VOCABULARY
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"The most powerful thing that can be done
is to name something."
(Albert Einstein)
STRATEGY ONE: Try a word wall!
They're fun!
They're always visible!
They're good test reminders!
They're the beginning for other learning activities!
STRATEGY TWO: Use definitions carefully!
Dictionary Definitions:
1. are accurate, but contain difficult vocabulary.
2. may not be appropriate for the context.
3. may not contain enough information to help the reader truly grasp the concept or understand how the word is used.
Visualize an image associated with a word.
Remember a personal experience associated with a word.
Use a variety of word puzzles. Build your own word puzzles here.
Fold a paper in four parts. Write word in top left square, dictionary definition in top right square, subjective association in bottom left square, illustration in bottom right square.
Use pantomimes. Imagine a simple gesture for the word. Associate pantomimes with words.
Analyze familiar elements of words. (quadrangle, ecology) This is morphemic, or meaning of parts, analysis.
Use a study guide. Include target words, suffixes, roots, prefixes, synonyms, related words, sentences. Click here to see one example of a "Vocabulary Record" sheet.
Use context. Provide a list of words prior to reading. Students provide definitions based upon their reading. After reading, students consult dictionaries and rewrite definitions accordingly.
Use analogies. Have students complete a word analogy. (Sphere : Ball :: Cube : ?)
Have students categorize groups of words according to similar characteristics.
Use webbing. Place the target word in the middle. Connect associated words. Helpful tips on using concept maps can be found here.
Try a lesson plan format that emphasizes vocabulary. Click here to see a printable sample.
Click here for a list of links to more vocabulary activities
| Reading Strategies | Vocabulary Strategies |
| Reading Links | Vocabulary Links |
