Activity Overview
When studying a period of history, it's important for students to have a solid understanding of basic terminology that will be used in the unit. This allows them to be able to better understand the events and have the vocabulary needed to have discussions in class. In this activity, students will create a storyboard that defines and illustrates at least four major terms used in discussing the Tinker vs. Des Moines case. Teachers may pre-select terms they would like students to study, or they can use from the suggested list below.
Tinker v. Des Moines Vocabulary
- Symbolic Speech
- Protest/Petition
- Public School
- Vietnam War
- Infringe
- 1st Amendment
- Silent Protest
- Inflammatory Speech
- Educational Environment
- Free Speech
- Majority Opinion
- Dissenting Opinion
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a visual vocabulary board that defines and illustrates vocabulary for the Tinker vs. Des Moines case.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the key terms you have chosen.
- In the description boxes, write the definition of the term.
- Create a visualization for each term using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Requirements: Must have 4 terms, correct definitions, and appropriate illustrations for each that demonstrate your understanding of the words.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | The definition is correct. | The definition is partially correct. | The definition is incorrect. |
| 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
When studying a period of history, it's important for students to have a solid understanding of basic terminology that will be used in the unit. This allows them to be able to better understand the events and have the vocabulary needed to have discussions in class. In this activity, students will create a storyboard that defines and illustrates at least four major terms used in discussing the Tinker vs. Des Moines case. Teachers may pre-select terms they would like students to study, or they can use from the suggested list below.
Tinker v. Des Moines Vocabulary
- Symbolic Speech
- Protest/Petition
- Public School
- Vietnam War
- Infringe
- 1st Amendment
- Silent Protest
- Inflammatory Speech
- Educational Environment
- Free Speech
- Majority Opinion
- Dissenting Opinion
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a visual vocabulary board that defines and illustrates vocabulary for the Tinker vs. Des Moines case.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the key terms you have chosen.
- In the description boxes, write the definition of the term.
- Create a visualization for each term using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Requirements: Must have 4 terms, correct definitions, and appropriate illustrations for each that demonstrate your understanding of the words.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | The definition is correct. | The definition is partially correct. | The definition is incorrect. |
| 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 Tinker v. Des Moines Visual Vocabulary
How to Facilitate a Class Discussion on Tinker v. Des Moines Vocabulary
Engage students in a lively discussion by first inviting them to share their visual vocabulary boards. Encourage students to explain their illustrations and definitions to the class to build confidence and deepen understanding. Use guiding questions to prompt connections between terms and real-world scenarios.
Model making connections between vocabulary and current events
Relate key terms to modern examples, such as recent student protests or school policies. Highlight how concepts like 'symbolic speech' and 'free speech' appear in today's news to make learning relevant and meaningful.
Encourage peer feedback on visual vocabulary boards
Pair students or use small groups to review each other's boards. Prompt them to give at least one positive comment and one suggestion for improvement, fostering collaboration and reflection.
Create extension activities for vocabulary mastery
Assign creative tasks such as writing a short skit or comic that uses at least two vocabulary terms. Provide opportunities for students to apply and reinforce their knowledge in fun, engaging ways.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tinker v. Des Moines Visual Vocabulary
What is a visual vocabulary board for Tinker v. Des Moines?
A visual vocabulary board for Tinker v. Des Moines is a creative activity where students define and illustrate key terms related to the landmark Supreme Court case. This helps deepen understanding of concepts like symbolic speech and free speech rights in schools.
How do I create a visual vocabulary activity for the Tinker v. Des Moines case?
To create a visual vocabulary activity, choose four key terms from the Tinker v. Des Moines case, write definitions for each, and illustrate them using drawings or digital graphics. This helps students connect words with real-life scenarios from the case.
What are the most important vocabulary terms to teach for Tinker v. Des Moines?
Key vocabulary terms for Tinker v. Des Moines include symbolic speech, 1st Amendment, public school, protest, infringe, majority opinion, and dissenting opinion. These capture the main legal and historical concepts of the case.
Why is understanding vocabulary important when teaching Supreme Court cases like Tinker v. Des Moines?
Understanding vocabulary is crucial because it enables students to grasp complex legal concepts and engage meaningfully in discussions. It lays the foundation for analyzing events, arguments, and outcomes in Supreme Court cases such as Tinker v. Des Moines.
What is the best way to help students remember terms like 'symbolic speech' or 'infringe'?
The best way is to have students define each term in their own words and illustrate it with examples or drawings. Visual learning strategies make abstract legal terms more memorable and relatable for students.
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