Mark It!

Building academic language

Word

• Introduce or review the new target vocabulary words to the class by providing student-friendly definitions and using the vocabulary cards and glossary included in this lesson plan.
• Model using the new vocabulary words in a sentence (write practice sentences on chart paper) and have the students read chorally after you.
• Read the sentences again. This time, invite student volunteers come up and point to each word as you read.
• Repeat, this time having students place stickers under each word.

Sentence

• Display the worksheet and materials (stickers, markers, ink).
• Explain that you will put students in pairs and have them practice reading each sentence and marking each individual word using markers, stickers, or stamps.
• Go over any materials expectations and/or clean-up procedures before you begin.

Discourse

• Pair students up together and send them to work at their desk or tables.
• Midway through the work session, get students' attention. Ask students, "What would happen if you tried to read a sentence by looking at the individual letters instead of words?" Have them turn and talk and then share out.