🍿 Grab the Popcorn – Guide Words Dictionary Skills Activity

This dictionary skills activity is designed to teach students how to effectively use guide words when using a dictionary. Guide words are the words that are found at the top of each page in a dictionary that indicate the first and last words on that page. Understanding how to use guide words can help your students to locate words quickly and efficiently in the dictionary. 

In this sorting activity, students need to look sort words on pieces of popcorn into the correct popcorn buckets based on each word’s guide words within a dictionary. 

Students will need access to a dictionary to work out where each of the words should be placed. 

Should Dictionary Skills Still be Taught?

Yes! Dictionary skills are still important for your students to learn. Despite the prevalence of digital devices and search engines, there are many situations where a physical dictionary may still be the best resource for finding information. Additionally, using a dictionary can help students to develop their vocabulary, spelling, and comprehension skills.

Learning to use guide words in a dictionary can be particularly useful for students who need to look up multiple words or who are working on a research project.

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This resource was created by Kendall Britnell, a teacher in Colorado and a Teach Starter collaborator.