Activity Overview
Another great way to engage your students is through the creation of storyboards that use vocabulary from Flowers for Algernon. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the novel, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
Flowers for Algernon Vocabulary
- ethics
- intelligence
- I.Q.
- regression
- algorithm
- outstrip
- consciousness
- interim
- etymology
- coalesce
- Rorschach test
- degenerate
- deleterious
- morbidity
- exigent
- vacuous
- introspective
- dilettante
- feebleminded
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 Flowers for Algernon 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 Flowers for Algernon. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the novel, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
Flowers for Algernon Vocabulary
- ethics
- intelligence
- I.Q.
- regression
- algorithm
- outstrip
- consciousness
- interim
- etymology
- coalesce
- Rorschach test
- degenerate
- deleterious
- morbidity
- exigent
- vacuous
- introspective
- dilettante
- feebleminded
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 Flowers for Algernon 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 Flowers for Algernon Visual Vocabulary
Organize a collaborative vocabulary review game
Boost engagement by grouping students and having them create clues, drawings, or charades for each vocabulary word. This interactive approach helps reinforce definitions and supports peer learning as students guess and explain terms together.
Assign roles for vocabulary experts
Designate students as 'experts' for specific words. Each expert researches their word, presents its meaning and origin, and fields questions. This responsibility builds ownership and deeper understanding of key terms.
Integrate vocabulary into creative writing
Encourage students to write a short story, journal entry, or dialogue using at least three vocabulary words. This activity fosters meaningful application and helps students connect new words to real contexts.
Display a rotating vocabulary wall
Set up a classroom display where students post illustrated word cards. Rotate featured words weekly and invite students to add examples or synonyms. This visual reinforcement keeps key vocabulary fresh and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions about Flowers for Algernon Visual Vocabulary
What is a visual vocabulary board for Flowers for Algernon?
A visual vocabulary board for Flowers for Algernon is an engaging activity where students illustrate vocabulary words from the novel using images, scenes, or photos. This helps deepen word understanding by connecting definitions and usage to visual representations.
How can I teach Flowers for Algernon vocabulary in a creative way?
You can teach Flowers for Algernon vocabulary creatively by having students create storyboards that combine definitions, example sentences, and illustrations for each word. This encourages active learning and helps students remember terms through both text and visuals.
What are some important vocabulary words from Flowers for Algernon?
Key vocabulary words from Flowers for Algernon include ethics, intelligence, I.Q., regression, algorithm, consciousness, Rorschach test, degenerate, and deleterious. These words are essential for understanding the novel's themes and characters.
What steps should students follow to make a visual vocabulary board?
To make a visual vocabulary board, students should: 1) Choose three vocabulary words; 2) Find and write each definition; 3) Use the word in a sentence; 4) Illustrate each word with scenes, characters, or images. They can also use online image resources for visuals.
Why are visual vocabulary activities effective for high school students?
Visual vocabulary activities are effective because they engage multiple learning styles, help students connect words to real-life contexts, and make abstract terms more memorable. Visuals can aid comprehension and retention, especially for complex or unfamiliar vocabulary.
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Flowers for Algernon
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