Starting a unit or lesson with the key vocabulary that students will see in their readings or presentations aids in overall comprehension and retention. In this activity, students will create a storyboard that defines and illustrates key vocabulary related to Underground to Canada by Barbara Smucker. When students define and illustrate each term, they master the application of it and retain it as part of their lexicon.
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a spider map that defines and illustrates new vocabulary words in Underground to Canada.
Student Instructions:
Requirements: Must have 3 terms, correct definitions, and appropriate illustrations for each that demonstrate your understanding of the words.
Encourage students to share and discuss their illustrated vocabulary boards by setting up a gallery walk in your classroom. This creates a collaborative learning environment and helps reinforce vocabulary through peer interaction.
Arrange desks or tables around the room so each student can display their storyboard. Make sure there is enough space for students to walk comfortably and view each display.
Allow students to walk around, read definitions, and observe illustrations. Encourage them to jot down interesting ideas or new ways to visualize vocabulary terms.
Prompt students to ask questions or provide positive feedback to their classmates about their boards. This fosters critical thinking and deeper understanding of the vocabulary.
Lead a group discussion about what students learned from others' boards. Highlight creative approaches and clarify any vocabulary misunderstandings.
A visual vocabulary activity for Underground to Canada involves students defining and illustrating key terms from the novel. They create a storyboard or spider map with each word's definition and a related drawing, which helps reinforce understanding and retention of important vocabulary.
You can help students learn vocabulary by having them define and illustrate key terms from Underground to Canada. Using storyboard or visual mapping activities allows students to connect meanings with images, deepening comprehension and making the words more memorable.
Essential vocabulary words from Underground to Canada for middle school include abolitionist, plantation, drinking gourd, pursuit, liberate, and Underground Railroad. Teaching these helps students better understand the historical context and themes of the book.
The best way to create a vocabulary storyboard is to choose key terms, write their definitions, and draw illustrations representing each word. Use a spider map or storyboard template, and encourage students to use scenes or characters from the novel to make connections.
Using visuals helps students better comprehend and remember vocabulary by engaging multiple senses. Visuals make abstract or unfamiliar terms more concrete, support students with different learning styles, and encourage deeper connections to the novel's themes.