Here we are with another post to add to our grammar teaching post series! This time, the focus is on teaching kids pronouns! Kids usually are able to catch on to what nouns are pretty quickly, but pronouns can be a bit more difficult. Read on for tips & tricks to make this grammar skill stick!

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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 pronouns?

To put it simply, pronouns take the place of the proper name of a noun in a sentence. This makes it so writing about a noun doesn't sound repetitive. For example, if we are writing a story about Grandma, we wouldn't want to use the word Grandma repeatedly:

My grandma makes the best cookies.

Grandma makes chocolate chip and sugar cookies for the holidays.

Grandma likes to make cookies for my birthday too.

I love helping Grandma bake.

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That is a lot of Grandma mentions! Now, check out the same story using pronouns:

My grandma makes the best cookies.

She makes chocolate chip and sugar cookies for the holidays.

Grandma likes to make cookies for my birthday too.

I love helping her bake.

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Using “she” and “her” to replace the word “grandma” made the writing sound less repetitive and gave it a better flow.

Pronouns Chart

Use this handy dandy chart when teaching the different types of pronouns. The words for each type of pronoun will be useful to share with your class.

Whole Group Lesson: Introduce an Anchor Chart

When teaching pronouns, try to create an anchor chart as a class, similar to the one pictured below. Another idea is to create student-sized ones for kids to keep handy. Then, they can reference their very own chart when writing independently.

Make sure to remind students to look at the chart/poster to keep their writing from being boring!

Resources for Teaching Pronouns

Need a little help teaching this skill? Check out the resources below.

Videos

1- Pronouns- Grammar Songs by Melissa

This video is an easy to understand and image filled to give a clear introduction to using pronouns.

2- Pronouns Song-Silly School Education

Who doesn't love to learn using songs?!

3 – Demonstrative Pronouns Song, Leah May Linomta

This catchy song will be stuck in your head all day!

Books

We have included Amazon affiliate links below. If you click and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

1- If you were a Pronoun

This fun book by Nancy Loewen puts kids in the shoes of a pronoun!

2- I and You and Don't Forget Who: What is a pronoun?

This book by Brian Cleary is a great choice if your students love a dash of humor in their lessons!

Centers & Small Group Activities

Practicing grammar skills independently is a must for mastery! (Also these activities could be beneficial in small groups for students who need it!)

1st/2nd Grade Grammar Centers

The “Pronouns Replace It Strips” Center has students replace a proper noun name with a pronoun and record their answers.

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Other 2nd Grade Grammar Skills:

If it's time to teach a different grammar skill, click the button to check out these amazing posts in our grammar library.

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Happy teaching!