Keyword Method

The keyword method is a mnemonic strategy.  A mnemonic strategy is a systematic procedure for enhancing memory.  The keyword method has been shown to be effective with students who have learning difficulties and those who are at risk (Mastropieri and Scruggs, 1998).  This lesson will give students the ability to remember word meanings.  This can be used with grade three and above.  This lesson can be used whole group, small group, pairs or individually.

The components of the keyword method are:

1. Direct Explanation - Explain to students that you are going to show them how to use the keyword method which a strategy they can use to help them remember the meanings of new vocabulary words.
2. Read the Selected Text - Have students read the text either in pairs or individually.
3. Define the Target Word - Read the new word from the selected text.
4. Think of a Keyword for the Target Word - Have students, with help necessary, think of a word called a keyword, which is a word that sounds like the target word and can easily be pictured.
5. Link the Keyword with the Meaning of the Target Word - Now have students create an image, or just picture in their head, of the target word and the keyword interacting.
6. Recall the Meaning of the Target Word - Explain to students that now whenever they read the target word you want them to try to remember the picture of the keyword and the meaning interacting.
7. Repeat with Other Target Words - Have students repeat this procedure with at least one more word from the text.