What am I teaching?

SPaG target

  • Use Conjunctions

Writing link

  • I can link some words and sentences using conjunctions: but, or, and, so, when, if, because — to add detail to the instructions

Part One

SPaG objective 1: I can use and choose the correct coordinating conjunctions: but, or, and, so

Activity: The FANBOYS

Aim: Show the class the FANBOYS superheroes. Explain that in this lesson we will be focusing on four of them: but, or, and, so. Review what each one does to coordinate words, phrases and clauses. Then model how to use them to fill gaps in words, phrases, sentences and clauses. Once clear, the same game can be played on paper or as a group/partnered activity.

Resources required: FANBOYS images

SPaG objective 2: I can use and choose the correct coordinating conjunctions: but, or, and, so

Activity: Check And Connect

Aim: Show pupils pictures of actions that can go wrong if they not instructed properly: sitting in a car, crossing the road, diving into a swimming pool, getting cupcakes out of the oven. Model how we can develop instructions, adding to our adverb and imperative verb to include essential details. However, we must always choose the correct conjunction to help us. Eg, When you have walked to the deep end, then you can dive in. OR, First put on your oven gloves and then open the oven.

Resources required: Word Box

Part Two

SPaG objective 1: I can use some subordinating conjunctions to add details to instructions

Activity: Do this because...

Aim: Show the pupils a detailed instruction using the conjunctions: because, when and if. Then show them the same instruction without the detail. Ask them what they notice? Think about the impact. Think about a process that involves instructions: model how to setup the intro sentence, bullet points, adverb opener, imperative verb and then the detail using the subordinating conjunctions. Eg, First, turn on the kettle because your water must be boiling to make the tea. Once gathered: provide the pupils with pictures of a simple 3-5 step process and ask them to create their detailed instructions.

Resources required: Pictures of a process (better if linked to topic or text)

Part Three

FINAL objective: I can link some words and sentences using conjunctions: but, or, and, so, when, if, because

Activity: Over To You

Aim: Now you know — have a GO! Challenge the pupils to think of something (can be fictious and wildly imaginative): how to feed a unicorn, how to catch rainbow, how to drink candy-floss raindrops, how to read a book to a lion etc . Then show the conjunction hit-list. Can you include all of these words and the right way to format your instructions? Off you go!

Resources required: The Tick List