Disappearing Words Memory Tool

In this activity, a Bible verse is written on a whiteboard or chalkboard so that children can read it aloud. This is done over and over. Each time the verse is read, one word is removed from the board.

Continue erasing words and repeating the verse, and soon, the children will know the verse without any words left.

Materials:

Chalkboard or whiteboard, chalk or whiteboard marker

Preparation:

1. Choose a verse to be memorised.
2. Write the entire verse and Scripture reference on the board.
3. Talk about the meaning of the verse. Define any words that the children may find difficult to understand.

Instructions:

1. Have the children repeat the verse along with you (including the Scripture reference) multiple times until they are familiar with it.
2. Erase one of the words and then have everyone say it again as if the missing word was still there.
3. The children continue to say the verse over and over as you continue removing more and more words.
4. Be sure to praise their success and encourage them every step of the way. Actually, I think you WILL be amazed. The children will soon be able to say the verse even though there are no words left in front of them.

Adaptations:

Disappearing Cards:

• Write each word of the verse on a separate piece of paper.
• Place the cards on a flat surface (like a table) in order.
• Repeat the verse as above but remove one card each time.

Disappearing Post-it Notes:

• Write one word each on individual Post-it notes.
• Attach the notes to a surface, such as a wall, in order.
• Reapeat the verse as above but remove a Post-it note each time.

Disappearing Words in the Sand:

• Write the words of the verse in the sand.
• Repeat the verse as above but wipe out one word each time.