12 WAYS TO TEACH KIDS TO USE QUOTES

So here we are again – students responding to their reading without textual evidence. I’m sure I’m not the only one frustrated that students aren’t citing their sources or going back to the text to support their claims and arguments.

It goes without saying that teaching kids to use quotes is a valuable skill that not only enhances their writing but also helps them develop critical thinking and communication skills. I’ve come up with a few creative and effective ways to teach kids how to use quotes in my classroom…and yours:

1. Introduction to Quotations:
   • Begin by explaining what a quotation is. Define it as the repetition of someone else’s statement or thoughts.
   • Show examples of quotes in books, articles, or even famous quotes from historical figures. I use Alan Lakein’s “Failing to Plan is Planning to Fail” every year. It just speaks to me.
2. Interactive Discussions:
   • Engage kids in discussions about their favorite books, movies, or historical events. Ask them to identify quotes that stand out to them and discuss why. This is a great group assignment I’ve done. It gets kids playing detectives, trying to find quotes to talk about.
3. Contextual Understanding:
   • Teach kids the importance of providing context when using a quote. Discuss how the meaning of a quote can change based on the surrounding text. Why was this quote said and significant? This forces students to read beyond the quote and look for its deeper meaning.
4. Famous Quotes Game:
   • Create a game where kids match famous quotes with the person who said them. This can be a fun and educational way to introduce them to different voices and perspectives. Maybe a Kahoot or Taboo game would be ideal for this adventure.

5. Quote Collages:

• Ask kids to create collages using quotes that inspire them. This encourages them to think about the meaning behind the words and express their thoughts visually. I love this one! This taps into other types of learning that gets every student involved, so the heavy lifting for the teacher isn’t that heavy at all.

6. Character Quote Analysis:

• Have kids analyze quotes from characters in books or movies. Discuss how these quotes reveal aspects of the character’s personality, beliefs, or motivations. This is always a winner, especially in advanced and honors classes. It’s not enough to say something, but you must prove it!

7. Personal Reflections:

• Encourage kids to reflect on their own experiences and express their thoughts using quotes. This helps them see the value of using quotes to support their ideas. Students get to put words to their lives and have something to use if they ever go through an experience again. Or better, they’re able to pass on this quote to someone else who may be able to use it to better their lives. A great way to give back and pay it forward!

8. Role Play:

• Create role-playing scenarios where kids take on the roles of different historical figures or characters. Ask them to use appropriate quotes in their dialogue.

9. Quote Journals:

• Have kids keep a quote journal where they collect quotes that resonate with them. Ask them to write a short reflection on each quote, explaining why it appeals to them. Have them include their teacher provided vocabulary, so it does the job of two standards at once. A Win-Win!

10. Incorporate Technology:

• Use educational websites or apps that focus on quotes. Some platforms allow kids to explore, create, and share their favorite quotes. How awesome would that be for students to see their original quotes online? Nice!

11. Guest Speakers:

• Invite guest speakers, such as authors or community leaders, to share their favorite quotes and discuss the impact these quotes have had on their lives.
• Also, provide quote sheet where students have to identify words, lines, expressions, and quotes used by this guest speaker. Then, have students discuss it later in class.

12. Creative Writing Assignments:

• Assign writing tasks that require kids to incorporate quotes into their stories or essays. This helps them practice integrating quotes seamlessly into their own writing.

Remember to adapt these activities to the age and learning style of the children you are working with. Making the learning process enjoyable and relevant will contribute to their understanding and appreciation of using quotes. Try it! It’ll change their response to their reading and analyses in your classes.

Hey, check these resources out! They will help getting your students to include textual evidence more effectively.