ABSTRACT
Teachers can employ category and memory games, coded messages, jokes and puns, and computer exploration to increase vocabulary development in subject areas. This chapter addresses several aspects of words and vocabulary growth in general. It discusses some of the ways teachers can revel in language and build enthusiasm for language study along with vocabulary growth in the classrooms. The chapter presents some specific strategies for teaching vocabulary in relation to literacy in the content areas. It also addresses language issues connected to English learners. When small groups of students are discussing texts and learning from each others' responses in literature circles, vocabulary enhancement can be quite naturally worked in. Students should become aware that many words have connotations, various associated and evaluative meanings, as well as denotations, the explicit, literal, or direct meanings. Ephemeral is likely to be remembered, especially if the teacher or student uses it in other applications soon after.
