WHY TEACH WORD BUILDERS

Word Builders are prefixes, suffixes and root words. Learning to identify these common parts that make up words is an important language skill that promotes both reading comprehension and mastery of complex science concepts. Teaching children to use Word Builders builds confidence and empowers children to take ownership of their learning.

HOW TO USE WORD BUILDERS

Word Builders are a simple, easy & impactful addition to any science curriculum or enrichment. Here are some ideas for incorporating Word Builders:

• Choose one Word Builder to focus on each month. Challenge your child to notice words that contain the Word Builder throughout the month.

• Match a few Word Builders to each unit of your existing science curriculum or enrichment. Have your child complete relevant Word Builders activities before starting each new unit.

• Let your child pick one or two Word Builders to complete each week. It's ok if your child wants to repeat the same Word Builder multiple times. It's great actually! Repetition is integral to solidifying language skills.

• Use Word Builders as an enrichment activity after completing a science assignment, after school or during the summer.

WHEN TO START TEACHING WORD BUILDERS

It's never too early to start teaching children strategies to decode language.  Word Builders Jr. are designed to be appropriate for all elementary-age children. Children love the interactive game format and guessing what each Word Builder means before flipping the flashcard over. Emerging readers may need some help with reading directions, but will do great with completing the activities independently. Independent readers can easily complete the activities on their own.