SAT Vocabulary (3/28/2012)

By MaryLue Tekin, Special Education Teacher and Ginny Carangelo, Mental Health Worker
Pleasant Valley High School

             Learning SAT vocabulary is generally not a high school student’s first choice of topics that they would like to learn. In September, we developed a unique method to present SAT vocabulary. The method lead to learning, retention and some fun as well. On the Monday of each new unit, the students would view a short video that related to each of their SAT words (utilized internet sites were given credit).  These videos were humorous and attention-grabbing.  After viewing each video, we would stop to discuss the video, the SAT word’s definition and how they could use the word in their everyday lives. Throughout the week, the class would complete a variety of review activities such as out-of-the-seat matching activities, multiple choice worksheets, writing assignments, etc. When quiz time arrived, over 90% of the students would earn a 100% on their quizzes.

The students’ retention of the vocabulary was also evident through their use of the vocabulary in their daily lives. Some of their favorite words included prevaricate, effigy, peripatetic, and conflagration. However, to date, our favorite use of the vocabulary was when one of the students gave Mrs. Carangelo a pile of Tootsie Rolls and stated, “This is for you because you are a Glutton for Tootsie Rolls!” Our final assessment of our SAT vocabulary included the students making their own SAT videos. Our students’ videos were not only entertaining, but the process involved in creating an actual useable video helped them to develop their team-building skills as well.