Let's+talk+about+NOUNS!

(Here is where I would first introduce the different types of nouns).

What is the definition of a noun?

A **noun** is the name of a person, place, thing, or idea. A **proper noun**, which names a specific person, place, or thing, is almost always capitalized (North Carolina State University). **Common nouns** name everything else, things that usually are not capitalized (Where North Carolina State University is a specific place and is capitalized, an example of a common noun would be university because it is not a specific place and is not capitalized).

For practice we would play the NOUN GAME!

**NOUN GAME**:

**MATERIALS**: Letter blocks, and note cards with students names on them.


 * OBJECT: To learn about nouns (with a spin on it)! **

**HOW TO PLAY**:  1. Students are to stand behind their chairs.  2. I would draw a letter block (bucket full of them.)  3. Next, I would state the rule, for example, "You must give me a proper noun that starts with the letter "a" as in Albany, New York. (I can change what I'd like them to respond with for example: common nouns, names, etc.) I can also ask students to form a sentence beginning or ending with the noun.  4. Start calling students one by one to give me a word.  5. At the end of the round (after I've called everyone's name) I would pick a new letter block ...

This can continue until I think my students fully understand the concept.

Hopefully by the end of the game the students understand NOUNS! Ask students questions about what they learned. I would have them tell me the definition of a noun and give me an example to make sure they fully understand.

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// Hi, Hannah W., I like the interactive nature of the noun game. However, I encourage you to think further about a language exploration and awareness approach for your lesson. As you suggest, simply knowing the definition of a noun will be review for middle grades students, so how might you create a more engaging bridge/hook for the lesson, and how might you create a context for focusing on the concept? See my e-mail for further ideas. I look forward to reading more soon. Best, Dr. Y //