English // Vocabulary

Defining Words

Define words by category and by one or more key attributes (e.g., 'a duck is a bird that swims'), making real-life connections between words and their use

Ages
6 to 9
Type
Concept
Builds on
2 topics
Leads to
2 topics
Standards
6 codes

Quick check

Can the learner explain what a word means by saying what type of thing it is and what makes it special — for example, "a penguin is a bird that can't fly but is great at swimming"?

Ask this to see whether the topic is secure.

Topic // Mastery

What mastery looks like

What a learner can do once this topic is secure.
  • Define 'tiger' as 'a large cat with stripes' — naming category and key attribute
  • Connect the word 'cozy' to real-life examples: places at home that feel cozy
  • Sort words into categories and explain why each word belongs

Topic // Map

Where this fits

What to learn first and what this topic opens up, with the reason for each link. Required links come first.
  • RequiredMust come first
  • HelpfulHelps, but not essential

Before this

2 topics

You are here

Defining Words

Ages 6 to 9 // Concept

Leads to

2 topics
  • Expanded noun phrasesHelpful

    Grammar & Punctuation // Ages 6 to 7

    Defining words by attributes supports choosing descriptive adjectives for noun phrases

  • Domain Vocabulary Across Subject AreasHelpful

    Vocabulary // Ages 9 to 11

    Defining academic words requires the ability to define words by category and attribute

Topic // Standards

Curriculum standards

Codes for the curriculum statements this topic maps to. Each publisher owns its standard text.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects
L.1.5aL.1.5bL.1.5cL.3.4d
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document
Eng/KS1/Y2/C/1fEng_LKS2_Read_Comp_3

English // Vocabulary

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