A foundational phonics unit focused on letter-sound recognition, short vowel identification, and co-creating CVC word family lists using interactive co-created anchor charts.
Science of Reading techniques for orthographic mapping, word blending, and extension games.
Target Grade PreK - 1st Grade
Teaching Blending with "Word Family Launchpads"
The launchpads separate words into **onset** (first consonant sound) and **rime** (the vowel + final consonant). Separating these parts helps early decoders who aren't ready to blend three separate sounds at once.
Real vs. Nonsense Strategy:
Test consonants systematically. Write b in the onset box for _at. Ask: "Does bat make a real word?" (Thumbs up!). Write z. Ask: "Does zat make a real word?" (Silly giggles!). Point out that blending works the exact same way for both!
Physical Blending Cues:
Model sweeping your hand in a fast slide from left to right. Say the onset sound isolated: /b/, say the rime: /at/, then slide your hand quickly: "bat!". Have children practice with their "blending slide" arms.
The Science of Reading Mapping Sequence (Stretch, Tap, Map)
For the "Stretch, Tap & Map!" chart, lead students through this highly structured multi-sensory progression for every single word co-created:
1 Stretch It
Say word slowly, pulling imaginary rubber band
2 Tap It
Press a tapper circle for each distinct sound
3 Map It
Write letters in the three Elkonin boxes
4 Write It
Write the unified word on handwriting line
Anchor Chart Review Games
🔍 Sound Swat
Equip two students with clean flyswatters. Call a sound (e.g. "/m/!"). The first to gently swat the corresponding letter box wins a point!
🏠 Vowel House Party
Point to a CVC word inside a vowel house. Have students read it, jump up, and shout the short vowel sound while doing the matching house gesture.
🚀 Launch Control
Shout a nonsense word (e.g. "Mug!"). Students decide if it goes to the -ug launchpad and spell the onset block with physical cards.
