Challenge Grant Learning Interchange (Unit)

It's Greek to Me!

Developed by Kathleen Ameen, Vonda Humphrey, Marge McWhorter

English/Language ArtsLiterature

It's Greek to Me!

After having the opportunity to explore the meaning of a paragraph written in Greek or Latin-based language, students will be introduced to the meaning of Greek and Latin Root words.

Nevada Objective(s):
2.4 - Focus Objective - The student will apply the meaning of Greek and
Latin derived roots and affixes to determine the meaning of words
encountered.

Subjects: English/Language Arts, Literature
Learning Level: Middle School
Author(s): Kathleen Ameen, Vonda Humphrey, Marge McWhorter
Submitted by: George Breaz

This lesson will begin in the classroom with students brainstorming and
formulating questions. Time: 4 - 5 days including extension activities. The
introduction activity is one class period.

1. Transparency with Greek/French/Italian paragraph on overhead. The
overhead is turned off.

2. Teacher asks for a volunteer.

3. After a volunteer is selected, lights go out, overhead is turned on and a
student is asked to read what is on the overhead.

4. The volunteer (and class) is stumped. The student will say something like, "I can't read it!!" The teacher will ask, "Why?" Discussion begins about why this can't be read.

5. Students are instructed to listen carefully to see if they can identify and predict words or the subject of the paragraph. The teacher reads orally the paragraph. The paragraph may be read more than once.

6. The teacher asks what words sound familiar. Students respond with their predictions.

7. The teacher instructs students to listen again. The teacher reads it. After reading she tells them that they now will receive a clue - transparency of the "family" is placed on the overhead. Teacher asks, "What are we talking about now?" Discussion continues.

8. The teacher translates the paragraph (either done orally or with a second transparency placed on top of the original.)

9. The teacher can now carry on with a variety of extension activities.

1. Demonstrate knowledge and usage of various Greek and Latin root words by writing about their family or friends.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of etymology through dictionary use.
3. Completed 16 finger vocabulary booklets or "Magic Weave" booklets of Greek and Latin roots and their definitions.
4. Listening skills
5. Sharing

Grouping / Interaction(s):

1. Direct instruction by the teacher to whole class
Extension activities
2. Small group for brainstorming
3. Individual work
4. Small group work
5. Large group sharing written paragraphs