Let them write sentences with them for a few minutes. Kids could read their sentences out and aloud while someone copies them on the blackboard. Check meaning and spelling. In general, students are not particularly fond of dictations. However, you may wish to give them one now and again to improve their spelling, their vocabulary range or their listening abilities.
Dictations are useful.
Your text should not be too long, as dictations require concentration and can be a bit stressing. It often helps if you care to read the whole text again at normal speed when the dictation has been completed, as this gives students a chance to check their work before you mark it. Let your students have the transcription of the dictation handy, so they can have a look at the text if necessary. Emphasize that they should be honest. We could say that stds.