Our Dearly Departed Vocab

Ms. Varners Language Arts Class Alas, it is with a heavy heart that I must inform you, students, that some of our beloved vocab words have passed on. so much to each of you! Because these words made such an impact on your life, it is only right that you be the ones to write obituaries for them. Choose your favorite vocabulary word that we have gone over for the chapters we have read (Chapters 1-8), and write an obituary that describes the word. You must include: A city for the obituary, and a newspaper name In the newspaper name, include the page number of the novel on which the word is found What type of word it is (adjective, adverb, noun) How the word died, or in what circumstances Provide a synonym or antonym When and where the memorial service will be held Here is an example: London, England (London Weekly, pg 11) - Imbecile, an incredibly dull noun, died this past Sunday. While attempting to cross the city street on his way to work, he looked the wrong way and stepped out into the street, only to immediately be hit by a car. Imbecile, though inherently British, apparently forgot that he was in England. When his friends and family were told of the news, no one seemed surprised. It would appear that Imbecile has had many near-death experiences due to his lack of intelligence, and everyone figured it was only a matter of time. When asked to comment, his brother Genius, replied, I dont know why he was on his way to work in the first place, it was a Sunday. I know they meant

The memorial service will be held on Saturday at Imbeciles church, with the family providing everyone clear instructions on how to get there, so that there not be a repeat of Imbeciles accident.

Learning Targets for this activity: I can create an obituary for my favorite vocab word I can apply my knowledge of the vocabulary word by describing its life and how it died as it relates to the meaning of the word This is due at the beginning of class tomorrow!

Rubric
5 Points Obituary accurately describes the vocabulary word chosen. It is clever, creative, and interesting. It provides the meaning of the word through its narrative. A synonym or antonym is included. There are no spelling or grammar errors. 3 Points Obituary describes the word, but is lacking in creativity. The narrative could contain better illustrations of the death or life of the word. A synonym or antonym is included. There are no more than two spelling or grammar errors. 1 Point Obituary does not accurately describe the vocab word chosen. It is lacking in creativity and substance. There is no synonym or antonym included. There are more than two spelling or grammar errors.

Rationale

I really like this obituary idea for a vocabulary word. It allows the students to choose the one they like the most and really explore it. It brings out their creative side and encourages the students to be humorous in their writing. This assignment is great for high school students, but I think would be beyond middle school students.