High School Science Vocabulary Ideas?

[RonLove3]

Does anyone have any ideas on how to teach science vocabulary? Do you have any activities for individuals or groups?

[irish223]

One of my school's initiatives this year is to use Project CRISS strategies as often as possible. Although it's designed for students in grades 4-12, I'm using some of the strategies (modified) with my kindergarteners. You should be able to find something useful on their website, or google Project CRISS to find examples of how other teachers use it.

http://www.projectcriss.com/

[merrynl]

When they write definitions, write the book def, their def, draw a picture, and write how they'd explain it to a younger friend.

[Helix]

Make crossword puzzles/word searches. Mine love those. FINALLY figured out something they like. Make the "clues" the definitions of the words, and give them sources to do research to find the answers.

[muinteoir]

A slight modification of Marzano's 6 steps for teaching academic vocabulary is useful:

Step 1: Provide a description, explanation, or example of the new term.


Step 2: Ask students to restate the description, explanation, or example in their own words. This works well if you are journaling in class.


Step 3: Ask students to construct a picture, symbol, or graphic representing the term or phrase. Again, great in a science journal.



Step 4: Engage students periodically in activities that help them add to their knowledge of the terms in their notebooks. Use the words in labs and other classroom instruction.


Step 5: Periodically ask students to discuss the terms with one another. Turn and talk, think-pair-share, etc.


Step 6: Involve students periodically in games that allow them to play with terms. Use games as reviews for all content, not just vocabulary.