Vocabulary Word Study
Each day in class, we will review two vocabulary words taken from our 8th grade word list and the literature
we read on a daily basis. Once we have reviewed 20 words, you will complete the following word study
assignments.
1. Synonyms and Antonyms -
Find two synonyms and two antonyms for each word
Vocabulary Word
avarice
undulating
suppliant
Synonyms (2)
Antonyms(2)
covetousness, frugality
convoluted,
crooked, curved
beseecher, petitioner,
generosity, philanthropy
straight, untwisted,
unwinding
n/a
2. Word Clues and vocabulary blocks
Word Clues- For each vocabulary word come up with at least one “word clue”, which is a real-life example
or situation that represents the word. The clue should NOT be a definition or a synonym for the word.
Word Clue - a homeless person;
Answer indigent
Word Clue - children repeatedly asking “why”
Answer speculatively
Word Clue - the Great Wall of China; a bullet-proof vest
Answer bulwark
Vocabulary Blocks- Complete a block for each vocabulary word. On the front of the block write the word,
part of speech, definition, and antonyms/synonyms. On the back, draw a picture which illustrates the word.
Word
Part of Speech
Definition
Draw a picture to
represent the
vocabulary word.
3. Writing – Complete one of the following writing activities.
 Story Time
Create a short story, play, TV script, or movie proposal, etc. using the current vocabulary words.
Remember, when writing a narrative you must always have an attention-grabbing opening, a
detailed plotline with a conflict, and a powerful ending. Your narrative should be creative, but must
also make sense given the category of words assigned.
Highlight the vocabulary words and label their part of speech (noun, verb, adjective, etc.)
 Describe It!
Write a vivid, detailed two to three paragraph description of any person, place, thing, or idea using
the current vocabulary words. Be sure each paragraph is at least six-eight sentences in length and
formatted as a completely developed piece of writing. Remember that a truly descriptive piece of
writing uses vivid sensory details and powerful verbs and adjectives. For example, instead of “good
player,” say “skilled player.”
Highlight the vocabulary words in the paragraph and label their part of speech (noun, verb,
adjective, etc.)
 Convince Me!
Write a persuasive essay, letter, speech, debate, advertisement proposal, etc. using at least the current
vocabulary words. Remember that any persuasive piece of writing must strongly and clearly support
one side of an issue, using relevant, sufficient, and specific arguments that also address the
opposition.
Highlight the vocabulary words in the paragraph and label their part of speech (noun, verb,
adjective, etc.)

Tell Me!
Write an expository/informational piece of writing, such as a newspaper, magazine, or journal
article, biography, autobiography, essay, eyewitness account, etc. using the current vocabulary
words. Remember that any expository piece of writing must use only facts and specific details and
include no opinions or points of view. Be sure to include the “who, what, where, when, why, and
how” of the situation.
Highlight the vocabulary words in the paragraph and label their part of speech (noun, verb,
adjective, etc.)
 Critical Writing: Definitional Sentences
Write a definitional sentence for each of the current vocabulary words. A definitional sentence uses
context clues to clearly explain and describe the word in question. Underline the vocabulary word
and label the part of speech (noun, verb, adjective, etc.) at the end of each sentence.
** At times, I might allow you to use the vocabulary words in a major assessment instead as an
alternative to this writing assignment **
WORD WALL
After we study a word in class, that word will go on our word wall in the back of the classroom. This means
that you are expected to consistently use and spell the word correctly in your writing for the remainder of the
year.