English Teacher's Book of Instant Word Games

While yes, the book isn't full of word "games", it is not your run of the mill grammar workbook. The grammar worksheets use witty humor and jokes to keep the students attention, and are much more entertaining than the typical grammar worksheets that come with the textbook. I often made transparancies of the pages to work along with the students.

I first came across this book in the library at the high school where I used to teach. I loved it so much I had to buy my own copy when becoming a homeschooler! Ruth Rice is intriguing, challenging (without a boring brain-drain), and enjoys a clever word-play wrapped in a smile. Such a combination of humor, insight into the language, and absorbing challenge is too good to pass up. I think you'll love Ruth Rice as much as I do! All activities are one page each, so this is easy to insert at the beginning of, end of, or any gap in a lesson. P.S. This is a better price than my school could get me, by about a $15 margin!

I highly recommend this book for teachers searching for the perfect way to fill those perilous few minutes after a test or before the bell on Friday. These activities allow students to think creatively and critically, and to draw upon other students' thoughts and suggestions. Because these activities are designed as games, my students absolutely love them. I offer them as extra credit; unlike a typical word search, these games have intellectual value. They focus on spelling, brainstorming, and creative writing skills, among others, but don't tell the students! They'd never believe that intense thinking and fun could co-exist!

My students enjoy these activities. There are plenty of suggestions that are appropriate for my junior high classes, and many could be adapted for other grade levels. Keep this near your "Substitute Teacher" folder--it's a lifesaver!