Mine Reading: Let's Learn Contractions With Minecraft!

In this one-time course, students will learn how to create and spell contractions, such as "didn't," "they're," "should've," etc. After learning what a contraction is and reading a variety of Minecraft-themed examples, they will practice combining words on their own. We will also explore unique or more advanced examples of contractions, like "'twas," "ma'am," or "Jack-o'-lantern," as well as discuss the difference between a contraction and a possessive noun, which may be spelled the same way. This is a perfect class for Minecraft fans who have basic reading skills and are starting to think more about spelling and grammar. The class will conclude with a game on Kahoot where students can test what they've learned. 

Please note that students will not play Minecraft in this class. I also recommend students participate in the Kahoot game using either the Kahoot site on a separate device or on a laptop/desktop, with the Zoom call in one tab and Kahoot in another tab. (Students who use a tablet or mobile device for class, which don't allow multiple tabs to be open at once, in this case must have two devices to participate in the game.) Kahoot is an interactive quiz website popular with many Outschool students, and they will access the game with a pin number I provide during class. There is no need to create an account or sign up for anything. If you think your student may have difficulty navigating between two website tabs or using two devices, it would be best if you could be there to help them out.

Depending on the age of the student, contractions may be a new concept, or this may be review. I have chosen to include an age range up to 10, since students often study this material throughout elementary school, and I can cater the material to meet the needs of more skilled readers if necessary.

Thanks, and I look forward to learning together!