Activity Overview
As students read, they'll come across unfamiliar vocabulary. A great way to engage students with those new vocabulary words is to have them create storyboards that use vocabulary from "The Tell-Tale Heart." In the vocabulary board, students can choose between coming up with their use of the vocabulary word, finding the specific example from the text, or depicting the definition without words.
Vocabulary Words from “The Tell-Tale Heart”
- vex
- dissimulation
- hypocritical
- conceive
- sufficient
- profound
- stifled
- envelop
- refrain
- gradual
- sagacity
- suavity
- gesticulation
- wary
- vehement
- derision
- mockery
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Demonstrate your understanding of the vocabulary words in "The Tell-Tale Heart" by creating visualizations.
- Choose three vocabulary words from the story and type them in the title boxes.
- Find the definition in a print or online dictionary.
- Write a sentence that uses the vocabulary word.
- Illustrate the meaning of the word in the cell using a combination of scenes, characters, and items.
- Alternatively, use Photos for Class to show the meaning of the words with the search bar.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Word 1 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 1 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
| Word 2 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 2 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
| Word 3 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 3 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
How To Make Effective Use of Dictionary To Learn New Vocabulary
Describe the Categories and Types of Dictionaries
Introduce students to various dictionary types, such as general print dictionaries, internet dictionaries, and specialty dictionaries (such as bilingual dictionaries and thesauruses). Many dictionaries available online have audio options that can help students practice pronunciation as well. Students can research and select a dictionary they like the most.
Introduce an Order
Give students an order or a sequence in which they will be using the dictionary. Such as in Week One they will be focusing on three different alphabets. Teachers can also introduce effective ways to retain this information and get the most out of it.
Give Related Assignments
Give students exercises or activities that call for the use of a dictionary. This might involve doing research on a word's definition, seeking synonyms, or utilizing it in a phrase. Students can use dictionaries for the assignment of any subject, not just English. Cooperate with teachers of other subjects to integrate this in their assignments.
Encourage Independent Learning
Encourage the students to look up a word's definition in a dictionary after failing to grasp it in context. This improves their capacity for problem-solving. Provide some free time in class for an independent dictionary study. Students can use this time to familiarize themselves with new words and meanings with the guidance of teachers.
Frequently Asked Questions About "The Tell-Tale Heart" Vocabulary
What did the author intend to convey through the title “Tell-Tale Heart”?
The title alludes to the narrator's claim that they can still hear the elderly man's heartbeat long after he has passed away. This represents the narrator's remorse and paranoia in physical form. Students can conduct their own research and come up with different reasons as to why the story is named this way. For instance, the old man’s heart beating loudly at the end was an illusion that made the narrator confess his crimes and tell his tale.
What role does the term "vulture" have in the narrative?
The elderly man's eye is symbolically referred to as a "vulture". It suggests that a predatory eye is monitoring and evaluating the storyteller. Additionally, it implies that the narrator's pain and terror are brought on by the sight. The use of such vocabulary by the narrator helps the readers understand his point of view and the reasons behind his madness which can not be justified.
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