Shades of Meaning

2nd and 3rd graders are learning to discuss, debate, and order a list of some fantastic vocabulary words.  In small groups, kids take turns sharing the meaning of a word and placing it where they think it belongs on the "spectrum" of meaning. They have to justify their placement and agree to listen to others ideas.  At that point, they might change their thinking or not. Everyone gets heard and we agree to disagree. The goal is to find consensus among the group. There are lots of opportunities for social skill development and putting our CARES into practice. Not to mention we're building vocabulary too!