What type of texts should be used to support vocabulary growth?

Using a wide variety of rich texts is essential for supporting vocabulary growth because diverse texts expose students to a range of language structures, vocabulary, and contexts. This variety can include fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and informational texts. Each genre presents unique vocabulary and thematic elements that encourage students to engage with language in different ways.

Rich texts are characterized by their complexity and depth, often introducing students to new concepts and words that may not be present in more simplistic or monotonous materials. When students encounter vocabulary in different contexts—such as through storytelling, scientific explanations, or historical narratives—they are more likely to understand and retain it. This exposure helps students make connections between words and ideas, enhancing their overall language development.

In contrast, limiting vocabulary instruction to only textbooks, literature students dislike, or solely fiction narrows the students' experience and engagement with language, reducing their opportunity to encounter and learn from a broader spectrum of words and uses. This variety encourages curiosity, promotes critical thinking, and supports deeper learning.