Vocabulary Games for the Classroom, July/2010

Direct vocabulary instruction is fundamental to effective teaching in all subject areas. Unfortunately, learning vocabulary is not always easy or enjoyable for students. Make this important instruction something you and your students will enjoy with 13 vocabulary games designed for grades K–12. Marzano Research Laboratory has conducted roughly 60 studies that show academic games in the classroom have a positive impact on student achievement. While these games add energy and excitement to your class, they are also part of a systematic approach to direct vocabulary instruction.

Hundreds of handpicked vocabulary terms compiled from Dr. Marzano’s work with schools, districts, and states cover four different content areas and all grade levels. Use the lists in this book or supplement your school’s established terms. Each game and list is easily adaptable.

Vocabulary Games for the Classroom is simple, straightforward, and easy to use. Each game begins with a brief description that identifies the appropriate grade level and subject area, as well as whether or not the students should already be familiar with the vocabulary. Each chapter outlines necessary materials and set-up instructions to prepare teachers ahead of time. Teachers can visualize the game in their classrooms with the clear, concise directions. Many games include sample questions and exercises.

Benefits

1. Features instructions for 13 vocabulary games spanning grades K–12
2. Includes hundreds of key vocabulary terms and phrases in four subject areas—language arts, math, science, and social studies—compiled from Dr. Marzano’s work with schools, districts, and states
3. Emphasizes the importance of a strong vocabulary from early grades through high school and in all subject areas
4. Provides practical suggestions for incorporating vocabulary into all subject areas in fun ways

About the Authors:
Lindsay Carleton is a staff writer at Marzano Research Laboratory. She received a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Iowa Writers Workshop, where she was a fiction editor for the Iowa Review and a creative writing instructor.

Robert J. Marzano, PhD, is CEO of Marzano Research Laboratory. Robert Marzano focuses on translating research and theory into practical programs and tools K 12 teachers and administrators can put to use in their classrooms for immediate gains. During his forty years in education, Dr. Marzano has worked with educators in every U.S. state and a host of countries in Europe and Asia. He has authored more than 30 books, 150 articles and chapters, and 100 sets of curriculum materials. His work focuses on reading and writing, instruction, thinking skills, school effectiveness, restructuring, assessment, cognition, and standards implementation.