CONT 938 Culminating Task

month July 2024

3 Things About the English Language to Inform your Writing Instruction

Here are 3 things about the English language, that you may not have heard explicitly stated, that can help inform your writing instruction: 1 – The English writing system is morphophonemic. The spelling of an English word indicates both phonology… Continue Reading →

What is Phonological Awareness? How can I Support it in My Classroom?

Phonological awareness is crucial for teaching reading because it lays the foundation for understanding the relationship between sounds and letters, which is essential for decoding words. Children who develop strong phonological awareness can recognize and manipulate the sounds within words,… Continue Reading →

Summarizing Linguistic Diversity

Please see the website below for a summary on linguistic diversity, including sociolinguistics, considerations for teachers, and relevance. https://sd62languagediversity.my.canva.site

10 Tips for Teaching Syntax

Please see this list of tips for developing students’ control and choice over syntax in their writing.

3 Things to Keep in Mind When Teaching Vocabulary

Here are 3 less-evident things to keep in mind when teaching vocabulary in the classroom: #1 Student Prior Knowledge This CrashCourse video on semantics mentions that any definition starts to break down with exceptions. This is a good reminder that,… Continue Reading →

How Do we Acquire a Language? 1st and 2nd Language Acquisition

When thinking about how we actually acquire a language and develop communication skills, it’s important to differentiate between 1st and 2nd languages. Language acquisition involves a combination of innate ability and environmental interaction, and the influence of both of these… Continue Reading →

What is Orthography? Why Does it Matter? How Can I Support Orthographic Development?

Please see my video that discusses what you need to know about orthography – what it is, why it matters, and how to support it. Pause as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions about Phonological Awareness

Please see the attached document for answers to some anticipated questions that educators may have about phonological awareness.

Putting it all Together: Podcast on Syntax

Please listen to this brief podcast summarizing some important ideas about syntax, including its relevance, and practical strategies.

Sample Vocabulary Lesson – Grade 4/5

Please find attached a sample lesson plan for how a series of Tier 2 words from a mentor text can be taught in the intermediate classroom.

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