Contextualization

The Portuguese language is rich in rules and exceptions, and one of these rules is related to the use of the digraph SS. The digraph is formed when two letters represent a single sound, in the case of SS, the sound is /s/. This rule may seem simple, but it is fundamental for the correct spelling of several words in our daily lives.

To explore this topic, it is important not only to understand the theory but also to apply it in a practical and playful way. This will make learning more effective and enjoyable, helping you internalize the information in a more natural and lasting way.

Introduction

The digraph SS is used within words, mainly after closed vowels, such as in the words 'pássaro' (bird), 'cassa' (cabinet), and 'messias' (messiah). Knowing when to use SS is essential because there are words that, despite having the /s/ sound, are spelled with other graphemes, such as C, Ç, or SC. To identify when to use each one, it is necessary to know and understand the spelling rules of Portuguese.

However, like all rules, the use of the digraph SS has exceptions, and that's where things get even more interesting. Some words allow the use of both SS and SC or C, and knowing which form is more accepted or used can be a challenging task.

The study of digraphs and, more specifically, the digraph SS, is a fundamental part of Portuguese grammar and has a direct impact on correct spelling and good communication. This goes beyond the classroom, extending to all areas where written language is necessary: from writing a work email to preparing for college entrance exams and public competitions.

Practical Activity: The Digraph SS in Focus

Project Objective

This project aims to familiarize students with the proper use of the digraph SS in Portuguese words, while promoting collaboration and engagement through a practical and fun activity.

Detailed Project Description

Students will be divided into groups of 3 to 5 members, where each group will be responsible for developing a 'Journey of the Digraph SS', which will consist of a sequence of activities related to the Digraph SS.

These activities will include the creation of a 'Digraph SS Dictionary', a 'Digraph SS Game', and the presentation of an 'Essay on the Digraph SS'.

Required Materials

• Paper and pen for notes
• Grammar books or internet access for research
• Materials for creating a game (can be a board game, a card game, etc., depending on the group's creativity)
• Computer with word processing software for essay writing

Detailed Step-by-Step

1. Creation of the Digraph SS Dictionary: Each group should research words that use the digraph SS, taking into account the rules and exceptions. The dictionary must contain a minimum of 50 words and should indicate the meaning of each.

2. Creation of the Digraph SS Game: Using the words from the dictionary, the group should create a game with clear rules and objectives, where players need to correctly identify the use of the digraph SS. The type of game is up to the group, but it should promote interaction among players and review of the dictionary words.

3. Essay on the Digraph SS: Finally, the group should write an essay discussing the importance of the digraph SS in the Portuguese language, how it is used, the rules and exceptions, and how this was explored in the game created by the group. The essay should follow the structure of a scientific report, containing introduction, development, conclusions, and bibliography.

Project Deliverables

At the end of the project, each group must present:

1. The Digraph SS Dictionary, in physical or digital form, containing a minimum of 50 words and their meanings.

2. The Digraph SS Game, along with instructions on how to play it.

3. The Essay on the Digraph SS, written according to the structure of a scientific report, and in line with what was worked on in the project. Specifically:

   • Introduction: Should contextualize the theme, its relevance and real-world application, as well as the project's objective.

   • Development: Should explain the theory about the digraph SS, detail the activity (how the dictionary and game were created), indicate the methodology used, and finally present and discuss the results obtained.

   • Conclusion: Should conclude the work by summarizing its main points, explaining the learnings obtained, and drawing conclusions about the project.

   • Bibliography: Should indicate the sources they relied on to work on the project, such as books, web pages, videos, etc.

The total project execution time should be 5 to 10 hours per student, with a deadline of one month from the project start date.

With this project, students will learn in a playful and collaborative way about the digraph SS, while practicing important skills such as time management, communication, problem-solving, creative thinking, and proactivity.