Standard: 2.L.2c – Use an apostrophe to form contractions and frequently occurring possessives.
Grade level: Grade 2
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Language
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on teaching students how to correctly use apostrophes to form contractions and possessives. Mastering this skill is essential for clear written communication and lays the groundwork for more advanced grammar concepts. Students should understand basic sentence structure and recognize common nouns and verbs before learning to use apostrophes.
After mastering this standard, students will be able to confidently use apostrophes in their writing, which will enhance their overall grammatical accuracy and writing clarity.
Common Misconception 1
A common misconception is that students may confuse possessive nouns with plural nouns, thinking that adding an ‘s’ always makes something possessive.
Intervention 1
To address this, provide students with side-by-side examples of plural and possessive nouns, and engage them in activities that require identifying and correcting mistakes.
Common Misconception 2
Another misconception is that students might place apostrophes incorrectly in contractions, such as writing ‘do’nt’ instead of ‘don’t’.
Intervention 2
Using visual aids like charts and repetitive practice can help students remember the correct placement of apostrophes in contractions.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should be familiar with basic sentence structure and have a foundational understanding of nouns and verbs.
Subsequent Knowledge
Students will develop the ability to use apostrophes correctly in their writing, improving their overall grammar and writing skills.
Instructional Activities
- Create a chart with examples of contractions and possessives.
- Write sentences that include both contractions and possessives.
- Play a matching game where students pair words to form contractions.
- Conduct a peer review exercise where students correct each other’s use of apostrophes.
