Grammar teachers everywhere struggle to keep students engaged and interested while teaching the technical side of language. Dangling participles and superlatives may sound exciting, but you can be certain students will zone out once instruction begins. Here are some simple ideas to get you started on making grammar instruction meaningful and enjoyable!
Have students move as much as possible. There are some quick ways to do this! For instance, hang blank chart paper around the room with a prompt on each poster such as “Write a sentence with nonessential information using commas correctly” (grades 9-12), or “Write a compound sentence (or complex or compound-complex) using a comma correctly” (grades 6-8), or “Write the date using a comma correctly” (grades 3-5). Hang multiple posters with different writing prompts so students can grab a marker, write, and move around the room!
Extend your classroom. An easy way is to use sidewalk chalk, move outside, and write! Another way is to connect online. There are free apps and websites where students can show what they know in an online environment.
Work on one skill at a time. Even though every writing activity will have multiple grammar lessons, give feedback and instruction on one. Want to work smarter? Use the other writing as formative assessment and plan future instruction on what students have already turned in!
Tap into your students and use that as a basis for your grammar lessons! What is the hot movie? Have students write a review, paying attention to titles and lists of actors and actresses, and capitalization. Who is the hot band? Write a letter to invite them to their school. Relevancy creates engagement and gives choice both of which make learning more meaningful for students!
What are your tips for making grammar instruction meaningful and fun?
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