Activity Overview
Another great way to engage your students is by creating a storyboard that uses vocabulary from Sarah, Plain and Tall.
In this activity, students demonstrate their understanding of vocabulary words using sentences and corresponding images. Students may be provided the vocabulary words, or they can use words that they have discovered through their reading of the text. The sentences and images validate the understanding of the word and the context that it was used in the novel.
Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the story:
pungent
adj. having a sharply strong taste or smell
”The grasses flattened. There was a hiss of wind, a sudden pungent smell. Our faces looked yellow in the strange light."
peer
v. to look searchingly
”What's that?" asked Caleb excitedly, peering over Papa's shoulder.”
coarse
adj. rough in texture, structure
”She sank her fingers into their thick, coarse wool.”
Other vocabulary words from the book that can be used are:
| bonnet | collapse | dusk | eerie |
| fetch | lively | flax | gleams |
| hearthstone | killdeer | mica | paddock |
| pesky | plow | primly | rascal |
| reins | scuttling | shingles | whicker |
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 Sarah, Plain and Tall 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 by creating a storyboard that uses vocabulary from Sarah, Plain and Tall.
In this activity, students demonstrate their understanding of vocabulary words using sentences and corresponding images. Students may be provided the vocabulary words, or they can use words that they have discovered through their reading of the text. The sentences and images validate the understanding of the word and the context that it was used in the novel.
Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the story:
pungent
adj. having a sharply strong taste or smell
”The grasses flattened. There was a hiss of wind, a sudden pungent smell. Our faces looked yellow in the strange light."
peer
v. to look searchingly
”What's that?" asked Caleb excitedly, peering over Papa's shoulder.”
coarse
adj. rough in texture, structure
”She sank her fingers into their thick, coarse wool.”
Other vocabulary words from the book that can be used are:
| bonnet | collapse | dusk | eerie |
| fetch | lively | flax | gleams |
| hearthstone | killdeer | mica | paddock |
| pesky | plow | primly | rascal |
| reins | scuttling | shingles | whicker |
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 Sarah, Plain and Tall 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 Sarah, Plain and Tall Vocabulary
Organize a classroom vocabulary word wall for Sarah, Plain and Tall
Create a dedicated space on your classroom wall or bulletin board labeled with the book title. This centralizes vocabulary learning and keeps words visible for all students.
Select key vocabulary words for the wall
Choose essential words from Sarah, Plain and Tall that appear frequently or are challenging for your students. Prioritize words that help students better understand the story's setting and characters.
Engage students in creating illustrated word cards
Invite students to write definitions and draw quick illustrations for each word on index cards or sticky notes. This hands-on activity boosts memory and encourages ownership of vocabulary.
Incorporate interactive review routines
Use the word wall during daily warm-ups, games, or exit tickets by asking students to use words in sentences or match them with images. Frequent practice reinforces understanding and keeps vocabulary fresh.
Refresh the word wall as you progress through the book
Add new words or replace cards as your class encounters more vocabulary in the story. Keeping the wall up-to-date maintains student interest and supports ongoing learning.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sarah, Plain and Tall Vocabulary
What is a visual vocabulary board for 'Sarah, Plain and Tall'?
A visual vocabulary board for 'Sarah, Plain and Tall' is an engaging activity where students select vocabulary words from the novel, write sentences using those words, and create illustrations or find images that represent their meanings. This helps students deepen their understanding of key terms in context.
How can I teach 'Sarah, Plain and Tall' vocabulary in a fun way?
To make vocabulary lessons fun, have students create storyboards or visualizations using vocabulary from 'Sarah, Plain and Tall.' Let them pick words, write example sentences, and draw or search for images that show each word's meaning. This interactive approach makes learning memorable and enjoyable.
What are some key vocabulary words from 'Sarah, Plain and Tall'?
Some important vocabulary words from 'Sarah, Plain and Tall' include pungent, peer, coarse, bonnet, dusk, hearthstone, paddock, and plow. Use these words in activities to help students understand the novel's language and setting.
What steps should students follow to create a vocabulary storyboard for this novel?
Students should: 1) choose three vocabulary words from 'Sarah, Plain and Tall,' 2) find their definitions, 3) write a sentence using each word, and 4) illustrate or find an image that represents each word's meaning. This process reinforces word understanding and context.
Why is using images helpful for learning vocabulary from 'Sarah, Plain and Tall'?
Images help students connect vocabulary words to visual concepts, making meanings clearer and easier to remember. Creating or finding images for words from 'Sarah, Plain and Tall' supports different learning styles and strengthens word retention through visual association.
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