This activity targets phonemic awareness in CCVC words, specifically short vowels, although the structure of the activity will consolidate the consonant blends as well.

There are four sets of 45 cards:

1 - Word and picture

2 - Word and picture without the vowel sound

3 - Picture only

4 - Word only

I developed this activity some time ago and it has been so effective I have a number of sets to target similar skill deficits. My five CCVC posters are also included.

You will have your own ideas on how you can use it, but I start with the picture and word card to ensure the word is known and the picture is understood. Matching the word only and the picture only card uses picture memory with word decoding/memory. Using the cards without the vowel will ensure the short vowel sounds are practised when the beginning blends are introduced. Screening, using the word only cards, is an effective way to monitor progress.

When I want to develop discrimination of short vowel sounds I have made little post boxes but I have included a pocket that is easy to assemble. I believe the multi-sensory nature of sorting the cards contributes to phonemic skill development. I find short 'a' and short 'u' are the main culprits, but all the short vowel sounds should be mastered prior to introducing the long vowel sounds.

There are eight SNAKES and LADDERS Board Games included for consolidation and review.