What are 'target words' in an educational context?

In an educational context, 'target words' refer to the specific words that are intentionally addressed and focused on during lessons and activities. These are the words that teachers select for explicit instruction to enhance students' vocabulary knowledge and comprehension skills. By concentrating on target words, educators can help students understand their meanings, usage in context, and the nuances of language, which ultimately supports their overall literacy development.

Target words are often integral to specific curriculum objectives and can be linked to a particular theme, subject matter, or skill being taught. This focused approach allows for deeper engagement with the vocabulary, offering students the opportunity to practice and reinforce their understanding through various activities and exercises.