Vocabulary Strategies

Vocabulary games are one way to promote engagement and motivation for students while they practice their standards-based literacy skills. Vocabulary games require purpose and thoughtful planning to be effective.

Choose a story excerpt from “Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects” and review “Case Scenario: Jacob” to inform this assignment.

Part 1: Vocabulary Game

Create a small group vocabulary game aligned to one or more research-based strategies that meets Jacob’s needs. Incorporate a minimum of 10 vocabulary words from a story excerpt of your choice within your game.

Use the “Vocabulary Strategies” template to address the aspects of the game.

• The story excerpt chosen and vocabulary words with grade level appropriate definitions.
• Rules of the game, to include the roles of both teacher and students.
• How to expand the game to include higher-level thinking.
• Two accommodations/modifications, one for English Language Learners (ELLs) and one for a student with special needs, specifying their needs.

Part 2: Rationale

In 250-500 words, write a rationale to address the following:

• How does the vocabulary game implement one or more research-based strategy to support students’ vocabulary development?
• How does the game help to engage and motivate the students?
• How does the game help Jacob achieve his learning goal?

Support your findings with 2-3 scholarly sources.