Classroom vocabulary includes the words and phrases used to describe everything related to school, learning, and the environment where teaching takes place. It covers subjects, materials, people, and typical activities in the classroom.
  • Typical classroom vocabulary: teacher, student, desk, chair, blackboard, pencil, book, lesson, homework
  • Common subjects: math, science, history, geography, English, art, music, physical education
  • People: principal, librarian, janitor, counselor
  • Materials: eraser, ruler, notebook, marker, glue, scissors
  • Activities: reading, writing, listening, speaking, answering, asking, presenting
Pencil, desk, and eraser are common classroom objects.
The person who teaches students is called a teacher.

Common Classroom Words

WordMeaningExample
TeacherThe person who teachesThe teacher is kind.
StudentA person who learnsStudents do their homework.
DeskA table for working or writingSit at your desk.
ChairA seatPlease sit on your chair.
BlackboardA board for writing (today often a whiteboard)The teacher writes on the board.
PencilA tool for writing or drawingUse a pencil for the test.
BookPrinted or written pages for reading or studyOpen your book to page 10.
LessonA period of teaching/learningToday’s lesson is math.
HomeworkWork assigned to do at homeDon’t forget your homework.
Teacher, student, and principal are typical school roles.
Homework is work assigned to do at home.
Pencil, eraser, and notebook are common classroom supplies.

School Subjects

SubjectDescriptionExample in Use
MathNumbers, calculationsWe have math every Monday.
ScienceStudy of nature and experimentsScience is my favorite subject.
HistoryStudy of past eventsHistory lessons can be long.
GeographyStudy of places and mapsGeography helps us learn about the world.
EnglishLanguage and literatureWe read a story in English class.
ArtDrawing, painting, creativityArt class is on Wednesdays.
MusicSinging and instrumentsMusic is very fun.
Physical Education (PE)Sports and exercisePE is after lunch.
Math is the subject about numbers and formulas.
Common school subjects include math, science, history, and art.

Classroom Activities

ActivityDescriptionExample
ReadingLooking at and understanding textWe are reading a story.
WritingPutting words on paperWriting practice is important.
ListeningPaying attention to soundsListening to the teacher is key.
SpeakingTalkingWe speak English in class.
AnsweringResponding to questionsAnswering questions helps you learn.
AskingRequesting informationDon’t be afraid to ask.
PresentingShowing information to classShe is presenting her project.
Speaking, listening, reading, and writing are common language class activities.
Presenting means showing information to others.

People in School

PersonRoleExample
TeacherEducates studentsThe teacher explains the lesson.
StudentLearnsThe students are very attentive.
PrincipalHead of the schoolThe principal welcomed us today.
LibrarianManages the libraryAsk the librarian for book suggestions.
JanitorCleans and maintains schoolThe janitor makes sure everything is clean.
CounselorProvides advice/supportThe counselor helps with problems.
Principal, librarian, janitor, and counselor are common school staff.
The principal is in charge of the whole school.

Classroom Materials

MaterialPurposeExample
EraserRemoves pencil marksUse the eraser if you make a mistake.
RulerMeasures lengthThe ruler is for drawing straight lines.
NotebookFor writing notesWrite your homework in your notebook.
MarkerWrites on whiteboard or posterThe teacher uses a marker on the board.
GlueSticks things togetherUse glue for your art project.
ScissorsCuts paperBe careful with the scissors.
A pencil case usually contains a pencil, eraser, and ruler.
You use scissors to cut paper.

Conclusion

Classroom vocabulary is essential for understanding and participating in school life. It includes words for people, places, things, subjects, and activities that make up the learning experience.
  • Covers common words used in school settings
  • Includes subjects, materials, roles, and activities
  • Helps students communicate effectively in educational contexts