Warmups work when they are predictable. This routine takes 10 minutes, stays vocabulary-focused, and does not require new materials every day.
You can run it with a printable from Printable Puzzles or an on-screen puzzle from Browse All Puzzles. For unit vocabulary, generate your own in the Puzzle Maker.
The routine (10 minutes)
- Minute 0 to 1: students read the word list; you clarify one pronunciation if needed.
- Minute 1 to 6: students find words; set a target like "find 8."
- Minute 6 to 8: students pick two words and write:
- a definition in their own words; and
- a short example sentence.
- Minute 8 to 10: quick share or check:
- pair-share; or
- cold call two students for one definition each.
The key is the last four minutes. Without that step, the puzzle becomes scanning practice only.
Two follow-up prompts you can rotate all week
Pick one prompt per day and keep it consistent for a week. Students move faster when the format stays the same.
- Prompt A: define two words; then write one sentence that uses both correctly.
- Prompt B: pick one word and draw a quick diagram or icon; label it with two related words from the list.
If you want a stronger language focus, use this instead:
- pick two words that are easy to confuse; write one sentence showing the difference
A ready-to-use list (science, 12 words)
Use this when you want a plug-and-play warmup:
MASS,VOLUME,DENSITY,SOLID,LIQUID,GAS,MIXTURE,SOLUTION,TEMPERATURE,MEASURE,CHANGE,ENERGY
Paste it into the Puzzle Maker to generate today's worksheet in under a minute.
Variations by subject (same routine, different output)
You can keep the puzzle format and swap the output task.
- ELA: pick three words; write a synonym or short definition for each; then use one in a sentence.
- Social studies: pick two terms; write "who/what" for one and "why it matters" for the other.
- Math: pick two vocabulary words; write a definition and one example problem where the word applies.
The solve stays the same. Only the last four minutes changes.
How to keep it from drifting off-task
Two guardrails keep focus high:
- Use a target: "find 8 words" instead of "find them all."
- Require output: two definitions and two sentences.
If students finish early, the extension is simple: add one new related word that is not in the list and explain why it belongs.
A simple grading approach (30 seconds per student)
If you need accountability without grading a stack:
- Check off: found at least 8 words
- Check off: wrote two definitions
- Check off: wrote two sentences
You can do this as a quick spot-check while circulating.
How to differentiate without making three versions
Keep one puzzle, adjust the follow-up.
- Support: define one word; sentence for one word.
- Standard: define two; sentence for two.
- Challenge: define three; sentence for three; add one new related term.
If the puzzle itself is too hard for many students, keep the theme and switch to an easier difficulty in the maker, or choose an easier printable.
Printing vs online
Both work. Pick based on the room.
- Printables are better for strict device-free warmups.
- Online play is better when you want instant resets and less paper.
If you are printing for a class set, do a single test print first and confirm scale in preview.
Common warmup problems (and fixes)
- Too many early finishers: increase the follow-up requirement; do not add more words to find.
- Too many stuck students: lower the target (find 6); then move to the writing step on time.
- Off-task behavior: use a visible timer and a clear stop point; warmups drift when time is vague.
A ready-to-copy follow-up prompt
If you want one prompt you can reuse all year, copy this on the board after the timer:
- Pick two words you found.
- Write a short definition for each in your own words.
- Use one word in a sentence that shows the meaning.
For older students, add one line: "Which word from the list is easiest to confuse with another word; why?" This keeps the warmup tied to meaning, not only spelling.
FAQ
What if students do not finish in 10 minutes?
Cap the task. Have them stop at minute 6 and move to the writing step. The routine works because time is consistent.
Is it okay if they do not find every word?
Yes. The vocabulary step matters more than a perfect solve. Targets keep the routine from turning into a race.
Can I run this as a sub plan?
Yes. Print one worksheet, include the two-question follow-up prompt, and add a clear time target.
Next step
- Pick a theme from Printable Puzzles and try the routine tomorrow.
- Need unit words? Paste your list into the Puzzle Maker.