Super Fun Vocabulary Game for 7th Grade

By the seventh grade, not only are vocabulary words becoming longer and more complex in the language arts classroom, but other subjects, such as science, history and math, are also introducing challenging terminology that students must be able to spell and understand. Assist students in avoiding word overload by devising entertaining games that teach and review the spelling, definition and usage of vocabulary words.

Word Chop Challenge

Engage seventh graders in closely examining letter placement in their vocabulary lists with the Word Chop Challenge. This simple game consists of chopping each word on the vocabulary list in half, then having the students put the pieces back together into the correct words. For an added challenge, require the students to then pair the reassembled words with their correct definitions, or use them with a fill-in-the-blank sentence completion worksheet. Turn this game into a group activity by creating flashcard sets printed with the word halves, making one set for every student in the class. Have small groups of students play rounds of “Go Fish” with the cards. The game ends when all the students have assembled all their vocabulary words.

Clever Crosswords and Silly Searches

Word games, such as crosswords and word searches, become extra fun when they’re given a personal touch. Educational software programs and online resources allow teachers and students to create puzzle games from their own words and clues. Rather than sticking with standard hints, engage the students with clues based on their classmates, or even on pop culture. For example, you might acknowledge a student’s perfect attendance as the hint for the vocabulary word “flawless,” or the outrageous outfit of a famous singer for the vocabulary word “gaudy.” Word searches can also provide silly clues instead of a word list to add a vocabulary memory test.

The Last Word

This vocabulary activity pits students against one another in a rapid-fire game that tests both spelling and comprehension. To play, one student stands before the class as the other students take turns verbally firing either word definitions or fill-in-the-blank sentences at them, one at a time. The student then has a limited time to think of the vocabulary word that fits, and must also correctly spell the word. That student continues answering until he provides an incorrect answer or time runs out, and then another student takes his place. The first student who correctly identifies and spells every word wins the game, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to end. The rounds can keep going, giving students multiple chances in front of the class, with ever shorter time frames in which to identify and spell all of the words.

Visual Vocabulary

Integrate art and literature into a vocabulary game that requires students to analyze and interpret the definitions of their vocabulary words. Provide each student with the same vocabulary list and a stack of unlined index cards. Ask the students to print one vocabulary word on the back of each index card. Then have the students draw a picture on the front of each card that represents the word on its back. If students lack talent or interest in art, allow them to create a visual collage representing the definitions out of images cut from magazines. Once the cards are completed, organize the students into round-robin flashcard games that encourage them to analyze and discuss their classmates’ art and word interpretations.

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