Tiered Vocabulary

Tip of the MonthVideo
Written By Amanda

What is a Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3 Word?

In language arts instruction, vocabulary words can be divided into three tiers based on how common or frequently used a word is.

Tier III Words

Low-frequency words limited to a specific "domain” (content area). Best learned within the context of a lesson.

Examples: atom, molecule, metamorphic, sedimentary, continent

Tier II Words

High-frequency words used across contexts, but more common in writing than in everyday speech. Used by mature language users, but important for students to know to improve comprehension. Best for targeted explicit vocabulary instruction.

Examples: hilarious, endure, despise, arrange, compare, contrast

Tier I Words

Words used in everyday speech. Typically learned through conversation. Common words that rarely require direct instruction.

Examples: come, see, happy, fable

 

Check out the video below where we demonstrate a lesson on Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3 words using Google Jamboard.

 
Related Posts
6 Steps to Planning an Author Study
6 Steps to Planning an Author Study
Sketchnotes for Research
Sketchnotes for Research
The Science of Reading and Vocabulary Development
The Science of Reading and Vocabulary Development
Amanda

Amanda Kovac has twelve years of experience working as a classroom teacher. Formerly an Elementary Literacy Coach for Saugerties Central School District, she now serves as an intermediate Reading Specialist in the Onteora district. Her coaching and teaching philosophy is three dimensional; dream and set goals, dedicate time and enthusiasm towards those goals, and deliver to all. A leader in curriculum reform, research based instructional practices, and increasing student achievement levels, she is committed to creating equitable and joyful literacy experiences. She passionately provides educators, families, and students memorable opportunities towards lifelong reading and writing. Amanda lives in Saugerties, NY with her three young children. All three are learning words at a rapid rate! JOYcabulary was sparked by an experience her four-year-old daughter had with the multiple meanings of the word duck.

Previous

CHALLENGE: What’s The Hardest Word You Know?
Next

Book Pairing: SEASHELLS