Which general academic vocabulary word from a historical text is beneficial to teach to sixth-grade students?

The term "establish" is particularly advantageous for sixth-grade students as it encapsulates a fundamental concept that is frequently encountered across various subjects, especially in history and social studies. Teaching this word helps students understand processes related to forming or setting up organizations, governments, or institutions, which is a recurring theme in historical narratives.

Understanding "establish" provides students with a framework for discussing how societies or political structures develop over time, fostering critical thinking about cause and effect in historical events. This word also connects to numerous contexts, allowing students to apply their knowledge beyond history, enhancing their overall academic vocabulary.

While the other terms, such as "city-states," "ensuing," and "democracy," are significant, they may be more context-specific or complex. "City-states" refers specifically to historical political entities, "ensuing" requires understanding of sequences in narrative, and "democracy" entails a more complicated political concept. In contrast, "establish" is versatile, applicable in a variety of subjects and scenarios students may encounter, making it a strategic choice for vocabulary instruction.