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https://www.test.storyboardthat.com/lesson-plans/shooting-an-elephant-by-george-orwell/vocabulary
Activity Overview
Template and Class Instructions
Rubric
Activity Overview Accordion Arrow

Activity Overview


Another great way to engage your students is through the creation of storyboards that use vocabulary from “Shooting An Elephant”. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the story, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.


“Shooting An Elephant” Vocabulary

  • imperialism
  • bazaar
  • despotic
  • mahout
  • labyrinth
  • coolie
  • miry
  • garish
  • sahib
  • betel
  • Raj
  • supplant


Template and Class Instructions Accordion Arrow

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 “Shooting An Elephant” by creating visualizations.


  1. Choose three vocabulary words from the story and type them in the title boxes.
  2. Find the definition in a print or online dictionary.
  3. Write a sentence that uses the vocabulary word.
  4. 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

Switch to: Common CoreArizonaCaliforniaColoradoFloridaGeorgiaIowaKansasMarylandMassachusettsNebraskaNew JerseyNew YorkNorth CarolinaOhioOklahomaPennsylvaniaUtah

Rubric Accordion Arrow

Rubric

(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)


Visual Vocabulary Assignment
Define, illustrate, and give an example sentence for any three vocabulary words.
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 “Shooting An Elephant”. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the story, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.


“Shooting An Elephant” Vocabulary

  • imperialism
  • bazaar
  • despotic
  • mahout
  • labyrinth
  • coolie
  • miry
  • garish
  • sahib
  • betel
  • Raj
  • supplant


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 “Shooting An Elephant” by creating visualizations.


  1. Choose three vocabulary words from the story and type them in the title boxes.
  2. Find the definition in a print or online dictionary.
  3. Write a sentence that uses the vocabulary word.
  4. 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

Switch to: Common CoreArizonaCaliforniaColoradoFloridaGeorgiaIowaKansasMarylandMassachusettsNebraskaNew JerseyNew YorkNorth CarolinaOhioOklahomaPennsylvaniaUtah

Rubric

(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)


Visual Vocabulary Assignment
Define, illustrate, and give an example sentence for any three vocabulary words.
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 \"Shooting an Elephant\" Vocabulary

1

Plan a Class Discussion Using Vocabulary from 'Shooting an Elephant'

Guide students to deepen understanding by talking about vocabulary in real contexts. Class discussions build confidence and help students use new words meaningfully.

2

Select key vocabulary words for discussion

Pick 3-5 words that relate to important themes or events in the story. Choose words that students are likely to encounter in class dialogue.

3

Create open-ended questions using each word

Write questions that encourage students to think critically. For example, ask, “How does imperialism affect the characters’ choices?”

4

Model using the vocabulary in your responses

Show students how to incorporate the words naturally in speech. This helps them feel confident using new terms.

5

Encourage students to use the vocabulary in their own answers

Invite students to respond using the target words. Offer gentle corrections and praise to support learning.

Frequently Asked Questions about \"Shooting an Elephant\" Vocabulary

What are effective ways to teach vocabulary from 'Shooting an Elephant'?

Effective ways to teach vocabulary from 'Shooting an Elephant' include using visual vocabulary boards, having students define and use words in sentences, and encouraging them to illustrate meanings through drawings or photos. These strategies help students connect words to context and improve retention.

How do I create a visual vocabulary board for 'Shooting an Elephant'?

To create a visual vocabulary board for 'Shooting an Elephant', choose key vocabulary words, define each word, use them in sentences, and illustrate the meanings with drawings or photos. This makes learning interactive and supports visual learners.

What are some key vocabulary words from 'Shooting an Elephant'?

Key vocabulary words from 'Shooting an Elephant' include imperialism, bazaar, despotic, mahout, labyrinth, coolie, miry, garish, sahib, betel, Raj, and supplant. Teaching these words helps students better understand the story's themes and context.

Why is visualizing vocabulary important for high school students?

Visualizing vocabulary helps high school students grasp word meanings more deeply by connecting definitions to images and personal examples. This approach aids memory, supports different learning styles, and increases engagement.

What grade levels are suitable for 'Shooting an Elephant' vocabulary activities?

'Shooting an Elephant' vocabulary activities are best suited for grades 9–10, but can be adapted for other high school levels to reinforce English and critical thinking skills.




Image Attributions
  • Areca/betel nut • sanoopuio • License Attribution (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/)

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