Academic Vocabulary word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

Academic Vocabulary word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

I made this academic vocabulary puzzle set for my 4th graders during our test prep unit. The kids could do the work but had no idea what words like "explain," "describe," or "compare" meant on the directions. So I put together a word search, a word scramble, and a crossword using words like explain, describe, compare, contrast, analyze, summarize, evaluate, infer, predict, trace, outline, support, identify, list, define, and state. Nothing fancy — just puzzles to help the direction words finally stick.

The PDF is four pages. Three puzzles plus one answer key page. The word search works well for quiet time after recess. The scramble gets them talking because they argue about the difference between "explain" and "describe." The crossword I use for partners. I added a couple simple checkmark and pencil drawings but nothing too busy.

Works for 4th through 5th grade. Print and go. Sometimes I have early finishers write a sentence using the word "infer" on the back. The kids actually ask for these now.