I've been using character trait cards to help my students build their vocabulary. Instead of using "dead words," they are focusing on that juicy vocabulary when describing their characters.
I gave them a pack of trait cards and had them discuss as a group which descriptions would align with the characters in their small group novels. They also had to justify to me why they'd use those specific character traits.
From there, they added the words to their individual character maps:
Then combined their thinking on their group chart:
Due to space, I've been sending them into the hallway to work. I've got the door propped open and I can see them at all times, so that's not a safety concern. That way they can talk in a whisper (or as much of a whisper as excited ten year-olds can manage) and not disrupt those students who are silently reading.
(Silently reading and going back to the text for evidence? Score!)
I had another teacher listen in on them while she was observing a classroom and I loved her positive feedback. Not only was my Harry Potter group on task the entire time (which is a feat within itself!) but they were using those descriptive words to compliment one another.
She specifically remembered: " (Student's name), you are just as smart as Hermione!"
So cute.
I'm proud of them for really trying to be kind to one another, even when they don't think any teacher is watching. Well done fifth graders!
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