Synonyms are powerful vocabulary builders. The strategies developed through utilization of these Synonym Match sets pave the way for synonym substitution, a valuable writing strategy. Several critical skills are utilized as students work with Synonyms Match manipulatives. First students match the 14 synonym pairs. Reference skills are developed as they use the thesaurus to look up unfamiliar words. Then students complete the cloze activity that measures vocabulary mastery as it familiarizes students with this common testing format. They must substitute the synonyms that match word choices in the box, practicing synonym substitution.

The synonym pairs in each level have been carefully selected according to criteria such as frequency of use, difficulty level, functionality, and conceptual load. These multilevel sets break down artificial grade-level barriers. Third graders and high school students may work in the same level without stigma attached.

The CCSS for ELA emphasize vocabulary development throughout the school day and in all subjects. Despite the fact that most vocabulary is acquired indirectly, research suggests that vocabulary can be improved with explicit instruction. Reading Manipulatives vocabulary products build word knowledge with intuitive, holistic manipulatives that include cloze sentences to assure that students use words properly in context. For teachers who do not wish to prepare manipulatives or consider manipulatives unworkable in their classroom structure, the pages in this product could be used as task cards or worksheets.

Contents: 20 sets containing 14 pairs of synonyms to be matched and a task card with 10 cloze sentences in which the students practice synonym substitution; answer keys; 15-page synonym/antonym resource lists containing nearly 500 words coded by difficulty level

Common Core ELA Standards: L.4.5c, L.5.5c