Week 8

What are some ways you can teach the vocabulary presented within science and social studies?

First of all, I would pre-teach the vocabulary to the students.  I think flashcards could also be a good way to teach vocabulary—to make it easier, you could make two copies of the cards and have the student match the definition to the name.  To make it a little more difficult, provide the definition for the student and have him/her tell me the name (no visual cues).  To make it most difficult, provide the name and have the student tell me the definition.

When appropriate, I could have the student make a visual representation of the vocabulary.  For example, if names of plant parts are vocabulary, let the student create a diagram and label it with the vocabulary words.  Another possibility is making graphic organizers.  For example, if several of the vocabulary words have the same, or similar meanings, group them together.

Games, such as Jeopardy, could also be a fun way to impress the vocabulary learning.

How can you prepare to teach both of these subject areas?

I would review all of the student’s material before (s)he does.  I would also look up information for more knowledge, if I don’t feel comfortable with only the school provided info.  Research articles are an option for this, as well as websites like www.pbs.com and www.khanacademy.org.