WordUp! The Vocab Show

ElaAll Grades

WordUp! The Vocab Show: Video-Based Greek and Latin Root Vocabulary

WordUp! The Vocab Show is an entertaining video-based vocabulary curriculum that teaches English words through Greek and Latin roots using humor, visual illustrations, and online practice tools. The course features host Dwane Thomas presenting 20+ vocabulary words per lesson in a comedic lecture format with continually changing backgrounds and visual connections.

Best for

Homeschooling families and students age 10+ who want to build advanced vocabulary through entertaining video instruction and systematic study of Greek and Latin word roots

Evaluation Criteria

4 strengths · 1 neutral · 4 insufficient evidence

Knowledge RichStrength

The curriculum builds systematic knowledge of Greek and Latin word origins, providing etymological understanding that supports broader vocabulary development.

Each lesson teaches vocabulary built on corresponding Latin and Greek roots like 'terra and geo (earth)' and 'multus and poly (many)' with visual illustrations connecting words to their origins

Direct InstructionStrength

The curriculum uses direct instruction through video presentations where the teacher explicitly teaches word meanings and origins.

Host Dwane Thomas directly 'presents words' and 'explains how an English word is derived from a root word' through structured video lessons

Retrieval PracticeStrength

The curriculum incorporates retrieval practice through multiple online exercises requiring students to recall and apply vocabulary knowledge.

Students complete exercises where 'they hear the words and type them in' and 'type the correct word in response to the definition,' plus games and tests for repeated practice

Vocabulary BuildingStrength

The curriculum provides strong, explicit vocabulary instruction through morphological analysis of Greek and Latin roots with multiple reinforcement opportunities.

Each lesson teaches '20 or more English words' with etymological explanations, visual illustrations, online flashcards, practice exercises, games, and tests through Quizlet

Teacher TrainingNeutral

The curriculum appears to be student-directed through video instruction with minimal teacher preparation required.

The review describes video lessons that students can watch independently with online practice tools, with no mention of teacher guides or training materials

Text ComplexityInsufficient Evidence

The curriculum does not use texts but focuses on teaching sophisticated vocabulary that would support comprehension of complex texts.

No mention of reading texts in the review, though the advanced vocabulary taught would support reading comprehension

Systematic PhonicsInsufficient Evidence

This curriculum does not include phonics instruction as it focuses on vocabulary for students age 10 and up who have already developed basic reading skills.

The curriculum is 'recommended for ages ten and up' and focuses on advanced vocabulary rather than foundational reading skills

Writing InstructionInsufficient Evidence

The curriculum does not include structured writing instruction, focusing exclusively on vocabulary acquisition.

The review mentions only vocabulary practice exercises, games, and tests with no reference to writing activities or instruction

Whole Books Vs ExcerptsInsufficient Evidence

This curriculum does not involve reading whole books or excerpts but focuses entirely on vocabulary instruction through video lessons.

The review describes only video lessons teaching vocabulary words with no mention of reading texts or literature

Review Sources

cathyduffy

Cathy Duffy

Key Facts
GradesAll Grades
SubjectEla
PedagogyNot specified

Looking for something different?

If none of these options feel right, explore a non-traditional approach. Pallas Center offers a unique curriculum, or design your own with Palladay.

Data sources: cathyduffy