Activity Overview
Starting a unit or lesson with the key vocabulary that students will see in their readings or presentations aids in overall comprehension and retention. In this activity, students will create a storyboard that defines and illustrates key vocabulary related to Dragonwings by Laurence Yep.
Students will preview the terms and definitions and use whole class or small group discussion to demonstrate their understanding of each meaning. This can be done at the beginning of each chapter so that students can preview what they will read or teachers could decide to do at the end of a chapter as an assessment. When students define and illustrate each term, they master the application of it and retain it as part of their lexicon.
Examples of Vocabulary from Dragonwings
- Nuisance
- Tuberculosis
- Dowry
- Prosperity
- Socialist
- Raiment
- Queue
- Remnant
- Exuberance
- Slough
- Embodiment
- Simper
- Benevolent
- Lair
- Vehement
- Patronizing
- Boarder
- Exasperated
- Totter
- Shrill
- Pagan
- Undulate
- Querulous
- Ethereal
- Aback
- Auspicious
- Lavish
- Cantankerous
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 vocabulary from Dragonwings.
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 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 that students will see in their readings or presentations aids in overall comprehension and retention. In this activity, students will create a storyboard that defines and illustrates key vocabulary related to Dragonwings by Laurence Yep.
Students will preview the terms and definitions and use whole class or small group discussion to demonstrate their understanding of each meaning. This can be done at the beginning of each chapter so that students can preview what they will read or teachers could decide to do at the end of a chapter as an assessment. When students define and illustrate each term, they master the application of it and retain it as part of their lexicon.
Examples of Vocabulary from Dragonwings
- Nuisance
- Tuberculosis
- Dowry
- Prosperity
- Socialist
- Raiment
- Queue
- Remnant
- Exuberance
- Slough
- Embodiment
- Simper
- Benevolent
- Lair
- Vehement
- Patronizing
- Boarder
- Exasperated
- Totter
- Shrill
- Pagan
- Undulate
- Querulous
- Ethereal
- Aback
- Auspicious
- Lavish
- Cantankerous
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 vocabulary from Dragonwings.
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 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 Illustrating Vocabulary in Dragonwings
Organize a Vocabulary Word Wall for Ongoing Reference
Create a dedicated word wall in your classroom for key Dragonwings vocabulary. This visual reference helps reinforce terms as students encounter them throughout the unit, making connections and supporting long-term retention.
Assign Student Roles for Managing the Word Wall
Designate student helpers to update and maintain the word wall as new vocabulary is introduced. Empowering students with this responsibility increases engagement and ownership of their learning.
Encourage Daily Vocabulary Interactions
Prompt students to use word wall terms in classroom discussions, writing prompts, or exit tickets. Regular use helps students transfer new words from short-term to long-term memory.
Integrate Quick Vocabulary Review Games
Incorporate simple games like 'Vocabulary Bingo' or 'Guess the Word' using word wall terms. Active review makes learning fun and keeps vocabulary fresh in students’ minds.
Frequently Asked Questions about Illustrating Vocabulary in Dragonwings
What is the best way to teach vocabulary from Dragonwings to middle school students?
The best way to teach vocabulary from Dragonwings is through interactive activities like creating storyboard spider maps, where students define and illustrate each term. This process boosts comprehension and retention by connecting words to visuals and personal understanding.
How can students illustrate vocabulary terms from Dragonwings effectively?
Students can effectively illustrate vocabulary terms by drawing scenes, characters, or objects from Dragonwings that represent the meaning of each word. Using storyboards helps students visually connect definitions to the story context, reinforcing learning.
Why is illustrating vocabulary important in understanding Dragonwings?
Illustrating vocabulary is important because it helps students internalize word meanings, making them more memorable. Visuals tied to the Dragonwings narrative also improve context understanding and long-term retention.
What are some example vocabulary words from Dragonwings for a visual vocabulary board?
Example vocabulary words from Dragonwings include nuisance, prosperity, socialist, exuberance, and auspicious. Teachers can select words that fit their students' needs and the chapter focus.
How do you assess student understanding of vocabulary using storyboards?
Assess student understanding by reviewing their storyboard definitions and illustrations for accuracy and depth. Look for correct meanings, relevant examples, and creative visuals that show the student can apply each term in context.
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