Week 2

I introduce vocabulary through a short story. I have been modeling and they are now starting to take over using context clues combined with any prior knowledge to verbally give a definition. Many times, it lends itself to discussion of multi meaning words or words that may sound similar. I model looking for word parts that may also help us understand the word and then we brainstorm other words with similar word parts so they can see the relationship. (Example: ped-foot) At one of their reading stations, they play vocabulary dominos. The first domino has a start sign and a definition. They have to find the card with the word on the left and a different definition on the right. This continues until they reach the stop sign. They then use these cards to complete a writen assignment either matching words to definitions that are worded slightly differently or using them in a sentence. They then have the opportunity to complete a vocabulary quilt where they can draw a picture representation of the word. Additional activities include use of other graphic organizers.
I use many games in my class. I have and do use Jeopardy on occassion. I bought "Eggspert" a couple of years ago which adds to the authenticity of the game requiring them to buzz in. Everyone gets a chance come up to the podium and compete against members of other teams. If the first person who buzzes in and does not get the answer correct, they loose points and the others are given a chance to buzz in allowing more think time for those that need it.
I use "Who Has" frequently for review. This is similar to the domino concept. Each student gets a card with a word on one side and a detail or quesiton on the other. The student with the "start" card goes first reading thier question or detail. The student with the correct answer will say they have it, stand and read their question or detail until we reach the "stop" sign. I time them, and we do it several times to try to beat our old time. Everyone must be engaged and listenting for their question to be read. Even those who have already gone are engaged because they want to try to remember what word goes with which question in case they get that card the next time. They are also very well behaved because they do not want to distract their classmates since the whole class is on the same team.
I also use FROG games, Apples to Apples, Mad Libs, Logic Links, and many other games to try to present the information in an engaging way.
I use white boards on a daily basis to actively engage my whole class and it is a wonderful way for me to assess immediately who is mastering the skill and who needs more practice. As each student demonstrates mastery on a skill, I have enrichment activities prepared for them to do as I continue working with those that need more practice. I can also use this to modify my plans and determine what I do in small groups.