Why Vocabulary Matters: Closing the Word Gap for Every Child

Words are the building blocks of opportunity. They start stories, unlock knowledge, spark imagination, and empower children to express themselves, connect with others, and succeed in school and beyond. But what happens when children don’t have enough words? Unfortunately, the answer is pretty stark. A limited vocabulary can hold children back – not just in the classroom, but for a lifetime. In this blog, we bring you the most compelling parts of the Oxford University Press’ recent report on Why Closing the Word Gap Matters.

The Word Gap: What Is It and Why Does It Matter?

The “word gap” refers to the difference in vocabulary size between children, often noticed as early as the first few years of school. According to the Oxford Language Report, nearly half of UK students are at risk of underperforming academically because they lack the words they need to access their learning. Over 1,300 teachers surveyed reported that, on average, 49% of Year 1 students (children aged 5-6) and 43% of Year 7 students (children aged 11-12) have a limited vocabulary that affects their learning. Even more concerning, 69% of primary and 60% of secondary teachers believe the word gap is growing.But this isn’t just about test scores. Language is the foundation for reading, writing, making friends, and building self-esteem. As Jane Harley, Strategy Director at Oxford University Press, puts it: “Language opens doors. It unlocks the world of reading and the imagination, the excitement of writing, the capacity to explore new subjects and releases our potential to learn and grow as an individual.”

The Real-World Impact: More Than Just Words

The consequences of a limited vocabulary are profound. Research shows that children with poor vocabulary at age five are:

• Four times more likely to struggle with reading as adults
• Three times more likely to experience mental health problems
• Twice as likely to be unemployed in adulthood

Teachers see the effects daily: children with fewer words struggle to follow instructions, participate in class, and express their needs and feelings. They find it harder to make friends, have lower self-esteem, and are more likely to become disengaged from learning. Worryingly, the word gap holds children back across every subject, from maths to science to history.

Why Does the Word Gap Happen?

The roots of the word gap are complex. It’s not just about how many words a child hears, but also the quality of interactions they have. When you talk about what interests a child, use varied vocabulary, and explore words in different contexts, you’re helping them to build a strong “word net” that catches and holds new language. Without this net, new words slip away, making it harder for children to learn and remember them.Socio-economic factors play a role, but the word gap can affect any child. Children with special educational needs, those learning English as an additional language, or those from busy families with less time for conversation are all at risk. Unfortunately, the pandemic has made things even harder, with 95% of teachers saying school closures widened the vocabulary gap.

What Can We Do? Practical Steps for Schools and Families

It’s not all bad news, though. The OUP reports various proven ways we can help children build a rich vocabulary, no matter their background. 

1. Make Vocabulary a Priority Across the Curriculum

Schools that tackle the word gap head-on teach vocabulary explicitly in every subject, not just English. They introduce new words, revisit them regularly, and encourage students to use them in speaking and writing. At Handsworth Grange Community Sports College, for example, a whole-school focus on vocabulary, reading, and comprehension has led to increased reading ages, improved writing, and greater confidence among students.

2. Read, Read, Read!

Reading widely and often is one of the best ways for children to encounter new words. Reading aloud (at home as well as at school) introduces children to language they might not hear in everyday conversation. Discussing stories, acting out new words, and making reading fun are all powerful ways to build vocabulary. It’s always best to check whether children have unknown words in what they are reading – if they do, explain what they mean or or look them up together. For children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, accessing books at home may be tricky – so visiting local libraries or even the school library can be a great way to discover new books.

3. Encourage Playful Language and Curiosity

Children learn best when they’re excited and engaged. Encourage them to play with language, ask questions, and explore new words in context. Whether it’s through storytelling, poetry, or imaginative play, every conversation is a chance to grow their vocabulary.

4. Involve Families and Communities

Teachers and parents are eager to work together. Over two-thirds of parents want more guidance on helping their children develop vocabulary. Talking about the day, exploring new words together, and sharing books can all make a real difference.

Key Takeaways

Closing the word gap is about more than just learning definitions. It’s about giving every child the tools to understand the world, express themselves, and succeed throughout their lifetime. So let’s work together to close the word gap-one word, one story, one conversation at a time.