Vocabulary Charades

by Jenny Helms

Many adult students who show little interest in reading also have extremely limited vocabularies. Many low level readers do not enjoy reading because they lack basic reading skills. Low level readers usually read slowly and struggle with pronouncing words, understanding vocabulary and comprehending what they read. Therefore, they rarely get to the point of being able to enjoy and appreciate the story they are struggling to read.

One way in which teachers can help students begin to enjoy reading is to broaden their vocabulary in a non-threatening way. Vocabulary Charades is a fun way for students to learn many different words by association.

Begin Vocabulary Charades by comprising a list of vocabulary words. Divide the students into pairs, and give each pair one vocabulary word. These pairs then look up the definition and pronunciation of their vocabulary words. (You may have to help them with the pronunciation unless you do an entire lesson on interpreting the Pronunciation Key ahead of time.) Next, these pairs must come up with a sign that represents their word. This sign should correlate with the definition so that it is easy to remember. Finally, they share what they have learned by teaching their word to their classmates.

At this point, have all students stand in a big circle to share their work. Have them write their words on the board or somewhere visible so that the other students see how these words are spelled. Once all pairs have shared their word, definition, and sign, go around the circle several times asking various students to repeat the word, definition, and sign. Review these words the day the students are introduced to the words and review frequently thereafter so that they retain the information.

Vocabulary Charades is a fresh way to introduce new words that accommodates all learning styles.