This week, I
introduced spelling groups to my new kiddos. I have my class of 28
broken into four groups based on ability level. We are starting with
words that are a little below level for each group. This keeps the
stress level low, so they can focus on learning the word work tasks, but
also, will help to boost their confidence when they do well on test
day!
We
do a variety of different tasks to practice our words including sorting
them, writing them in alphabetical order and quizzing friends.
Tomorrow, we will type them up in the computer lab.
Read about more word work options for the intermediate classroom here.
Today, the class
had a choice between 3 activities:
Read on to see how these stations are used in my classroom. Be sure to read all the way to the bottom for a freebie.
In
Scrabble Spelling, you can use “scrabble tiles” I printed to build your
word. (The image below shows an older version of the file.) This works as a great center for word work with many age groups!
Students will write each of their spelling words and use the chart to
figure out the Scrabble value for each word.
Place Value Spelling is similar, but with base 10 blocks corresponding to
each letter of the alphabet. Each letter could be worth one, ten, one hundred, or one thousand. This is a little bit more challenging math for some of the
longer words.
If you purchase, you’ll get three different versions with varying levels of difficulty:
♥ Ones and Tens
♥ Ones, Tens and Hundreds
♥ Ones, Tens, Hundreds and Thousands
What’s your Word Worth? involves money. I’ve created two versions: one with Canadian currency and another with American. My students can use plastic money to help them figure out the values.
There are three American versions included:
♥ #1: nickles, dimes, quarters, half dollars and dollars
♥ #2: nickles, dimes, quarters and half dollars
♥ #3: pennies, nickles, dimes and quarters
There are three Canadian versions included:
♥ #1: nickles, dimes, quarters, loonies and toonies
♥ #2: nickles, dimes, quarters and loonies
♥ #3: pennies, nickles, dimes and quarters
I
like these activities because of the math integration. It’s a good mix
of hands on and written work. Kids like it because they get to work
around the room and with friends!
I have at least 6 laminated sheets of each file
in a folder with the recording sheets and manipulatives so it’s all
together. Students know to pick the level for each that is most challenging for them. I like that this puts some accountability on them for their learning. If they are selecting a version of the file that is too easy for them, we can have a quick conversation about this and get them back on track.
My students do all work work in a separate notebook. They create a T chart with the headings “word” and “value” to record their work. However, I know a lot of people use duotangs. I also have had some kids who have anxiety around creating their own blanklines. With that in mind, I’ve created a recording sheet template. Grab it for free here!
