Sketching

The funniest sketch I ever saw for a word was from a fourth grader – she sketched a stick figure, puking into a toilet- for the word “retch.” I think what made it so funny was the detail. Will I ever forget it? No. She probably won’t either. Sketching is a great way to help kids process the meaning of vocabulary words.

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Combine vocabulary building with two additional important skills: identifying synonyms and antonyms. Give each person a sheet of white paper and assign him/her a higher-level vocabulary word. They write their words across the top of the paper in marker, then decorate the rest of the sheet with synonyms, antonyms and sketches. Hang them around the room for instant reinforcement of your vocabulary!

Games

Flashcards – Use 3×5 cards, cutting them in half for older kids. On one half, put the word and the definition goes on the other half. Lay out the cards upside down on the table top and kids take turns flipping over sets of two cards for each turn, trying to match the word with the definition.

Charades – Secretly assign vocabulary words to individuals or small groups. Set a timer for 1 to 5 minutes to give them a little planning time, then they must act out the word, one at a time.  Classmates raise their hands to guess the word – they can also provide the definition or use it in a sentence. The first one to guess correctly gets a small prize.

Bingo – Write down the vocabulary words on pieces of paper, and students write definitions of words, one to a square. Draw the pieces of paper out of a container, and students match the definition and cover it. You can also play it so students write the words, one to a square, and you read the definition one a at a time. Here’s a Bingo Board in case you need one!

Building vocabulary with your students can be a fun part of your every day routine as you explore

learning experiences across the curriculum!