Think-Pair-Show

Set-up: Each vocabulary word is printed on the front of a separate card (Word Cards). Each word meaning is printed on the front of a separate card (Meaning Cards). Distribute cards so each student receives one card.

Steps:

1.With a card in hand, students stand up, put a hand up, and search for a partner with a matching word or meaning card. Once students find a match, they lower their hands.

2.Once all hands are down, the teacher has each pair share their word and meaning to verify the match is correct.

3.Then, partners with matching cards are given time to plan how to teach the class the new vocabulary word. Pairs may teach the word by making an illustration, using props, or acting it out. The only rule is they may not use the word itself.

4. Each pair gets a turn to present their word to the class. After their presentation, the class guesses the word. The partners confirm that the class is correct.

5. The class congratulates the partners.

Tips:

• For an odd number of students, the teacher may pair up with a student or one meaning or word card may be duplicated, resulting in a threesome. • Allow for more time if there are many ESL students in the class. • If there are more students than half the vocabulary words, the words may be printed more than once to accommodate all the members of the class. • This structure may be used as an introduction to a lesson/chapter/unit or as a review.

Sample Social Studies Vocabulary Words:

• isthmus

• sinkholes

• conquistadores

• haciendas

• plazas

• cash crops

• maquiladoras