Looking for an activity that builds a voluminous vocabulary… a large lingo… a substantial syntax? This one might just take the cake!

Through this activity, students will use their vocabulary skills to match similar words as they identify synonyms.

Players take turns pulling the top card from the deck and reading the word. Then, they move their game piece to the first space that contains a synonym of that word. If there are no more spaces with a synonym, the player loses their turn. Play continues until a player draws a card that matches the last space on the game board.

Scaffolding + Extension Tips 

• Support students who need help understanding the concepts by providing visuals (such as posters) with common words and their synonyms.
• Challenge fast finishers who understand the concepts to use the synonyms in a sentence (written or orally, depending on proficiency).

Use Our Synonyms Board Game in More Ways Than One

Here are some additional ways you might like to use this resource in your literacy lessons:

🖼️ Scoot Activity

Display all 18 word cards around the room. Working either alone or in pairs, assign a starting card to each student and have them write a synonym for their word on a sheet of paper numbered 1-18. When you say, “Scoot,” students will rotate through the cards until they have written a synonym for each one. Project the game board for reference if needed.

👋 Swat! 

During small group instruction, lay three cards on top of a table and give each student a fly swatter. Provide students with a synonym for one of the visible cards and have the students swat a similar card. The first student to swat the correct word sets the card aside in a pile to keep score. The student with the most cards wins.

🃏 Upcycle Into Playing Cards

Print a second set of word cards and use them to play games like Match It, Go Fish, or Snap, to name a few.

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

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

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

This resource was created by Lindsey Phillips, a Teach Starter collaborator.