A row of picture clues can help children practice first sounds while uncovering a Christmas sentence. Agree on the picture names before children write, then read the decoded line together.
At a glance
Say each picture name, listen for its first sound, and read the finished sentence.
1. Teach one clue
Name a picture and say the first sound slowly. Match it to a printed letter.
2. Review the picture key
Show where children can look if they call a picture by another name. Agree on the word for the code.
3. Solve the first word
Work left to right, recording one letter per picture. Blend the completed word aloud.
4. Read the whole sentence
Look at how the words fit together. If a word seems unfamiliar, return to its clues and check the letters.
5. Copy one line for handwriting
Use the finished sentence as a model. Let children copy a shorter part when handwriting is a separate goal.
A classroom example
In a fictional group, Bel names a picture gift instead of present. Her teacher shows the key and supplies present. Bel changes the first letter and reads the completed word.
Companion printable
The 25-page A4 landscape PDF contains 20 worksheets, a picture key, teacher directions, and sentence answers.

Leave a Comment