Match Opposite Words with a Memory Game

Students will take turns flipping over two-coloured cards to try to find pairs of antonyms that match.

For example, if a player were to flip over the “hot” antonym card from one deck, he or she would need to read it aloud, then flip a card from the other deck to try to find its match. Gameplay continues in this manner until all of the cards are gone. 

Scaffold + Extend Your Antonym Games

Support students who need help understanding the concepts by providing visuals like an antonym anchor chart or an antonyms poster. Students can also practise using their dictionary skills by looking up words they do not know. 

Challenge fast finishers who understand the concepts to use each set of antonyms in a sentence. 

More Ways to Find Sets of Antonyms

We created this resource for your reading centre as an independent practice activity. We also suggest using it to reinforce your small group and full-class lessons in the following ways: 

🧠 Antonyms Brain Buster

As a small group or whole class, say each word aloud, one at a time, and discuss the definition. Then, give the students 30 seconds (you keep time) to think of as many antonyms for that word as they can. When the time is up, you can call on students to give you some examples of their words or compare their answers with a peer to see if there are any matching words among classmates.

🃏 Upcycle Into Other Games

When students no longer want to play this game, turn this game into another by simply changing the rules. Students can play games like War, Go Fish, or Snap, to name a few.

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Print on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

Before You Download

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. 

This resource was created by Lauren Blankenship, a Teach Starter Collaborator.