Which of the following is classified as a Tier 2 word?

The classification of words into tiers is important in vocabulary instruction, especially in structured literacy. Tier 2 words are often high-frequency words that appear in a variety of contexts and are more likely to be used by mature language users. They usually have nuanced meanings and are essential for understanding text across different subjects.

"Brisk" qualifies as a Tier 2 word because it is more sophisticated and conveys a specific meaning that might not be known to all students. It refers to something quick and energetic, a nuance that adds depth to a student's vocabulary and comprehension of texts. Integrating Tier 2 words like "brisk" into instruction helps enhance students' expressive and receptive language, contributing significantly to their academic language skills.

In contrast, the other choices—words like "dog," "house," and "pencil"—are more common and typically fall into Tier 1 vocabulary. Tier 1 words are basic, everyday words that most children are familiar with early in their language development.