What's The Point
Exploring words, their meanings, and how they relate to other words helps build vocabulary and writing skills. Collect your own “word bones” from newspaper headlines and have some fun with them by creating silly sentences.
In the Park with Skits – Build vocabulary as you find hidden objects with Skits.
Word Spinner app for iPad – Martha hosts a family-friendly multiplayer game that combines elements of party classics.
This Activity Will Help Your Child
- Build vocabulary and writing skills
- Learn about sentence structure
- Max's Words
by Kate Banks
- Extra! Extra! : Fairy-tale News from Hidden Forest
by Alma Flor Ada
Crayons or markers
How Do I Do It?
Collect Your Newspaper “Word Bones”
- Look through a newspaper with your child and identify at least 10 headlines your child likes best. For example, headlines with interesting words, creative phrasing, or familiar places and people.
- Cut apart the headlines, word-for-word, and then set them aside.
- Talk with your child about the meaning of each word. Use them in sentences, just like Martha does.
Build Your Silly Sentences
- Using your headline “word bones,” help your child create at least five sentences. Be creative. Be silly. Experiment with different phrases.
- Glue the sentences onto the white paper.
- Invite your child to create a picture to go along with each sentence.
Note: If a paper newspaper is not available, this activity can be adapted by using an online newspaper. Your child can print out or copy the headlines.
Take It Further
Select one of your silly sentences and turn it into a silly story. Take turns with your child adding sentences to your original silly sentence until you have built it up into an entire story!