Minds On

What is important?

Explore the following TVOkids Wacky Word Songs video.

What kinds of ideas does Zoey present in the video? How does she present her ideas?

Action

Reviewing presentation strategies

We can use many different types of presentation and communication strategies to capture the attention of an audience. Let’s review the following strategies. For each example that is provided, choose the name of the strategy that it represents.

Select the correct answer.

Which of the presentation and communication strategies, that we have just reviewed, did Zoey use to present her Wacky Word Song?

Descriptive Language

We know that we can use different adjectives or describing words to help make our writing more interesting. We can also use different types of verbs or action words. This works for our presentations, too!

Think about some of the ways you would describe the image below. What kinds of adjectives or describing words could we use?

An image showing a grassy field during sunrise.

Now, let’s consider what Zoey shared in the Minds On video. She introduces her Wacky Word Song with:

“There are so many ways to say hi. I looked it up in my dictionary and thesaurus. They’re full of synonyms. Those are words that mean the same thing or nearly the same thing. Using synonyms helps me write better stories and songs.”

Let’s examine a sample description of the image of a tree.

The tree has long branches. Each branch has lots of little leaves. The tree has a sturdy, thick trunk. Grass surrounds the tree.

How could we change it up? Use a dictionary or thesaurus to find synonyms for the bolded words.

Press ‘Modified Text’ to reveal the description after changing the bolded words.

The tree has extensive branches. Each branch contains tons of small leaves. The tree is made up of a strong, hardy trunk. Grass encircles the tree.

How did changing the words change the description?

All about you!

Let’s use our understanding of describing words and synonyms. It’s time to create a presentation all about you!

Consider how you would describe yourself to someone you just met. What would you tell them? You may use the sample questions to brainstorm ideas, and then complete the All About Me Organizer in your notebook or using the following fillable activity document to record your thoughts. You may also create an audio clip, or record your ideas using another method of your choice.

Sample Questions:

  • How old are you?
  • What are your hobbies or interests?
  • Do you have a favourite kind of food?
  • Do you have a favourite book, movie, television show, or audio book?
  • What are some special facts about you?

Press the ‘Activity’ button to access All About Me Organizer. 

All About Me Organizer

Press the Activity button to access the All About Me Organizer.

Activity (Open PDF in a new tab)

Consolidation

Word swap

It’s time to mix things up! Using your All About Me presentation ideas, consider which words you could replace with a synonym. You can use the synonym list below, or a dictionary and/or thesaurus to help you find new words.

Student Success

Think-Pair-Share

Once you have completed your word swap, practice your presentation. If possible, present to a partner, or create an audio clip or description.

Note to teachers: See your teacher guide for collaboration tools, ideas and suggestions.

Think about your learning

  • What did you learn throughout this process? How can you use your understanding of synonyms in future presentations?
  • Does changing the words change the meaning? How does a presentation change when we modify the words we use?

Reflection

As you read through these descriptions, which sentence best describes how you are feeling about your understanding of this learning activity? Press the button that is beside this sentence.

I feel…

Now, record your ideas using a voice recorder, speech-to-text, or writing tool.