Is This English?

Sample Standard: Use reference aids such as glossary, dictionary, and available technology to investigate word origins, meanings and usage.

Grade Level: 7-8

Time: 20 minutes

Materials: paper, pencils, dictionaries (online or print), chart paper

Group size: Any. Students will be in pairs.

Purpose: To introduce word origins using dictionaries

Activity:

•   Show students a sample of a Spanish word that has become an English word. For example, “renegade” comes from “renegado,” which means deserter or outlaw.
•   Students will work in pairs to find the word origins of two or three of the words assigned to them from the list below. They may use either print or online dictionaries.
•   Each partnership will create a poster showing the English word, its origin from Spanish and its definition. The words may also be illustrated as time allows.
•   When the charts are finished, they are posted on the wall and presented to the class.

Word List:

Modification for ELL students:

Have these students share words from their native language that are now used in English.

This idea was submitted by Adrianne Roggenbuck, a former teacher, who is Director of Education for The Bob Pike Group.