Activity Overview
Starting a unit or lesson with the key vocabulary that students will see in their readings or presentations aids in overall comprehension and retention. In this activity, students will create a spider map that defines and illustrates key vocabulary related to the region of the Plateau and its First Nations.
Each cell will contain a term, its definition and an illustration that depicts the meaning. When students define and illustrate each term, they master the application of it and retain it as part of their lexicon.
Vocabulary
Names of some of the First Nations of the Plateau:
- Klamath
- Klickitat
- Walla Walla
- Nez Perce (Nimiipuu)
- Spokane
- Yakama
- Lillooet
- Shuswap
Additional vocabulary:
- Plateau
- Camas Root
- Plateau
- Tule Reed
- Tule Mat Lodge
- Tipi
- Woven-grass basket hat
- Digging Stick
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a spider map that defines and illustrates vocabulary words relating to this unit.
Student Instructions
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the key terms you have chosen.
- In the description boxes, write the definition of the term.
- Create an illustration for each term using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Requirements: Must have 3 terms, correct definitions, and appropriate illustrations for each that demonstrate your understanding of the words.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 7 Points | Emerging 4 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definitions | The vocabulary words are correctly defined. | The meaning of the vocabulary words can be understood but it is somewhat unclear. | The vocabulary word is not clearly defined |
| Illustrations | The storyboard illustrations clearly depict the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The illustrations relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words but it they are difficult to understand. | The illustrations do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
Activity Overview
Starting a unit or lesson with the key vocabulary that students will see in their readings or presentations aids in overall comprehension and retention. In this activity, students will create a spider map that defines and illustrates key vocabulary related to the region of the Plateau and its First Nations.
Each cell will contain a term, its definition and an illustration that depicts the meaning. When students define and illustrate each term, they master the application of it and retain it as part of their lexicon.
Vocabulary
Names of some of the First Nations of the Plateau:
- Klamath
- Klickitat
- Walla Walla
- Nez Perce (Nimiipuu)
- Spokane
- Yakama
- Lillooet
- Shuswap
Additional vocabulary:
- Plateau
- Camas Root
- Plateau
- Tule Reed
- Tule Mat Lodge
- Tipi
- Woven-grass basket hat
- Digging Stick
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a spider map that defines and illustrates vocabulary words relating to this unit.
Student Instructions
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify the key terms you have chosen.
- In the description boxes, write the definition of the term.
- Create an illustration for each term using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Save and exit when you're done.
Requirements: Must have 3 terms, correct definitions, and appropriate illustrations for each that demonstrate your understanding of the words.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 7 Points | Emerging 4 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definitions | The vocabulary words are correctly defined. | The meaning of the vocabulary words can be understood but it is somewhat unclear. | The vocabulary word is not clearly defined |
| Illustrations | The storyboard illustrations clearly depict the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The illustrations relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words but it they are difficult to understand. | The illustrations do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
How Tos about Indigenous Peoples of the Plateau Vocabulary
Organize a vocabulary word wall for Indigenous Plateau terms
Set up a dedicated space in your classroom for a word wall featuring key Indigenous Plateau vocabulary. This visual anchor helps students reference terms easily and reinforces their understanding throughout the unit.
Gather and prepare word cards with definitions and images
Create word cards for each Plateau vocabulary term, including clear definitions and simple illustrations. Laminate them for durability so students can handle and interact with them regularly.
Introduce and model new terms interactively
Discuss each word as you add it to the wall, inviting students to predict meanings and connect terms to prior knowledge. Model using the words in sentences about the Plateau region.
Engage students in word wall activities
Incorporate the word wall into daily routines, like vocabulary games, matching activities, or having students use the words in quick writes. This keeps terms relevant and promotes active usage.
Review and update the word wall throughout the unit
Regularly revisit the wall to add new terms, clarify meanings, and celebrate mastery. Encourage students to use the wall as a resource during discussions and assignments.
Frequently Asked Questions about Indigenous Peoples of the Plateau Vocabulary
What is a spider map in vocabulary activities?
A spider map is a graphic organizer where a central idea—like a vocabulary topic—is placed in the center, and related terms branch out with their definitions and illustrations. This helps students visually organize and retain new words.
How can I teach Indigenous Peoples of the Plateau vocabulary to 5th graders?
Use a visual vocabulary board activity, such as creating spider maps, where students define, illustrate, and discuss key terms related to the Indigenous Peoples of the Plateau. This approach boosts engagement and comprehension in 5th graders.
What are some key vocabulary words for the Plateau First Nations unit?
Important vocabulary includes Klamath, Klickitat, Nez Perce (Nimiipuu), Tule Mat Lodge, Camas Root, Tipi, and Woven-grass basket hat. These terms help students understand the culture and environment of the Plateau region.
Why is it important for students to define and illustrate vocabulary terms?
Having students define and illustrate vocabulary terms reinforces understanding by connecting meanings with visual cues, which improves retention and helps them apply new words in context.
What are best practices for creating visual vocabulary boards in social studies?
Best practices include selecting key terms, providing clear definitions, encouraging creative illustrations, and requiring students to explain their thinking. This supports both language development and content knowledge in social studies.
More Storyboard That Activities
Indigenous Peoples of the Plateau
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