Conventions of Language (Grammar and Mechanics)
The conventions of language are best learned within the context of real reading and writing. Students will focus on the “why/author’s purpose” and the “how/author’s craft” of grammar and mechanics. This will be done through the study of “patterns of power”, a six step process that requires students to notice, compare and contrast, imitate, celebrate, apply, and edit the conventions of written language. Each student will have a notebook that will “warehouse” their learning. This notebook will become a useful reference tool as they work toward independence in the application of newly learned skills. The notebook will also serve as a reminder of what skills they are accountable for in their daily reading and writing.
Word Study
Word study, a broader term that encompasses phonics, spelling and vocabulary is critical for fast, accurate recognition of words and their meanings in texts and fast, accurate production of words in writing. Fluency in word recognition and spelling production results in readers and writers who can focus on meaning. The following are some examples of what our word study focus might include:
Irregularly spelled high frequency words (enough, although, said)
Silent letters and oddities (knew, walk)
Syllable patterns
Inflections (plurals and tenses)
Syllable juncture rules
Homophones (their, there, to, too, two)
Grade level prefixes and suffixes
Grade level contractions
Possessives
Abbreviations
Students will keep track of the word study skills in an assigned notebook, or a section of a notebook. This notebook will become a reference tool during daily reading and writing. There will not be a large homework component to word study. Focus skills and specific words studied will be communicated weekly through grade level websites, classroom websites and/or weekly homework sheets. Parents and students can determine how they would like to focus on this work at home.