Baby words be gone PPT
Baby words be gone
Overview
Students will learn the definition of words and then apply the definition to writing a complex complete sentence. This can be done in any subject that requires vocabulary practice.
Increasing vocabulary for middle school
Give the students the following words to choose from (more words may be added depending on class size):
| concede | endeavor | fiasco |
| grotesque | haphazard | intervene |
| muster | precise | revel |
| surpass | turbulent | voracious |
Use the template or have the students recreate the template on a piece of colored paper.
- Write the word in the center of the paper
- Look up the dictionary definition of the word and write it in 1 quarter of the paper
- Write your own definition of the word in 1 quarter of the paper (may not use the word in the definition)
- Write a well thought, complete sentence using your new word in 1 quarter of the paper
- Draw a picture demonstrating the meaning of the word
Once completed, have students present their word to the class (this can be done during the baby shower. See extension activities)
Extension activities
EXTENSION ACTIVITIES
Pre-activity: teach students about an epitaph. Students will create an epitaph for "dead words". These are words they should no longer use in their writing or everyday vocabulary. Use the template for definition and examples.
- Get 2 sheets of tombstones (1 R.I.P and 1 survivor)
- Get 1 sheet of BLACK construction paper and cut in half horizontally
- Write personal epitaph on R.I.P. tombstone
- Write your name at the top with a dark colored marker
- Epitaph must be written large enough to see
- May not write epitaph in pencil or pen
- Write your survivors on a survivor tombstone
- Cut out the R.I.P. tombstone and glue it to the front of a piece of construction paper
- Cut out the survivor tombstone and glue it to the back of this tombstone
Activity: once the epitaphs are completed, have a funeral for the words. Have everyone wear black and bring a dish to share with the class. Turn down the lights and have students share their dead word epitaph.
Assignment: Pair students in groups of 2 or 3. Students will write a story including at least 8 of the new words. Have them highlight the new words in the story.
Assignment: Return students' stories. In their group, they must prepare a skit about their story to present to the class.
Activity: since the class has had a funeral for "dead words", it is now time to have a baby shower for the new words to come. Have students present their new word to the class. Let everyone enjoy the snacks.