LA 2.04Sound Sorting Baskets

1. 1

   Bring the basket to the mat and name each object together.

2. 2

   Pick up the sock and say, "Sock begins with /s/." Place it in the first empty basket.

3. 3

   Pick up the mug: "Mug begins with /m/." Place it in the second basket.

4. 4

   Take the next object, say its name with the first sound stretched, and ask, "Does it go with sock or with mug?"

5. 5

   If the child chooses the wrong basket, say both names again with the first sound stretched and let the child try again.

6. 6

   Continue until every object is sorted.

7. 7

   Say the names in each basket together: "sock, soap, spoon. They all begin with /s/."

8. 8

   Mix the objects and invite the child to sort them alone.

What catches the child’s eye

• Real objects to handle and drop into a basket
• Saying a full basket aloud and hearing the same first sound every time

Extensions, easiest to hardest

1. Three sounds in three baskets
2. Two sounds that are easy to confuse, such as /m/ and /n/, once the child is secure
3. Sorting picture cards instead of objects
4. Sorting by ending sound once the child plays I Spy with ending sounds
5. Placing a known sandpaper letter in front of each basket