In this ONGOING CLASS, learners will learn how to transition vocabulary from basic comprehension to actively incorporating academic vocabulary into their writing and conversations.  


* Perfect for Weekly Homeschool Language Warm Up activities
**  Periodic Kahoot Review Games /Quizzes to monitor retention of previous words and application

NOTE:  Students may join at any time, as content DOES NOT BUILD upon each lesson.  

CLASS FORMAT
Day 1  
1) Introduce the Words of the Week (Depending upon the class, one to two words will be taught each week)
--  Remember, the goal of this class is to assist students in moving from RECOGNIZING words TO USING THEM EFFECTIVELY  by following the approach based on Marzano's research on learning new words.

After students think about the word and their familiarity, students will have an opportunity to share if they've heard it before and where. If there's any confusion, we'll clear it up by going over the meaning and looking at a sentence that uses the word.  We will examine the word in the sentence and determine the part of speech, as words can be used in different ways!

2) Visualize & Define the Word
Students get creative! They'll write their own meaning of the word and draw a picture inspired by examples they've seen.
OPTIONAL to PRINT:  To help students better visualize the vocabulary, mini-flash cards are provided. These cards contain pictures related to the word to help students get a better mental image of what the word means.

3) Synonyms & Antonyms
We'll explore the word's secret friends: synonyms (word buddies) and antonyms (word opposites) and why bringing synonyms and antonyms into vocabulary lessons is a smart move:

* Deeper Understanding: Synonyms give students more ways to grasp a word's meaning. Antonyms show what a word isn't. This combo helps them really get it.

* Context Clues: With synonyms, students decode unknown words using familiar ones. Antonyms help them figure out the context, narrowing down possible meanings.

* Language Variety: Synonyms teach diversity in expression. Antonyms encourage precise word choices. Both boost writing and speaking skills.

* Brain Power: Exploring words from different angles boosts cognitive flexibility, making students more adaptable thinkers.

* Lifelong Learning: Knowing these language patterns helps students long-term, making them independent word explorers.


Day 2
1) Use It
Today's task is all about real-world word action! Students will flex their creative muscles by crafting a short paragraph that naturally fits the word's surroundings. This means using the word in a way that makes sense and feels right.

For example, if the word is "mimic," they might write about a talented actor who can perfectly mimic famous voices or animals in a funny way. This practice helps them understand how "mimic" works in sentences and stories, giving their vocabulary skills a powerful boost! 

2) Assess It  (written & discussed)
Example Assessment Questions - "mimic"
Fill in the blank/ finish this sentence: Mimicking others could be helpful if you wanted to learn how to...

Select the best choice:  Which of the following would be most likely to mimic your actions?  a) a dog  b) a dinosaur c) a child

Is the word used correctly in this sentence?  Yes / No  - The parrot mimicked the people who passed by.

Write to explain:  What would happen if you mimicked your substitute teacher?

___________
Materials for each class:  
HIGHLY RECOMMEND: Print the weekly handouts as they will provide a multi-sensory approach that complements verbal instruction, ultimately enhancing your child's vocabulary growth.

**Students may participate WITH or WITHOUT printed materials
1) printed handouts - sent at the beginning of each week, 
2) pencil
3) highlighters 
4) folder or binder to organize weekly handouts 

** BENEFITS Printed Materials
Multiple Reviews: Printed materials allow for repeated practice, enabling students to revisit and solidify their grasp of the vocabulary.

Tangible Reference: Having printed activities serves as a tangible reference point that aids retention and application.

Engaging DURING CLASS: Printed materials can be interactive and engaging, with opportunities for coloring, highlighting, and personalization, making learning enjoyable.


-----
"Academic vocabulary" pertains to words that aren't used every day and are not commonly used in casual conversation.  (See list below)

New Class begins FEBRUARY 2024 (one - two words per week, depending upon the needs of students enrolled)
✔ abandon
✔ beneficial
✔ chronological
✔ liberate
✔ diminish
✔ majority
✔ vacate
✔ cope
✔ mimic
✔ elaborate
✔ abundant
✔ minute
✔ immense
✔ knack
✔ loathe
✔ terminate
✔ vital
✔ unanimous
✔ plummet
✔ awe
✔ apparel
✔ generate
✔ remorse
✔ superior
✔ deplete
✔ diligent
✔ copious
✔ reluctant
✔ adhere
✔ precise
✔ transform
✔ equivalent
✔ predicament
✔ subsequent
✔ excel
✔ adjacent
✔ manipulate
✔ lofty
✔ declare

The Common Core State Standards call them 'general academic words,' and sometimes people call them 'rich vocabulary.'  (That's because they make our conversations and reading more exciting.)

----- Why is it important to focus on these words? -----
Academic vocabulary refers to the specialized words and phrases that are commonly used in educational settings, textbooks, and academic discussions. These words go beyond everyday language and are often specific to certain subjects or fields of study. They play a crucial role in helping students grasp complex ideas, understand academic content, and effectively communicate their thoughts and knowledge.

When students are familiar with academic vocabulary, they can better comprehend their readings, participate in classroom discussions, and express themselves clearly in written assignments. Building a strong foundation in academic vocabulary equips students with the tools they need to excel in various subjects and succeed throughout their academic journey.