Phrasal verbs are difficult to learn; they may be separated or not, change meaning depending upon usage, share the same particles, and are virtually countless. Thus, memorizing them can be quite a chore. However, creating a word web is an interactive way to provide ample review of and closure for a phrasal verb unit!
What is a Phrasal Verb Web?
A phrasal verb web is a simple diagram drawn on the board in order to illustrate varying phrasal verbs that share the same particles. For example, on the board, the particle up could be drawn in the center of the word web. Around the web would be the multiple verbs that share that particle to create a two-part verb. Some phrasal verbs that would be related to an example for a transitive phrasal verb review would include but are not limited to: turn up, give up, set up, bring up, etc.
Word Webs Can Create More Excitement
Word webs are useful since they be used as a game-like activity in which the students are asked to brainstorm, review or test their understanding of phrasal verbs. The activity can be done as a whole class, in pairs or in groups. Most importantly, however, they should be used as a method to grab the attention of the students.
Creating the Web
Students create the webs after the teacher supplies the particle to be used. The students brainstorm the verbs that relate to the particle around the web within a given time frame. When the time frame has been exhausted, the team or pair with the most brainstormed phrasal verbs is rewarded.
Using the Web in Context
After the brainstormed verbs are placed onto the board as a whole class activity, students should be asked to use the phrasal verb in context. This can be done by assigning one phrasal to each student or, if there aren’t enough verbs to do this, to pairs. Students should be given time to review the meaning(s) of their phrasal verb and construct their sentence. The students should come up to the board to write their sentences. At this time, if any of the phrasal verbs have an alternate meaning which has not been used, it would be ideal to discuss and show examples.