One thing students often find difficult is using new scientific vocabulary correctly and in the appropriate context. When starting a unit, it can be helpful to introduce them to all the new terminology and have them create visual vocabulary boards that define and illustrate each word. Having a visual example along with the definition can help students understand abstract concepts.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a spider map that defines and illustrates key vocabulary for classification and taxonomy.
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 16 Points | Beginning 0 Points | |
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Definitions | The vocabulary word is correctly defined. | The meaning of the vocabulary words can be understood but it is awkward. | The vocabulary word is not clearly defined. |
Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. Or The storyboard cell has clear examples of the key word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. Or The storyboard cell has some unclear examples of the key word. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. Or The storyboard cell does not have clear examples of the key word. |
Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |