Direct, explicit, and systematic vocabulary instruction is one of the pillars of research-based reading instruction. Not only do we want students to know the sounds and spellings to be able to read a word, but we also want them to know the meaning. Using strategies such as categorizing, linking to prior knowledge, establishing new connections, making comparisons, and developing a student-friendly definition, all support students in expanding their vocabulary. This set of cards will extend your systematic phonics instruction by giving students the opportunity to apply knowledge of phonemes and closed and silent e patterns to read the word and then dig deeper into the meaning.

Use the cards to build a vocabulary word ring, a vocabulary word notebook, a literacy center, as a ticket out the door activity, and many other learning activities.