Hearing every sound in a word (and spelling it)
Your child writes “ct” for cat or “sp” for stop: the first sounds are there, but sounds in the middle get lost. Hearing every sound in order (segmenting) is the key to spelling.
For: Parents, teachers and therapists of children aged 4 to 8
A cover page with the plan, then 9 worksheets in order (10 pages). Free, no sign-up.
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Save to PinterestWhy it happens
- Vowels in the middle of words are the hardest sounds to hear.
- Blends like st and fl hide the second sound.
- Children often write what they feel in their mouth, which is a good start.
What helps
- Say the word slowly and tap a finger for each sound.
- Use sound boxes: one box per sound.
- Write the sounds in the boxes, then the whole word.
- Practise vowels by contrast: cat, cot, cut.
The planstep by step.
1Sound boxes
One box for each sound.
2Middle sounds
Which vowel is missing?
3Write from sounds
Dictation.
When to ask for help
Ask the teacher if your child still cannot write the sounds of simple three-letter words by the end of 1st grade.
These worksheets are practice materials, not a diagnosis or a treatment. Every child develops at their own pace. If you are worried, talk to your child’s teacher, doctor or a specialist.
Questions
Questions about hearing every sound
Still have questions? Visit our Help Center or get in touch.
Should I correct my child’s spelling?
Related packs
Sources
The LetterSchool app
Between worksheets: practise in the app
The same letter shapes as this sheet, with instant feedback on every line, animations and stars. Children play, and learn the right formation.