READING and WRITING OPTIONS 

Writing Options: Word Work

Connect Four Words, Names, or Rimes

 

Objective:

Played just like the "real" version of the game Connect 4.  Students partner up, select a chip (distinguishable from their partner's chip), and play begins when one player selects a "cell" from the bottom row on the game board.  The player must read the cell's contents correctly before placing their chip/counter.  Players should try to block their opponent.  Play ends when a player "connects" four cells in a row (diagonally, horizontally, vertically).  

Materials:

Recording Sheet: Blank Game Board Preprogrammed (numbers, words, names, letters)

Counters

When to Introduce:

After student names have been added to the WORD WALL, Name Bottles have been made for each student, and a NAME GRAPH is created, I then introduce this activity.

How to Introduce:

Divide class into partnerships.

Give each partnership a "Connect 4 NAMES" game board.

Give each partnership 2 different colored counters (one color for each player).

Model how to select a "cell" from the bottom row, how to read it, and how to place your counter over the cell if it is read correctly.

Discuss object of the game - "to connect 4 cells" diagonally, horizontally, or vertically.

Discuss how to block opponents.

Allow partnerships to play.

When finished, add the activity to the center.

Differentiating:

Have students write the names read.

Have students write a sentence for each name correctly read (word must begin with/end with the letter spun).

Storage Ideas:

"Connect 4 NAMES" game boards are laminated (or put into sheet protectors).

The game boards and counters are then put into a poly/plastic document envelope that is labeled with the activity picture and title.

The poly/plastic/vinyl envelope can be purchased at Wal-Mart, Target, or any other office supply store.

The envelope is stored in a "laundry" basket.