Research Report Vocabulary word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

I made this research report vocabulary puzzle set for my 4th graders during our writing unit. The kids could find facts but had no idea what words like research, report, or source meant when we talked about writing a report. So I put together a word search, a word scramble, and a crossword using words like research, report, source, fact, quote, paraphrase, citation, bibliography, organize, and present. Nothing fancy — just puzzles to help the research vocabulary finally stick.

The PDF is four pages. Three puzzles plus one answer key page. The word search works well for quiet time after recess or indoor recess. The scramble gets them talking because they argue about whether paraphrasing is better than using a direct quote. The crossword I use for partners or as a review. I added a couple simple book, magnifying glass, and pencil drawings but nothing too busy.

Works for 4th through 5th grade. Print and go. Sometimes I have early finishers write one research topic they would like to study on the back. The kids actually ask for these now.