Accessible Vocabulary & Syntax
Overview
Using language that is accessible and appropriately leveled for each student allows all learners to feel successful and participate in learning. When instructors incorporate challenging but accessible Vocabulary words in their instruction, they create an environment where learners can build upon Foundational Reading Skills and feel comfortable practicing, applying, and expanding their knowledge. By modeling complex Syntax in their daily language, instructors repeatedly expose students to sentence structures that they can adopt in their own speech, which is especially valuable for students whose Primary Language is not English.
Use It In Your Learning Environment
Instructors can strategically simplify their Syntax and Vocabulary to relieve students' cognitive load in Working Memory, especially if they need to focus on some other challenging aspect of learning. When teaching Digital Literacy and technological skills, instructors should be careful to keep instruction free of complex jargon.
Products can provide adaptive language that adjusts to the appropriate Vocabulary and Syntax complexity that can be read and understood by learners. They can also introduce features for learners to practice target words and grow their Vocabulary understanding. Those products requiring Disciplinary Literacy, including health and financial products, should be written with accessible language to ensure comprehension.
Additional Resources
Additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.
Factors Supported by this Strategy
More Teacher Modeling & Support Strategies
Understanding adults' lived experiences and cultural backgrounds and connecting them to instructional practices helps all learners feel like valued members of the community.
Teaching adult learners how to systematically evaluate sources prepares them to navigate information in an increasingly complex, digital world.
When adults are aware that learning involves effort, mistakes, reflection, and refinement of strategies, they are more resilient when they struggle.
