Magic Square
Directions: To practice the words we are studying from The Catcher in the Rye, select the best answer
for each of the terms from the numbered definitions. Put the number in the proper space in the magic
square box. If the totals of the numbers are the same both across and down, you have found the magic
number!
Terms
Definitions
A. ostracize
B. rostrum
C. incognito
D. nonchalant
E. bourgeois
F. boisterous
G. innumerable
H. blasé
I. louse
1. A mean or despicable person; lice.
2. Seeming to be coolly unconcerned or indifferent.
3. A dais, pulpit, or other elevated platform for public
speaking; in Biology, a beaklike or snout like
projection.
4. A person whose attitudes and behavior are marked by
conformity to the standards and conventions of the middle
class; Of, relating to, or typical of the middle class.
5. With one's identity disguised or concealed.
6. Too numerous to be counted; numberless.
7. To exclude from a group; to banish or expel.
8. Uninterested because of frequent exposure or indulgence;
unconcerned, nonchalant; Very sophisticated.
9. Rough and stormy; violent; Loud, noisy, and lacking in restraint
or discipline.
Answer Box
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
Magic Number = ______
Katie Reese, 2006
Magic Square Activity
Teacher Copy
Terms
Definitions
A. ostracize
B. rostrum
C. incognito
D. nonchalant
E. bourgeois
F. boisterous
G. innumerable
H. blasé
I. louse
1. A mean or despicable person; lice.
2. Seeming to be coolly unconcerned or indifferent.
3. A dais, pulpit, or other elevated platform for public
speaking; in Biology, a beaklike or snout like
projection.
4. A person whose attitudes and behavior are marked by
conformity to the standards and conventions of the middle
class; Of, relating to, or typical of the middle class.
5. With one's identity disguised or concealed.
6. Too numerous to be counted; numberless.
7. To exclude from a group; to banish or expel.
8. Uninterested because of frequent exposure or indulgence;
unconcerned, nonchalant; Very sophisticated.
9. Rough and stormy; violent; Loud, noisy, and lacking in restraint
or discipline.
Answer Box
A
B
7
D
C
3
E
2
G
F
4
H
6
5
9
I
8
1
Magic Number = 15
Katie Reese, 2006
Magic Square Activity
For The Catcher in the Rye Vocabulary
Purpose of the Strategy:
The magic square activity acts as a practice exercise for attaining
vocabulary. It is a great way to revive a mundane matching exercise. Students match terms with
definitions. If they select the correct answers, they will end up with a resulting “magic number.” Because
students are provided with a way to know whether or not their answers are all correct, it is a great selfcheck exercise as well. Students can make sure they are on the right track by simply adding up the rows
and columns in the magic square.
Directions:
Step One- Introduce the Strategy. Introduce the magic square strategy as a way to
practice the vocabulary words students are currently studying. Explain the concept of the magic
square. Each word (letter) has a corresponding definition (number). The correct definitions must
be selected in order for the magic number to be found. If all the definitions are correct, the sum of
all of the rows and columns will be exactly the same! Read the directions for the worksheet
out loud with the students to ensure everyone understands the assignment.
Step Two- Magic. Give students time to complete the magic square worksheet. They should
add the rows and columns as a self-correction strategy to fix any mistakes.
Step Three-Corrections. Have the class reveal the magic number. Review any definitions
students may have had trouble with. Students can use the magic square worksheet as a review
sheet to prepare for a future vocabulary test or quiz.
Assessment: Students will succeed in this exercise when they are able to distinguish the appropriate
definitions for the words and use the “magic number” to fix their own mistakes. It will be important to note
which words students initially struggle with, so that these words can receive more attention in future
vocabulary review activities.
Katie Reese, 2006