Homophones are words that sound alike but are spelled differently, like bear and bare, weak and week. There are thousand of homophones, and to become proficient at selecting the correct word for the circumstances, children generally need practice.
The Homophone Machine is a free online tool that kids find irresistible. It can be a fun introduction to homophones and homonyms. You can also use it yourself to get a child's-eye view of spelling! You'll see for yourself how confusing the English language can be to students and English language learners. Visit the Homophone Machine here.
Here's how the machine works:
1. Type any sentence or paragraph into the top box on the Homophone Machine.
2. Click the "Convert" button.
3. Out pops your newly converted sentence! All words which have homophones are converted.
Type in the sentence, "I would like to show you my new horse." You'll be presented with the new sentence: "Eye wood like two show ewe my knew hoarse."
You and your students are sure to get some giggles at the results they get with the Homophone Machine! The more you play with this homophone converter, the more amazed you will be at the sheer number of these words we use in everyday writing.
More ideas for practicing correct homophone usage include:
- Interesting worksheets
- Crossword puzzles
- Card Games
- Graphic Organizers
- Puns and Riddles
Marie Rippel is the author of All About Homophones.
