
Vocabulary instruction should be something that is explicitly taught in the classroom each and every day. However, it can be hard to find activities and routines to make this possible.

Synonym & Antonym Sorts
When it comes to sorts, there are multiple options. In small groups, I like to pass out word cards, much like passing out cards during a game. Taking turns, we can read the words and determine if the two words are synonyms or antonyms.
In my opinion, the most important part of this is to ensure that your students truly have a good understanding of the words. For example, in the background of this picture, there are the synonyms strong and powerful. Many students might have heard or used the word strong, but have they used powerful? Have they heard that? Do they understand that these words have similar meanings? The discussion is the critical part.

You can also do this as a whole group with a worksheet or as independent work once you feel your students are ready to try completing an activity like this on their own.

Word Webs
We often use webs in writing, but we can also use them with our words. My students have a vocabulary notebook, and we study a word each day. The beauty of this is that your students can write synonyms, examples, or things that come to mind when they hear the word. There are no rules, just have the discussion to deepen your students’ understanding of the word or words.
In some cases, I fill out my word web completely in my notebook and ask students to write a specific number.

Memory or Matching Game
In small groups, I love to use word cards to play Memory. It’s a classic and easy for students to understand in regards to rules. The best part is that you can choose how few or how many words you’d like to include. You can practice both synonyms and antonyms in this way.

Frayer Model
If you have done any amount of studying researched based vocabulary strategies, then you have seen the Frayer Model. It is often utilized to students get familiar with words and begin the discussion. You can have students write a sentence or draw a picture. In both situations, I love to see the examples that my students develop as they get to know their vocabulary words.

Sentences & Word Banks
Whether completed in small groups or independently, your students can begin seeing those words in sentences and practicing using them in context.
Science of Reading Toolbox