Which activity is most beneficial for developing students' vocabulary skills?

The discussion of word-learning strategies is highly beneficial for developing students' vocabulary skills because it actively engages students in the process of understanding how to acquire new words. When students learn and discuss various strategies, such as using context clues, analyzing word parts (prefixes and suffixes), and employing mnemonic devices, they become more empowered to tackle unfamiliar words independently in different contexts. This metacognitive approach not only helps in immediate vocabulary acquisition but also fosters lifelong learning habits by equipping students with the tools to learn new vocabulary on their own.

On the other hand, while repetitive reading, listening to audiobooks, and reading at their own speed can support vocabulary development to some extent, they do not necessarily promote active engagement with the words or strategies needed to grasp the nuances of vocabulary. Repetitive reading may enhance fluency but not necessarily deepen understanding of word meanings or concepts. Listening to audiobooks offers exposure to vocabulary but lacks the interactive, active learning element associated with discussing strategies. Reading at their own speed may cater to individual preferences but does not guarantee a focus on learning new vocabulary terms systematically. Thus, engaging in discussions about word-learning strategies stands out as the most comprehensive and effective activity for vocabulary development.