Vocabulary Squares from Tools for Thought by Jim Burke

This graphic organizer provides six squares for students to enter information about a word, allowing them to “incorporate language study (etymology and parts of speech); vocabulary expansion (through synonyms, antonyms, and different conjugations); application (through use in an original sentence); and visual representation.”

The focus of this tool is helping students to learn word meanings in context (very effective according to research) rather than memorizing lists of words (very ineffective according to research).

Directions: Please base your sentences on your current reading assignment unless otherwise directed.

Etymology and Part(s) of Speech Variations, Synonyms, Antonyms

Symbol/Logo/Icon Definition(s)

Sentence

Example:

Etymology and Part(s) of Speech Variations, Synonyms, Antonyms Adjective Invincible, unbeatable, Late unconquerable, Latin”indomitabilis” undefeatable from Latin “in”+”domitave” to tame indomitable Symbol/Logo/Icon Definition(s) Incapable of being subdued, unconqueraable

Sentence Zeus is an indomitable god.

Jim Burke is a language arts teacher so his examples are all literature based; however, he has some great “thinking tools” that could be adapted to any content area. Find out more at his website: http://www.englishcompanion.com/.