready to adapt your methods. What works for one group of students might not work for another. Pay attention to student feedback and performance, and be willing to adjust your approach as needed.

Combine different methods to keep your lessons dynamic and address various aspects of vocabulary learning. For example, you can start with pre-reading activities, use context clues during reading, and follow up with writing exercises and interactive activities.

Practical Tips

• Start Simple: Begin with straightforward methods and gradually introduce more complex ones as students become more comfortable.
• Monitor Progress: Regularly assess student progress and adjust your methods accordingly.
• Encourage Participation: Make sure all students are actively involved in the learning process.
• Provide Feedback: Offer constructive feedback to help students improve and stay motivated.

By considering these factors, you can choose the most effective vocabulary teaching methods for your ESL class, ensuring that your students benefit from a well-rounded and engaging learning experience.

Tracking Progress Over Time

Tracking progress over time is essential to understanding how well students learn and retain new vocabulary. It provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of your teaching methods and helps identify areas where students may need additional support.

Creating a Tracking System

Develop a simple and efficient system to record and monitor student progress. A spreadsheet or a digital grade book can be effective tools. Include columns for student names, vocabulary words, assessment scores, participation in activities, and any observations or notes.

Look at the following table:

Student Name	Class 1 Score	Class 2 Score	Class 3 Score	Class 4 Score	Class 5 Score	Comments
Student 1	7	8	9	10	10	Great improvement
Student 2	8	9	9	10	10	Consistent
Student 3	6	7	8	9	9	Needs more practice
Student 4	9	9	10	10	10	Excellent
Student 5	8	8	9	9	10	Consistent
Student 6	7	7	8	9	9	Improving
Student 7	6	7	8	8	9	Needs attention
Student 8	9	9	10	10	10	Outstanding
Student 9	8	9	9	10	10	Consistent
Student 10	7	8	8	9	10	Improving

Regularly update this tracking system with data from assessments, quizzes, class activities, and informal observations. Keeping it up-to-date ensures that you have accurate information to analyze and act upon.

Regular Assessments

Conduct regular assessments to measure vocabulary knowledge and retention. These can be formal tests, quizzes, or informal checks like quick reviews and oral questioning. Regular assessments provide data points that help you see trends and patterns in student progress.

Compare assessment results over time to see how students are improving. Look for consistent progress and note any areas where students might be struggling. This helps you adjust your teaching strategies to address specific needs.

Analyzing Data

Periodically review the data collected in your tracking system. Analyze the results to identify strengths and weaknesses in student performance. Look for patterns, such as words or types of activities that students find particularly challenging or easy.

Use this analysis to inform your teaching. For example, if students are consistently struggling with certain types of words, you might spend more time on those areas or try different instructional methods.

Providing Feedback

Share progress data with your students regularly. Provide individual feedback that highlights their achievements and areas for improvement. This helps students understand their learning journey and stay motivated.

Encourage students to set their own vocabulary learning goals based on their progress. This fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility for their learning.

Adjusting Instruction

Use the insights gained from tracking progress to adjust your instruction. If certain methods or activities are not yielding the desired results, be flexible and try different approaches. Tailor your teaching to better meet the needs of your students based on the data.

Collaborate with colleagues to share strategies and insights. Learning from others can provide new ideas and approaches to enhance your vocabulary instruction.

Handling a Mixed-Ability Classroom

Teaching vocabulary in a mixed-ability classroom can be challenging but also highly rewarding. Here are strategies to ensure that all students, regardless of their proficiency levels, can learn effectively, along with practical examples for each.

Differentiated Instruction

Tailor your instruction to meet the diverse needs of your students. Provide varying levels of support based on individual needs.

Example: For a vocabulary lesson on “travel,” offer simple sentences using the new words for beginners (e.g., “I travel by bus.”) and more complex sentences for advanced students (e.g., “Traveling by train offers a scenic view of the countryside.”).

Grouping Strategies

Use flexible grouping to address different ability levels. Group students by similar proficiency levels for some activities to allow targeted instruction.

Example: For a vocabulary activity, group beginners together to work on basic definitions and sentences. Group advanced students together to create a short story using the new words. Occasionally mix the groups so that advanced students can help beginners.

Tiered Activities

Design tiered activities that offer different levels of complexity.

