In any classroom, vocabulary is a critical component for expanding student knowledge. A perfect way for students to practice vocabulary skills is to create Storyboards that show the use of a word in a real life context, or visually depict the word's meaning. When students define a word and use it in context, they better retain it as part of their own vocabulary.
In this activity, students demonstrate their understanding of vocabulary words using a Frayer Model. After choosing a word, students provide a definition, quote, examples (synonyms), and non-examples (antonyms) of the word. Students may be provided the vocabulary words, or they can use words that they have discovered through their reading of the poem.
n. a line of people or things placed around an area to enclose or protect it
"I battered the cordons around me"
barrier, line, row, chain, ring, circle, picket line, close off
combine, desegregate, free, join, let go, unite, release
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a Frayer Model for one of the vocabulary words from "Your World".
Boost engagement by letting students pick a vocabulary word and represent it with a costume or prop. Vocabulary parades give students a fun, memorable way to showcase and remember new words, encouraging creativity and discussion!
Give every student a different word to research and present. This ensures wide coverage of vocabulary and helps all students feel responsible for teaching their word to classmates.
Encourage students to use recycled materials or simple art supplies to creatively express their word's meaning. Visual representation helps solidify understanding and makes learning more interactive.
Let students walk in front of the class, show their costume or prop, and explain their word's definition and example. Peer teaching reinforces knowledge and builds confidence.
After the parade, ask students to share which words or presentations stood out and how the activity helped them remember new vocabulary. Reflection deepens learning and celebrates everyone's effort.
A Frayer Model is a graphic organizer that helps students understand and remember vocabulary words by breaking them into four sections: definition, example, non-example, and a quote or illustration. Using a Frayer Model allows students to see a word's meaning in context and promotes deeper understanding.
To create a visual vocabulary board for "Your World," choose a key word from the poem, define it, add a relevant quote, give examples and non-examples, and use images or illustrations to show its meaning. Storyboards and digital tools make this process engaging for students.
Effective ways to teach vocabulary with storyboards include having students illustrate words in context, create scenes using new terms, and visually differentiate between examples and non-examples. This approach helps students relate words to real-life situations.
Using vocabulary words in context helps students retain and understand new terms by connecting them to real-life situations. Contextual use reinforces meaning and makes it easier for students to recall and apply words later.
You can find vocabulary words for "Your World" by Georgia Douglas Johnson in the poem itself, teacher guides, or recommended vocabulary lists. Students can also discover new words during reading and select them for activities.