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Vocabulary Strategies

Frayer's Model Strategy #1

It is important to build the vocabulary for each unit in order to understand the lesson and 8th grade Georgia Studies has tons of vocabulary terms for each unit. Since we know that, it is best to get ahead of the curve and learn the terms and phrases. Although there are many ways to learn vocabulary, we will focus on a few of my favorites. We will work in our Vocabulary Journals (marble composition book) during Warm-Up each day.  Please take a look at the templates below for direction on how to work in your Vocabulary Journal. 

Download Frayer's Model Here

"Vocabulary Scene"

                                                                                     Strategy #2

 

                                                                      Vocabulary Scenes Rubric

 

There will be pairs or groups of 3 assigned per vocabulary word.  Students will write a short scene that shows the meaning of assigned vocabulary word.  Each person should write the strategy number and “Vocabulary Scene” as the title and then write the script in their own vocabulary journal. You must underline the vocabulary term that you are acting out. Complete this assignment by doing the following:

 

  • ______________  Written script in which each person has 3-4 lines (The scene should be about one minute in length when acted out). (5 points)

  • ______________  Use the vocabulary word in the scene and be sure the meaning of the word is clear from the actions, word choice, and context of your scene (5 points)

  • _____________  Ask the class for a definition based on your scene.  Write the correct word and a brief definition on the board and explain it to the class when finished with scene (5 points)

 

_________/15 points                          A=14-15          B=12-13          C=11          D=9-10            F=0-8

Vocabulary Stories

                                                                                                   Strategy #3

 

For each vocabulary word, write stories that show the meaning of the given title-with vocabulary word underlined.  Stories should be a minimum of 100 words and clearly show meaning of vocab word through situation presented, context, and synonyms.  On the day the stories are due, students trade stories and highlight the parts of the story that show they understand the meaning of the vocabulary word.  Share out one story for each word—easy to check highlighted parts of student’s work, plus the reading/highlighting serves as a good review of the words.

 

Vocabulary Story Example

 

“The Miserly Old Man”

 

            Bob was an incredibly cheap old-timer. He was very set in his ways and resistant to change. Bob woke up Sunday morning and, as usual, counted his money that he kept in his clip. He was careful with his cash and never spent more than was absolutely necessary. He drove to Denny’s (since it was close by and used only a small amount of gas). Bob ordered his usual: The Grand Slam Breakfast.

“$2.99. Now that’s a deal!” he told the waitress.

“Yep,” she replied as she rolled her eyes and walked away.

She knew Bob’s reputation for being stingy and didn’t feel like dealing with him that day. After he ate his pancakes, eggs, and sausage, Bob left. 

“Oops.  I almost forgot!”  He exclaimed as he returned to the table and fished from his pocket a shiny quarter as a tip.  He left the restaurant pleased with himself for finding such a cheap, satisfying breakfast.

 

Rubric:

 

_________ 100 word minimum

 

_________  Clearly shows meaning of vocabulary word through situation, context, word choice, synonyms, and antonyms used in story

Vocabulary 4 Square Strategy 

                    Strategy #4

Directions: In your Vocabulary Journal, re-create the 4 Square below. ***I have also attached a sample Vocabulary 4 Square.
Example of Vocabulary 4 Square

Make-a-term/phrase look like its meaning

                                       Strategy #5

Directions: In your Vocabulary Journal, re-create the "Make-a term/phrase look like its meaning below. ***I have included an example below.
Example of "Make a term/phrase look like its meaning

K-I-M Vocabulary Strategy

                Strategy #6 

Directions: In your Vocabulary Journal you are to re-create the K-I-M strategy below.  Drop down about 4 spaces for each term. You may have about 6 terms on each page. ***See the example at the top of the template.
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