Word Parts Chart (see attached example)

Charts are an easy way for students to organize information and for teachers to observe a student's thinking. Students can record words they do not know the meanings of on the chart. They can then use the various word parts that make up the word to help determine its meaning. This chart will help draw the student's attention to the various word parts and ensure they are using this important strategy to help them determine the meanings of various words.

Sticky Note Flags

Students can use sticky note flags to mark words in their text that they do not know the meanings of. This will slow down their reading and allow them to take the time to look at the word parts that make up a particular word. The student can then use those word parts to determine the meaning.

Conferring

• Before asking students to read from their good fit book, ask if they have recorded or marked any unfamiliar words. If so, ask the student what word parts they noticed, what the word means, and how they used the word parts to infer the meaning of the word.
• Ask students to read a portion of their good fit book.
• While listening to the student read, invite students to stop at any unfamiliar words, break those words down into word parts, and infer the meanings of those words.