Activity Overview
Another great way to engage your students is through the creation of storyboards that use vocabulary fromThe Handmaid’s Tale. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the novel, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
The Handmaid’s Tale Vocabulary
- palimpsest
- archaic
- fraternize
- demure
- fanatical
- parley
- bestow
- perfidy
- chalice
- effigy
- pier glass
- heretical
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 Handmaid’s Tale by creating visualizations.
- Choose five 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Example Sentences | Vocabulary words are used correctly in the example sentences in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentences can be understood, but the vocabulary words are used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary words are not used correctly in the example sentences. |
| Visualizations | The storyboard cells clearly illustrate the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The storyboard cells relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words, but are difficult to understand. | The storyboard cells do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
Activity Overview
Another great way to engage your students is through the creation of storyboards that use vocabulary fromThe Handmaid’s Tale. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the novel, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
The Handmaid’s Tale Vocabulary
- palimpsest
- archaic
- fraternize
- demure
- fanatical
- parley
- bestow
- perfidy
- chalice
- effigy
- pier glass
- heretical
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 Handmaid’s Tale by creating visualizations.
- Choose five 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 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Example Sentences | Vocabulary words are used correctly in the example sentences in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentences can be understood, but the vocabulary words are used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary words are not used correctly in the example sentences. |
| Visualizations | The storyboard cells clearly illustrate the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The storyboard cells relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words, but are difficult to understand. | The storyboard cells do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
How Tos about Vocabulary in The Handmaid’s Tale
How to Differentiate Vocabulary Activities for Mixed-Ability Students
Adapt your vocabulary instruction to meet the needs of all learners by offering varied options for engagement, scaffolding, and assessment. Supporting diverse learning styles ensures every student has a chance to succeed with challenging texts like The Handmaid’s Tale.
Offer tiered word lists based on student readiness.
Provide students with vocabulary lists at different difficulty levels. Advanced students can work with more complex or nuanced words, while others focus on core terms. This encourages confidence and growth for every learner.
Use graphic organizers to clarify word meanings.
Have students create Frayer Models, semantic maps, or word webs for new terms. Visual supports help students of all abilities break down definitions, synonyms, antonyms, and usage. These tools make abstract words concrete.
Incorporate peer teaching and small group work.
Pair or group students so they can explain vocabulary to each other and collaborate on illustrations. Peer learning builds understanding and confidence, especially for students who need extra support. Everyone benefits from shared insights.
Allow choice in how students demonstrate understanding.
Let students pick from drawing, acting, digital slides, or creating word games to show what they've learned. Providing options increases motivation and helps students play to their strengths. This fosters creativity and ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vocabulary in The Handmaid’s Tale
What are effective vocabulary activities for The Handmaid’s Tale?
Visual vocabulary boards are an engaging way to help students learn key terms from The Handmaid’s Tale. Select important words, define them, use them in sentences, and create illustrations or use images to show their meanings.
How can students demonstrate understanding of The Handmaid’s Tale vocabulary?
Students can show understanding by choosing vocabulary words from the novel, finding their definitions, writing example sentences, and illustrating each word with a scene or image, either drawn or selected from a photo database.
What is a visual vocabulary board and how do I use it in class?
A visual vocabulary board is a graphic organizer where students match vocabulary words with definitions, sentences, and images. Use it to reinforce new terms by prompting students to visualize and contextualize word meanings.
Why is vocabulary instruction important when teaching The Handmaid’s Tale?
Vocabulary instruction helps students comprehend complex language and themes in The Handmaid’s Tale. Understanding key terms deepens engagement and supports critical analysis of the novel’s content.
Which vocabulary words are commonly taught with The Handmaid’s Tale?
Common vocabulary words include palimpsest, archaic, fraternize, demure, fanatical, parley, bestow, perfidy, chalice, effigy, pier glass, and heretical.
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