What teacher action during a read-aloud is most effective for kindergartners' vocabulary development?

Pausing to elaborate on content and questioning students during a read-aloud is particularly effective for kindergartners' vocabulary development because it engages them directly in the learning process. This approach allows the teacher to provide context and explanations for new words, helping students to make connections between the vocabulary and their prior knowledge.

As the teacher pauses to elaborate, they can break down complex ideas into simpler terms, ensuring that young learners understand both the meaning of the vocabulary and how it fits into the story. Additionally, asking questions encourages interaction, prompting students to think critically about what they are hearing and to express their thoughts. This dialogue not only reinforces their understanding but also enriches their vocabulary as they articulate their ideas and respond to the teacher's prompts.

Other actions, while beneficial in their own right, do not facilitate vocabulary growth as effectively. For instance, exaggerated intonation makes the reading more engaging and can capture students' attention, but it doesn’t specifically address vocabulary comprehension. Pointing under the text while reading helps with tracking print and can encourage print awareness, yet it also does not engage students in vocalizing or deepening their understanding of new words. Writing a list of keywords on the board is valuable for visual learners but may not effectively integrate those words into