Buzz Words
What is it?
Choose at least five key words that directly relate to the reading or topic of discussion and write them on cards or in grid boxes on a sheet of paper. Have students discuss how the words connect/disconnect, what their significance is, and share evidence to support their ideas.
Take It to the Next Level
Have students map out their ideas on a sheet of paper, or using a digital tools, as they talk. You can also invite more movement by calling out “connect” or “disconnect” and having the students move to find a word that their own word can connect or disconnect with as the start to a new paired conversation.
What digital tools could you use for this strategy?
Use one of the tools below to allow students record their thoughts and ideas to share with the class!
Content Specific Ideas
This instructional strategy can be used with any grade level subject area to analyze an important concept or idea, review key vocabulary, and gauge student learning and misconceptions.
Math
Students could pull the "buzz words" out of a word problem and discuss what they mean and the effect they have on how to solve the problem. They could also review common math vocabulary related to the current standards.
ELA
"Buzz words" can be pulled out of any text and given to students to gauge their understanding of what they read.
Science
Students could be given related vocabulary words to analyze (producer, decomposer, consumer, ecosystem, etc).
Social Studies
Students could be given words related to a person or important event or both!