Word Aware

 

 

 

 

 

 

​What is Word Aware?

Word Aware is a whole‑school approach to teaching vocabulary, developed by speech and language therapists Stephen Parsons and Anna Branagan. It supports children to understand, learn and use new words confidently, which is essential for reading, writing and learning across the curriculum.

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Word Aware recognises that children often need many meaningful encounters with a word before they fully understand it. The approach places vocabulary at the heart of teaching, helping all children—particularly those with speech and language needs, SEND or English as an Additional Language (EAL)—to access learning successfully. 

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How does Word Aware work?

Word Aware uses a clear and structured STAR method:

• Select – carefully choose important and useful words linked to stories and curriculum topics

• Teach – explicitly teach what the word means, how it sounds, and how it is used

• Activate – give children opportunities to use the word in speaking, play and learning

• Review – revisit and reinforce the word regularly so it is remembered and confidently used

This approach ensures children meet new vocabulary repeatedly and in different contexts, supporting deeper understanding and retention. 

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How Word Aware supports children in our school

Using Word Aware helps children to:

• Build a rich and growing vocabulary

• Develop strategies to work out the meanings of unfamiliar words

• Improve listening, speaking, reading and writing

• Gain confidence using new words in different subjects

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Word Aware is used across the school day, in whole‑class teaching and, where appropriate, in small group support, ensuring consistency and high expectations for all learners.