Understanding and Using Question Words
Understanding and Using Question Words Objective: Students will learn to recognize and use question words such as who, what, where, when, why, and how in simple sentences to ask and answer questions.
Learning Objectives
- Identify common question words in spoken and written language.
- Use question words to ask simple questions about a story or daily experiences.
- Respond to questions using complete sentences.
Materials Needed
- Picture cards illustrating different question words (who, what, where, when, why, how)
- Simple storybook with clear question and answer sections
- Paper and crayons or markers
Key Vocabulary
- Question Word
- Words used to ask questions, such as who, what, where, when, why, and how.
- Who
- Used to ask about a person.
- What
- Used to ask about things or actions.
Detailed Activities
Introduction to Question Words
- Show picture cards with question words one at a time and say the word clearly.
- Explain what each question word asks (e.g., ‘Who asks about people’).
- Ask the child to repeat the words and give an example question for each.
Question and Answer Read-Aloud
- Read a simple storybook aloud, pausing to ask questions using the question words learned.
- Encourage the child to answer questions using full sentences.
- Discuss the answers and why the question word fits.
Create Your Own Questions
- Using paper and crayons, have the child draw a picture about their day or a favorite activity.
- Help the child form questions about their picture using question words.
- Practice asking and answering these questions together.
Parent & Instructor Notes
- Encourage your child to listen carefully and speak clearly during activities.
- Be patient and offer examples when your child struggles to form questions or answers.
- Make the learning fun by using real-life examples and everyday conversations.
Assessment Questions
- Can your child name three question words?
- Can your child ask a question using the word ‘who’?
- Can your child answer a simple question using a complete sentence?
Extension Ideas
- Play a question word scavenger hunt by finding items around the house and asking questions about them.
- Create a question word matching game with written words and pictures.
- Use question words in daily routines, like mealtime or playtime conversations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Try explaining the question word with simple examples and relate it to things your child knows. Repetition and practice will help.
Model complete sentences when you ask or answer questions and gently prompt your child to do the same.
Teacher’s Guide
Common Misconceptions:
- Children may confuse question words with similar sounding words.
- Children might respond with single words instead of full sentences.
Scaffolding Ideas:
For Struggling Students:
- Use more visual aids and repeat the question words frequently.
- Simplify questions by focusing on two or three question words at a time.
For Advanced Students:
- Encourage forming questions with two question words or adding descriptive words.
- Introduce simple answers that include more detail, such as why or how something happens.
Pacing Recommendations:
- Spend extra time on introduction if your child is new to question words.
- Allow breaks between activities to maintain attention.
- Review question words regularly in short sessions to reinforce learning.
Standards
- K.L.5a — Demonstrate understanding of frequently occurring verbs and question words by acting out or responding to them.
Printable Worksheet
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