Word Taxonomy

A word taxonomy is a literacy tool used in many public schools today. The taxonomy allows important terms to be collected and organized around specific subjects. The topic of the taxonomy in this class is child development. It has been found be a successful literacy tool for learning new vocabulary. Rather than memorizing terms for a test and quickly forgetting them, the taxonomy aims to assist students in integrating the new terms into their vocabulary.

Collect terminology pertinent to child development from the text and class sessions. The text uses bold print to introduce significant terms and then provides descriptions. You will create a personal taxonomy of the assigned bold font terms and/or whatever terms you choose to add from each assigned chapter, a text or other reference.

Students that put definitions in their own words and use visuals and/or colors and provide examples ensure that the tool is used correctly.

See Examples

Purchase a composition book. Divide the book into alphabetical sections, like your own dictionary.
Each week input the assigned key terms into the taxonomy alphabetically (All A’s together, All B’s together, etc…)

There will be TWO taxonomy checks throughout the quarter where students will need to email Patricia proof of work, a specific page will be identified the week of the check.

In addition, there will be a written reflection at the end of the quarter to self assess tools effectiveness.