Activity Overview
Another great way to engage your students is by creating a storyboard that uses vocabulary from So You Want to Be President?.
In this activity, students demonstrate their understanding of vocabulary words using sentences and corresponding images with a spider map. 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:
vain
adj. having too much pride in your looks; ability, etc.
"Tall, short, fat, thin, talkative, quiet, vain, humble, lawyer, teacher or soldier - this is what most of our Presidents have tried to do, each in his own way."
constitution
n. a statement of the basic principles and laws of a nation, state, or group, such as the U.S. Constitution
"Though the Constitution says you'll have to wait until you're thirty-five, young, old, and in-between have become President."
oath
n. a solemn promise
"Every single president has taken this oath..."
Some other vocabulary words that can be used are: howling, humble, politics, responsibility, solemnly, execute, priority, capital, capitol, and clerks.
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 So You Want to Be President? 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 So You Want to Be President?.
In this activity, students demonstrate their understanding of vocabulary words using sentences and corresponding images with a spider map. 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:
vain
adj. having too much pride in your looks; ability, etc.
"Tall, short, fat, thin, talkative, quiet, vain, humble, lawyer, teacher or soldier - this is what most of our Presidents have tried to do, each in his own way."
constitution
n. a statement of the basic principles and laws of a nation, state, or group, such as the U.S. Constitution
"Though the Constitution says you'll have to wait until you're thirty-five, young, old, and in-between have become President."
oath
n. a solemn promise
"Every single president has taken this oath..."
Some other vocabulary words that can be used are: howling, humble, politics, responsibility, solemnly, execute, priority, capital, capitol, and clerks.
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 So You Want to Be President? 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 So You Want to Be President? Vocabulary
Organize a classroom vocabulary parade for So You Want to Be President?
Encourage students to choose a vocabulary word from the book and create a simple costume or prop that represents its meaning. During the parade, each student shares their word, definition, and a sentence, helping everyone remember key terms in a fun, interactive way.
Assign each student a unique vocabulary word
Give every student a different vocabulary word to ensure full class participation and broader coverage of the text's language.
Brainstorm costume and prop ideas together
Lead a class discussion to generate creative costume or prop ideas for each word. This boosts engagement and helps students think critically about word meanings.
Set up a practice session before the parade
Allow students to rehearse their word presentations with peers. Practicing builds confidence and ensures everyone is ready for the big event.
Host the vocabulary parade and celebrate participation
Hold the parade in your classroom or hallway. Encourage students to cheer for each other, and recognize creative efforts with small certificates or positive notes.
Frequently Asked Questions about So You Want to Be President? Vocabulary
What is a visual vocabulary board for 'So You Want to Be President?'
A visual vocabulary board is an engaging activity where students choose key words from So You Want to Be President?, define them, write example sentences, and create illustrations or find images that represent each word. This helps deepen word understanding and connect vocabulary to real-life contexts.
How can I teach vocabulary from 'So You Want to Be President?' in a fun way?
Use a storyboard or spider map where students pick vocabulary words, write their definitions and sentences, and add drawings or images to show meaning. This interactive method makes learning vocabulary fun and supports visual learners.
What are some key vocabulary words in 'So You Want to Be President?'
Common vocabulary words from So You Want to Be President? include vain, constitution, oath, howling, humble, politics, responsibility, solemnly, execute, priority, capital, capitol, and clerks. These words help students understand the text and concepts about U.S. presidents.
What is the best way for 4th or 5th graders to demonstrate vocabulary understanding?
The best way for 4th or 5th graders to show vocabulary mastery is by creating sentences using the words and pairing them with drawings or images. This approach shows both comprehension and creative application.
How do I use a spider map to teach vocabulary?
To use a spider map for vocabulary, write the target word in the center and connect it to branches showing its definition, a sentence, and an illustration or image. This graphic organizer helps students visually organize and remember new words.
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So You Want to Be President?
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