Seward Incorporated

The Word Learning Strategies project is a comprehensive program to train teachers to effectively teach students a set of practical, research-based, and theoretically sound strategies for inferring the meanings of unknown words they encounter while reading. The strategies to be taught include using context clues, word parts (compound words, inflectional suffixes, prefixes, derivational suffixes, and roots), and dictionaries. Additionally, Spanish-speaking English language learners (ELLs) will receive instruction in using cognates, and all ELLs will receive instruction in recognizing idioms. Seward Inc. is developing the Word Learning Strategies program with noted reading expert Michael F. Graves, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Literacy Education at the University of Minnesota.

The final product will be a comprehensive supplementary program to teach word-learning strategies. The basic model for instruction will be teacher-led direct explanation modified to include constructivist elements. Student material will include student activity books, pretests, and posttests. Teacher material will include online tutorials, including videos modeling best teaching practices, to prepare teachers to use the materials; a detailed teacher manual; and presentation materials (overheads/slides, posters). To provide extra assistance for students, the final product will also include supplementary web-based instruction on each of the strategies, web-based instruction on using cognates for Spanish-speaking ELLs, and web-based instruction on recognizing idioms for all ELLs.

 

To view a program video and to get more information, visit WordLearningStrategies.com.

 

Gregory Sales, Ph.D. has been designing and developing technology-based training for more than 30 years. He has applied his e-Learning expertise for a variety of clients including Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and universities. In addition to recommending customized training solutions, Greg provides consultation on the development of comprehensive e-Learning strategies to organizations seeking to improve training productivity while reducing costs. Prior to founding Seward Inc., Greg was a professor of instructional design and technology and program chair at the University of Minnesota.