Activity Overview
In this activity, students demonstrate their understanding of several vocabulary words using a spider map. After choosing the word(s), students provide the part of speech, definition, an example from the text, and demonstrate their understanding of the word(s) through an illustration in the related storyboard cell.
Example The Birchbark House Vocabulary
- enigmatic
- ferocious
- kinnikinnick
- nimble
- namesake
- hummock
- awl
- fragrant
- swales
- dappled
- astonished
- spared
- banish
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 Birchbark House 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
In this activity, students demonstrate their understanding of several vocabulary words using a spider map. After choosing the word(s), students provide the part of speech, definition, an example from the text, and demonstrate their understanding of the word(s) through an illustration in the related storyboard cell.
Example The Birchbark House Vocabulary
- enigmatic
- ferocious
- kinnikinnick
- nimble
- namesake
- hummock
- awl
- fragrant
- swales
- dappled
- astonished
- spared
- banish
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 Birchbark House 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 Birchbark House\" Vocabulary
Easily Differentiate Vocabulary Activities for Diverse Learners
Adapt the activity to meet your students’ unique needs by offering tiered word lists, flexible response options, and scaffolded supports. This ensures all learners, including English language learners and students with IEPs, can confidently participate.
Select Tiered Vocabulary Words for Varied Reading Levels
Choose basic, intermediate, and advanced words from The Birchbark House to match your students’ current vocabulary knowledge. This helps everyone work at an appropriate challenge level and builds confidence.
Provide Sentence Starters and Visual Cues
Offer sentence frames such as “The word ___ means…” and visual aids like word cards or picture dictionaries. These tools support students who need extra guidance with definitions and context.
Allow Choice in Demonstrating Understanding
Let students select how they show what they know—drawing, using photos, acting out, or even recording audio explanations. Offering choices increases engagement and accommodates different learning styles.
Check In and Celebrate Progress
Touch base with students as they work and provide positive feedback for effort and creativity. Celebrating small wins boosts motivation and helps students see their growth.
Frequently Asked Questions about \"The Birchbark House\" Vocabulary
What is a visual vocabulary board activity for 'The Birchbark House'?
A visual vocabulary board activity for 'The Birchbark House' asks students to select vocabulary words from the book, define each word, use it in a sentence, and illustrate its meaning. This strengthens understanding by combining visuals, definitions, and context in one storyboard.
How do I teach vocabulary from 'The Birchbark House' in a fun way?
To teach vocabulary from 'The Birchbark House' in a fun way, use spider maps or storyboard activities where students pick words, write definitions and example sentences, and create illustrations. Adding visuals and creativity helps students better remember the words.
What are some example vocabulary words from 'The Birchbark House'?
Examples of vocabulary words from 'The Birchbark House' include enigmatic, ferocious, kinnikinnick, nimble, namesake, hummock, awl, fragrant, swales, dappled, astonished, spared, and banish.
How can students demonstrate understanding of new vocabulary words?
Students can demonstrate understanding by defining each word, using it in a sentence, and creating an illustration or visual that shows its meaning. This multi-step approach deepens comprehension and retention.
What grade level is the 'Birchbark House' vocabulary activity best for?
The 'Birchbark House' vocabulary activity is best suited for 4th and 5th grade students, offering a balanced challenge in both individual and partner formats.
More Storyboard That Activities
Birchbark House, The
Testimonials
“By using the product, they were so excited and they learned so much...”–K-5 Librarian and Instructinal Technology Teacher
“I'm doing a Napoleon timeline and I'm having [students] determine whether or not Napoleon was a good guy or a bad guy or somewhere in between.”–History and Special Ed Teacher
“Students get to be creative with Storyboard That and there's so many visuals for them to pick from... It makes it really accessible for all students in the class.”–Third Grade Teacher
© 2025 - Clever Prototypes, LLC - All rights reserved.
StoryboardThat is a trademark of Clever Prototypes, LLC, and Registered in U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
