Resources to Teach Vocabulary

Increasing a student's vocabulary is important, as vocabulary knowledge has a direct correlation to comprehension.  

When we carefully select words and then explicitly teach students those word meanings, we are helping students create a deep understanding of words.  Vocabulary instruction is imperative for all kids, but vital for students who have under developed vocabularies.

In 5 Ways to Practice Vocabulary Effectively, I provided 5 ways teachers can have students interact with vocabulary terms that will facilitate word connections.  Lets take a look at resources you might be able to use for each of those steps! 

1. Multiple Meanings

Did you know there are 5,000 or so common words in English that have multiple meanings!  Crazy, right? 

Simple word maps are an easy way to help students see multiple meanings words can have.  A word map can be as simple as the one pictured below--a circle with a target term in the middle, and connected circles that represent the multiple meanings.    

If you are working with more advanced readers and need a word map with more rigor, check out the map below.  This map has students expanding their understanding by using vocabulary terms in a sentence, writing a definition and drawing a picture.  

2. Classify Words into Categories

Our brains crave organization and patterning.  As we learn new words our brains create pathways to connect new words with known words.  To help my students develop those pathways, I use word sorts!  I LOVE word sorts, and students do too!!

Check out this free one-pager resource which includes 12 different ways you can have students sort and classify words!  A list of words can be compiled based on a spelling pattern, phonics skill, vocabulary or grammar concept!

Are you in need of pre-made word sorts?  Maybe you simply don't have the time (or energy...I feel ya) to create your own.   

Look no further....I have oodles of them! Just click the images below!

                

3. Analyze Semantic Features

Semantic feature analysis is a strategy to compare characteristics of words.  Many words have some in common properties, and identifying those helps students create word networks.

Check out the Semantic Feature Analysis from Reading Rockets.  This article takes a deeper dive into analyzing characteristics of words, and you can download a free semantic feature analysis grid!!

4. Use Antonyms & Synonyms 

Anytime you help students gain a deeper meaning of a vocabulary term ...it is a win!  Use a vocabulary graphic organizer  (like the one pictured below) to assist students in clarifying their understanding about new words.

Most vocabulary word maps will include synonyms, antonyms and a space to list characteristics. 

Check out this game version of a word map, Vocabulary Rock and Roll !  Just print this sheet for students and let them play!  

Building students' vocabularies takes TIME and many, many, many encounters with words!  Incorporating any of the above strategies and resources into your daily routine will get your students on the path to being word masters!!

Test Motivation for Students

  Standardized testing season is upon us again.....

I have a love/hate relationship with testing.  I loathe the pressure that students and teachers might feel, but I also love celebrating the academic gains students make.

Like many in education, I don't believe a singular test score defines a student.  However, I do believe we need data on students to determine what needs the student may have.  Test scores also give us data on school and curriculum performance.  

Is the curriculum addressing the standards?  

Is the curriculum rigorous enough?  

Do we have areas we need to supplement?  

Is effective instruction being provided?      

Test scores help us ensure that students are being served, and that tax payers are getting a good return on their investment.  

With that being said, I also want to make sure students don't feel stress yet are motivated to perform at their best. To ease testing anxiety, and give my kiddos a little extra encouragement I surprise them with a fun treat whenever we have an assessment.

The gesture isn't much, but it sure makes the students smile. AND...one smile is worth it...right?!?

Additionally, the younger grades in my building "adopt" an older grade.  The younger students write positive notes to each student, draw them pictures and decorate the classroom with motivational posters!  

Check out this list of motivational ideas from Engage to Learn. Dr. Luz Martinez, an associate superintendent at Midland ISD in Texas with 25 years of experience in education, shares a list of over 15 ways to motivate students before AND after high stakes testing. 

If you are interested in lifting your kids up a little extra during testing season, check out these treat tags on TPT.  For under three dollars you get FIFTEEN different sayings!  

Best of luck during this testing season!