Understanding a text requires more than the ability to read individual words: it depends greatly on vocabulary knowledge. This important book brings together leading literacy scholars to synthesize cutting-edge research on vocabulary development and its connections to reading comprehension. The volume also reviews an array of approaches to assessing vocabulary knowledge and helping diverse learners build their skills. Key topics include the relationship of vocabulary acquisition to phonological awareness and to morphological processing, the role of parents in supporting early language development, and considerations in teaching English language learners and children with reading disabilities.