Definition Match and Improve
Learners match terms to definitions and improve a vague definition by adding a distinguishing feature.
Worked classroom example
Mathematics
Improve “a fraction is part of a whole” by distinguishing numerator and denominator.
Use this example to make the language move visible. Select subject content appropriate to the class’s age and prior knowledge.
Teaching sequence
- Prepare terms and short definitions, including one vague example.
- Pairs match and identify what the vague definition leaves out.
- Rewrite it so another learner could distinguish the concept from a near neighbour.
Materials and purpose
term cards and short definitions
A strong definition names both a broad category and what makes the term distinct.
Try it in your next lesson
Prepare
Use term cards and short definitions. Choose a second example that checks the same language move without repeating the original answer.
Classroom task
Learners match terms to definitions and improve a vague definition by adding a distinguishing feature.
Check independent transfer
Rewrite it so another learner could distinguish the concept from a near neighbour.
Collect a response on fresh content. Note what was achieved without the model, partner or teacher prompt, then choose one next teaching step.
Teacher language
Teacher language
What feature separates this word from a similar one?
“Which feature makes this an example of the word?”
“How does the meaning or useful phrase change in another context?”
Respond to the learner
Identify one successful meaning or language choice. Ask about one gap, allow thinking time, then invite a revision. Check the revised move again on a fresh example.
Adjust support and challenge
Offer a brief model, useful vocabulary and partner rehearsal where needed. Keep the subject goal; reduce one prompt on fresh content and record what was independent.
Teaching this skill → · Age and language support →
More support
Use an image, object, bilingual gloss and contrasting example. Retrieve the word in a new sentence rather than repeat a definition only. Allow familiar-language notes or another response mode when checking subject understanding.
Greater independence
Change the content, evidence or audience. Remove the completed model and ask learners to explain a choice. Increase subject complexity only when it fits the curriculum and prior knowledge.
Choose the next step
If subject meaning is insecure, reteach the concept. If the concept is understood but the English is unclear, model one useful language relationship and invite a fresh response.