Activity Overview
One thing students often find difficult is using new scientific vocabulary correctly and in the appropriate context. When starting a unit, it can be helpful to introduce them to all the new terminology and have them create visual vocabulary boards that define and illustrate each word. Having a visual example along with the definition can help students understand abstract concepts.
Suggested Global Warming Vocabulary
- Absorb
- Atmosphere
- Biomass
- Carbon Cycle
- Carbon Dioxide
- Climate
- Climate Change
- Combustion
- Deforestation
- Ecosystem
- Efficiency
- Emissions
- Fossil Fuel
- Glacier
- Greenhouse Effect
- Greenhouse Gas
- Natural Gas
- Nonrenewable
- Ozone Layer
- Permafrost
- Photosynthesis
- Radiation
- Renewable
- IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change)
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
Define and illustrate key vocabulary for climate change and greenhouse gasses.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Choose five vocabulary words and type them in the title boxes.
- Find the definition in a print or online dictionary and write it under the cell in your own words.
- Illustrate the meaning of the word in the cell using a combination of scenes, characters, and items.
- Alternatively, use Photos for Class to give examples of the words.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 16 Points | Beginning 0 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definitions | The vocabulary word is correctly defined. | The meaning of the vocabulary words can be understood but it is awkward. | The vocabulary word is not clearly defined. |
| Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. Or The storyboard cell has clear examples of the key word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. Or The storyboard cell has some unclear examples of the key word. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. Or The storyboard cell does not have clear examples of the key word. |
| 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
One thing students often find difficult is using new scientific vocabulary correctly and in the appropriate context. When starting a unit, it can be helpful to introduce them to all the new terminology and have them create visual vocabulary boards that define and illustrate each word. Having a visual example along with the definition can help students understand abstract concepts.
Suggested Global Warming Vocabulary
- Absorb
- Atmosphere
- Biomass
- Carbon Cycle
- Carbon Dioxide
- Climate
- Climate Change
- Combustion
- Deforestation
- Ecosystem
- Efficiency
- Emissions
- Fossil Fuel
- Glacier
- Greenhouse Effect
- Greenhouse Gas
- Natural Gas
- Nonrenewable
- Ozone Layer
- Permafrost
- Photosynthesis
- Radiation
- Renewable
- IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change)
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
Define and illustrate key vocabulary for climate change and greenhouse gasses.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- Choose five vocabulary words and type them in the title boxes.
- Find the definition in a print or online dictionary and write it under the cell in your own words.
- Illustrate the meaning of the word in the cell using a combination of scenes, characters, and items.
- Alternatively, use Photos for Class to give examples of the words.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 33 Points | Emerging 16 Points | Beginning 0 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definitions | The vocabulary word is correctly defined. | The meaning of the vocabulary words can be understood but it is awkward. | The vocabulary word is not clearly defined. |
| Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. Or The storyboard cell has clear examples of the key word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. Or The storyboard cell has some unclear examples of the key word. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. Or The storyboard cell does not have clear examples of the key word. |
| 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 Climate Change Visual Vocabulary
Organize a classroom climate change word wall for ongoing learning
Create a dedicated space on your wall or bulletin board for climate change vocabulary. Rotate words weekly or as new terms are introduced so students see and use them regularly. Encourage students to add definitions, illustrations, and real-world examples to make the wall interactive and meaningful.
Prompt students to use vocabulary in real-world sentences
Ask students to write or say sentences using new climate change terms during class discussions or in journals. This builds confidence and reinforces understanding, making vocabulary more relevant to their lives and learning.
Connect vocabulary to current climate news and events
Share short news articles or videos related to climate change and highlight vocabulary words in context. Discuss how scientists, journalists, and activists use these terms, helping students see their importance beyond the classroom.
Incorporate movement with vocabulary games
Use activities like vocabulary bingo, charades, or matching games to review terms. Get students moving and collaborating while reinforcing definitions and concepts in a fun, memorable way.
Frequently Asked Questions about Climate Change Visual Vocabulary
What is a visual vocabulary board for climate change lessons?
A visual vocabulary board is a teaching tool where students define and illustrate key terms related to climate change. By pairing definitions with images, students deepen their understanding of complex scientific vocabulary and concepts.
How can I help students understand climate change vocabulary effectively?
Encourage students to define and illustrate each climate change term using visual aids, such as drawings or photos. This approach reinforces meaning and helps students remember and apply new vocabulary in the correct context.
What are some key vocabulary words for teaching global warming?
Essential global warming vocabulary includes terms like carbon dioxide, greenhouse gas, deforestation, fossil fuel, emissions, renewable, and IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change).
Why are visual examples important when teaching scientific vocabulary?
Visual examples help students grasp abstract scientific concepts by making definitions concrete. This method supports different learning styles and improves retention and understanding.
What is the best way to set up a visual vocabulary board activity for a classroom?
Have students select key terms, write definitions in their own words, and illustrate each word using drawings or photos. Use individual or group work, and provide resources like print or online dictionaries and image databases.
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