Vocabulary Stories

An old technique to get learners to better understand and remember their vocabulary is to write sentences with their new words. One potential problem with this is one sentence may not be enough context for the word to stick or for learners to practice the word. In this activity, learners use a variety of the vocabulary they have been introduced to in order to create a story.

Preparation

Compile the vocabulary in lessons over time. Organize the words into their parts of speech (noun, adjective, adverb, verb) in envelopes; one word per slip of paper. Add envelopes for setting, mood, or even characteristics/moral. For easier sorting to put back, assign a different color to each category of word.

Procedure

1. Put students in pairs or small groups. 2. Distribute one word per envelope to each group. 3. The pairs or groups work together to draft a story. 4. Groups can share their stories by swapping, by regrouping to tell the stories to another group, or by telling the stories in front of the class.

Variation

Students write the story, but leave blanks where their vocabulary words go. The class guesses which words go in which blanks based on vocabulary words they have studied.

When to Use It

• To review vocabulary in a contextual manner • To have students collaborate on a product • To have students use language freely and creatively

Level

Skills

Practice

Materials

Pre-identified vocabulary words, envelopes, and slips of paper

Preparation Time

20 minutes

Activity Time

20–30 minutes