Semantic Gradient- an array of related words placed on a continuum that
allows students to make connections between known words and new
vocabulary. This helps to discern shades of meaning. Example: “angry and
“furious” are not synonyms.
*As students arrange the words in the list, they can discuss and justify their
ordering.
** To differentiate, students can be given the topic and all words on index
cards or sticky notes with the left and right degrees already determined.
Students then have to place the rest of the words in order.
(Example:
_____________________________________________________________
Worn-Out
Furious
Or…students can be given the topic and all of the words on index cards or
sticky notes and a black line to place all words on (in order).
_____________________________________________________________
Or… Students can be given the topic and group of students can generate a
list of words related to the topic and then place the words in order on the
line.
_____________________________________________________________
*Please note: This is only a list to get you started!
Topic/Theme
Anger
Tired
To Like
Words Related To Topic In
Varying Degrees (not in any
particular order)
furious, red-faced, upset,
bothered, unhappy, irate, livid
exhausted, sleepy, weary, wornout, drowsy, pooped out
adore, love, admire, look up to,
fond of, enamored
Huge
Happy
Size
To Gab
Temperature
Movement
Emotion
Rocks
Strength
Intelligence
Boredom
C. Doyle 2011
big, large, massive, hefty,
colossal
joyous, giddy, pleased, elated,
happy, unhappy, glum, sad,
disappointed
tiny, average, small, massive,
bulky, hefty, humongous,
gigantic, miniscule, microscopic
chatter, whisper, talk, shout,
scream, pronounce, state
cool, steamy, scorching, balmy,
freezing, lukewarm, hot, boiling,
chilled, warm, icy, bonechilling, sweltering
dawdle, stroll, strut, jog, race,
sprint
bawl, sob, sniffle, chuckle,
giggle, laugh, roar
pebble, clay, sand, silt, boulder,
gravel
weak, wimpy, frail, strong, buff,
scrawny, burly, feeble, powerful
intelligent, dumb, dim-witted,
average, gifted, bright, genius
boring, dull, humdrum,
amusing, interesting, dreary,
captivating, fascinating