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Activity Overview


In this activity, students are able to 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.


Maniac Magee Vocabulary Words

  • pandemonium
  • dovetailed
  • veering
  • skewered
  • blarney
  • exuberance
  • ludicrous
  • pungent
  • lambaste
  • shenanigan
  • goaded
  • commotion
  • gabble
  • beseech
  • twang
  • converge


Template and Class Instructions

(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 Maniac Magee by creating visualizations.


  1. Choose three vocabulary words from the story and type them in the title boxes.
  2. Find the definition in a print or online dictionary.
  3. Write a sentence that uses the vocabulary word.
  4. Illustrate the meaning of the word in the cell using a combination of scenes, characters, and items.
    • Alternatively, use Photos for Class to show the meaning of the words with the search bar.

Lesson Plan Reference

Common Core Standards
  • [ELA-Literacy/RL/5/4] Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative language such as metaphors and similes.

Rubric

(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)


Visual Vocabulary Assignment
Define, illustrate, and give an example sentence for any three vocabulary words.
Proficient Emerging Beginning
Word 1 - Sentence
Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context.
The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context.
The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence.
Word 1 - Visualization
The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word.
The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand.
The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word.
Word 2 - Sentence
Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context.
The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context.
The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence.
Word 2 - Visualization
The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word.
The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand.
The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word.
Word 3 - Sentence
Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context.
The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context.
The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence.
Word 3 - Visualization
The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word.
The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand.
The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word.


How To Encourage the Use of Newly Learned Vocabulary in Daily Life

1

Use Vocabulary Journals

Teachers can encourage the students to keep a vocabulary journal where they will write down all the vocabulary they learn on a daily basis with meanings. Students can go through this journal several times a day.

2

Cooperation of Parents

Parents can incorporate the vocabulary learned by their children into their daily conversations. Teachers can send them a list of vocabulary that they practice each day.

3

Organize Discussions

Ask the students to come up with a random topic for discussions or debates such as “Are video games good or bad”. Teachers can ask the students to use the particular vocabulary that they have been learning with the help of their vocabulary journals.

4

Introduce Practice Partners

Divide the class into pairs so that each student has a practice partner. Then the teacher can introduce a topic to each pair. Then the pair has to use the vocabulary to carry out a daily conversation such as “Explaining what they did yesterday” or “How was their visit to the park last week”, etc.

5

Give Praise and Motivation

Teachers can praise the efforts of their students and provide them with words of motivation to maintain the results.

Frequently Asked Questions About Defining Vocabulary in Maniac Magee

How do I look up definitions for new words in "Maniac Magee"?

You can use a dictionary, whether it's a physical one or an online resource, to look up the definitions of new words in "Maniac Magee." A glossary providing definitions for chosen vocabulary words may also be included at the end of some book versions. Furthermore, students can also consult their parents and teachers for help and find the meanings of new words.

What strategies may teachers use to assist kids comprehend and retain new vocabulary words from "Maniac Magee"?

Teachers can employ a number of techniques to aid pupils in comprehending and remembering new vocabulary items. Using visuals, including vocabulary activities, using the tale to provide context, and encouraging students to use the words in their own writing and speech are a few of these.

Are there any particular vocabulary words in "Maniac Magee" that readers might find difficult to understand?

Depending on the reader's age and level of linguistic skill, vocabulary terms might range in complexity. There may be some words in "Maniac Magee" that present difficulties for some readers because of the context, character backgrounds, or regional dialects.

What kind of vocabulary exercises can be used to teach “Maniac Magee” to younger students?

When reading "Maniac Magee," teachers can add vocabulary exercises including vocabulary diaries, word walls, word maps, quizzes, and debates. These exercises improve students' comprehension of and interest in the text. Younger students also learn better through exercises and activities as they grab their attention faster.




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