Mad Libs is a game we all remember from childhood, as individuals identify various parts of speech -- nouns, verbs and adjectives to create a funny story. Modify Mad Libs by removing linking verbs and inserting blanks. Students may then practice identifying other parts of speech as well as the new linking verbs to complete these fun-filled stories.
Many students are musical learners by nature. Singing allows students to memorize lists of words in an organized way. Students are then able to recall the terms in daily use. The website Proteachers suggest using common songs, such as "Jingle Bells" and "London Bridge," to help students memorize and list common linking verbs. You may elect to create your own song or may provide students the opportunity to create their own raps or lyrics to teach their peers these new words. Creating their own music gives students ownership in their learning.
SWAT is a game teachers use to help students learn new concepts. Played with two fly swatters and teams of students, the game has teachers post words or concepts they intend to practice. Teachers provide clues or questions about these concepts and students respond by swatting the correct answer posted in the classroom. Whether swatting new vocabulary or selecting types of words, this game allows students and interactive means of learning.
To use this game for learning linking verbs, project, write or post the words "Linking Verb" and "Other" on the board. Other may include a specific type of verb students are studying or be an all-inclusive group of verbs. Bring pairs of students up to compete from teams. Read sentences containing various types of verbs based on what your students have been learning. Students will then "SWAT" their decision with fly swatters. Teams earn points with correct answers. If both students SWAT the same answer, the student whose swatter is on the bottom will earn the point.
Finish My Sentence is a game where teachers begin a sentence and students use linking verbs to complete the thought. The teacher might say, "The bear..." and a student would answer by replying "...was hungry for his lunch." Students may also work in pairs giving each other sentence starters and allowing their partner to complete the sentence. This game allows students to be creative while practicing a new skill. After students work in pairs, teachers may provide students the opportunity to share their favorite sentences with the class.