Activity Overview
Another great way to engage your students is through the creation of storyboards that use vocabulary from A Thousand Splendid Suns. Many of the words throughout the story are in Urdu, and they are important to understanding not only the Afghani culture, but also the character development and political events in the novel. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the novel, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
- kolba
- burqa
- tandoor
- jinn
- hijab
- nikka
- tahamul
- harami
- jo
- jihad
- brusquely
- imprudence
- rueful
- wistful
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 A Thousand Splendid Suns 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 A Thousand Splendid Suns. Many of the words throughout the story are in Urdu, and they are important to understanding not only the Afghani culture, but also the character development and political events in the novel. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the novel, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
- kolba
- burqa
- tandoor
- jinn
- hijab
- nikka
- tahamul
- harami
- jo
- jihad
- brusquely
- imprudence
- rueful
- wistful
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 A Thousand Splendid Suns 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 A Thousand Splendid Suns Vocabulary
Plan a Collaborative Vocabulary Activity
Encourage students to work in small groups to create a shared vocabulary chart. This promotes teamwork and helps students learn from each other as they discuss word meanings and examples.
Assign Roles Within Groups
Designate specific tasks such as researcher, illustrator, and presenter for each student. Clear roles keep everyone engaged and ensure that all students contribute to the finished project.
Guide Students to Research Word Origins
Ask each group to find not just the definition but also the origin and cultural context of their assigned words. This deepens understanding and connects vocabulary to the novel’s setting.
Facilitate a Gallery Walk
Have groups display their vocabulary boards around the classroom. Let students walk around, view each other’s work, and ask questions to reinforce learning in an interactive way.
Reflect as a Class
Lead a short discussion about which words were most challenging or interesting. This encourages critical thinking and helps students connect vocabulary to the novel’s broader themes.
Frequently Asked Questions about A Thousand Splendid Suns Vocabulary
What are some key vocabulary words from A Thousand Splendid Suns?
Key vocabulary words from A Thousand Splendid Suns include terms like kolba, burqa, tandoor, jinn, hijab, nikka, tahamul, harami, jo, jihad, brusquely, imprudence, rueful, and wistful. These words help students understand Afghani culture and the novel's themes.
How can I teach A Thousand Splendid Suns vocabulary effectively in my classroom?
Engage students by having them create visual vocabulary boards using scenes, characters, and images to illustrate word meanings. Encourage them to write sentences with each word and explore definitions together for deeper understanding.
What is a visual vocabulary board and how do I use it with novels?
A visual vocabulary board is a graphic organizer where students pair vocabulary words with definitions, sample sentences, and illustrations. Using it with novels like A Thousand Splendid Suns helps students connect new terms to story context and visual cues.
Why is understanding Urdu vocabulary important when reading A Thousand Splendid Suns?
Understanding Urdu vocabulary is important because it provides insights into Afghani culture, character backgrounds, and political events depicted in the novel, enriching students' comprehension and engagement.
What are some tips for helping students remember difficult vocabulary from literature?
Use strategies like visual storyboards, group discussions, sentence creation, and connecting words to students' experiences. Repetition and visual aids can make challenging terms more memorable and meaningful.
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