Another great way to engage your students is by creating a storyboard that uses vocabulary from, Henry and Mudge.
In this activity, students demonstrate their understanding of vocabulary words using sentences and corresponding images. Students may be provided the vocabulary words, or they can use words that they have discovered through their reading of the text. The sentences and images validate the understanding of the word and the context that it was used in the novel.
Here are some ways to help your students find the meaning of the vocabulary words they choose:
1. Use context clues: sometimes you can figure out the meaning of a word by reading the sentences that come before and after the unknown word.
2. Sometimes, the author may tell the definition of the word right in the same sentence or in the following sentence.
3. Picture clues may help define an unknown word.
4. Look at the unknown word and look for parts you may know. Sometimes a new ending or beginning has been added or changed.
5. Use a dictionary or glossary.
Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the story:
v. to give into anxiety; to be concerned about
”When he walked he used to worry about tornadoes, ghosts, biting dogs, and bullies."
n. a small, narrow river
”The birds flew past as he stood beside a stream, calling and calling."
adj. sad because one has no friends or company
”And Mudge woke up from his lonely sleep, then came running."
Other vocabulary words that can be used are: floppy, weighed, drooled, bullies, milky, soapy, sniffing, whined, shone, empty, and silent.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Demonstrate your understanding of the vocabulary words in Henry and Mudge by creating visualizations.
Adapt visual vocabulary boards for students with varying abilities by offering word lists at different reading levels, providing sentence starters, or allowing students to draw instead of write. Scaffold support helps every student participate and grow their vocabulary skills.
Show students a completed example using a projector or printed handout so they understand expectations. Modeling builds confidence and clarifies assignment steps.
Encourage students to find words they personally find challenging or interesting as they read. This fosters ownership and makes vocabulary learning more meaningful.
Pair up students or organize small groups to share and discuss their boards, reinforcing understanding and promoting collaboration among classmates.
Allow students to use tablets, computers, or classroom apps to create digital illustrations for vocabulary words. Technology can motivate students and expand creative options.
A Henry and Mudge visual vocabulary activity is an engaging lesson where students select vocabulary words from the story, write sentences using those words, and create illustrations to show their meanings. This helps students deepen vocabulary understanding through both words and visuals.
To teach Henry and Mudge vocabulary to 2nd or 3rd graders, have students pick words from the story, use context clues or a dictionary to find meanings, write sentences for each word, and draw or find images that show their understanding. This makes learning interactive and memorable.
Common Henry and Mudge vocabulary words include: worry, stream, lonely, floppy, weighed, drooled, bullies, milky, soapy, sniffing, whined, shone, empty, and silent. These words are often highlighted for grade 2–3 lessons.
The best way for students to find word meanings is to use context clues from surrounding sentences, look for hints in the story, break down parts of the word, use picture clues, or check a dictionary or glossary. Combining strategies builds vocabulary skills.
Make vocabulary lessons engaging by having students create visual vocabulary boards with sentences and illustrations for each word. Use activities like drawing, storyboarding, or searching for related images online. This approach encourages active learning and creativity.