Activity Overview
Another great way to engage your students is through the creation of storyboards that use vocabulary from Tuesdays with Morrie. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the memoir, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
Tuesdays with Morrie Vocabulary
- biopsy
- aphorism
- beaker
- sequoia
- trunk
- defer
- sclerosis
- indecipherable
- levitate
- alabaster
- buoyant
- nostalgia
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 Tuesdays with Morrieby 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 with the search bar to show the meaning of the words.
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 Tuesdays with Morrie. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the memoir, and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
Tuesdays with Morrie Vocabulary
- biopsy
- aphorism
- beaker
- sequoia
- trunk
- defer
- sclerosis
- indecipherable
- levitate
- alabaster
- buoyant
- nostalgia
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 Tuesdays with Morrieby 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 with the search bar to show the meaning of the words.
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 Tuesdays with Morrie Vocabulary
How to Facilitate Meaningful Vocabulary Discussions with Your Class
Encourage students to share sentences using new vocabulary words in small groups or as a class. This helps students connect the word to their personal experiences and solidifies understanding.
Model Using Vocabulary Words in Context
Demonstrate how to use each vocabulary word in a real-life sentence or story. Students see how the word fits naturally in conversation or writing.
Prompt Creative Visual Connections
Ask students to draw or find an image that represents the meaning of each word. Visuals make abstract terms more memorable and accessible.
Incorporate Quick Review Games
Play a vocabulary matching or charades game using the target words. Games boost engagement and reinforce recall in a fun way.
Connect Vocabulary to Personal Experiences
Invite students to describe a time when a vocabulary word applied to their own life. This deepens understanding and personalizes learning.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tuesdays with Morrie Vocabulary
What is a visual vocabulary board for 'Tuesdays with Morrie'?
A visual vocabulary board for 'Tuesdays with Morrie' is an activity where students select key vocabulary from the memoir, define each word, use it in a sentence, and illustrate its meaning visually. This helps reinforce understanding and retention of new terms.
How can I teach 'Tuesdays with Morrie' vocabulary effectively to high school students?
To teach 'Tuesdays with Morrie' vocabulary effectively, have students choose words from the text, look up definitions, use each in a sentence, and create visual representations. This approach supports both comprehension and engagement for grades 9-10.
What are some commonly taught vocabulary words from 'Tuesdays with Morrie'?
Commonly taught vocabulary words from 'Tuesdays with Morrie' include biopsy, aphorism, defer, nostalgia, sclerosis, levitate, alabaster, buoyant, sequoia, and indecipherable.
What are the steps to create a vocabulary storyboard for 'Tuesdays with Morrie'?
To create a vocabulary storyboard: 1) Choose five words from the memoir, 2) Find definitions, 3) Write example sentences, 4) Illustrate the meaning with scenes, characters, or photos, and 5) Arrange them on a visual board.
Why use visual vocabulary boards in teaching 'Tuesdays with Morrie'?
Using visual vocabulary boards helps students internalize new words by connecting definitions, context, and imagery. This method enhances memory, supports different learning styles, and makes vocabulary practice more engaging.
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