Word Study
The vocabulary program encompasses interesting words selected from books read within the reading program. Research shows that learning words boosts children's speaking, reading, and writing skills. When we have vocabulary homework it would be helpful for you to post the words at home where everyone in the family can see it and look for ways to include the words in conversations with your child. Hearing and using the words will help your child remember them, and your enthusiasm for word learning will help build in your child a lifelong love of words.
During our weeks of vocabulary study students will be assigned twelve words. Students will be expected to know the definition of each vocabulary word along with how to use each word in context. Students will be given an activity choice sheet and are required to complete three activities of their choice. Several additional days will be given to continue studying the words prior to a quiz being given so they have become comfortable with using the new words. Activities as well as the word lists are linked below for your reference.
Spelling Tic Tac Toe
Many weeks your child will be assigned a spelling tic tac toe sheet on the day the new words are assigned (typically Mondays). On the board you will find nine different spelling activities. These activities include using the words in writing, spelling using phonics, using various websites, as well as other fun ways of learning the week's spelling words. Your child will be responsible for completing three (3) activities, each one completing a row either horizontally, diagonally, or vertically. The activities are arranged in a way that children should be able to find activities that interest them, but also help them to learn the words in different and meaningful ways. Children are not limited to three activities, and are welcome to complete more if they desire. Written work can be done in the spelling notebook, or on separate paper. Please note the tic tac toe board needs to be handed in with the work. I would strongly suggest you copy the words down or make an additional copy to keep at home before handing the tic tac toe board in. This will ensure you have the words at home to study in case you do not receive the board back prior to the test. On most weeks the board will be handed out on Mondays and due on Thursdays. Spelling tests will then be on Friday. If the board is assigned on a different day of the week at least three nights will be given to complete the assignments. Assignments can be handed in early if completed before the due date.