Mirage is an activity designed to encourage students to practice spelling words in a fun way. We know that one of the most effective ways to learn to spell a word is by writing/ reading it repeatedly. We know, too, that this type of drill can be monotonous and frankly BORING! I've used Mirage with both my fifth and sixth-graders with equal success. It can easily be adapted for any level.

Directions:

1. Students will need a sheet of paper and a writing utensil.
2. You will need a bucket of water, a sponge, and two folders or stiff pieces of cardboard.
3. Soak the sponge, wring out the water, and write a spelling word on the chalkboard with it.
4. Ask two students to come to the board and fan away the wet letters.
5. While the fanners are working away at making the word disappear, the rest of the students write the chosen word as many times as possible on their papers.
6. When the letters have evaporated, call "STOP!"
7. Everyone stops writing and counts the number of words they have written on their papers.
8. Award the student who has the most words with a small prize or bonus points for the next spelling test.
9. In the case of a tie, declare the winner the student who has the neatest handwriting.
10. Continue in the manner for as long as you choose or the students' attention dictates.

My students love to play this game the day before their weekly tests. It serves as an excellent review and is loads of fun.