Dictionary Skills: Alphabetical Order

Dictionary skills give children independence in spelling and vocabulary. Learning to use reference tools is a lifelong literacy skill.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Language
• Learning area: Word Study
• Level: Ages 5-6

Objectives

• Arrange words in alphabetical order
• Use guide words in a dictionary
• Look up word meanings and spellings
• Build reference skill independence

Materials

• Child-friendly dictionary
• Word cards for alphabetizing
• Alphabet strip for reference
• Dictionary scavenger hunt cards

Instructions

1. Review alphabet order with song/strip. 2. Sort 5 word cards alphabetically by first letter. 3. Progress to second-letter sorting (bat, bed, big). 4. Introduce dictionary: cover, guide words, entries. 5. Model looking up a word. 6. Dictionary scavenger hunt: find 5 words. 7. Use for spelling reference during writing.

Educator tip

Make dictionary use natural and frequent. When a child asks 'How do you spell...?' respond: 'Let's look it up together!'

Assessment

Child alphabetizes words and locates words in a dictionary independently.

More from Language

• Word Origins: Borrowed Words
• Spelling Investigations: Why Is It Spelled That Way?
• Riddle Making and Solving
• Dramatic Play: Role-Playing Scenarios
• Simile Introduction: As ___ as ___
• Alliteration Fun: Tongue Twisters
• Sequence Retelling: First, Next, Then, Finally
• Cause and Effect Discussion