Scrabble in the Classroom

If you are a teacher, searching for a creative way to improve your student vocabulary, spelling skills, math skills, dictionary skills and cooperative learning, consider the classic game of Scrabble®.

The School Scrabble® Program was founded, in 1991. Today, more than 20,000 schools participate in the program. (That's more than 1 MILLION children, nationwide!)

This program is beneficial to all types of students. They have been multiple instances of special education students competing against mainstream students... and winning the competition. There are also many instances of top students, in this program, who are invited to compete in the Annual National Scrabble® Championship.

Teachers and parents, alike, are more than a little bit pleased at the rate of success of the program. Teachers will tell you that their students are much more interested in English. Parents report that their children are asking for items like Scrabble® dictionaries, games, calendars and timers of their own. (This is pretty amazing, considering the fact that we are living in the age of video games.)

It's easy to get started in the program. First, order the School Scrabble® Kit. This kit consists of the following:

~ 6 deluxe game boards (modified)

~ Tiles and tile racks for each board

~ Official Scrabble® Players dictionary

~ Introduction Video

~ Teachers Guide

The cost for the kit is currently under $50. You may also visit the School Scrabble® Association's online catalog, for additional items such as pens, pencils, post-it notes, mouse pads and more.

Once you receive the kit the second step is to actually participate in the program. There are free tournament supplies including: score cards, designation forms, word challenge slips and more. There are also lesson plans and a variety of teaching ideas that meet nationally mandated goals. Message boards are available, as well.

Step three is to participate in some sort of tournament. This can range from local classroom competitions, extracurricular meets, statewide tournaments, etc. Remember, practice is the key. Each spring, students in grades 5 through 8 have the opportunity to compete for a spot in the National School Scrabble® Championship.

If your classroom is lucky enough to win a chance to compete in this fun-filled event, there are many ways to raise funds to attend these educational festivities.

Of course, you can always host a traditional fundraiser such as a car wash or bake sale. Or, come up with something a bit more creative. Raffle off several dinners for two, have a karaoke party or host a Chinese auction.

Even if you decide not to take your class to championship level, using Scrabble® in the classroom is a very W-I-S-E decision. Take the simple steps to enroll your classroom, today!