Perfecting Apostrophes CD-ROM

Subject: English Language
Level: Secondary
Age Group: 11-14 and 14-16
Order Number: 5300

This resource combines teaching notes and learners resources, which aim to correct the errors found in pupils’ work. Most errors are made by adding ‘apostrophe s’, instead of ‘s or ‘es to make a plural word – hence the starting point here – to teach all forms of English plurals and make sure that learners understand that: ordinary Plurals don’t need Apostrophes, before they progress to ‘apostrophe s’!

Originally the resources were presented to Literacy and ESOL teachers but although intended for adults from Entry Level to Level 2, and are also suitable for school children being ‘hands-on’ and easily divided into three sessions..

Session One – could concentrate on teaching plurals. There are singular and plural word forms to be matched with suggestions for less able and faster learners. Spelling rules are presented and there are sentences to be changed from the singular to plural.

Session Two – could be ‘contracted words’ using the apostrophe of omission. Many of these words are given to be ‘expanded’ and practised. There are also two passages for learners to highlight the words using apostrophes.

Session Three – could concentrate on the apostrophe of possession. The teaching notes show the progression from contraction to possession indicating that both rules have the same origin i.e. “the trees’ leaves” has been shortened from “the leaves of the trees”. The notes suggest how using the names of your learners can aid understanding and there are written exercises to be completed to give practice and test understanding.

Once purchased, the CD can be freely copied and networked throughout the school.