Vocabulary+Carousel+(Grade+6-8)

Contributing Teacher(s): Janie "J.T." Young
Resources: Four large sheets of bulletin board paper, four different colored markers or pencils, four white erase boards with markers

Content:
CFU 0801.1.5 Spell correctly high frequency, misspelled words (appropriate to grade level), CFU 0801.1.11 Define and recognize synonyms, antonyms, and homonyms and words commonly used in content specific vocabulary

ISTE Technology:
Students will:

I. Apply existing knowledge to generate new ideas, products, or processes II.Create original works as a means of personal or group expression III.Communicate information and ideas effectively to multiple audiences using a variety of media and formats IV.Contribute to project teams to produce original works or solve problems V. Plan and manage activities to develop a solution or complete a project

Introduction/Problem:
When faced with memorizing, understanding, and using vocabulary effectively in sentences, many students struggle. The following lesson makes comprehending vocabulary a fun process. It is also an effective tool in cooperative learning. Use the procedure below //__after__// vocabulary has been introduced.

Procedure:
Divide class into four groups. Make sure groups are composed of higher, average, and lower academic levels. Each group will be given one different colored marker/pencil, and one white board with Expo marker. To create greater unity, students may give a name, mascot, or insignia to their group. The four large sheets of paper will be spread out and taped on the walls of the classroom. At the top of each sheet will be questions concerning vocabulary. You can be as creative as you would like. Below are some suggestions:

1. Write a synonym for two of your vocabulary words 2. Write an antonym for two of your vocabulary words 3. Draw a picture that represents one vocabulary word 4. Create a word search puzzle with all vocabulary words and have each team to find two 5. Write a vocabulary word and its part of speech 6. Write a vocabulary word(s) and tell what type of noun it is (ie, concrete, abstract, compound, singular, plural...) 7. Write vocabulary word in a couplet 8. Create a crossword puzzle and have each team do two questions

When the music starts, each group uncovers the question at the top of page, work as a group using the white board, and write final answer with the team's colored marker/pencil on the taped paper. Students will work while music is playing. Students are always amazed when you play music that they listen to! Some suggested sites are:

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When the music stops, teams move to the next station and answer the next question. When each team has visited all four stations (you may have them to repeat the stations), everyone sits.

Assessment/Rubric:
Review answers, giving feedback and questioning answers. You may take a certain station as a grade or use the entire lesson as an assessment.