Activity Overview
Another great way to engage your students is through the creation of storyboards that uses vocabulary from “The Purloined Letter”. Here is a list of a few vocabulary words commonly taught with the short story and an example of a visual vocabulary board.
Example Vocabulary Words from “The Purloined Letter”
- prefect
- purloined
- snuffbox
- infer
- exalted
- ransack
- rigorous
- bestow
- explicit
- susceptibility
- illustrious
- astute
- prodigious
- egregious
- fathom
- promulgation
- palpable
- commensurate
- ennui
In the vocabulary board, students can choose between coming up with their own use of the vocabulary word, finding the specific example from the text, or depicting it without words.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Demonstrate your understanding of the vocabulary words in "The Purloined Letter" by creating visualizations.
- Choose three vocabulary words from the story and type them in the title boxes.
- Find the definition in a print or online dictionary.
- Write a sentence that uses the vocabulary word.
- Illustrate the meaning of the word in the cell using a combination of scenes, characters, and items.
- Alternatively, use Photos for Class to show the meaning of the words with the search bar.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Word 1 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 1 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
| Word 2 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 2 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
| Word 3 - Sentence | Vocabulary word is used correctly in the example sentence in both meaning and context. | The meaning of the sentence can be understood, but the vocabulary word is used awkwardly or in the wrong context. | The vocabulary word is not used correctly in the example sentence. |
| Word 3 - Visualization | The storyboard cell clearly illustrates the meaning of the vocabulary word. | The storyboard cell relates to the meaning of the vocabulary word, but is difficult to understand. | The storyboard cell does not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary word. |
How To Analyze Characters and Themes in “The Purloined Letter”
Introduce and Identify Themes
Identify any possible themes for the narrative, such as the intricacy of human behaviour and concepts like power, intelligence, deception, and power. Compare and contrast each theme's significance with the story. Give your students the task of locating particular passages or incidents within the book that advance the themes you have determined.
Create Character Maps
For Dupin, Minister D—, and the young lady (royalty), have the students construct in-depth character portraits. Include details about the person's appearance, demeanour, reasons for doing things, and behaviour. Students can also create character maps to link different characters and have solid character profiles.
Link Characters and Themes
Ask the students to analyze how themes and characters connect with each other. Students can use visual elements to understand how characters impact the development of themes and themes play a role in character growth.
Create a Modern Adaptation
Students can create a modern adaptation of the themes and characters present in the story. This adaptation will help the students explore the themes and characters from a new perspective and challenge their creative side by giving them creative freedom.
Encourage Creative Exercises
Encourage students to write character diaries, create theme-based artwork, or come up with potential endings as ways to creatively convey how they interpret the characters and ideas. Students can also role-play different characters in the story and recreate themes in order to gain a deeper understanding.
Frequently Asked Questions About "The Purloined Letter" Vocabulary
What does the term "purloined" mean in the context of the story?
The term "purloined" establishes the main idea of the narrative. It highlights the aspect of mystery and intrigue by instantly revealing to the reader that the story will centre on a stolen letter. Literally, the word purloined means “stolen” hence the author tries to induce mystery and suspense using such vocabulary.
What role does the vocabulary have in creating the story's atmosphere?
The author of the narrative uses precise and expressive language to evoke mystery, intellectual depth, and suspense. The terminology sets the stage for the characters' complex intellectual obstacles. Poe’s writings usually include intriguing vocabulary to create a dark atmosphere for the readers so they can feel the tension and the mystery while reading.
How can the students incorporate the use of newly learned vocabulary into their daily lives?
Students can practice their newly learned vocabulary by having discussions incorporating those specific words with their class fellows, teachers and parents. They can also play word games in their free time for vocabulary retention. Encourage the students to create a vocabulary space in their rooms or in the classroom where they can frequently look at newly learned words.
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