Venn Diagrams

We have been using Venn diagrams to show how all of the students are a like and different. We have also been using them to compare stories. After reading non-fiction text, we have used Venn diagrams to compare and contrast the topics of the books (eg. spiders vs. insects). We are using Venn diagrams with two and three overlapping circles. Zoo Logic will help students sort animals into the correct pens using the concept of a two-circled Venn diagram. The site does not specifically say that the zoo pens are Venn diagrams, so you will want to ask your child what the pens remind him/her of (guide them to the answer: Venn diagram). I am still searching for other games/activities to practice this skill online. If you find one of your own, please send it to me or post it in the comment section.

Language Arts Sites

We have been working on using periods, capitals, commas, exlamation points, question marks, and apostrophes correctly in our own writing. The students are really improving this skill. For fun practice with editing, we have been using the Power Proofreading site. With its game format, it is a fun way to practice. Have fun!

For children needing extra work with sight words, Professor Garfield is a wonderful place to begin. You can select stories rich with sight words, print them out, and let your child read away. There are Bingo cards, flash cards, etc. If you would like some of the stories, but do not have access to a printer, let me know. I can certainly provide you with what you need.

A fantastic way for "chapter book readers" to make their reading more meaningful and to get them to think about what they are reading is to have them make predictions every so often throughout the book. Scholastic Instructor gives detailed instructions for doing this. Encourage your child to follow these steps. Not only will it improve his/her reading skills, but it will also hone writing skills.