Description
Our Linking Words and Phrases Lesson Plan develops written expression and communication as students use linking words and phrases (e.g., because, therefore, since, for example) to connect opinion and reasons. The engaging activity prepares students to identify linking words while reading and utilize them appropriately in writing.
Classroom Procedure / Teacher Instruction Sample:
1. Warm up activity- Post /show two example intro paragraphs on the board. Hand out one sticky note to each student. Read each paragraph out loud, and then have students vote on which they preferred by placing the sticky note on paragraph A or B. Most students should pick B because it sounds more polished and flows nicely due to linking words/ phrases.
2. Explain that though it is a matter of opinion, writers using linking phrases/words create work that sounds better, has more flow, a better sense of timing, contrasting and is, in general, more clear. It helps readers connect to the text and characters.
3. Define linking phrases/words as words that join ideas together and show the relationship between them, such as first, lastly, meanwhile, and then, etc. Have students attempt to identify the linking phrases used in paragraph B. Highlight them or circle them on the board. Have students try to describe the relationship between the ideas, for example, “Finally, with a good book and a cup of hot cocoa, he would wait out the storm.” Say: “The word finally in the sentence shows a relationship to this action and all of the other actions that happened before it. Finally explains that this is the last action that the character took. It helps us know we are at the end of a series of thoughts or events.” Scaffold students through other examples in the intro paragraph.
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Common Core State Standards: Literacy.W.3.1c, , Literacy.W.3.2c, Literacy.W.3.3c, Literacy.W.4.1c, Literacy.W.4.2c, Literacy.W.4.3c
Class Sessions (45 minutes): At least 2 class sessions
Additional Resources:
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