How to Make Word Searches for Teachers

Students enjoy puzzles that incorporate words from their lessons. A word search helps a student focus on the spelling of words as they try to find them hidden in a jumble of letters. They enjoy the challenge of searching for words within the rows of letters. A teacher or parent volunteer can make a word search puzzle using specific words from the current unit the class is studying. A surprising feature would also be a word search puzzle with the students' names hidden in the rows. This provides an extra teaching tool and a classroom treat that the students will love. This lesson game helps hone observation skills and emphasizes words they need to learn in the study of the unit.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Graph paper
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Eraser
• Pen
• Computer/printer

1. Write out a list all words that you want to include in the word search puzzle for a lesson plan addition. At least 10 words are appropriate for young students and 20 words for middle school classes. Choose 35 or more for older students.

2. Enter word letters on a page of graph paper in uppercase print. Pencil in one letter per square. Start with the longest word or name first. Print it backwards or on the diagonal across the puzzle using a ruler for a location guide. These words are more easily found so you need to make them more challenging by their placement.

3. Continue entering words. Make sure they are in line and correctly spelled. Check off each word as you enter them into the puzzle mock-up.

4. Scan or photocopy the entire list when they are all penciled into the puzzle. This will be your answer key.

5. Print in a variety of letters in the remaining empty graph squares. When each square is filled, write the words below the puzzle so the students know what words they are seeking. Then, make copies and watch them have fun and learn at the same time.