Homeschool Idea: File Folder Phonics Game

Mastery of the letter-sound relationship is essential for learning to read. According to Tampa Reads, the main reason behind a child's inability to decode words is because they can't recognize consonant and vowel sounds at the level where they can be blended. Teachers are turning to hands-on activities instead of simply passing out worksheets in order to reinforce phonemic awareness in fun, creative ways. One activity that my kindergarten class always enjoyed during "center time" or when they were allowed to choose games was the file folder sorting activity I created. While I used this in a public school setting, this file folder activity could easily be made in the homeschool setting.

What You Need: A box of brightly colored file folders, resealable sandwich bags, glue, a stapler, and cards for the sorts. (Access to a laminating machine is helpful because it will make the materials last longer.) I recommend at least 5-10 small pictures (or cards) that represent beginning consonant and vowel sounds. If you can't find a set of printable sound cards, you can make your own by finding pictures of items that begin with a sound and cutting them out, such as these. Printing the cards on cardstock will also make them more sturdy. (Tip: make sure the letter isn't printed on your sound card.) You can also make sorts for blends and digraphs once your student has mastered the basics.

Instructions: How you choose to decorate your file folders is up to you. When you open the folder, the right side should be designated for one consonant sound and the left for another. When you begin teaching the vowels, you can have one side for the long vowel sound and the other for the short vowel sound. Glue an alphabet coloring page or a picture of the letter to each side of the folder. Then I would staple a baggie on the inside of the folder somewhere. Each folder will house the sound cards for two letters.

Children will use the finished folders by taking the cards out of the baggie and laying them on the corresponding side of the file folder. Encourage children to only use one folder at a time so the cards stay with the correct folder.

Sources:
Tampa Reads