Teaching digraphs and blends is a crucial step in helping students become proficient readers. The science of reading emphasizes the importance of direct and explicit instruction in this area. Here’s how you can approach it effectively.
What are digraphs and blends?
First, it’s essential to clarify what digraphs and blends are. A digraph consists of two letters that come together to make a single sound, like “sh” in “ship” or “ch” in “chop.” Blends, on the other hand, are two or more consonants that blend together while retaining their individual sounds, such as “bl” in “blue” or “str” in “street.”
How do You Teach digraphs and blends?
Teaching digraphs and blends can seem challenging at first. Start with direct instruction. Introduce one digraph or blend at a time, clearly showing how the letters come together. Use visual aids and engage students with multisensory activities. For instance, you could have them write the letters in sand or use magnetic letters to form the digraphs and blends.
Introduce the digraphs and make sure students can tell the difference between those using just the digraphs. Then you will want to start incorporating digraphs with closed syllables (short vowels), working on blending just 3 sounds, then going to blends and 4 and 5 sounds.
Explicit instruction involves modeling and think-aloud strategies. When reading a word with a digraph or blend, demonstrate how to sound it out, blending the sounds smoothly. For example, in the word “ship,” model how “sh” makes one sound, then blend it with the rest of the word.
Practicing digraphs and blends
Practice is key. Provide ample opportunities for students to read and write words containing the target digraphs and blends. Incorporate these into sentences and short passages to give context. Phonics games, flashcards, and word sorts are excellent tools to reinforce learning.
Regularly review previously learned digraphs and blends to ensure retention. Use cumulative practice activities that include new and old concepts.
Remember, patience and consistency are essential. Each student will progress at their own pace, and celebrating small victories will keep them motivated. Be sure to track their practice and provide more repetitions in small groups if needed.
By combining direct, explicit instruction with plenty of practice, you’re setting your students up for reading success.
If you want done for you lessons, activities, and assessments you can check out my “Teaching Digraphs and Blends” unit on TPT, which includes the FLSZ rule and glued sounds!
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