What skill is primarily being developed when fourth-grade students write down keywords and definitions from texts during research?

The primary skill being developed when fourth-grade students write down keywords and definitions from texts during research is scaffolding students' academic vocabulary growth. This activity encourages students to engage actively with the text, which helps them identify and understand important terms related to their research topic. By focusing on keywords, students are not only learning the meanings of those specific words but also enhancing their overall vocabulary and comprehension skills, which are essential for their academic development.

As they define these keywords, they are reinforcing their understanding and making connections between the new vocabulary and their existing knowledge. This practice is particularly beneficial in helping students articulate their thoughts and contribute meaningfully to discussions relevant to their research topics.

In this context, the activity serves a dual purpose: it aids in vocabulary acquisition while also preparing them for future tasks that involve more complex academic language.