What are the three tiers of vocabulary instruction?

The three tiers of vocabulary instruction, identified as Tier 1, Tier 2, and Tier 3, provide a structured framework for teaching vocabulary based on the complexity and use of words.

Tier 1 includes everyday words that most students are already familiar with, such as basic nouns and common verbs. These are the foundational words that children usually acquire naturally through their environments and basic conversations.

Tier 2 consists of high-frequency words that are more commonly used in written texts but are not necessarily encountered in everyday conversation. These words often have semantic depth and are critical for reading comprehension across various subjects, making them important for academic success. Instruction in Tier 2 vocabulary enhances students' expressive and receptive language skills, allowing them to engage more deeply with texts.

Tier 3 words are specialized or domain-specific terms that are often only encountered in certain contexts or subjects, such as science, mathematics, or literature. Though less frequently used, these words are essential for understanding specific concepts and ideas in those domains. Teaching Tier 3 vocabulary usually occurs in tandem with content area instruction, making connections between language and subject matter.

This tiered approach to vocabulary instruction ensures that students are not only learning a broad range of words but also gaining the skills needed to navigate both everyday