The Impact of Second-Language Storybook Reading on the Vocabulary Acquisition of Grade 1 Learners. Issue 1 (2nd January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: van den Berg, Lenore; Klapwijk, Nanda
• Is Part Of: Language matters. Volume 51:Issue 1(2020)
• Page Start: 63
• Page End: 85
• Publication Date: 2020-01-02
• Subjects: vocabulary acquisition -- second-language vocabulary -- interactive vocabulary instruction -- storybook reading -- reading development -- PPVT; Africa -- Languages -- Periodicals; 496.05
• DOI: 10.1080/10228195.2019.1657488
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1022-8195

Abstract

Abstract: Vocabulary development is positively associated with reading development, reading comprehension and academic achievement. This article explores how integrating storybook reading with explicit, interactive vocabulary instruction affects Grade 1 second-language vocabulary acquisition. The study participants comprised 69 Grade 1 English second- language learners from three classes in two schools. Using the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test (PPVT) as pre- and post-test, an intervention—consisting of 30-minute storybook reading sessions accompanied by interactive vocabulary instruction—was administered twice a week for two school terms. The PPVT results show that second-language storybook reading, accompanied by explicit, interactive vocabulary instruction, has a positive impact on Grade 1 vocabulary acquisition.