BIDDEFORD — On Thursday afternoon, hundreds of Biddeford Intermediate School fourth- and fifth-grade students tackled grammar rules even some adults struggle with ”“ like the proper use of who versus whom, as well as rhetorical devices such as hyperbole.
The event ”“ called the Grammar Fair ”“ was hosted by 26 University of New England students who are studying education. The teachers-to-be set up shop in BIS’s gymnasium from about 8-11 a.m., each using a colorful posters to deliver six-minute, interactive grammar lessons to rotating groups of BIS students.
At one stop, for example, the 9- to 11-year-olds were handed paddle-shaped signs that read “who” on one side and “whom” on the other, as well as signs that read “who’s” on one side and “whose” on the other. They were then tasked with showing the word that correctly filled in the blank for several sentences.
At another stop, the BIS students had to fill in the blanks by choosing between “then” or “than.”
“This is a way for them to do some teaching,” Lane Clarke, a UNE literacy professor, said at the event. “It’s a really great way for my students to practice teaching and for these kids to practice grammar.”
Lindsey Judge, one of the UNE students, gave a welcoming smile as groups of children piled up in front of her poster about conjunctions Thursday.
“It was a great opportunity for students who are learning how to be teachers,” Judge said on her way out of the school. “I had a blast, and I think the kids loved it, too. It was a good excuse for them to get out of class and do something educational.”
BIS Principal Deb Kenney said the event was a first for the school, and she’s hoping it ”“ as well as the school’s relationship with UNE ”“ will continue long into the future. “The kids love it. The teachers love it,” she said.
Jeremy Ray, the superintendent of Biddeford schools, touched on a similar point, as he enjoyed the tail end of last week’s event.
“UNE is a great supporter of our school department,” he said. “It’s awesome.”
— Staff Writer Angelo J. Verzoni can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 329 or averzoni@journaltribune.com.
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