FTCE Exceptional Student Education (ESE) K-12 Practice Test

In vocabulary strategy instruction, what is the goal of teaching key terms?

1. To memorize definitions without context

2. To encourage shallow understanding of words

3. To deepen understanding of concepts through vocabulary

4. To eliminate complexity in reading

The correct answer is: To deepen understanding of concepts through vocabulary

The goal of teaching key terms in vocabulary strategy instruction is to deepen understanding of concepts through vocabulary. This approach recognizes that vocabulary knowledge is integral to comprehension and critical thinking. When students learn key terms, they acquire not just the definitions but also the context and relevance of those terms within broader concepts. This deeper understanding promotes the ability to make connections between concepts, enhances their overall comprehension, and supports meaningful engagement with the material. By fostering a robust vocabulary foundation, educators equip students to navigate complex texts and ideas more effectively.