Sophistication & Nuance

We’ve used this LSM to help with sophistication and nuance for many years.

Sophistication & nuance add richness & flavor to a discourse or reading experience. When learners have a larger foundation of descriptive vocabulary they have a greater command of the language with a deeper comprehension of the subject. Use these Language Support Menus (LSMs) and create your own for each content. Clarity & descriptive language is a vital component of classroom discussions, debriefings, & interpersonal interactions. This LSM was developed as an example for higher level ELD learners but can easily work for all levels with the right preview & practice and partner support.

For lower ELD learners, construct LSMs with pictures, lexical arrays, antonym or synonym wheels to provide additional visual supports. As always, be sure to connect the new descriptive vocabulary to the mentor text and always preview & practice the target phrases.

Prepping your Sophistication & Nuance LSMs

Download file.
We suggest using heavy cardstock and lamination to protect your investment.
Print back-to-back. The file has two pages of the same menus to make it easier to print double sided.
Print flipping on the short side or manually print each side separately.
Choose a wild and fun color.
You’ll need one menu for each team of four or pair of students.
Cut menus in half before laminating.

Implementing Sophistication & Nuance

When learners engage in discussions, debriefings and writing, 1) preview & preteach the new sophisticated vocabulary in context, then 2) discuss and model the degree of nuance or depth of descriptive language with students. Have them practice the new language alongside the model language. Learners compare and contrast their comprehension and level of understanding with the new and richer vocabulary.