WhichWord? Definitions
Try WhichWord? Definitions
with a sample word list!
- 2nd-3rd"A Drop of Water"
- 4th-5thScience: Force
- 6th-8thGeometry
- 9th-12thACT & SAT words
Note: Although this activity is designed for the grade levels above, it can also be used as a remediation or enrichment activity at any grade level with an appropriate word list.
Building Literacy
- Foundational Skills
- Fluency
- Vocabulary
What? Comprehension increases when students have constant exposure to vocabulary words through multiple modalities, and when this practice is spaced over time. More...Less
In addition to reading words in context, students benefit from reading words in student-friendly definitions, rather than in formal dictionary definitions. Vocabulary and spelling lesson plans should include opportunities for both reading words in contextually rich sentences and in student-friendly definitions.
When? Instruction in vocabulary occurs in every content area, regardless of students’ age and grade level. More...Less
Vocabulary lesson plans include activities that require students to learn definitions at different stages of reading. For example, some words are taught before reading while others are taught during reading.
How to teach: Teachers have a few choices to make on how to teach vocabulary. More...Less
Some words are explicitly taught, while others are defined in the text. With regard to definitions, using student-friendly definitions rather than standard dictionary definitions is a research-based best practice. Research also shows us that using games is an effective way to make vocabulary instruction engaging.
Play to learn: In WhichWord? Definitions, students find the word that corresponds with the given definition. More...Less
Both the definition and the choices are read to students, which is helpful for struggling readers. If the wrong word is chosen, students are given additional chances to choose the correct word. Students are not permitted to move on until the correct word has been identified.
Teaching Tip: WhichWord? Definitions is a great activity to test student knowledge of word meaning and improve vocabulary. More...Less
It can be used as a whole group lesson where the teacher acts as a game show host and students can test their vocabulary knowledge as a review. WhichWord? Definitions is available as an online activity or as a printable worksheet.