Vocabulary Development
Grades 6-8

Course Description:
Words are more than definitions — they are the keys to vivid storytelling, sharp thinking, and persuasive communication. In this lively vocabulary development course, students will expand their word knowledge by exploring classic literature selections, from The Secret Garden to Julius Caesar. Each week, students will engage in close reading, guided discussion, and creative activities that deepen their understanding of new words in meaningful, memorable ways.

Through interactive worksheets, reading guides, and collaborative exercises, students will not only master new vocabulary but also strengthen their reading comprehension, enrich their oral and written expression, and build confidence in using sophisticated language across subjects. Our approach prioritizes active engagement .

Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Define and accurately use a broad range of high-level vocabulary words drawn from literature.

  • Apply context clues to infer the meanings of unfamiliar words.

  • Enhance reading comprehension through a deeper understanding of tone, mood, and character development.

  • Strengthen oral expression by discussing readings and using new vocabulary naturally in conversation.

  • Practice written expression through creative and persuasive writing assignments that integrate course vocabulary.

  • Develop an appreciation for the power of words in shaping meaning, emotion, and persuasion.

Course Includes:

  • Weekly 60-minute live sessions (discussion-based, highly interactive)

  • Weekly Reading Guides to explore vocabulary, character development, and literary tone

  • Creative Vocabulary Worksheets for deeper practice with new words

  • Interactive Activities like Word Walls and Vocabulary Bingo

  • Close Reading Selections from The Secret Garden, Anne of Green Gables, The Call of the Wild, and Julius Caesar

  • Discussion-Based Learning to practice oral expression and use vocabulary naturally

  • Mini Writing Assignments that encourage creativity without overwhelming workload

  • Final Reflection Project to celebrate growth and word mastery

Materials Needed:

  • Notebook for note-taking and folder for worksheets (strongly recommended)

  • Notecards to make flashcards (optional)

Building Word Power Through Great Literature

Classical and traditional literature like 'Julius Caesar' by William Shakespeare used for student enrichment at Cogito Learning Center, supporting strong literacy and analytical skills.

Why This Course Matters:
Strong vocabulary skills are the foundation of strong thinking. When students understand and use rich, precise language, they become better readers, clearer writers, and more persuasive speakers. This Word Power course gives students the tools to engage more deeply with great literature — and with the world around them — preparing them for academic success, leadership, and lifelong learning.

Research consistently shows that a rich, active vocabulary correlates with greater academic success, stronger reading comprehension, and sharper analytical abilities. Students who master words also master ideas — and are better equipped to reason carefully, lead wisely, and thrive in every area of life.

Research Highlights:

  • Vocabulary size in early adolescence predicts later reading comprehension, academic achievement, and even career success (Biemiller, 2001; Snow, 2010).

  • Students with rich vocabularies are better critical thinkers — they can absorb complex ideas and evaluate information more thoughtfully.

  • Developing expressive language skills improves not only writing but also debate, public speaking, and everyday leadership.