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 Rules by Cynthia Lord. When students define and illustrate each term, they master the application of it and retain it as part of their lexicon.
Example Vocabulary from Rules
- Autism
- Chortling
- Clench
- Crimson
- Cringe
- Crude
- Distorted
- Down Syndrome
- Emerald
- Envy
- Fidget
- Fiery
- Gesture
- Grimace
- Grit
- Irritates
- Mimic
- Muted
- Nudge
- Perspective
- Poised
- Pout
- Preen
- Sarcastic
- Scolding
- Sprawling
- Striding
- Strut
- Surge
- Sways
- Thrashing
- Urge
- Varmint
- Wayward
- Wharf
- Whorls
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 words in Rules.
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 finished.
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 | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | The definition is correct. | The definition is partially correct. | The definition is incorrect. |
| Visualizations | The storyboard cells clearly illustrate the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The storyboard cells relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words, but are difficult to understand. | The storyboard cells do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
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 Rules by Cynthia Lord. When students define and illustrate each term, they master the application of it and retain it as part of their lexicon.
Example Vocabulary from Rules
- Autism
- Chortling
- Clench
- Crimson
- Cringe
- Crude
- Distorted
- Down Syndrome
- Emerald
- Envy
- Fidget
- Fiery
- Gesture
- Grimace
- Grit
- Irritates
- Mimic
- Muted
- Nudge
- Perspective
- Poised
- Pout
- Preen
- Sarcastic
- Scolding
- Sprawling
- Striding
- Strut
- Surge
- Sways
- Thrashing
- Urge
- Varmint
- Wayward
- Wharf
- Whorls
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 words in Rules.
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 finished.
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 | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | The definition is correct. | The definition is partially correct. | The definition is incorrect. |
| Visualizations | The storyboard cells clearly illustrate the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The storyboard cells relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words, but are difficult to understand. | The storyboard cells do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
How Tos about Rules Visual Vocabulary
Organize a classroom vocabulary word wall for ongoing reference
Create a dedicated space on your classroom wall to display vocabulary words as students encounter them. Visually grouping related words helps students revisit and reinforce their understanding throughout the unit.
Invite students to contribute new words they discover
Encourage students to suggest and add words from their readings or discussions to the word wall. Empowering students to identify and share vocabulary promotes ownership and active engagement.
Add student-created illustrations next to each word
Ask students to draw or find images that represent the meaning of each word. Pairing visuals with definitions makes words more memorable and accessible for all learners.
Review and use the word wall during daily lessons
Refer to the word wall when reading aloud, discussing texts, or during writing activities. Reinforcing vocabulary in context deepens comprehension and helps students apply new terms confidently.
Rotate or update words as the unit progresses
Refresh your word wall by adding new vocabulary and removing words students have mastered. Keeping the display current maintains student interest and maximizes learning opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rules Visual Vocabulary
What is a visual vocabulary activity for 'Rules' by Cynthia Lord?
A visual vocabulary activity for 'Rules' by Cynthia Lord involves students defining and illustrating key terms from the book. By creating a storyboard or spider map with definitions and drawings, students deepen understanding and retention of important vocabulary.
How can I teach key vocabulary from 'Rules' to 4th-6th graders?
To teach key vocabulary from 'Rules' to 4th-6th graders, have students select important terms, write their definitions, and create illustrations for each. This approach, known as a visual vocabulary board, supports comprehension and makes learning engaging.
Why is illustrating vocabulary words effective for student retention?
Illustrating vocabulary words helps students visualize and internalize meanings, making it easier to remember and apply new terms. The process links visual memory with definitions, improving long-term retention.
What are some example vocabulary words from 'Rules'?
Example vocabulary words from 'Rules' by Cynthia Lord include autism, chortling, clench, envy, fidget, mimic, sarcastic, and wharf. Using these in activities helps students grasp the book's themes and language.
What is the best way to create a vocabulary storyboard for a novel?
The best way to create a vocabulary storyboard is to choose key terms, write clear definitions, and draw illustrations that show each word in context. Digital tools or paper can be used to organize the words visually for better learning impact.
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