Someplace To Go Without Moving: We Are Book Detectives! And Our Connection to Minecraft!

So many times we come across words where we don't know the meaning...and...we haven't charged our phone. Where is Google when you need it?! Well, there are ways to use context to help figure out the meaning of a word. And it doesn't require technology...just a little detective work.

In class, we are using our independent reading books, as well as our read aloud book, I Am Malala, to figure out the meaning of unknown words...without Google. We learned that many times authors tell you the meaning of the word in the actual sentence. Authors provide us with definitions and examples, synonyms/antonyms, and even allow us to substitute other words to see what makes sense, based on the sentence around that pesky word that's holding us back from enjoying our book.

So, all in all, we don't need Google to figure out the meaning of a word. Just put on your detective hats, grab your magnifying glass, and look for clues!

***On a side note, our 7th graders are going to the zoo tomorrow. I searched "context clues" in Achieve 3000 (a non-fiction article source with activities) and came up with an article about welcoming Kimodo Dragons to the zoo. Before my students complete the Achieve 3000 article and activity, I am going to "hook" them by showing them a short Minecraft video where the person creates an area in the zoo for Kimodo Dragons. He offers information on Kimodo Dragons and speaks to their needs, while constructing their habitat. We have now connected Reading to Science, to our field trip, and most importantly, to my students' interests.