This book is about words, especially the words of the complex and wonderful English language. Starting with cave drawings, the book traces the development of language and communication from its early beginnings to the present day. You will find a wide array of exciting and challenging activities that will spark your students’ interest and help them to improve their skills in language. As a result of completing these activities students will…


 • Comprehend the evolution of language as a means of communication; 

• Have an expanded understanding of word origins and derivations; 

 • Make the connection and appreciate the role of history in the development of the English language; 

 • Realize the multi-culturism of American English; 

 • Increase the comprehension of vocabulary and definitions; 

 • Enhance the creativity of their own use of English; 

 • Improve their critical-thinking skills; 

 • Become engaged in the further understanding of English; and

• Use English in more creative and effective oral and written communication.



Words! Words! Words! is divided into five parts. Part I introduces the story of written language and highlights its evolution in ancient cultures. Part II teaches students about English of long ago and the contribution of noted writers such as Chaucer and Shakespeare. Part III details the growth of American English. In this section, students experience coining phrases, using jargon, finding roots, and translating British English among other challenging activities. Students will have fun with words in Part IV as they create anagrams, use euphemisms, and ponder perplexing palindromes. In Part V students will participate in an exciting culminating activity in which they will create a planned language, use the language in an original short play, and perform the play for family and friends. 


Grades 4–8. 

The lessons and activities in this book align with the following Common Core State Standards*: 

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.4.3, 4.4, 4.5.,4.6 

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.5.3, 5.4, 5.5.,5.6 

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.6.3, 6.4, 6.5.,6.6 

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.7.3, 7.4, 7.5.,7.6 

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.8.3, 8.4, 8.5.,8.6 



Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on [grade-level] reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies. 



Use common, grade-appropriate Greek or Latin affixes and roots as clues to the meaning of a word. 

Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on [grade-level] reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies. 

Use context (e.g., definitions, examples, or restatements in text) as a clue to the meaning of a word or phrase. 

Use common, grade-appropriate Greek and Latin affixes and roots as clues to the meaning of a word. 

Consult reference materials, both print and digital, to find the pronunciation and determine or clarify the precise meaning of key words and phrases. 



Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings. 



Acquire and use accurately grade-appropriate general academic and domain-specific words and phrases, including those that signal precise actions, emotions, or states of being and that are basic to a particular topic. 


*Authors: National Governors Association Center for Best Practices, Council of Chief State School Officers 

Title: Common Core State Standards English Language Arts 

Publisher: National Governors Association Center for Best Practices, Council of Chief State School Officers, Washington, D.C. 

Copyright Date: 2010