There are 3 types of vocabulary words, called tiers. Tier 1 words are those simple words that we use in everyday conversation. Tier 2 words are the vocabulary that is used mainly in academic settings that help us understand concepts. Tier 3 words are ones that are VERY specific to content or context and would rarely be used outside of a specific setting.
Tier 1 words are not generally focused on in school, because they are ones that children encounter in interactions with peers and family. This is true of most students unless they are just learning English. In that case, putting labels on objects around the child’s environment can be a big help. However, if you have a young child at home, putting labels on objects on things around your house could give them a leg up when they enter school because they will begin to associate written language with things they see.
Tier 2 words are where the most emphasis should be placed. These words are the ones that help children interact with ideas and concepts around them. Some examples are: compare/contrast, explain, elaborate, describe, establish, claim. These vocabulary words are tied to specific actions and processes and require the child to think at a higher level.
Tier 3 words are very specific to a skill, subject, or context. For example, words like experiment, beaker, test tube, and molecule are not commonly used outside of a science environment. Words like end run, downs, quarterback, and wide receiver, wouldn’t occur outside of a conversation about American football. These are also important, but not as frequently used.
Parents and teachers would do well to use appropriate vocabulary when speaking and working with children and not try to “dumb down” their speech. It does kids a disservice because using baby words gives them incorrect vocabulary for processes and concepts that will have to be relearned later. My pet peeve is when people use the words “borrow” and “carry” when teaching students subtraction and addition. If you borrow something, it implies that you have to give it back. Instead, the proper term is ”regroup” because you still have the same number, you just moved a group of ten to the next lower place value. To carry something, you need a bucket. In addition, you are not carrying anything, you are again “regrouping” that ten to the next higher place value.
Introducing the proper terms will help students understand the concepts presented and be able to speak about them intelligently. It is fine to teach the tier 3 words, but the tier 2 words are the ones that cross all subjects and will have a bigger impact.