LET'S GET WEBBING!

Let’s explore how to use another popular graphic organizer today. You could model using webs for large group instruction, assign them for independent work, or use them for partner or small group projects. 

Webs can be done on any topic from science to literature, phonics, math, special friends – you name it! Webs can be done as a traditional bubble with lines coming off, or you can make webs that reflect your theme. For example: a spider shape, flower, tree, etc. Webs are open-ended and encourage creativity and thinking outside the box. 

Brainstorm – concept in the middle and then add comments

Phonics – letter in the middle and add words or pictures

Numbers – number in the middle and different ways to make that number

Shape – shape in the middle and objects that are made with the shape

Vocabulary – word in the middle with synonyms

Affixes – prefix or suffix in the middle with words made with the affix

Science or social studies– topic in the middle with facts

Writing prompt - facts to include

Special friend – child’s name in the middle with positive comments around

Assessment – This is a fantastic strategy to show individual learning. When you start a unit give children a sheet of paper and ask them to do a web about what they know on the topic. Date and save. At the end of the unit ask them to make another web with everything they’ve learned about the topic. Date and staple with the initial one. Send home with a note to the parents that says: “These webs show what your child has learned during our study of _____.”


How can you use a web today instead of a worksheet???

PARTNER PROJECTS

Almost anything children do alone will be more fun with a friend. Take a look at this list and you'll probably find at least five strategies you can use in your classroom.


Read together.

Look at books or magazines together.

Retell a story. They can also discuss who, what, where, when, why, the problem, resolution, what might happen next, etc.

Whisper a prediction in each other’s ear.

Review information after a science lesson, social studies, etc.

Clean up a center or each other’s desks.

Read around the room. Give them pointers and empty glasses frames for more fun.

Write the room. Give them clipboards and ask them to write words that would reinforce a skill you are working on. For example, they could write compound words, words with the “th” diagraph, two syllable words, etc.

Sing a song or say nursery rhymes together.

Help with dressing, such a zipping coats and tying shoes.

Draw a picture together. They could draw their favorite part of a story, illustrate a poem, draw a picture of their teacher, and so forth.

Build together with blocks, Legos, etc.

Play with play dough or clay together. They can make objects that begin with a certain sound, shapes, sets, etc.

Play a computer game.

Review flashcards.


Thank You Chant
When children finish working together teach them this chant to end on a positive note.

Hand to hand (Children high five both hands with their partner.)
and feet to feet (Children touch toes of shoes with their partner.)
thank you for being partners with me. (Children smile and shake hands.)