A Word Splash is a graphic organizer that helps students activate prior knowledge, make connections between words, and generate predictions about a new topic. This versatile activity can be used to introduce new vocabulary, assess student understanding, or review key concepts.

Materials:

• Whiteboard or chart paper
• Markers or crayons
• Index cards or sticky notes (optional)
• Word list (5-10 words)

Procedure:

1. Introduction (5 minutes):
   • Introduce the Word Splash activity to students. Explain that they will be working together to connect words and make predictions about a new topic.
2. Display the Word List (2 minutes):
   • Write the list of words on the whiteboard or chart paper. Ensure the words are clearly visible to all students.
3. Connect the Words (15 minutes):
   • Divide students into groups of 3-4. Provide each group with markers or crayons.
   • Instruct students to work together to connect the words on the list. They can draw lines between words, write notes on the lines, or use symbols to show relationships.
   • Encourage students to discuss their ideas and share their prior knowledge about the words.
4. Generate Predictions (10 minutes):
   • Ask each group to share their predictions about what they might learn based on the words they connected.
   • Write down these predictions on the whiteboard or chart paper.
5. Discussion and Review (15 minutes):
   • Lead a whole-group discussion about the Word Splash. Encourage students to share their ideas and make connections between the words.
   • Review the predictions that were generated and discuss whether they were accurate.

Differentiation:

• Grouping: Form groups based on prior knowledge, learning styles, or interests. Assign different levels of complexity or depth to each group’s Word Splash vocabulary.
• Multiple Intelligences: Offer diverse ways to engage with the words. Allow students to draw, write poems, act out, or create musical pieces inspired by the vocabulary.
• Open-Ended Prompts: Instead of specific questions, provide broad prompts that encourage individual interpretation and connection to prior knowledge. Example: “How do these words relate to your own life experiences?”
• Tiered Vocabulary: Provide multiple levels of vocabulary within the Splash. Some students can focus on core terms, while others can challenge themselves with more advanced synonyms or related concepts.

Technology Integration:

• Interactive Whiteboard: Display the Word Splash on a whiteboard and annotate collaboratively. Students can highlight connections, add definitions, or draw visual representations.
• Online Word Clouds: Generate a dynamic Word Cloud with the vocabulary. Students can adjust the size and color of each word based on their importance or understanding.
• Audio Recordings: Students can record themselves explaining definitions, creating stories, or using the vocabulary in different contexts.