Learning Objectives

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.3.5.A: Identify real-life connections between words and their use (synonyms).
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.3.5.B: Use sentence-level context as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.3.6: Acquire and use accurately grade-appropriate conversational, general academic, and domain-specific words and phrases, including those that signal spatial and temporal relationships.

I Can Statements:

• I can identify synonyms for words in a sentence.
• I can use synonyms to make my sentences more interesting.
• I can work with my classmates to improve sentences using synonyms.

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Success Criteria

• I can explain what a synonym is in my own words.
• I can find two synonyms for a common word.
• I can rewrite a simple sentence using a synonym without changing the meaning.
• I can help my peers improve their sentences by suggesting synonyms.

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Materials

• Whiteboard and markers
• Sentence strips or printed sentences for practice
• “Synonym Bank” word chart (age-appropriate common words with 2-3 synonyms each)
• Chart paper for “Synonym Detectives” activity
• Individual student notebooks or writing paper
• Crayons or colored pencils for extension activity

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Lesson Procedure (20 minutes)

I Do: Introduction & Modeling (5 minutes)

1. Explain and define synonyms:
   • Write the word happy on the board. Ask students what it means.
   • Introduce the term synonym: "A synonym is a word that means the same or almost the same as another word."
   • Provide examples: happy = joyful, cheerful, glad.
2. Model improving a sentence:
   • Display the sentence: “The dog is happy.”
   • Think aloud as you choose a synonym: “I can make this sentence more interesting by changing happy to joyful: ‘The dog is joyful.’”
3. Discuss how synonyms can make writing colorful and exciting.

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We Do: Guided Practice (7 minutes)

1. Synonym Detectives
   • Split students into pairs (or groups of three).
   • Give each pair a simple sentence (e.g., “The cat is big.”, “The cake is good.”).
   • Using the Synonym Bank chart, task students to find synonyms for the underlined word and rewrite the sentence together on chart paper.
2. Group Share:
   • Each pair reads their new sentence aloud.
   • Discuss why the new sentence helped the original sentence become more interesting or descriptive.

Differentiation:

• Provide ELL learners and students with IEPs with a simplified Synonym Bank and visual cues.
• For students needing extra support, provide word cards with pictures.

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You Do: Independent Practice (6 minutes)

1. Sentence Improvement Worksheet:
   • Each student receives a worksheet with 3 sentences (e.g., “The boy is sad.”, “The flower is pretty.”, “The food is cold.”).
   • Task: Pick at least one word in each sentence and replace it with a synonym from the Synonym Bank to improve the sentence.
2. Write and illustrate:
   • Encourage students to write their improved sentences neatly and draw a picture that matches the new sentence (building comprehension and engagement).

Extension Activity (Advanced Learners):

• Challenge advanced students to write their own original sentence and then rewrite it twice using different synonyms.
• Invite these students to share their sentences with the class and explain their word choices.

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Closing & Assessment (2 minutes)

• Briefly review: "What is a synonym?"
• Ask students to share one new synonym they learned today.
• Collect independent practice worksheets to assess understanding.
• Provide verbal feedback praising use of synonyms to make sentences better.

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Tips for Differentiation & Inclusion

• Use visual and tactile supports like synonym cards with pictures for struggling readers or ELLs.
• Pair students strategically to promote peer learning.
• Provide audio recordings of sentences for auditory learners.
• Encourage expressive drawing for students who may struggle with writing fluently.

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By following this structured, interactive plan, students will deepen their vocabulary skills through an engaging hands-on experience aligned with Common Core standards, setting a foundation for richer writing and confident word choice.