Starters Phonics Worksheets (Pre-A1)
43 printable phonics worksheets · Starters (pre-A1)
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Starters phonics worksheets
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About Starters phonics worksheets
Children at Starters level are learning to read in English, often while they are still learning to read in their first language. They need to know the sound each letter makes, hear the first sound in a word, blend simple consonant-vowel-consonant words such as cat, pen and sun, and notice rhymes.
The worksheets use a picture for every word. Children circle the initial sound, match pictures to letters, color all the things that start with the same sound, sort rhyming pictures and read short CVC words to match them to images. Words come from the Starters word list, so phonics and vocabulary support each other.
Each sheet has an answer key. Print on A4 or US Letter, download the PDF, or share a class link for tablet use without logging in.
Teaching tips: Starters phonics worksheets
- Teach letter sounds, not letter names, first; children need /s/ rather than 'ess' to blend words.
- Start with a small set of letters such as s, a, t, p, i and n so children can build words quickly.
- Let children blend out loud with their finger under each letter before they match the word to a picture.
- Use a rhyme or chant for each sound and repeat it at the start of the lesson.
Questions teachers ask
Should I teach letter names or letter sounds first?
Letter sounds first, because children need them to blend and read words. Letter names can follow, especially since Starters children spell their names in the exam.
What is a CVC word?
A three-letter word with a consonant, a short vowel and a consonant, such as dog, bed or pin. CVC words are the first words children read by blending.
What if a child confuses b and d?
It is very common. Use a visual cue, practice with separate sheets for each letter first, and only mix them when the child is confident.