More Vocabulary Games

This is the second edition of vocabulary games that I have used in my classroom that are student loved. For the first group of games, check out this post.

Just as with the first few games we use the box of word cards with these games that have an index card with each word that also has a definition, the word used in context, synonyms, and antonyms written on the back. Some games these cards are necessary for, and other they aren't, but some of my students use them even when they don't need to so I always leave them there.

Win, Lose, or Draw

This game can be played with two or more players. The first player draws a card from the box and secretly read the information. Then they have thirty seconds (you can of course adjust this time) to draw a picture that should describe the word without using any words. Then the other players try to guess their word based on the drawing. If they are able to guess the word they get a point. 

Play continues with players switching roles. 

Management tip: This game probably took the most modeling out of every game that they played. Whenever drawing is involved kids, and adults, can get their feelings hurt that their drawings are not understood. The noise level while guessing can also be an issue if not explicitly discussed and adhered to. 

Guess My Word

Guess My Word is a great game for two or more players, all the way up to the whole class. This one is exactly how it sounds. The first player draws a card and describes the word using the definition, synonyms, antonyms and anything else they've got until one of the other players is able to guess their word. 

Play continues with players switching roles. 

Spell It

Again, two or more players... are you sensing a pattern. I use this game particularly when we are studying prefixes, suffixes, and root words. Each of the players has a whiteboard, marker, and eraser. One player draws a card and reads the word and definition to the others. Then, you guessed it, the rest of the players spell the word. 

For a variation on the game you can play it "Sparkle Style" where each student only offers one letter and they spell it together ending with jazz hands and the word Sparkle. Some years my students love this, and others it falls flat on its face. 

Vocabulary Basket Toss

Two or more players, you get the drill. This one requires a few extra materials. I have seen teammates bring in a small basketball hoop and ball, I on the other hand opt for a small basket and a wadded up piece of paper. You know, use what you've got right?

The first student pulls a card and reads the definition. The next player tries to identify the word from the word wall. If they identify it correctly then they may choose to keep one point, or shoot the paper into the basket for two. If they miss or get the word incorrect they get no points. 

Play continues and roles switch. Player with the most points in the end wins. 

Management Tip: Movement and noise level are a big one for this game. I like to place a piece of tape on the ground where the student must stand to shoot their paper into the basket, because otherwise there is ALWAYS a heated discussion on someone cheating by getting too close. We also discuss silent cheering and proper voice level, but it can quickly get out of hand if allowed.