Activity Overview
Another great way to engage your students is through the creation of storyboards that use vocabulary from The Grapes of Wrath. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the novel, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
Example Vocabulary Words from The Grapes of Wrath
- emulsion
- truculent
- wrath
- ostracism
- migrant
- prodigal
- listless
- parched
- disconsolate
- cantankerous
- ravenous
- lanky
- vagrant
- assail
- gulch
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 Grapes of Wrath 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 The Grapes of Wrath. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the novel, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
Example Vocabulary Words from The Grapes of Wrath
- emulsion
- truculent
- wrath
- ostracism
- migrant
- prodigal
- listless
- parched
- disconsolate
- cantankerous
- ravenous
- lanky
- vagrant
- assail
- gulch
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 Grapes of Wrath 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 The Grapes of Wrath Visual Vocabulary
Incorporate Grapes of Wrath vocabulary into everyday classroom discussions
Connect new vocabulary to class conversations and activities. Using words in various contexts helps students internalize meaning and boosts retention!
Model using vocabulary words in your own questions and answers
Demonstrate how to naturally use vocabulary words during lessons. For example, ask: 'How might the family's migrant lifestyle affect their decisions?'
Encourage students to use vocabulary words in class discussions
Prompt students to include target words when sharing thoughts or answering questions. This active use reinforces understanding and builds confidence.
Post a daily or weekly vocabulary spotlight
Highlight one or two words on a bulletin board or digital display. Invite students to spot, use, or share examples of these words throughout the day.
Celebrate creative or accurate vocabulary use
Recognize students who skillfully use vocabulary in speech or writing. Positive reinforcement motivates ongoing engagement and practice.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Grapes of Wrath Visual Vocabulary
What is a visual vocabulary board for The Grapes of Wrath?
A visual vocabulary board for The Grapes of Wrath is a creative activity where students illustrate and define key vocabulary words from the novel, helping them understand and remember word meanings through images and sentences.
How can I teach Grapes of Wrath vocabulary in a fun way?
You can make vocabulary lessons fun by having students create storyboards that combine definitions, example sentences, and illustrations for words from The Grapes of Wrath, encouraging both creativity and comprehension.
What are some common vocabulary words in The Grapes of Wrath?
Common vocabulary words from The Grapes of Wrath include emulsion, truculent, wrath, ostracism, migrant, prodigal, listless, parched, disconsolate, cantankerous, ravenous, lanky, vagrant, assail, and gulch.
What steps should students follow to create a visual vocabulary board?
Students should choose three vocabulary words, find their definitions, write sentences using each word, and create an illustration or use photos to visually represent the meanings on a storyboard.
Why is using visuals effective for teaching vocabulary in high school literature?
Visuals help reinforce vocabulary learning by engaging multiple senses, making abstract words more concrete, and supporting students with different learning styles, especially in literature like The Grapes of Wrath.
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