Clarifying vocabulary and symbols is a universal design for learning (UDL) guideline that supports multiple means of representation. The UDL guidelines were developed by an organization called CAST. This article will explore how teachers and other educators can offer ways to make words and symbols clear to a variety of learners.
Clarifying Vocabulary and Symbols in Universal Design for Learning
Clarifying vocabulary and symbols means defining or explaining the semantic elements of a lesson. For example, semantic elements could be:
- Words
- Symbols
- Numbers
- Icons
- Idioms
- Words or phrases no longer in common use
- Slang
- Expressions exclusive to certain cultures
Learners’ awareness of these elements varies based on their:
- Background knowledge
- Language fluency
- Knowledge of terms
In other words, if a lesson requires learners to know certain terms or concepts before they begin, learners may not have all the information they need to start the lesson. Therefore, before teachers begin a new topic requiring prior knowledge, they should briefly:
- Define words or concepts and describe their contexts
- Explain important symbols and what they represent
Moreover, these explanations should help learners understand how their prior knowledge or experience connects to new concepts. furthermore, teachers can point out when new words, phrases, or equations are based on simpler ones that learners may already know. For example, the word “knowledge” relates to the word “know”, and also contains the word “ledge”.
In addition, teachers should provide more supports for learners to consult throughout the lesson to enhance their understanding. For instance, teachers can provide handouts showing new symbols and image descriptions that explain them, as reminders. Similarly, teachers can use resources that provide links or footnotes to:
- Glossaries
- Explanations
- Examples
- Reminders about previously-learned material
- Translations
Finally, texts can include similar explanations of any passing references to:
- Theories or notation specific to certain subject-matter
- Academic, figurative, or mathematical language
- Colloquialism or dialect
On one hand, learners who already possess required background knowledge can ignore explanatory links or footnotes. On the other hand, learners without this background can use provided resources to gain the knowledge they need.