FUN WITH WORDS

Our ‘Fun with Words’ freebie will challenge students and help them learn to think critically and use words complexly. Some of the word puzzles can be a bit tricky, so it could also be a great opportunity for students to work together to find the answers. The variety of content used in the word games provides an excellent jumping off point for all kinds of cross curricula activities. Spoilers for some of the answers ahead!

1. In the Letters and Numbers activity, some of the answers are units of time which would be an excellent lead in to all kinds of lessons on units of measurement. It could also begin a lesson about other units of time, how they are used and how they came to be? Learning about the development of different calendars, and why we have leap years would allow you to bring more history and science into the mix as well.
2. One of the other answers in the same section refers to the signs of the zodiac. Different countries have different beliefs about the zodiac and learning about them would be an interesting cultural lesson. The constellations that the Western Zodiac is based on would also link to a fun lesson on space and the history of how they got their names.
3. The Seven Wonders of the World provide an endless variety of lessons and research opportunities for students. Lessons on history, geography, and conservation sprout easily from the topic. The original lists were used as tour guides so why not have your students choose a Wonder and write up a travel brochure. There is no definitive list for the Seven Wonders of the World, and there have been many versions over the centuries. Have your students create their own list using the UNESCO World Heritage List.
4. Chess may be a game, but it is also an excellent opportunity for students to develop critical thinking skills. It is a perfect example of a way to learn and have fun at the same time.
5. The activity on Groups of Animals is a fun introduction to lessons on animals and their habitats. The variety of animals in the activity provides a good spectrum for a lesson on the different categories of animal (bird, mammal, reptile etc.), and the different habitats that animals need to survive. Environmental issues and discussions of endangered species could also be easily woven in to a lesson on animals.