The art of teaching vocabulary is so important, not just for EAL/D students but for all students. This is especially true from Stage 2 onwards as students move from learning to read to reading to learn. NAPLAN results show many students stagnate between the Year 3 and Year 5 NAPLAN tests, resulting in what many call the 'Fourth Grade Slump'.
From working with the Focus On Reading program I have learned (well may have already known but nice to have the program back my opinion up) that a large part of reading to learn is understanding key vocabulary.
Here is a great web post that talks about learning vocabulary and has ten minute vocabulary lessons you might like to try.
http://www.middleweb.com/15903/ten-minute-vocabulary-lesson/