Example: For a reading assignment, provide a simpler version of the text with fewer difficult words for beginners, and a more challenging version with advanced vocabulary for proficient students. Both groups can discuss the same main ideas afterward.

Use of Visuals and Multimedia

Incorporate visuals, videos, and other multimedia resources to support vocabulary learning.

Example: Show a video about different types of transportation and use pictures to illustrate new vocabulary. Beginners can label the pictures, while advanced students can describe what they see in detail and discuss the pros and cons of each type of transportation.

Scaffolding Techniques

Use scaffolding techniques to support students at different levels.

Example: When introducing new travel vocabulary, provide sentence starters like “I enjoy traveling because…” for beginners. For advanced students, ask them to write a paragraph about their favorite travel experience or make a travel plan, using at least five new vocabulary words.

Individualized Learning Plans

Create individualized learning plans for students with significant differences in ability.

Example: For a student struggling with vocabulary, set a goal of learning five new words each week with personalized flashcards and regular check-ins. For an advanced student, challenge them to use new vocabulary in a weekly journal entry.

Peer Learning

Encourage peer learning and support.

Example: Pair a beginner with an advanced student to complete a vocabulary worksheet. The advanced student can explain the meanings of the words and how to use them in sentences, reinforcing their own knowledge while helping their peer.

Varied Assessment Methods

Use a variety of assessment methods to gauge student understanding and progress.

Example: Assess vocabulary knowledge through written quizzes, oral presentations, and creative projects like posters or digital presentations. This caters to different strengths and learning styles.

Providing Choice

Give students some choice in their learning activities.

Example: Allow students to choose five out of ten new vocabulary words to learn and use in a project. This gives them some control over their learning and can increase motivation.

Regular Feedback

Provide regular and constructive feedback.

Example: After a vocabulary test, give specific feedback such as, “Great job using ‘journey’ and ‘destination’ correctly. Let’s work on using ‘itinerary’ in a sentence.” This helps students understand their progress and areas for improvement.

Handling a mixed-ability classroom requires flexibility, creativity, and a commitment to meeting the needs of all students. By differentiating instruction, using a variety of teaching and assessment methods, and fostering a supportive learning environment, you can help every student succeed.

FAQs on Teaching Vocabulary Through Reading

Q#1: Why is teaching vocabulary through reading important in an ESL class?

Answer: Teaching vocabulary through reading is important because it helps students understand words in context, improves comprehension, and exposes them to natural language usage.

Q#2: How do pre-reading activities help in vocabulary teaching?

Answer: Pre-reading activities prepare students by introducing key vocabulary words and concepts, making the reading process smoother and improving overall comprehension.

Q#3: What are context clues and how can they aid in vocabulary learning?

Answer: Context clues are hints within the surrounding text that help infer the meaning of unfamiliar words. Teaching students to use context clues empowers them to understand new vocabulary independently.

Q#4: How can reading aloud and discussing the text enhance vocabulary learning?

Answer: Reading aloud and discussing the text allows students to hear new vocabulary in context, receive immediate clarification, and actively engage with the material, reinforcing their learning.

Q#5: What are the benefits of creating and reviewing vocabulary lists?

Answer: Vocabulary lists provide a structured way to focus on important words, facilitate regular review, and help students build a strong foundation of useful vocabulary.

Q#6: How do graphic organizers support vocabulary learning?

Answer: Graphic organizers like word maps and semantic webs visually illustrate relationships between words and their meanings, making vocabulary learning more engaging and effective.

Q#7: Why are interactive activities like games useful for vocabulary learning?

Answer: Interactive activities make vocabulary learning fun and engaging, provide repeated exposure to new words, and enhance retention through playful and memorable experiences.

Q#8: How can writing exercises improve vocabulary usage?

Answer: Writing exercises allow students to actively use new vocabulary in sentences, paragraphs, and creative pieces, helping to solidify their understanding and improve their ability to use the words accurately.

Q#9: Why is repeated exposure to vocabulary important?

Answer: Repeated exposure helps move new vocabulary from short-term to long-term memory, ensuring that students can recall and use the words effectively over time.

Q#10: How can teachers handle mixed-ability classrooms when teaching vocabulary through reading?

Answer: Teachers can use differentiated instruction, flexible grouping, tiered activities, and scaffolding techniques to meet the diverse needs of students, ensuring that all learners benefit from vocabulary instruction.