Activity Overview
Starting a unit or lesson with the key vocabulary aids in overall comprehension and retention. In this activity, students will create a storyboard that defines and illustrates key vocabulary found in the book A Mango-Shaped Space. Students will create a spider map of 3-5 terms at the teachers discretion. Each cell will contain a term or allusion, its definition or description, and an appropriate illustration.
Example Vocabulary from A Mango-Shaped Space
- Absurd
- Acupuncture
- Bombarded
- Breakneck
- Continuum
- Deflated
- Destructive
- Elaborate
- Fidgeting
- Gape
- Grudgingly
- Hallucinate
- Hazy
- Mottled
- Posterity
- Pruned
- Reluctantly
- Scrutinizes
- Solemnly
- Sophistication
- Synesthesia
- Torrent
- Unbidden
- Uncanny
- Ushers
- Vaguely
Template and Class Instructions
(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 illustrates and defines new vocabulary in A Mango-Shaped Space.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the key terms you have chosen.
- In the description boxes, write the definition of the term.
- Create an illustration for each term using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Requirements: Must have 3 terms, correct definitions, and appropriate illustrations for each that demonstrate your understanding of the words.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
---|---|---|---|
Definition | The definition is correct. | The definition is partially correct. | The definition is incorrect. |
Visualizations | The storyboard cells clearly illustrate the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The storyboard cells relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words, but are difficult to understand. | The storyboard cells do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
Activity Overview
Starting a unit or lesson with the key vocabulary aids in overall comprehension and retention. In this activity, students will create a storyboard that defines and illustrates key vocabulary found in the book A Mango-Shaped Space. Students will create a spider map of 3-5 terms at the teachers discretion. Each cell will contain a term or allusion, its definition or description, and an appropriate illustration.
Example Vocabulary from A Mango-Shaped Space
- Absurd
- Acupuncture
- Bombarded
- Breakneck
- Continuum
- Deflated
- Destructive
- Elaborate
- Fidgeting
- Gape
- Grudgingly
- Hallucinate
- Hazy
- Mottled
- Posterity
- Pruned
- Reluctantly
- Scrutinizes
- Solemnly
- Sophistication
- Synesthesia
- Torrent
- Unbidden
- Uncanny
- Ushers
- Vaguely
Template and Class Instructions
(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 illustrates and defines new vocabulary in A Mango-Shaped Space.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the key terms you have chosen.
- In the description boxes, write the definition of the term.
- Create an illustration for each term using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Requirements: Must have 3 terms, correct definitions, and appropriate illustrations for each that demonstrate your understanding of the words.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
---|---|---|---|
Definition | The definition is correct. | The definition is partially correct. | The definition is incorrect. |
Visualizations | The storyboard cells clearly illustrate the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The storyboard cells relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words, but are difficult to understand. | The storyboard cells do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
How Tos about Illustrating Vocabulary in A Mango-Shaped Space Vocabulary
How to Incorporate Vocabulary Words into Daily Classroom Discussions
Boost vocabulary retention by weaving new words into everyday conversations and activities. Consistent usage helps students internalize meanings and apply words in various contexts, making learning more meaningful and lasting.
Introduce a 'Word of the Day' routine
Start each morning by highlighting a new vocabulary word on the board. Discuss its meaning and brainstorm ways students might hear or use it throughout the day.
Model using vocabulary words in your instructions
Intentionally use target terms when giving directions or feedback. Hearing words in context from a trusted adult reinforces proper usage.
Encourage students to use vocabulary in their responses
Prompt students to answer questions or share ideas using new words. Offer praise or gentle reminders to motivate authentic application.
Create quick connection games during transitions
Play short games like 'Find the Word' or 'Use It in a Sentence' while lining up or changing activities. Frequent practice keeps vocabulary fresh and fun.
Frequently Asked Questions about Illustrating Vocabulary in A Mango-Shaped Space Vocabulary
What is a visual vocabulary board for A Mango-Shaped Space?
A visual vocabulary board for A Mango-Shaped Space is an activity where students choose key terms from the book, define them, and create illustrations to show their meaning, helping reinforce comprehension and retention.
How can I help students illustrate vocabulary words from A Mango-Shaped Space?
Encourage students to select 3-5 important vocabulary terms, define each one, and draw or digitally create scenes, characters, or items that best represent each word's meaning in the context of the story.
What are some example vocabulary words from A Mango-Shaped Space?
Sample vocabulary words include absurd, synesthesia, bombarded, hallucinate, reluctantly, and torrent. Choose words that are significant or challenging for your students.
Why is illustrating vocabulary important for middle school students?
Illustrating vocabulary helps students better understand and remember new words by connecting definitions to images, activating visual learning, and making abstract concepts concrete.
What steps should students follow to complete the visual vocabulary activity?
Students should: 1) Pick 3-5 vocabulary terms from A Mango-Shaped Space, 2) Write accurate definitions, 3) Create illustrations for each word, and 4) Save and submit their work as instructed.
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