What is one of the challenges of teaching vocabulary?

Reactivating prior knowledge is a significant challenge in teaching vocabulary because it requires the instructor to connect new vocabulary to concepts and words that students have previously encountered. This connection is essential for deepening understanding and retention of new vocabulary. If students do not have adequate prior knowledge or contexts in which to place new words, they may struggle to grasp their meanings and uses. Effective vocabulary instruction often hinges on the ability to draw on students’ existing knowledge and experiences, making reactivation a critical step in the learning process.

In addition, it often requires skillful questioning and prompts from the teacher to bring forth this prior knowledge, which can be time-consuming and requires careful planning. This challenge underscores the importance of knowing each student's background and language experience, as it directly impacts their ability to engage with and learn new vocabulary.