#1 Catch 22: When Improving Your Vocabulary Relies on Existing Vocabulary Knowledge

Tip: If you are serious about improving your vocabulary, we highly recommend that you try the popular Ultimate Vocabulary software. Click Ultimate Vocabulary for more information.*

There are many reasons why adults look to improve their vocabulary knowledge. The type of people that seek to develop their vocabulary can be just as varied. They may hail from English-speaking backgrounds (including professionals such as lawyers and business people, and students) or English may be their second language (such as overseas college students or university students). For those native English speakers that exited the school system early, improving one’s vocabulary can sometimes be a daunting and uncomfortable prospect. The good news is that improving your vocabulary can be a straightforward and enriching experience.

Vocabulary and reading comprehension

Vocabulary is the knowledge of word meanings (Shanahan, 2005). The depth of a person’s vocabulary is particularly important for their ability to comprehend reading material (NAEP, 2008). Countless studies have shown vocabulary is an essential element of understanding what we read (see Figure 1) (NAEP, 2008).

The Dilemma: Vocabulary helps reading comprehension and reading improves vocabulary

According to McShane (2005):

• Reading is one way of improving your vocabulary. Meanings are understood when they are experienced in a variety of contexts. The cycle that presents itself is one where the person with low vocabulary skills often does not read. Without frequent and broad reading, vocabulary development is limited.
• Those adults who have not completed secondary school or other school-related subjects often do not possess the background knowledge that is needed to comprehend certain words (ie the contextual knowledge).

Despite knowing the word when it is heard, the adult is not able to decipher it in written form (Curtis and Kruidenier, 2005). The result is oral vocabulary exceeds reading vocabulary.

Help is at Hand: A method of improving your vocabulary

There are many tried and tested methods of developing your vocabulary. One way is to use software in the privacy of your own home. This can decrease any feelings of anxiety or pressure that you may have. For example, the Ultimate Vocabulary software offers you a product where you can work at your own pace. The Ultimate Words™ product enables you to commence on Level 1 and advance as you become more knowledgeable.

Other tools that can assist you in improving your vocabulary are audio pronunciation and instant messaging that reminds you of your word list. These products help build vocabulary and enhance reading and comprehension skills (in line with Figure 1). Your spelling will improve and you will be able to communicate much better with friends and coworkers.

Enriching your vocabulary also enriches your life. Reading comprehension and communication benefit. Career and social life can profit. There is no longer a need to feel embarrassed or inadequate due to poor vocabulary skills. There are simple methods that can be used to increase your vocabulary. And it is never too late to begin.

References

California Department of Education 2007, Research Digest No 7 – Evidence-based Reading Instruction (viewed 1 February 2009).

Curtis, ME, and Kruidenier, JR, A Summary of Scientifically Based Research Principles: Teaching Adults to Read (2005) (viewed 1 February 2009).

McShane, S, Applying Research in Reading Instruction for Adults: First Steps For Teachers (2005).

NAEP (National Assessment Governing Board, US Department of Education), Reading Framework for the 2009 National Assessment of Educational Progress (2008).

Shanahan, T, The National Reading Panel Report: Practical Advice for Teachers (2005).

*We endorse only products that we have tried and tested. These products include Ultimate Vocabulary. We are delighted to accept a small commission from some of the sales through this website of Ultimate Vocabulary.