Symbolism Vocabulary word search, scramble and crossword puzzle

I made this symbolism vocabulary puzzle set for my 4th graders during our reading unit. The kids could read a story but had no idea what words like symbol, represent, or meaning meant when we talked about objects that stand for bigger ideas. So I put together a word search, a word scramble, and a crossword using words like symbol, represent, meaning, object, idea, freedom, peace, love, flag, dove, heart, and hope. Nothing fancy — just puzzles to help the symbolism 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 a heart always means love or could mean something else. The crossword I use for partners or as a review. I added a couple simple heart, dove, and flag drawings but nothing too busy.

Works for 4th through 5th grade. Print and go. Sometimes I have early finishers draw a symbol and explain what it represents on the back. The kids actually ask for these now.