Search form


Featured Graphic

Click here to return to the article

The Definition Game

Subjects

  • Language Arts

Grades

  • 3-5
  • 6-8

Brief Description

Students make up definitions for unfamiliar words and then try to guess the real definitions.

Objectives

Students improve their vocabulary by learning the definitions of unfamiliar words.

Keywords

definition, vocabulary, dictionary

Materials Needed

index cards, pens or pencils

Lesson Plan

Choose a word that no student can define, and write the definition on an index card. Ask each student to write a made-up definition for the word on an identical index card. Collect and shuffle the index cards. Read each definition and have students vote for the correct definition. Students score points each time another student votes for their definitions or if they identify the correct definition. The student with the most points wins the game.

Assessment

Evaluate students on their participation in the activity.

Lesson Plan Source

Education World

National Standards

Language Arts:
NL-ENG.K-12.7