Have students select ten survival words, that is words that would be necessary to discuss the topic. Survival words enhance comprehension and teach students vocabulary relevant to a topic.
- The form is then filled out by writing down the word;
- Copy the complete sentence in the text in which the survival word is used. (This teaches students the specific context in which the word is used which would determine meaning of the word.)
- Write the definition of the word in context.
- Write a sentence using the survival word in the same context and part of speech
- The Dictionary form refers to what is the form you would find a word in the dictionary. (e.g. Horses; dictionary form would be horse)
The survival words are generally selected by having eliciting words from entire class, and then the class votes for their top ten.
Thanks for sharing Francesca. This is a great resource and really helps them think about context and how important it is for determining part of speech and definition of the word.