Activity Overview
Another great way to engage your students is through the creation of storyboards that use vocabulary from the book. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the novel, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
The Scarlet Letter Vocabulary Words
- ignominy
- wan
- mirth
- ethereal
- bequeath
- inexplicable
- abate
- uncongenial
- entreaties
- sagacious
- irks
- venerable
- impropriety
- inimical
- enumerated
- pall
- insurmountable
- acrid
- obviated
- quaff
- epoch
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 The Scarlet Letter 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 book. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the novel, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
The Scarlet Letter Vocabulary Words
- ignominy
- wan
- mirth
- ethereal
- bequeath
- inexplicable
- abate
- uncongenial
- entreaties
- sagacious
- irks
- venerable
- impropriety
- inimical
- enumerated
- pall
- insurmountable
- acrid
- obviated
- quaff
- epoch
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 The Scarlet Letter 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 Scarlet Letter Visual Vocabulary
Incorporate Vocabulary Storyboards into Daily Lessons Easily
Integrate visual vocabulary boards by starting each class with a quick review or mini-activity using selected words from The Scarlet Letter. This keeps vocabulary fresh and reinforces learning through repetition.
Model Visual Vocabulary Creation for Students
Demonstrate how to choose a word, define it, use it in a sentence, and create a simple illustration live or with a projector. Show students how to use both hand-drawn and digital images for flexibility and engagement.
Facilitate Group Collaboration on Vocabulary Boards
Assign pairs or small groups to work together on visualizing vocabulary. Encourage discussion about word meanings and examples, which builds deeper understanding and teamwork skills.
Display and Rotate Student Work to Build Ownership
Showcase completed vocabulary boards on a classroom wall or digital platform. Rotate featured work weekly to motivate students and create a classroom culture that values vocabulary mastery.
Assess Understanding with Quick-Check Activities
Use exit tickets, quizzes, or peer feedback on visual boards to quickly check for understanding and provide immediate, constructive feedback. This helps students improve and allows you to adjust instruction as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Scarlet Letter Visual Vocabulary
What is a visual vocabulary board for The Scarlet Letter?
A visual vocabulary board is a creative activity where students illustrate vocabulary words from The Scarlet Letter using scenes, characters, and items. This helps students better understand and remember key terms from the novel.
How can I teach The Scarlet Letter vocabulary in an engaging way?
Use visual storyboards where students select vocabulary words, find definitions, write example sentences, and create illustrations. This approach promotes active learning and deeper comprehension.
What are some key vocabulary words from The Scarlet Letter for high school students?
Important vocabulary words include ignominy, wan, mirth, ethereal, bequeath, inexplicable, abate, uncongenial, sagacious, venerable, and impropriety. These terms enrich students' understanding of the novel's language and themes.
How do I create a visual vocabulary lesson for The Scarlet Letter?
Choose three vocabulary words, find their definitions, write example sentences, and have students illustrate each word using storyboards or images. Encourage creativity and connections to the novel’s context.
Why use visual vocabulary boards in teaching literature?
Visual vocabulary boards make abstract words concrete, support visual learners, and increase student engagement. They help students retain complex vocabulary by connecting words to imagery and context.
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