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Skill Explainer

1. Overview of Building Word Knowledge

Building Word Knowledge Skill Explainer

Marion McBride, M.Ed.

Comprehension depends on knowing word meanings. If a word is decoded and pronounced but the meaning is not recognized, comprehension will be impaired. Knowledge of a word’s meaning also facilitates accurate word recognition.

— Nation, 2008

Vocabulary instruction must produce depth of word knowledge to produce measurable gains in reading comprehension. 

— William E. Nagy, Ph.D., 1988

Reading Universe is made possible by generous support from Jim & Donna Barksdale; the Hastings/Quillin Fund, an advised fund of the Silicon Valley Community Foundation; the AFT; the Emily Hall Tremaine Foundation; and three anonymous donors.