Activity Overview
Another great way to engage your students is through the creation of storyboards that use vocabulary from A Raisin in the Sun. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the play, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
Example Vocabulary Words from A Raisin in the Sun
- assimilationist
- doggedly
- catastrophe
- furtively
- bastion
- defer
- exasperated
- vindicated
- permeate
- stupor
- fester
- disheveled
- slur
- erratic
- muffle
- vengeance
- feeble
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Demonstrate your understanding of the vocabulary words in A Raisin in the Sun by creating visualizations.
- Choose three vocabulary words from the story and type them in the title boxes.
- Find the definition in a print or online dictionary.
- Write a sentence that uses the vocabulary word.
- Illustrate the meaning of the word in the cell using a combination of scenes, characters, and items.
- Alternatively, use Photos for Class to show the meaning of the words with the search bar.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Word 1 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 1 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
| Word 2 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 2 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
| Word 3 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 3 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
Activity Overview
Another great way to engage your students is through the creation of storyboards that use vocabulary from A Raisin in the Sun. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the play, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
Example Vocabulary Words from A Raisin in the Sun
- assimilationist
- doggedly
- catastrophe
- furtively
- bastion
- defer
- exasperated
- vindicated
- permeate
- stupor
- fester
- disheveled
- slur
- erratic
- muffle
- vengeance
- feeble
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Demonstrate your understanding of the vocabulary words in A Raisin in the Sun by creating visualizations.
- Choose three vocabulary words from the story and type them in the title boxes.
- Find the definition in a print or online dictionary.
- Write a sentence that uses the vocabulary word.
- Illustrate the meaning of the word in the cell using a combination of scenes, characters, and items.
- Alternatively, use Photos for Class to show the meaning of the words with the search bar.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Word 1 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 1 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
| Word 2 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 2 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
| Word 3 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 3 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
How Tos about A Raisin in the Sun Vocabulary Board
Organize vocabulary board activities for effective classroom use
Set up your classroom for vocabulary board work by arranging materials and grouping students appropriately. Clear structure helps students stay focused and engaged while working on their projects.
Model creating a sample vocabulary board before students begin
Demonstrate how to choose words, write sentences, and make illustrations. Visual examples clarify expectations and inspire student creativity.
Guide students to brainstorm connections between vocabulary and play themes
Encourage students to link vocabulary words to central ideas or characters in A Raisin in the Sun. This deepens understanding and makes the words more memorable.
Facilitate peer sharing and feedback on vocabulary boards
Have students present their boards to each other and offer constructive comments. Peer feedback promotes confidence and builds community.
Review vocabulary boards as a class and reinforce correct usage
Lead a class discussion highlighting effective examples and addressing common mistakes. Whole-group review reinforces learning and ensures clarity for all students.
Frequently Asked Questions about A Raisin in the Sun Vocabulary Board
What is a vocabulary board for A Raisin in the Sun?
A vocabulary board for A Raisin in the Sun is a visual tool where students define, use in a sentence, and illustrate key vocabulary words from the play, helping reinforce understanding through creative engagement.
How can I create a visual vocabulary board for my students?
To create a visual vocabulary board, select key words from the play, have students find definitions, write example sentences, and illustrate each word using drawings or images—either by hand, digitally, or with resources like Photos for Class.
Why use vocabulary boards when teaching A Raisin in the Sun?
Vocabulary boards make abstract terms concrete, support diverse learning styles, and encourage students to engage with the play’s language, deepening comprehension and retention of key concepts.
What are some important vocabulary words from A Raisin in the Sun?
Some key vocabulary words from A Raisin in the Sun include assimilationist, doggedly, catastrophe, furtively, bastion, defer, exasperated, vindicated, permeate, stupor, fester, disheveled, slur, erratic, muffle, vengeance, and feeble.
What is the best way to help students visualize difficult vocabulary in A Raisin in the Sun?
The best way is to have students create scenes or find images that show the word’s meaning, pairing visuals with definitions and example sentences, so abstract words become relatable and memorable.
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