fun game

Home

Chat

Blogs

Collection

Directory

Home : 2005 : October : 24

fun game
By fun_friend

I like so many of the ideas I've read here! Teaching vocabulary is one of my primary passions. I really believe a large vocabulary is the mark of intelligence or at least education.

I take 10-20 words and type
them in a column on Excel. I skip a column and then type a corresponding definition. I format the typing to a large font but make sure it fits on one or two pages of cardstock. I print a few copies and cut the definitions and terms apart and put each collection in a small zip lock bag. I have kids work in pairs or trios to match up the terms to definitions as a study technique. I

have them practice a few times if a vocabulary test is emminent. This is an easy way to review and also to allow the kids to talk about the vocabulary. I have several sets I've made this year on just general language arts terminology: narrative, noun, semicolon, indent, vivid, modify, possessive noun, etc. When I've taught a novel or read-aloud, I generate sets for sections of the novel for the kids to practice before taking a quiz.

I bought the puzzlemaker software from Discoveryschool.com, but you can access the programs for free on the web (the CD is enhanced and IMHO worth the $$). Kids enjoy crosswords or other puzzlers I generate to help them learn the vocabulary.

Pairs of kids can take an individual word and made a Power Point presentation to teach the word to the rest of the class. This was a pretty fun activity when I did it last year! They say teaching is the best way to learn something. I gave them guidelines and a rubric.