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Year 3 - English

Practise and apply spelling homonyms

Prefixes, homonyms and homophones

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils learn spelling and grammar conventions associated with prefixes meaning 'not', like dis-, non-, mis- and un-, as well as the spelling of homophones, homonyms and some compound words.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to use a range of strategies to practise spelling homonyms.

Key Notes

  • A homonym is a word which has the same spelling but multiple meanings.
  • The meaning of a homonym is dependent on the context.
  • Using the strategy 'pyramid letters' is a useful practice strategy.
  • How to spell the curriculum word: surprise.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • homonym: words that have the same spelling or pronunciation as other words but a different meaning.
  • homophone: words that sound the same, but have different spellings and meanings.
  • pronunciation: the way a word or language is spoken, including the sounds, stress and intonation patterns

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Children may not understand the difference between 'homophone' and 'homonym'.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

A homonym is a word which has the same spelling but multiple meanings. The meaning of a homonym is dependent on the context.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'homonym'

words that have the same spelling or pronunciation as other words but a different meaning.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Children may not understand the difference between 'homophone' and 'homonym'. Correction: Give specific examples of homophones (e.g. hair and hare) and homonyms (e.g. bark) and discuss the differences.

More Lessons In This Unit

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