Have you found yourself in a homophones teaching funk? Are your students just not understanding this important grammar skill? If so, keep reading this post set up as a “homophone how to for 2nd grade”, to learn tips, tricks and strategies to launch you and your students over this homophone hurdle.

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Enhance Literacy with Embedded Grammar Lessons

Research on the Science of Reading (SOR) dating back to the 1970s shows that teaching grammar as isolated rules doesn't effectively transfer to writing and speaking. What works better is embedding grammar within the context of writing. This is why our writing program Lucky to Learn Writing (LTLW) includes grammar skills integrated into writing lessons. This approach ensures that the same skills and standards are met, but in a meaningful context that connects with the rest of the literacy curriculum.

We also recognize the value of targeted practice and intervention to reinforce these skills. That's why we've compiled a list of our favorite grammar activities that provide additional practice and intervention opportunities. These activities are designed to complement our integrated approach, ensuring students have a well-rounded understanding of grammar concepts. Let's dive into these engaging and effective activities!

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What are Homophones?

The English Language is full of interesting words. With so many words, you would think that no two would be exactly alike. Why is it, then, that some words sound exactly the same?

Have you heard of homophones?

Have ewe herd of homophones?

Homophones are words that sound the same but have different spellings and meanings.

Examples:

Ate/Eight

Knight/Night

Sea/See

to/two/too

Games and Activities to Teach Homophones

Clip the Spelling

In this 1st grade grammar center, students will choose a picture card with two homophones. Using a clothespin, students will clip the correct homophone spelling.

Homophone Rockstars

A 2nd grade homophones grammar center that practices matching the correct homophone with a picture. This center could also be used as a whole class game – give each student one half of the card, and have them walk around the room to find their matching picture or homophone. Great to get students talking and moving with purpose!

Grammar Day by Day

A 2nd grade grammar worksheet with 5 days of spiral homophones practice that can be used as a writing center, small group, and homework.

Homophone Toothy

Use the Toothy task cards to sort the correct spelling of a homophone picture. Students love to play this game together, at centers, or in small groups. It even comes in a digital version for whole class instruction!

Homophone Jokes

Here's a little homophone humor for you:

What is ice cream's favorite day of the week?

Sundae!

Why couldn't the king fall asleep?

He needed his knight light!

What is a librarian's favorite color?

Read!

Challenge your students to write their own homophone jokes, and then share them with the class. Laughter and learning go hand in hand. If you love these jokes, check out our handwriting joke of the day practice pages.

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Homophone Videos and Songs

I Spy With My Eye…Homophones

Sing along with the Story Bots as you learn about homophones

By Bye Buy – Homophone Word Song

No, not that Bye, Bye, Bye song…this song is all about homophones!

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Tips for Teaching Kids Other Grammar Skills

Click the button to access ALL of our previous Grammar skills posts!