1. What do you need?
Let’s examine language without pronouns.
You have been seated in groups of four. Identify one person as a timekeeper at this this time.
In the center of your table, you will find 11 pictures. Do not look at the pictures. You have also been given a list of forbidden pronouns. You will need this list again later.
Give each person (except the timekeeper) 3 pictures. Do NOT look at the pictures. Each person should also have a list of forbidden pronouns.

2. What do you need?
Your picture contains what you or your family needs. You will have thirty seconds to accurately describe your item and who needs that item WITHOUT using words on the forbidden word list.
If you use a word on the forbidden list, your turn is over. Place the card in the Ziploc bag. If you run out of time, place the card in the Ziploc bag.
If you accurately describe your item without using the words on the forbidden list, you may keep the card.
The person with the most cards wins.
When your group is finished, complete the worksheet entitled, “What do you need?” It must be completed as a group. Each group member must write the answers. You do not have to write the questions.

3. Example: Miss Cruit’s Cheez-its
You might say something like…
Red box
Orange cracker
Eat for afternoon snack
Buy at grocery store

4. On Page 4 of Your journal:
Title it “Pronouns”
Write down this definition:
Pronoun: a word that takes the place of a noun
Examples: I, my, me, she, her, he, him, his, you, their, it, everybody, anyone, who, someone, each

5. Why are pronouns important?
Write a paragraph about your favorite song. Do not use any words from the forbidden word list.
Forbidden word list
I, my, me, she, her, he, him, his, you, their, it

6. Read, Read, Read
Read your paragraph to your group members.

7. Silent Reflection Respond in complete sentences, and write the questions.
1. What did you realize about your writing when you didn’t use pronouns?
2. If you had to give the definition of pronouns to another student, what would you say?
3. Can pronouns ever be overused?
4. How will you know when they’re overused?