Encourage children to explore more powerful vocabulary when writing with this fun vocabulary games KS2 synonyms activity, suitable for Years 2-6.
Ideal as a lesson starter, as part of any writing task or for home learning, word webs are also a brilliant way of keeping classroom displays purposeful and interactive. Word webs containing key vocabulary could be placed on a working wall for pupils to add to over time.
Before you start
Discuss with the pupils what a synonym is and how this can improve their writing.
How to use the word webs
Using either the blank version or a partly filled web, ask pupils to find synonyms of words and add them to the correct parts of the pattern. For example, synonyms for ‘happy’ would go in the spaces leading out from that word. Encourage children to use a thesaurus if needed.
Pupils may add further layers to the web if they find more synonyms.
Add extra challenge by asking children to order the vocabulary, with the ‘least powerful/intense’ words at the centre of the web, building to the ‘most powerful/intense’ in the outermost layer.
Vocabulary games KS2 pack
The primary resource pack includes:
- Word webs – blank version
These can be used for pupils to list synonyms for any word, or set of words, chosen by themselves or suggested by the teacher.
- Word webs – vocabulary sets
These webs have the first ‘layer’ filled in, according to one of seven themes. Children need to find synonyms according to the theme.
National Curriculum English programme of study links
Y2 – To consider what they are going to write before beginning by writing down ideas, including vocabulary
Y3/4 – To draft and write by…progressively building a varied and rich vocabulary
Y5/6 – To draft and write by selecting appropriate vocabulary, understanding how such choices can change and enhance meaning