Providing a vocabulary list and key texts before starting a new topic helps children build familiarity and confidence. This strategy improves their visual ability by allowing them to pre-learn terms and concepts, reducing the cognitive load during lessons.

How to do this

To implement this, give children age-appropriate materials to review a few days before a new topic begins. For younger learners (ages 7–10), use visual aids like word maps, while older students (ages 11–16) can explore glossaries or summaries. This preparation ensures a smoother transition into new material and greater engagement during lessons.

Word Maps

Word maps are visual tools that help children understand and remember new vocabulary. They connect a key term to its definition, synonyms, examples, and an illustration. This approach aids memory and helps children see how words relate to each other.

Glossaries

Glossaries provide clear, concise definitions of key terms used in a topic. Typically listed in alphabetical order, they help older students quickly reference unfamiliar words, ensuring they understand complex concepts as they encounter them.