List-Group-Label and List-Group-Label Activity
Have students brainstorm words they believe to be related
to a topic of study, organize them into categories, and label
the categories. A variation of List-Group-Label is to provide
students with the words they will encounter in a reading assignment (they can be
written/typed on individual cards or small strips of paper, and kids can sort). The
words can be rewritten under various labels, offering additional opportunities for
vocabulary review. (Taba, 1967) and (Vacca & Vacca, 2004)
Word Sorts
From a unit of study, organize words or phrases into groups, and have students
categorize them. These words/phrases can be typed on a sheet of paper, and
students can cut the paper into word strips and then sort them according to
meaning, sounds, structure (e.g., words ending in -tation, -sion, -tion) or
derivations.
For example, words related to a concept such as the American Revolution might
be sorted according to spelling pattern:
-tation
-sion
-tion
representation
tension
revolution
plantation
passion
taxation
mission
transition
vision
solution
Other words related to the American Revolution might be sorted according to
concepts:
Weapons
Muskets
Rifles
Issues
Self-governance
Democracy
People
Thomas Paine
Paul Revere
Cannons
Freedom of
religion
Right to bear
arms
taxation
King George
Bayonets
Knives
April 2011
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Washington
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Word Wall
Create a word wall on butcher paper, chart pack, or pocket chart containing key
vocabulary related to a lesson.
 use for reference and review – revisit word walls often
 encourage students to use them in their writing
 be judicious in selecting words
 limit the number to a reasonable amount
 resist displaying multiple word walls that are difficult to sort through
 try adding and removing words with student input
Concept Definition Map
Create a simple graphic to organize ideas and discuss complex ideas or concepts.
This is a good way to help students learn content concepts and vocabulary. For
example, naming and displaying a key concept in a center circle can be
surrounded by circles that include words and concepts in the following categories:
 What is it?
 What is it like?
What is it like?
 What are some examples?
Can be violent
What is it?
Overthrow of
government of social
system
Often emotional
Usually political
REVOLUTION
American Revolution
“Velvet”Revolution in
Czech Republic
May result in
changed system of
government
Russian Revolution
What are some examples?
April 2011
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