Activity Overview
While students are reading, especially with historical subjects, they will encounter unfamiliar vocabulary. With this activity, students will use a spider map layout to create a visual vocabulary board as they read Flight to Freedom. After choosing the word(s), students will provide the part of speech, definition, an example from the text, and create an illustration to support their definition.
Example Vocabulary Words from Flight to Freedom
- abolition
- plantation
- fugitive
- abductions
- refugee
- underground
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 Flight to Freedom by creating a visual vocabulary board.
- 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
While students are reading, especially with historical subjects, they will encounter unfamiliar vocabulary. With this activity, students will use a spider map layout to create a visual vocabulary board as they read Flight to Freedom. After choosing the word(s), students will provide the part of speech, definition, an example from the text, and create an illustration to support their definition.
Example Vocabulary Words from Flight to Freedom
- abolition
- plantation
- fugitive
- abductions
- refugee
- underground
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 Flight to Freedom by creating a visual vocabulary board.
- 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 Flight to Freedom Visual Vocabulary
How to introduce new historical vocabulary before reading
Prepare students for success by introducing key vocabulary before starting the story. Front-loading words builds confidence and helps students connect new terms to the story context.
Select 5–7 important words from the text
Choose words that will appear often or are central to the story's events. Focus on terms students may not know but will need for comprehension.
Create context cards with definitions and images
Make cards for each word that include the definition and a simple visual or photo. Use bold graphics to help students remember meanings.
Lead a quick pre-reading discussion using the cards
Show the cards one at a time, discuss their meanings, and ask students to predict how each word might connect to the story. Encourage students to share their ideas and prior knowledge.
Post vocabulary cards in a visible spot during reading
Display the cards on the board or wall so students can refer to them as they read. This supports ongoing understanding and confidence with new terms.
Frequently Asked Questions about Flight to Freedom Visual Vocabulary
What is a visual vocabulary board and how does it help students understand new words?
A visual vocabulary board is a graphic organizer where students display vocabulary words along with their definitions, part of speech, example sentences, and illustrations. This approach helps students grasp and remember new terms by connecting words to images and context, making learning more engaging and effective.
How can I create a visual vocabulary activity for Flight to Freedom?
To create a visual vocabulary activity for Flight to Freedom, have students select three key words from the text, find their definitions, use each in a sentence, and illustrate their meanings. Students can draw or use online images to complete their boards, reinforcing understanding through multiple modalities.
What are some important vocabulary words in Flight to Freedom for grades 4–5?
Key vocabulary words from Flight to Freedom for grades 4–5 include abolition, plantation, fugitive, abductions, refugee, and underground. These terms help students engage with the historical context of the story.
Why is illustrating vocabulary words effective for elementary students?
Illustrating vocabulary helps elementary students by linking words to visual cues, aiding memory and comprehension. Drawing or selecting images makes abstract terms concrete, supporting diverse learning styles and boosting engagement with new content.
What tips can teachers use for introducing historical vocabulary in K–5 classrooms?
Teachers can introduce historical vocabulary by using visual organizers, providing context-rich sentences, encouraging students to research definitions, and connecting words to story events or images. Making vocabulary interactive and meaningful supports deeper understanding in K–5 classrooms.
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