Activity Overview
Starting a unit or lesson with the key vocabulary terms and allusions aids in overall comprehension and retention. Since Anne of Green Gables was written in the early 1900s, some of the words used may be strange to students. In this activity, students will create a storyboard that defines and illustrates key vocabulary related to Anne of Green Gables. This is a great activity to do after each chapter, or before reading, so that students can better understand the novel.
Example Vocabulary From Anne of Green Gables
repute: look on as or consider
decorum: propriety in manners and conduct
gauntlet: a severe or trying experience
sorrel: of a light brownish color
placidly: in a quiet and tranquil manner
deftly: in an agile manner
prim: affectedly dainty or refined
jaunt: make a trip for pleasure
asylum: a shelter from danger or hardship
spry: moving quickly and lightly
qualm: uneasiness about the fitness of an action
uncanny: surpassing the ordinary or normal
discerning: having or revealing keen insight and good judgment
bough: any of the larger branches of a tree
reverie: absent minded dreaming while awake
waif: a homeless child, especially one forsaken or orphaned
reproachful: expressing disapproval, blame, or disappointment
gable: the triangular wall between the sloping ends of a roof
predilection: a strong liking
drudgery: hard, monotonous, routine work
pinion: wing of a bird
elocutionist: a public speaker trained in voice production and gesture and delivery.
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 defines and illustrates new vocabulary in Anne of Green Gables.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the terms you have chosen.
- In the description boxes, write the definition or description of the term.
- Create an illustration for each term using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Requirements: Must have 3 terms, correct definitions or descriptions, 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 7 Points | Emerging 4 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definitions | The vocabulary words are correctly defined. | The meaning of the vocabulary words can be understood but it is somewhat unclear. | The vocabulary word is not clearly defined |
| Illustrations | The storyboard illustrations clearly depict the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The illustrations relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words but it they are difficult to understand. | The illustrations do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
Activity Overview
Starting a unit or lesson with the key vocabulary terms and allusions aids in overall comprehension and retention. Since Anne of Green Gables was written in the early 1900s, some of the words used may be strange to students. In this activity, students will create a storyboard that defines and illustrates key vocabulary related to Anne of Green Gables. This is a great activity to do after each chapter, or before reading, so that students can better understand the novel.
Example Vocabulary From Anne of Green Gables
repute: look on as or consider
decorum: propriety in manners and conduct
gauntlet: a severe or trying experience
sorrel: of a light brownish color
placidly: in a quiet and tranquil manner
deftly: in an agile manner
prim: affectedly dainty or refined
jaunt: make a trip for pleasure
asylum: a shelter from danger or hardship
spry: moving quickly and lightly
qualm: uneasiness about the fitness of an action
uncanny: surpassing the ordinary or normal
discerning: having or revealing keen insight and good judgment
bough: any of the larger branches of a tree
reverie: absent minded dreaming while awake
waif: a homeless child, especially one forsaken or orphaned
reproachful: expressing disapproval, blame, or disappointment
gable: the triangular wall between the sloping ends of a roof
predilection: a strong liking
drudgery: hard, monotonous, routine work
pinion: wing of a bird
elocutionist: a public speaker trained in voice production and gesture and delivery.
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 defines and illustrates new vocabulary in Anne of Green Gables.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the terms you have chosen.
- In the description boxes, write the definition or description of the term.
- Create an illustration for each term using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Requirements: Must have 3 terms, correct definitions or descriptions, 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 7 Points | Emerging 4 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definitions | The vocabulary words are correctly defined. | The meaning of the vocabulary words can be understood but it is somewhat unclear. | The vocabulary word is not clearly defined |
| Illustrations | The storyboard illustrations clearly depict the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The illustrations relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words but it they are difficult to understand. | The illustrations do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
How Tos about Anne of Green Gables Vocabulary Activity
Incorporate Anne of Green Gables vocabulary into daily classroom routines
Boost retention by weaving new vocabulary into morning meetings, exit tickets, and classroom discussions. Students encounter the words in different contexts, making them more likely to remember and use them throughout the unit.
Create engaging vocabulary games for review
Make learning fun by organizing vocabulary bingo, matching games, or charades using Anne of Green Gables terms. Gamifying review helps students actively practice and recall word meanings while building classroom community.
Encourage students to use new words in creative writing
Assign short stories or journal entries where students must include selected vocabulary words. This promotes authentic usage and helps students connect new terms to their own ideas and experiences.
Display a dynamic classroom word wall
Post vocabulary words and student-created illustrations on a dedicated wall or bulletin board. Update the display as students progress through the novel to reinforce learning and celebrate growth.
Facilitate peer teaching through vocabulary presentations
Have students work in pairs or small groups to teach a vocabulary word to the class using props, skits, or digital slides. Peer instruction encourages collaboration and deepens understanding for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions about Anne of Green Gables Vocabulary Activity
What is a vocabulary storyboard activity for Anne of Green Gables?
A vocabulary storyboard activity for Anne of Green Gables involves students selecting key terms from the novel, defining them, and illustrating each word with a visual scene. This helps students deepen understanding and retention of unfamiliar vocabulary found in the book.
How do I teach Anne of Green Gables vocabulary to 4th–6th graders?
To teach Anne of Green Gables vocabulary to 4th–6th graders, introduce key terms before or after reading each chapter, provide clear definitions, and have students create illustrations or storyboards for each word. This visual approach makes learning more engaging and effective for young learners.
Why is understanding vocabulary important when reading Anne of Green Gables?
Understanding vocabulary is important when reading Anne of Green Gables because the novel contains early 1900s language and unfamiliar terms. Learning these words improves overall comprehension, helps students connect with the story, and boosts reading confidence.
What are some example vocabulary words from Anne of Green Gables?
Some example vocabulary words from Anne of Green Gables include decorum, jaunt, asylum, reproachful, drudgery, elocutionist, and reverie. Teaching these terms supports students’ understanding of the novel’s language and context.
What is the best way to assess student understanding of Anne of Green Gables vocabulary?
The best way to assess student understanding is to have students define each term in their own words and create visual representations, such as a vocabulary storyboard. Reviewing these ensures students grasp both meaning and context.
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