There are few desserts I like better than a delectable ice cream sundae, preferably one that is built with a base of brownie, cookie, or shortcake! When I think of eating a sundae, I can immediately recall some of my favorite concoctions from throughout the years. That’s why I believe this vocabulary building activity will lead to cheerful, and probably hungry, students who can recall the words they use with as much gusto as their imagined sundaes.
To begin this vocabulary activity, have students cut out and paste together (or draw) their sundaes. Next, have them label the parts of their sundaes, using at least one vocabulary word to describe each element. Alternatively, students can write a tantalizing description at the bottom of the sundae describing each of its elements.
To end this vocabulary activity, students can read their descriptions to each other and compete to see who has the most outrageously decadent creation. You may want to give out prizes in this vocabulary word game to those who create the silliest, yummiest or most disgusting concoction.
Grades K–5 Description Example
To create my sundae, I would start with a basic and essential chocolate brownie base. From this humble beginning, I would add a suitable portion of ice cream, only about four or five scoops. I wouldn’t neglect the chocolate sauce, making sure to pour an ample amount on top. Then I would create a stampede of nuts down the chocolate and finish it with enough whipped cream to make me drowsy. Yum!
Grades 6–12 Description Example
I will gather my provisions of brownies, ice cream, and toppings to create the ideal sundae. The size of the brownies at the base may be a bit erratic, as I’m so hungry that I can’t cut them out of the pan in uniform sizes. However, the base of brownies will be fortified by scoops of ice cream that will accumulate quickly from the bottom the bowl to form a towering mound. On top of the colossal heap of ice cream, I will meticulously place nuts and drizzle chocolate sauce in just the right amounts so as not to topple the entire concoction. In the end, my sundae will entice me for only a moment, tantalizing me, but my face will be sullied for a long time with a blend of chocolate, whipped cream, and nuts.
To help your classroom get started on this sweet vocabulary activity, I've created complimentary worksheets you can download and print. My Build Your Own Sundae worksheets include teacher instructions, writing examples (as shown above), and student worksheets that include ice cream sundae clip art. Download now!
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Language Standard 3. Apply knowledge of language to understand how language functions in different contexts.
Language Standard 4. Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown words
Language Standard 5. Demonstrate understanding of word relationships and nuances in word meaning.
Language Standard 6. Acquire and use accurately a range of general academic and domain-specific words and phrases; demonstrate independence in gathering vocabulary knowledge
Writing Standard 2. Write informative/explanatory texts through the effective selection, organization, and analysis of content.