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Reading PK-3 > Strategies > Dictionary & Thesaurus

Dictionary & Thesaurus

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Overview

Dictionaries and thesauruses can serve as resources for students to expand their Vocabulary knowledge. Easy access to definitions and similar words helps students understand and remember words more readily.

Use It in the Classroom

  • Incorporating web dictionaries and thesaurus into a Vocabulary lesson allows learners to quickly search and understand unfamiliar words. When learners look up challenging words while they read, they monitor their comprehension and activate cognitive processes that support increased recall and consolidation to Long-term Memory.

    • Design It into Your Product

    Videos are chosen as examples of strategies in action. These choices are not endorsements of the products or evidence of use of research to develop the feature.

    Starting at 2:50, learn how the Merriam-Webster Dictionary app allows learners to conveniently search for and define unfamiliar words. By offering voice search and audio pronunciation functions, this product supports learners who prefer audio over text. The embedded quizzes also allow for continued vocabulary building and practice.

  • Word Central is a kid-friendly Merriam-Webster web dictionary that also includes a thesaurus, rhyming dictionary, and word games. When learners misspell a word, the dictionary offers suggestions to help students search for the correct word.
    • View References

    Resources

    Below are additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
    Examples

    7 Dictionary Apps

    Suggested dictionary apps for kids

    Examples

    Dictionary Teaching Guide

    Scholastic's lesson on teaching the features of a dictionary

    Examples

    Dictionary.com

    Free web-based dictionary with audio recordings for every word

    Examples

    Digital Word Detectives

    ReadWriteThink lesson plan to build vocabulary by using digital dictionaries

    Examples

    Online Dictionaries

    Free web-based dictionaries for kids

    Research

    Multimedia Learning

    Subtopic that includes research on the use of multimedia and visuals in instruction on Digital Promise's Research Map

    Factors Supported by this Strategy

    Language and Literacy
    Alphabet Knowledge
    Background Knowledge
    Sight Recognition
    Vocabulary
    Cognition
    Long-term Memory
    Short-term Memory
    Working Memory
    Social and Emotional Learning
    Student Background
    Adverse Experiences
    Physical Fitness
    Safety
    Sleep
    Socioeconomic Status
    Vision

    More Multisensory Supports Strategies

    Audiobooks

    Audiobooks allow students to hear fluent reading and to experience books above their reading skills.

    Gestures

    Adding motions to complement learning activates more cognitive processes for recall and understanding.

    Manipulatives

    Providing physical representations of concepts helps activate mental processes.

    Movement Breaks

    Brain breaks that include movement allow learners to refresh their thinking and focus on learning new information.

    Music & Dance

    Connecting information to music and dance moves enhances Short-term and Long-term Memory by drawing on auditory processes and the cognitive benefits of physical activity.

    Physical Activity & Recess

    Research shows physical activity improves focus and creativity.

    Sensory Stimulation

    Incorporating multiple senses with strategies like chewing gum, using a vibrating pen, and sitting on a ball chair supports focus and Attention.

    Sound-blocking Devices

    Using earplugs or headphones can increase focus and comfort.

    Text-to-speech Software

    Transforming written text into audio activates different parts of the brain to support learning.

    Tossing Activity

    Tossing a ball, beanbag, or other small object activates physical focus in support of mental focus.

    Visual Reading Aids

    Visual supports, like text magnification, colored overlays, and guided reading strips, help students focus and properly track as they read.

    Web-based Dictionary & Thesaurus

    Web-based dictionaries and thesauruses can serve as visual and audio resources for students to expand their Vocabulary knowledge.

    Word Sorts

    Word sorts are multisensory activities that help learners identify patterns and group words based on different categories.

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