Introduction
In this Webquest, I will introduce THREE vocabulary activities that are sure to increase student vocabulary, build recall skills, and promote speaking skills, all while having fun and creating a more inclusive classroom environment.
Task
To understand, recognize, and use grade appropriate academic vocabulary.
Process
Activity 1: Draw the Word (Web)
Based on my idea (though it's certainly not original!) of creating a student-led word web on the class room wall, Draw the Word Web links critical thinking and creative expression into one activity. Whenever students learn a new vocabulary word, they will draw a visual representation of the word to put in their individual graphic organizers. As a class, we all choose one of the drawings to go next to the word when we add it to the word web on the wall.
This way, students can mix-up how they're learning, get some creative activity in, all while creating material for their review for later and creating an engaging vocabulary display that works on multiple levels.
Activity 2: Storytellers
Students work together in pairs to create a short story (approximately 3 paragraphs) about a subject or event of their own choosing. They must incorporate - and use correctly! - 6 new vocabulary words, 2 in each paragraph. Students take turns in writing the sentences but work together in creating the plot and deciding which word goes where. Afterwards, pairs read their stories aloud.
This activity acts as an opportunity for students to put the new vocabulary words to the test by using them as writers. The activity also provides an opportunity for students to practice their listening, speaking, and collaborative skills.
Activity 3: What Word?
Remember the $10,000 Pyramid? "What Word?" is a lot like that, but without all the stress and competition.
Students quiz each other by giving clues to the vocabulary word and getting the other students to say the word. Is your class struggling to get the concept? Have students read the exact definition as the clue. Class getting the answers too quickly? Make any words used in the definition off-limits for clues!
This activity will help students develop their understanding about how the word fits into a context, rather than simply memorizing the definition. It also provides a good opportunity for students to verbalize their definitions, help their fellow students out with clues, and test their skills without being graded or having to compete.
Evaluation
Activity 1: Draw the Word (Web)
Students will be evaluated on their understanding of the vocabulary as shown in their drawings. Students will also be evaluated on their graphic organizer work where they incorporate the drawing into their vocabulary record.
Activity 2: Storytellers
Students will be evaluated on how accurately they used the vocabulary words, how well they followed activity rules and requirements, and the quality of their story presentation.
Activity 3: What Word?
Students will be evaluated on the quality of their clues, their teamwork, and their accuracy in naming the correct vocabulary words.
*Note: I don't think any of these activities need to be evaluated formally, but these are good guidelines for marking student progress.
Conclusion
I'm excited to use these three activities to increase the range of application of new vocabulary and the angles from which students can see the words. I plan on implementing these activities (and others that I know I will gain in further experience and conversation) to connect with students in multiple ways and to play on their strengths so they feel confident in vocabulary application.
I believe that creativity, expression, and collaboration help students understand vocabulary instead of simply memorizing words or recognizing them in texts. And this understanding is what translates into usage. When we see students using vocabulary words in their own conversation and crossing that bridge from school text to way of speaking, we can feel confident that they know instead of just recognize.
Credits
Bafile, Cara. "Ideas for Teaching Vocabulary and Spelling." Education World. Education World, 20 Aug. 2012. Web. 17 Mar. 2016.
Bouchillon, Esther. "Study.com." Vocabulary Activities for Middle School. Study.com. Web. 17 Mar. 2016.
Simmons, Eileen. "National Writing Project." Visualizing Vocabulary. The Quarterly, 2002. Web. 17 Mar. 2016.