This week in Year 3, we have been exploring how to use dictionaries to help us become more independent readers and writers. We linked our learning to the non-fiction text about Ava Lovedale, which inspired lots of curiosity and new vocabulary!
Year 3 learned how dictionaries are organised in alphabetical order and practised finding words by using the first and second letters. We talked about why this skill is important and how it can help us understand unfamiliar words when reading.
Everyone worked really hard to look up new vocabulary from the text and enjoyed the challenge of finding words quickly and accurately. It was fantastic to see their confidence grow as they used dictionaries independently.
Dictionaries help with reading because they make it easier to understand and learn new words.
When you come across a word you don’t know, a dictionary can:
- Explain the meaning so the sentence makes sense
- Show correct spelling, which helps you recognise the word next time
- Give examples of how the word is used
- Help with pronunciation, so you can say it correctly
Using a dictionary also helps you become a more independent reader, because you don’t always need to ask someone for help. You can find out yourself!
Over time, this builds your vocabulary, which makes reading easier, quicker and more enjoyable.
Help at home:
- Why not try reading a dictionary at home? Flick to a random page in the book and learn a new word. Can you use the word in a sentence?
- Read a book at home and use a dicitonary on any words you’re curious about.
Don’t have a dicitonary? Use https://www.wordhippo.com/
