Drawing on instructional materials, classroom images, and observational data from research, the authors illustrate these principles: establishing efficient, rich routines for introducing target word meanings; providing review activities that promote deep processing of word meanings; responding directly to student confusion; and fostering universal participation in and accountability for vocabulary instruction.

These include: a whole school approach, a multifaceted approach, explicitly teach words, multiple exposures, teach words in context, link spoken and written vocabulary, analyse elements of words, go with the child, get excited about words, teach strategies, and work in partnership with families.