Vocabulary development is essential for a student to become a good reader. By learning new words in terms of meaning and use, the student can increase his/her listening, speaking, reading, and writing vocabularies. A student may increase vocabulary development when communicating informally with others or formally within a classroom setting. This paper discusses vocabulary development across the curriculum, particularly in social studies and in science. The paper lists the following steps in teaching vocabulary development: the new word should be printed neatly on the board; students should use the new word in a sentence contextually; the teacher needs to provide for individual differences; the teacher should observe how frequently a student uses a new concept meaningfully; students may assist others in vocabulary development; the teacher should observe that students are actively engaged in learning; students should be encouraged to raise questions when they do not understand what is being taught; and students should use self appraisal pertaining to growth in vocabulary knowledge and use. The paper cites 13 learning opportunities which aid students in vocabulary development, including reading aloud to students; engaging in storytelling; using dictionaries and glossaries; and participating at the speaking center. It considers computer-assisted instruction in vocabulary development, finding that it has a positive influence on a student's motivation, interest, and learning; and that computer-assisted reading instruction has been effective. (Contains 10 references.) (NKA)