There are many words in the English language that sound alike but are spelled differently. Homophones or homonyms, as they are called in school, can be tricky. Here are some strategies for helping kids learn correct homophone usage:


1. Review homophones frequently to keep them fresh in your students’ minds. Don’t assume that just because you taught the homophones once, your students will remember them. Keep the review interesting by including a wide variety of exercises. Possibilities include riddles, worksheets, card games, crossword puzzles, and sentence dictation.


2. Use graphic organizers to teach and review sets of homophones. Graphic organizers make it easy for students to understand the differences between homophones. The creativity and individual express involved in creating their own graphic organizer can help students remember the homophones being studied more readily. (Wondering what graphic organizers are? Check out these samples here:
http://www.all-about-homophones.com/homophones-graphic-organizers.html)


3. Homophones occur in English because there are often several ways to spell the same sound. For example, the sound of /r/ can be spelled with the letter R or the letter combination WR. The sound of long I can be spelled with the letter I or the combination IGH (among other possibilities), resulting in the homophones right and write. Explain to students how various sounds are spelled, and this will help them understand how to spell homophones.


4. Teach homophones in context. Use the words in complete sentences as opposed to simply defining the words, and the meanings of the words will stick better with kids. You can share riddles, stories, and literature excerpts.


5. Let students experience the thrill of homophone discovery with hands-on word games, fun discovery activities, and tongue twisters. Make them excited to come to your class, anticipating the next learning adventure. Half the battle is won when students come open and ready to learn, so make that the norm in your class!



Marie Rippel is the author of All About Homophones: Your Complete Tool Kit