It's simple really: English grammar can be a very dry subject, but this need not be the case. For a few years now, I have been developing a games-based approach to teaching important grammar concepts. It is amazing how the introduction of dice takes the learning into a new place - the element of chance making it seem less like work and more like play. Because I test my games extensively in the classroom, I get a feel for what works. Dump your boring worksheets and start dicing with grammar.
It's simple really: English grammar can be a very dry subject, but this need not be the case. For a few years now, I have been developing a games-based approach to teaching important grammar concepts. It is amazing how the introduction of dice takes the learning into a new place - the element of chance making it seem less like work and more like play. Because I test my games extensively in the classroom, I get a feel for what works. Dump your boring worksheets and start dicing with grammar.
Orally rehearse the language of persuasive writing and balanced discussion before writing using these dice games, model texts, planning frames and toolkits.
Throughout Key Stage 2, children are expected to take part in debates and compose one-sided arguments or balanced discussions.
To be successful at this, children need plenty of opportunities to use the language of argument. Connecting phrases such as ‘it is obvious that’, ‘other people claim that’ and ‘opponents of’ need to be orally rehearsed as children do not encounter them regularly in their daily lives.
This fully planned session, complete with a presentation and a fun dice game, will give children the experience of using the language of argument in a purposeful way.
Use this session prior to any ‘argument’ style writing and it will give children the tools to be successful.
*I have now added ‘Whose side are you on? Advanced’. This version is for 4 players and enables children to create full balanced discussions orally. The patterns they use exactly mirror the structure of a written balanced discussion.
**I have also added a model text, a planning frame and a self assessment sheet for persuasive writing and a model text, a planning frame and a self assessment sheet for discussion writing.
***I have also added:
a one sided model text in favour of Victorian style child punishment (for children to argue against!)
a one sided model against mobile phones in school for children to argue ‘for’
a mobile phone fact or opinion sorting activity
a one sided model for animals in circuses for children to argue against
a one sided argument against computer games for children to argue ‘for’
a computer games counter argument activity
a computer games fact or opinion sorting activity
a for and against sorting activity linked with space
a for and against sorting activity linked with aliens
