Word Work

Build reading skills by zooming in on sight words, new vocabulary, and phonics once in a while. Here are three ways to get started:

Sight Words

There are two commonly used word lists that represent some of the most frequently used words in the English language: the Dolch list and the Fry list. Many of these words do not follow the rules of phonics and are best learned by sight. Challenge your students to learn a few a week by regularly using them as flash cards and by pointing them out during your read-alouds. There are great ready-made digital and printable flash cards on Canva.

Phonics

Create station, small group, or whole group activities that invite your students to play with letters and sounds. Rhyming activities and word-building activities are great places to start. We love file folder games like this one that can be created and set up for small group or independent play.

New Vocabulary

Before a read-aloud, highlight some new vocabulary your students will encounter and spend some time building context with pictures and discussion. Challenge your pupils to use those new words in drama, discussion, and writing later on!