015. Stop the Vocab Struggle: Easy Ways to Build Word Knowledge in Grades 3–6

Episode 15 | Stop the Vocab Struggle: Easy Ways to Build Word Knowledge in Grades 3–6

If you’ve ever wrapped up a read-aloud or small group lesson only to hear your students describe characters as “nice,” “mean,” or “kind,” you’re not alone. It’s not that they don’t understand the character—it’s that they don’t have the vocabulary to express it.

In today’s episode of Teaching Made Simple, I’m breaking down the power of vocabulary instruction and why it’s the missing link to deeper comprehension and stronger communication skills. You’ll learn:

• Why vocabulary is directly tied to comprehension and content mastery across subjects.
  
  
• How many words students need to learn each year—and the realistic number you should explicitly teach.
  
  
• A simple, evidence-based approach for introducing and practicing new words (without overwhelming you or your students).
  
  
• Fun, low-prep activities to keep word learning engaging and memorable.
  
  

Whether you’ve felt stuck between word lists and fast mapping or just want a clear framework to guide your instruction, this episode will give you practical strategies you can start using right away.

✨ Free Resource: Grab my [Vocabulary Planning Page] (link here) to help you streamline word selection and make planning easier.

Because when students have the right words, they’re not just answering questions—they’re making meaning.