Describe a Word

Choose a student to describe a word.  The others guess.  That’s it! This is an extremely simple game that has engaged my groups of kids every time we play it!

Common Core State Standards

NOTE:  This lesson can address the following Common Core Standards: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.K.4, SL.1.4, SL.2.4, SL.3.4, SL.4.4 and SL.5.4.

One student stands at the front of the group to describe a word.

A student stands to describe words

He/she describes something that coincides with the topic discussed (a place, a person, movie, brand name etc.)

The student has to say at least 3 sentences about the word before volunteers can guess what the word is.

The student chooses another student who is seated, quiet and has his/her hand up to guess.  The picture below best captures how fun this game can be!  Clearly, some of the kids aren’t seated but they’re sure having a great time!!  Still, in order to maintain healthy order, the student describing can only choose a child who is seated.  Usually, all it takes is an amused smile to remind the kids to sit.

After students describe words the others race to guess

Whichever student guesses correctly, takes the next turn.  Continue play until everyone has had a turn or the allotted time runs out!

Print the Instructions

Here are the game instructions for you to print out and use.

Writing Prompts

We’ve played this game after the following writing prompts:

The State Fair-descriptive event

Bumper cars describe words at the fair

Calendar Page-Descriptive Scene

Describe words you see in a scene

Packing-a list poem

Lions-A Persuasive Speech (describing brand names)

St. Patrick’s Day Green Attack-Reaction Letter