This highly practical resource for K–6 teachers is packed with 25 classroom-tested, step-by-step strategies for developing word knowledge. The emphasis throughout is not only on teaching new words, but also on strengthening students’ comprehension and long-term vocabulary acquisition. Especially valuable are guidelines for how to differentiate each strategy so it can be used successfully with English language learners and students at varying proficiency levels. In a large-size format for easy photocopying, the book features helpful print and Web resources for each strategy, along with 20 reproducible worksheets.

New to This Edition

-“Word Play” features with engaging vocabulary games and classroom activities.

-Reproducible worksheets that encourage student interaction.

-Updated and expanded list of online resources.

This book will be invaluable to teachers; literacy specialists and coaches. It may also serve as a supplemental text in advanced undergraduate- and graduate-level courses

"The vocabulary strategies and word play activities alone make this volume an excellent addition to any K-6 teacher's bookshelf. But the real strength of the book is that it provides ideas for differentiating instruction based on the strategies. Meeting the specific needs of students through differentiation is always a challenge; this book shows how differentiating word learning can be both manageable for the teacher and fun for students."-Thomas DeVere Wolsey, EdD, Richard W. Riley College of Education and Leadership, Walden University

"Dare to Differentiate jumps right into ideas and strategies that elementary teachers can start using immediately to embed vocabulary learning throughout the curriculum. The easy-to-use format includes a description of each strategy plus a classroom example that shows how it works. This book is a great addition to any educator's library."-Joanne Toft, MA, former K-6 teacher; Associate Director, Arts for Academic Achievement, Minneapolis Public Schools