Professor Joseph Lo Bianco and Ms Janet Scull from the University of Melbourne examine the data gathered through the Oxford Wordlist research study.

The Oxford Wordlist research study summary provides teachers and researchers with an academic analysis of the results of the research conducted in Australian schools in 2007 – an investigation of high frequency words in young children’s writing and reading development.

The study’s aim was to gain insight into what words students in Australian schools most commonly use in their own writing in their first three years of school. This information was used to provide a contemporary word list for Australian students that may be used for writing and reading purposes. The Oxford Wordlist is available to all educators.

The summary, compiled by Professor Joseph Lo Bianco and Ms Janet Scull from the University of Melbourne, provides:

• Background on previous wordlists, their purpose and their classroom use
• Considerations required when setting up research to ensure it is valid and robust
• An overview of the Oxford Wordlist study including the data collection and entry process
• A discussion of the results according to the profiles of the students in the study
• Comments on control of grammar and choice of text type
• Insight into how the wordlist reflects the interests and activities of students today
• Reference to particular words and how they are positioned in students’ written language

By considering the implications of this research and assisted by the Oxford Wordlist Interactive Tool, educators can be assured that they are providing contemporary and relevant wordlists inclusive of all Australian students.