New Year’s Phonics Activity

Here is a cute way to begin the New Year with the little ones (K or first grade).

Brainstorm words that rhyme with “new,” write them on paper, and place in the pocket chart (you can also use Post-It® notes and place them on the wall). When you have a dozen or so words, divide them into groups based on how the “oo” sound is spelled: “ew” — “ue” — “oo” — “ou” — “ough”

Do the same activity on a different day, using words that rhyme with “year” — possible endings are “ear” — “ere” — “e’re” (we’re). If your students are advanced enough, contrast the “ear” in the words “year” and “bear.” Think of any other words to go into these two categories.