Here is a worksheet I use with my students so they can “play” and “experiment” with vocabulary from their readings. Students need to choose a word from a text that interests them, and complete the given worksheet.
Here are the steps:
- I have students look up the definition of their word so they build the habit of referencing the dictionary.
- I have students write their own definition of the word so they begin the process of “owning their knowledge.”
- I have students write down synonyms and antonyms of their word so they can see similar and dissimilar words. On our standardized tests, students are often asked questions about “synonyms” and “antonyms” of designated vocabulary words. I want my students to know EXACTLY what these terms mean for state testing.
- I have students use their word in two sentences so they begin the process of incorporating new vocabulary in their writing.
- I have students draw a picture so they begin seeing and understanding their words in a new way.
Worksheet: