Term Builder

This worksheet is designed for students in Grades 5, 6, and 7 and focuses on building strong scientific and geographic vocabulary related to Antarctica. Students write clear, original definitions for key terms such as iceberg, tundra, crevasse, and permafrost, strengthening academic language, conceptual understanding, and precise explanation without relying on a word bank.

Learning Goals

• Antarctic Geography Vocabulary (Grades 5-7) – Understand and accurately define terms connected to polar climate and landforms
• Scientific Literacy – Demonstrate understanding of concepts by explaining them in students’ own words
• Academic Language Precision – Practice clear, accurate definition writing using appropriate terminology
• Concept Application – Prepare to use new vocabulary correctly in discussion, reading, and writing

Instructional Benefits

• Teacher-Created Resource – Developed by educators with strong alignment to science and geography standards
• No Word Bank Challenge – Encourages deeper thinking and genuine understanding rather than copying
• Writing-Focused Practice – Strengthens explanatory skills needed for content-area learning
• Flexible Use – Suitable for vocabulary lessons, assessment, independent work, review, or homeschool instruction

This Term Builder worksheet helps students move beyond memorization to true vocabulary mastery by requiring them to define Antarctic terms clearly and accurately. By explaining concepts in their own words, learners develop stronger scientific literacy, confidence with academic language, and readiness for more advanced reading and writing tasks. Ideal for classroom or homeschool settings, this printable resource offers meaningful practice that supports long-term understanding across science and social studies.