Vocabulary Ideas for Guided Math Lessons
Vocabulary Blast
Several studies have shown that vocabulary is a big part of all math tests. Students don’t know the words and so they can’t solve the problems because they don’t know what they are being asked to do. So, a very focused, concentrated effort on building and using mathematical vocabulary is an essential part of any ongoing math program. Every Friday, I encourage teachers to play games to build vocabulary. Here is a list of vocabulary games: Jeopardy, Bingo, Charades, Crossword Puzzles, Word Find and Define. We use a mix of vocabulary from the current unit of study as well as vocabulary from past units.
Create great crosswords and wordfinds on www.puzzlemaker.com. Edhelper.com also has a way to create crossword puzzles. Crossword puzzles are great because students have to really think about the definition to get the word. Also, when I have them do word finds, they must define the words they find at the bottom of the page.
Bingo Cards: http://www.teach-nology.com/web_tools/materials/bingo/5/
Interactive Math Crossword Puzzles: http://www.mathgoodies.com/puzzles/
Dr. Nicki's Guided Math Blog 
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