Which type of instruction is specifically designed to introduce new, complex vocabulary to students?

Direct Vocabulary Instruction is specifically designed to introduce new and complex vocabulary to students. This approach focuses explicitly on teaching specific words and their meanings, often using strategies such as providing definitions, examples, and engaging students in discussions about the words. It allows educators to target vocabulary that students may not encounter frequently in their everyday reading, ensuring that students acquire a deeper understanding of the complexity and nuances of language.

In contrast, contextual vocabulary instruction involves teaching vocabulary within the context of a story or passage, which may not cover all complex vocabulary specifically. Implicit vocabulary instruction relies on incidental learning, where students learn vocabulary through exposure rather than direct instruction, and extensive vocabulary instruction often promotes broader reading practices to increase overall word exposure rather than focusing directly on the introduction of complex vocabulary.