The document discusses stages of learning words and how teachers can help students understand what stage they are at in learning new vocabulary words. It outlines four stages: 1) never heard the word, 2) heard it but don't know the meaning, 3) have general associations or recognize it in context, and 4) can use the word in speaking and writing. It recommends that teachers teach students about the four stages, have students assess what stage they are at in learning new words, and provide feedback to help students master words.

1. Stages of Learning a Word
Never heard or saw the word.
Heard it, but don’t know what it
means.
General associations or
recognizes in context
Can USE IT in speaking and
writing
(Edgar Dale, 1976)

2. Stages of Learning Words
So…how can I
use this information
when I am teaching
vocabulary?

3. Stages of Learning a Word
• Teach students the four stages.
• Have students think about and
show you their understanding.
• Provide formative feedback for the
teacher.
Primary
students

4. Stages of
Learning a Word
• Teach students the four stages.
• When introducing new vocabulary, have students
write the words in the category (stage) that best fits
their word knowledge.
• Circulate to get a sense
of students’ word knowledge.
• Students can gain a sense of
how much practice they need
to master understanding
(stage 4).
Intermediate &
Secondary Students

5. How Well Do I Know These Words?
Title/Content:
Directions: Read the words at the bottom of the page. After you read each one, write each word in the column that best
describes what you know about each one.
Don’t know the word
at all
Have seen or heard – don’t
know the meaning
I think I know it’s meaning I know a meaning
accidental
volcano
andesite
aquifer
ash
alkalic
asthenosphere
lava
magmahypocenter
obsidian plug
mantle
Template in the
Teacher
Toolkit