This category features instructional tools and strategies that help students understand, apply, and retain vocabulary. Posts include methods for teaching tricky word pairs, spelling confusions, reference material use, and hands-on techniques like index cards and mini-lessons. These resources support vocabulary growth through clarity, structure, and practical classroom application.
Dec 01
Some vocabulary words just beg to be spoken out loud. They bounce, twist, and tumble off the tongue like characters in a children’s book. Words like skedaddle, borborygmus, and flibbertigibbet aren’t just fun. They’re silly vocabulary words for students that spark joy, curiosity, and classroom giggles. But once you’ve taught those delightful words, what do …
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Oct 12
Effect vs Affect – How many times have students struggled with this troublesome pair? How many papers have you graded that confused these words? Before Common Core State Standards, our state standards gave a long list of troublesome word pairs students had to learn. Teaching this skill was monotonous for both students and teachers. Because …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=3074
Oct 14
Have you ever wondered if you should write apart or a part? How about anyone or anyone? English contains so many confusing words. Often, students wonder if they should use one word or two. These activities provide practice with six confusing word pairs using Google Apps. Begin by having students type the definitions for each …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=3441
Jul 08
Teaching vocabulary with index cards is a fun yet effective method. Here’s how: Step #1 On one side of the index card, students write the vocabulary word in large letters so that it may be used as a response card. For daily practice, students spread their index cards with the words facing up on their …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=78
Dec 15
Introducing students to the world of reference materials is crucial in developing their research and information literacy skills. This blog post includes a Reference Materials Mini Lesson with fun activities that help students understand the different types of reference materials and their purposes. Be sure to get the handout. It includes the printables and links …
Permanent link to this article: https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=3943
