Vocabulary the Charlotte Mason Way: No Lists, Just Context
By: Lanette Judy
Do you remember every date you memorized in school? How about every historical figure or math formula?
Me neither.
But I’ll never forget the thrill of a great story, the kind that pulls you in, sparks your imagination, and leaves you changed. That’s the power of literature. And when it comes to vocabulary, stories do more than entertain; they teach, naturally and effectively.
The Charlotte Mason method emphasizes a rich, literature-based approach to learning, including vocabulary acquisition. Overall, increasing vocabulary is a valuable investment in personal and academic development. Here’s how to learn vocabulary the Charlotte Mason way:
Engaging Books: Use well-written, challenging literature that captivates the reader. These books expose students to rich language and context, helping them naturally acquire vocabulary.
Narration: After reading, have children narrate what they’ve learned. Narrate means to “tell back” what they have read in order using words from the story. This practice encourages them to use new vocabulary in context and reinforces understanding.
Word Study: Introduce new words through context rather than isolated lists. Discuss meanings, synonyms, antonyms, and usage in sentences.
Poetry and Songs: Include poetry and songs in your curriculum. These often contain rich language and can help children learn new words rhythmically and memorably.
Discussion: Engage in discussions about the books read. Ask open-ended questions that prompt children to use new vocabulary in their responses.
Real-Life Application: Encourage children to use new words in their everyday conversations and writing. This reinforces their understanding and retention.
By integrating vocabulary learning into a broader context of rich literature and meaningful activities, the Charlotte Mason method fosters a love for language. Total Language Plus teaches vocabulary through great literature. Choose your next novel here.