In our X-generation, we had this magical book entitled 'Primary English' which ensured that our grammar was properly grounded, at least, during my time. But of course, most children at that time, like me, had loads of time at home with nothing to do and it delighted us to copy the whole book into our exercise book from cover to cover :)
In this time and age also known as the Y-generation, though, our children are BUSY. We are, too. However, their grammar foundation still has to be properly laid. After all, the English language in all its profound complexities and sometimes arbitrary ways, is essentially a set of basic rules and structures to which we must adhere. And I believe you agree with me, the child who masters his/her language with fluency has the upper edge in all his/her future dealings, be it study or work.
Well, the good news is this year's new learning resource; the 'Grammar Handbook' of which each of your child is a proud owner. We are currently working on Collective Nouns and this follows the kind of grammar structure we pick up in the big book that we're reading. It is quite a lot for the children to absorb and the most effective way for them to retain their learning is through repetition and application in a fun and meaningful way. I am still trying to motivate the class to seek out the gems in this book through short whiteboard quizzes in class and recently, even a 3-minute start-of-lesson paper-and pen quiz. Judging by the scores, there is much inertia and resistance!
Some ways that you can support what we're learning in school may be to declare the week a 'Collective Nouns Week'. And in that week, you try to build as many collective nouns in your speech as you possibly can and win points! You could even make up an animal-themed story by weaving together numerous collective nouns about animals or make it a cooking recipe! If you really have no extra time for games, even reading through the list of words will be a form of encouragement and support that you can provide. And trust me, it'll stick!
Collective nouns aside, I have also come across a printable game that reinforces the past tense verbs at bogglesworldesl.com/files/gameboard1.doc
and an online game that can help your child in spelling the past tense verbs at www.bbc.co.uk/schools/starship/english/blastrocket.shtml
Some of the children really need more support in this area.
What is a Friend?
Dedicated to 2F 2009 - May all of you remain friends forever!
This film by Tony Dusko won "Best of Festival" in the 2007 Mobifest Toronto Film Festival.
(Source : www.notebookbabies.com)