What is the primary focus of Tier 2 vocabulary?

The primary focus of Tier 2 vocabulary is on words that enhance students' academic language. Tier 2 vocabulary consists of high-frequency words that appear in a variety of contexts and are crucial for comprehension across different subjects in academic settings. These words are not limited to specific content areas or everyday usage; instead, they are versatile and serve to improve students' understanding and expression in school-related tasks.

Students equipped with a strong Tier 2 vocabulary are better able to engage with complex texts and articulate their thoughts clearly, leading to enhanced academic performance. This tier differs from Tier 1, which includes common, everyday words, and Tier 3, which involves specialized terminology that is specific to particular fields of study. By focusing on Tier 2 vocabulary, educators aim to bridge the gap between general language skills and the academic language needed for higher-level learning.