Four vocabulary instruction problems are addressed on practical and theoretical levels: how to select vocabulary, organize it effectively, convey the meaning of words, and improve retention of new words through meaningful practice. Suggestions are given for using creative activities that are both educationally and linguistically sound. (MSE)

The mnemonic keyword study of Johnson, Adams, and Bruning (1985) on effectiveness of the keyword method for second-language vocabulary acquisition is critiqued. Of particular concern are literature currency vis-a-vis the authors' stated rationale for conducting the study, and methodological issues associated with the study's implementation.…

Methods that social studies teachers can use to help elementary and secondary students overcome textbook-related vocabulary difficulties are discussed. Methods include having teachers point out specialized uses of terms, identify potential areas of confusion, provide clear instructions, and prepare glossaries. (RM)

Reviews the six points for change in the way reading comprehension is taught, recommended by P. David Pearson. (HOD)

Argues that vocabulary is best taught by helping students experience the meaning of words. Offers research background and four teaching methods to use with intermediate grade students. (FL)

Describes a computer game designed for students of German, which uses techniques of artificial intelligence to create a model of language understanding by computer in an adventure game set in Berlin. In addition to providing a concrete means for testing students' language understanding, the game is a useful, highly motivating, learning mode. (SL)

Describes three experiments exploring the learning of new words by university students. Among the findings are (1) students can learn word spellings while reading them in context, and (2) instructions to learn words and additional representations of a word facilitate learning. (HOD)

Considers the use of cartoons for vocabulary development. (HOD)

Requests successful classroom teaching activities for publication. Three activities are included for review. (BJD)

Discusses (1) the process of early language development, giving specific attention to problematic aspects of a vocabulary for audition; (2) elicitation and instruction tasks used in the study of language acquisition; and (3) an investigation designed to compare language acquisition for dimensions of visual, spatial, and tactual perception with…

There are many reading abilities that students need in order to read and comprehend effectively in the content areas. Discussed are techniques that the teacher can use to make students critical and independent readers. These include the directed reading activity, SQ3R, mapping, the cloze procedure, and various vocabulary techniques. (RM)

Establishing music as an integral part of the elementary curriculum is one of the most pressing challenges facing music educators. The tremendous motivational power of music should be utilized in education. Four music activities which can be used with elementary students to reinforce reading activities are described. (RM)

Discusses the procedures and rationale for teaching students to connect new words with gestures or psychomotor meaning as well as semantic meaning. (HTH)

A collection of ideas for class activities in elementary and secondary language classes includes a vocabulary review exercise and games of memory, counting, vocabulary, flashcard tic-tac-toe, dice, trashcans, questioning, and spelling. Some are designed specifically for French. (MSE)

Describes an exercise to develop students' vocabulary using the more complex language on popular television programs. (HTH)