Another great way to engage your students is by creating a storyboard that uses vocabulary from The Raft.
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 story.
Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the story and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
(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 The Raft by creating visualizations.
Adapt the activity by offering vocabulary options at varying difficulty levels and allowing students to choose according to their readiness. This ensures every learner feels challenged yet supported as they build vocabulary skills.
Demonstrate the process by choosing one word, defining it, writing a sentence, and drawing or selecting an image in front of the class. Your example provides a clear reference and boosts student confidence.
Let students pick their favorite vocabulary words or images that resonate with them. Personal choice increases ownership and makes vocabulary practice more meaningful.
Organize opportunities for students to present their boards to classmates and offer constructive feedback. This builds communication skills and deepens understanding through discussion.
Ask students to write or draw one new thing they learned about a word from a classmate's board before leaving. This provides instant formative assessment and reinforces learning.
A visual vocabulary board for The Raft is an activity where students select key vocabulary words from the story, write sentences using those words, and illustrate their meanings with images or drawings. This helps students connect words to their context and deepen understanding.
To create a visual vocabulary lesson for The Raft, pick three vocabulary words from the text, look up their definitions, write your own sentences using those words, and illustrate each word with a drawing or photo that shows its meaning. Encourage students to use both visuals and context clues from the story.
Common vocabulary words from The Raft include scattered, hitchhiker, preen, complained, nuzzle, thermos, tackle box, snorkel, gutters, bobber, hovering, reeds, attracted, willow, and startled.
Using visual vocabulary helps elementary students by making abstract words concrete, engaging multiple learning styles, and supporting memory through both pictures and text. It promotes deeper understanding and retention of new words.
Students can use drawing tools, printed images, or online resources like Photos for Class to find images that represent vocabulary words from The Raft. Combining scenes, characters, and items helps visualize word meanings effectively.