Decode the Secret Code and Explore Contractions

This crack the code style activity combines the excitement of a secret code with the challenge of forming contractions, making learning both entertaining and effective. This resource has been created by a resident teacher and is designed to captivate students’ attention while reinforcing their understanding of contractions. Students will match images with words and then create contractions with the pairs of words that correspond to the images. This activity not only enhances their grammar skills but also adds an element of mystery and fun to their learning.

Decode and Learn: Using the Activity in the Classroom

Here’s how you can integrate the Contraction Secret Code Activity into your teaching routine:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Preparation: Print the activity sheets, which include a list of images and corresponding words, along with spaces for students to write the contractions. You may like to laminate the list of images and words and the task cards so they can be used again and again. Then, all you need to reprint is the student answer sheet.
• Matching: Students first match each image with its corresponding word. For example, an image of a clock might be paired with “will,” and an image of a person could be paired with “not.”
• Creating Contractions: Once the words are matched, students write the contraction formed by each pair (e.g., “will” + “not” = “won’t”).

Classroom Implementation:

• Small Groups: Divide students into small groups and have them work together to crack the code. This encourages collaboration and teamwork.
• Individual Challenge: Use the activity as a solo challenge for students to complete independently. This is great for reinforcing individual learning.
• Competition: Turn it into a friendly competition where the first student or group to crack the code wins a small prize. This adds a competitive edge and motivates students to participate actively.

Download This Contraction Secret Code Activity Now!

Use the dropdown menu to choose between the easy to print PDF version of this resource or the editable Google Slide version of this resource.

This resource was created by Lindsey Phillips, a teacher in Michigan and a Teach Starter collaborator.

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