Ace the FTCE Reading K-12 Exam 2026 – Dive into Success and Read Your Way to Victory!

Tier 1 words are foundational vocabulary that consists of the most basic and commonly used words in everyday language. These words are usually learned in early childhood and do not require much instruction, as they are often encountered in daily conversations. Examples of Tier 1 words include "cat," "happy," and "go." Focusing on Tier 1 words is effective for teaching basic vocabulary since these words are essential for young learners to understand and communicate in simple contexts.

In contrast, Tier 2 words, while also important, tend to be more complex and are often used across different subjects. They require more context and instruction for students to grasp their meanings and nuances. On the other hand, Tier 3 words are specialized terms related to specific subjects or fields, such as "photosynthesis" in science or "isosceles" in mathematics, and are generally not used frequently in daily conversation. Therefore, they are less suitable for teaching basic vocabulary, especially for beginners who need to build a foundation.