Vocabulary Worksheet · Grades 5–7
Neologisms Worksheet
A printable vocabulary worksheet for grades 5-7 on neologisms, newly coined words that have recently entered the language. Students decide whether each word is a recent neologism or a long-established word across eight items, then answer four short questions. A complete answer key is included.
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Subject
Vocabulary
Grades
Grades 5–7
Skill Focus
Neologisms, word origins
Lesson Length
20 minutes
Lesson Overview
About this worksheet
A neologism is a newly coined word or phrase that has recently entered a language. Languages grow as people invent new tools, ideas, and activities that need names, and many neologisms come from technology. This worksheet helps students recognize new words and tell them from words that have been around for a very long time.
Section A on page 1 gives eight words, and students write yes or no for whether each is a recent neologism. The reference box teaches the idea with ‘selfie’ and ‘podcast’ examples, so the assessed words stay independent of the model.
Section B on page 2 asks what a neologism is, why languages need new words, what can happen to a neologism over time, and to name one. Page 3 is a complete answer key with sample answers. The skill builds on word origins and borrowed words.
How to Use This Lesson
Read the reference box aloud and ask which words did not exist when grandparents were young.
Complete Section A independently – have students think about when each word appeared.
Discuss how a neologism can become an ordinary word over time.
Use the answer key on page 3 for self-check.
Pair with the Word Origins Worksheet or the Borrowed Words Worksheet.
Printable Resource
A classroom-ready PDF with everything in one printable resource.
Full Member Resource · Printable PDF · 3 pages · Answer Key
Neologisms Worksheet
A printable vocabulary worksheet for grades 5-7 on neologisms, newly coined words that have recently entered the language. Students decide whether each word is a recent neologism or a long-established word across eight items, then answer four short questions. A complete answer key is included.
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