Vocabulary Scramble

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Home : 2002 : December : 24

Vocabulary Scramble
By EA

I play a game called "Vocabulary Scramble" with my kids. For each vocabulary word, I write the word and the definition on separate index cards (or small pieces of white paper.) I then tape each card face down on the front
board. After the cards are taped, I number them (normally 1 through 20 or so). The class is then divided into 2 teams. One at a time, students are given the opportunity to call out numbers to find a matching pair -- a vocabulary word and a matching definition. When a number is called out, I turn that card over, allowing the whole class to see the hidden word or definition. If a team

gets a match, their team earns a point, and somebody else on that team gets to pick again (for a maximum of 3 matches in a row correct -- then play switches to the other team.) If the pair is not a match, I turn the cards back over so the number side is showing. The winning teams has the most points at the end of the game! (Alternatively, you can set a goal of say 7 points -- any team who reaches that goal wins. That way everybody can be a winner!)

I find that the game works well with many different levels of students. It challenges the upper end of the class to remember which word/definition is hidden where. At the same time, struggling students are often eager to offer suggestions for numbers to check. Good luck! I hope this helps.