Teacher Discussion Forums

I'm compiling crossword puzzles that introduce TOEFL vocabulary to students who are preparing for the TOEFL. I'd like any good advice you might have to offer about the idea. Here's what I have developed so far:

1) The student begins by trying to fill in the crossword that has only 15 clues and responses in it. He/she may only be able to put a couple words in at this point.

2) Introduce the 15 words and their definitions, and then the student returns and tries to complete as many as he/she can without looking at the words or their meanings.

3) Review the word list again (without the definitions) and try to finish the puzzle.

4) Review the definitions and finish the puzzle.

This four-step process works well to get them thinking and trying the hardest words. When they finally get the hardest words, they tend to stick in their memory, after all that work.

Anybody use crossword puzzles in a similar fashion, to introduce specific vocabulary words in groups? Please share your best tips. Thanks.

Hi Mark,

Because vocab crosswords are generally so well-received by language learners, and because there are so many ways to adapt them, I've included them in a section of their own on my site: http://esltopics.com/site/interactive-crosswords

If your learners are up for a bit of fun, one way to put a 'twist' on 'Step 2' is to write the words and definitions on individual slips of papers and tape one word/definition on each learner's back. The result is a winding 'snake' of students all lined up and reading from their classmates' backs - it's quite a laugh!

For 'more serious' learners, try taping the words/definitions around the walls of the classroom. This will at least get them up and moving around the class and get the blood circulating.

Robert