The key word approach provides repeated exposures to a new concept and links the new word to previous experiences. This strategy can be used with students in upper elementary grades through high school. The steps in this procedure are:
1. Write the new word on the board..
(Example: If the new word is blushing, write blushing on the board.)
2. Read aloud/sign two sentences containing the new word. These sentences must provide good context clues to the meaning of the word.
(Example: The teenager was blushing after his aunt hugged and kissed him in front of his friends. His aunt was surprised because his face was so red.)
3. Ask the students to write the word and what they think it means.
4. The students share what they have written and discuss the differences in their interpretations of the concept.
5. Give a third sentence that contains the word and its definition.
(Example: Blushing means getting warm and red in the face because of embarrassment or shame.)
Students determine if they “guessed” correctly.
6. Ask the students to answer a question in which they must relate the concept to their own experiences.
(Example: When Tony stood up in front of the class to give his report, he started blushing. Why do you think he was blushing?
Students respond with their opinions and discuss.
7. Ask the students to write about an experience they have had that caused them to blush and then share their stories.
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