Blending Words Together

Token Blending

Begin with blending 2 sounds, a vowel and a consonant together. I like to start with tokens, or poker chips, that will represent letters instead of using the letters themselves.

Example:

Place 2 poker chips in front of you. These two chips represent 2 sounds - /a/ /t/. As you say /a/, place your finger on one chip and pull it toward you. As you say /t/, pull the second one toward you, placing it right beside the first chip. Next place your finger under the first chip and slide your finger under both of the chips while sliding the sounds together.

Continue with several words, allowing the student(s) to help you blend these together. When students are confidently helping, have them try some on their own. Always give students as much help as they need, and then take that help away when they are ready.

This activity is ideal for small group or one-on-one work, but it can also be used whole group with the help of an elmo or overhead projector. Try this activity with 3 and 4-sound words after 2-sound words are mastered. Use a combination of real and nonsense words.

Blending Creation

Materials: alphabet letters, 2-3 bags Directions: Place vowels in one bag, and consonants in another bag. Have students choose one vowel and then one consonant, place them beside each other, and read the new word. Have students read several words, providing help where needed.

After 2-letter words are mastered, fill the 3rd bag with more consonants. Continue with the same activity, always placing the vowel in the middle.

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