Presentation

  1. 1

    Lay out the objects and name them together.

  2. 2

    Mix the labels face down in a pile.

  3. 3

    Turn over one label. Point under each letter and say its sound: "/c/ /a/ /t/."

  4. 4

    Say the sounds again, faster, and join them: "cat."

  5. 5

    Place the label next to the cat.

  6. 6

    Invite the child to turn over the next label and read it the same way.

  7. 7

    If the child sounds out but cannot blend, say the sounds faster yourself and let the child finish the word.

  8. 8

    When all labels are placed, read each one again together.

Extensions, easiest to hardest

  1. A second box with different short vowels
  2. Picture cards with separate word labels (pink series picture-word matching)
  3. The child writes labels for the objects

Control of error

The object: if the label does not match any object, or two labels land on one object, the child sees the mistake.

Ready to move on when the child…

  • Reads every label in the box and places it correctly
  • Blends sounds into a word without adult help
  • Reads a new CVC word without an object present

Guide note

Many children begin to read their own Moveable Alphabet words before this lesson; that is the sign they are ready.

Try “pink tower”, “tummy”, “diaper”, “grace and courtesy”, or “October”.