His students were often bored or missed the main idea when he asked them to look up definitions. So he gives them the definitions, but has adopted two other techniques that allow them to learn the words. Before students arrive for class, Mr. Beyer writes each word on two separate pieces of paper. Each student is given one sheet of paper, which he or she crumples up in a ball. They have one additional minute to find one wad and match up with the classmate with the identical word, and another minute to write out the definition together.
Students then come to the front of the classroom in pairs to read the word and definition.
Second, Mr. Beyer surprises students at the classroom door with a vocabulary list of words he has asked them to learn. No one can get into the room before the tardy bell unless he or she gives a correct definition. Mr. Beyer says. Later, it's fun to see their happy groans when they see me at the door. Variety can also invigorate teachers.