Minilesson Format
Name: Haley Rayburn
Date: March 2, 2012
Objective or Focus: The students will be able to use several synonyms and antonyms, while applying
their knowledge through illustrations.
Materials List: Chart paper, marker, pencils, illustration sheet.
Invitation or Introduction: “Boys and girls, today we are going to learn a new way of thinking for new
or different words for our writing. We will learn to use our brains to think of similar or different words to
use in our writing. Have you ever heard of synonyms and antonyms? Who here can tell me what a
synonym is? All those answers were great. The definition of a synonym is words that have the same or
similar meanings such as small and little. Can anyone think of 2 words that are synonyms? Turn and talk
with your partner and tell them what words you have thought of. When you have told your partner, put
your eyes on me. So do we all know what a synonym is, class? Lets say the definition all together.”
Now class, we are going to talk about an Antonym. Does anyone here know what an antonym is?
Antonyms are words that have opposite means. Boys and girls what does opposite mean? That’s right
class, different. Examples of antonyms are hot and cold. Boys and girls are hot and cold the same or
opposite? That’s right opposite, because they are antonyms. Can anyone think of 2 words that might be
antonyms of each other? Turn and tell your partner your words. When you have told your words turn
your eyes on me.” I will draw a name and allow a few examples in class. “Now class do we all know
what an antonym is?” We will say the definition together one last time.
Teacher Modeling:
“Today, class we will use our Flower Talk sheet to brainstorm synonyms and antonyms. Here I have
drawn 2 flowers, and on the leaf I have written the word PRETTY. On flower 1 we will brainstorm
synonyms. What are some synonyms for pretty?” I will write the suggestions on the petals. Should be
things like: Beautiful, gorgeous, cute, lovely, and precious. “On my second flower labeled antonyms, will
we write things that are the same or opposite?” The class should say opposite. Suggestions should be:
Ugly, gross, hideous, butt ugly, and horrible.
Independent Practice:
Directions: “Now class it is your turn to fill in a Flower Talk sheet. You each will choose from this list of
words and brainstorm some synonyms and antonyms and fill them into the petals just like I did. Now, are
there any questions? You may each get a worksheet, choose a word, and complete the Flower Talk sheet.”
The students will individually complete the Flower Talk sheet. For questions students will raise their
hand and the teacher will guide them through any problems.
Assessment and Reflection:
The teacher will circulate the room to observe and complications occurring during this brainstorming
activity. The students should be able to independently grasp the meaning of synonyms and antonyms and
demonstrate them correctly on the Flower Talk activity sheet.
To continue the lesson further, tomorrow the teacher will show the students how to use the thesaurus
when they can no long think of synonyms and antonyms.
Performance Observation Form
Mini-Lesson
Student______________________
Grade___________
Date/Time_____________________
Subject_____________________
Preparation for Organized Instruction
a. Communicates goals and objectives
b. Prepares instructional resources for use
______5
Presentation of Organized Instruction
a.
b.
c.
d.
Provides clear instruction and closure to the lesson being taught.
Gives clear directions
Develops the lesson
Demonstrates knowledge of subject matter
______10
Communication
a. Speaks clearly, correctly, and coherently
b. Writes clearly, correctly, and coherently
_______5
Total Score: _______20
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