4+Square+Vocabulary

__ **4 Square Vocabulary** __ __ **By Amanda Doeppel** __

__ **What it is?** __
 * 4 Square vocabulary is when a card is divided into 4 different squares and each square contains one of the following things: the word, the picture, a defintion, and a sentence either from the book or a made up one.

__** Why we use it? **__
 * This strategy is used to help students remember vocabulary words. Using four-square vocabulary is effective because it appeals to many different learning styles. Some students are visual learners and will learn the understanding of the word if they draw a picture of what it represents. It is also important to note that it doesn't have to be a literal picture of the word; it can be something that reminds the student of this word. Some students learn better by seeing the word used in context so they are able to write a sentence of their own or write one down they find in a book or textbook. Some other students learn best by writing and seeing the defintion so that helps them the learn the word best. This is an important tool for helping students to have a more extensive vocabulary because it shows students the word and then 3 different ways that help explain the meaning of the word.

__** When to use it? **__
 * Vocabulary cards are mostly used during spelling or vocabulary lessons, but can be used during any subject. They are the equivalent of using sight word cards that are often used in younger grades. These cards are desgined for the important vocabulary words that students should know/learn at their grade level. However, these cards can be used in other subjects as well. If you are teaching a math or reading lesson and even after explanation of the word, most students do not understand the meaning of it then a 4 square card can be made. You may also tell your students they they may make a 4 square card at any point during the day if they do not understand or struggle with a particular word. These cards are suppose to be made as refrence tools for students and all students are not going to struggle on the same words.

__** How to use it? **__
 * We use 4 square vocabulary by taking a piece of paper or notecard and dividing it into 4 different squares. The card will contain the following four things: the word, the picture, a defintion, and a sentence either from the book or a made up one. First students will write the word in the top left square (however if students want to write the word in another sqaure that is fine as well). Then, students will draw a picture of the word whether it is a literal picture or a representational picture. Students will then use a dictionary to look up the definition of the word. Lastly, they will write a defintion in the last sqaure. This defintion can be from the dictionary, a textbook, or a made up one but must be one in which the context of the word is easily interpreted. These cards can be kept in a notecard box or bag and used whenever needed or if the students need to find words or forget the meaning of a word. They should always be accessbile and are very student friendly.

 that represents running || -means of terrestrial locomotion allowing humans and  other animals to move rapidly on foot || Sentence: I went running on the beach with my  dad last weekend. ||
 * Running || Picture of man running or something
 * Definition:

[|SDAIE: Vocabulary Flashcards]