Split Digraphs and Magic E

EnglishPhonics & Word ReadingAges 5–7

Read and spell words containing split digraphs (a-e, e-e, i-e, o-e, u-e) where a final 'e' makes the preceding vowel long

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Teaching Table

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Read split-digraph words and spell a dictated sample with models hidden.

Activity

Follow this model in an accessible mode before attempting independent work. Graph ordering is not learner mastery; revisit prerequisites if the guided task still needs full modeling.

Policy

Check readiness rather than assuming source graph order establishes attainment.

Use word cards for reading only. Adult-only dictation scripts stay hidden. Accept accent differences and record any supplied sounds. Open Show (S), then Guided (G), then Try (T). Hide earlier work and keys before Try. Use only the supplied stage material; do not invent additional cards. Pause or split the session if needed.

Materials are ready in each step. Use them on screen or print just the current step. Put teaching examples aside before the learner tries.

What this lesson covers and its limits

These are bounded opportunities, not learner attainment. Partial and blocked source requirements remain so.

partial: Read and spell words containing split digraphs (a-e, e-e, i-e, o-e, u-e) where a final 'e' makes the preceding vowel long
Sample includes all five patterns across stages; no claim of complete exception knowledge or unaided spelling when cards are visible.
partial: Read words with split digraphs (e.g. 'cake', 'bike', 'home', 'cube')
Sample includes all five patterns across stages; no claim of complete exception knowledge or unaided spelling when cards are visible.
partial: Compare minimal pairs showing the effect of the split digraph (e.g. 'cap' vs 'cape')
Sample includes all five patterns across stages; no claim of complete exception knowledge or unaided spelling when cards are visible.
partial: Spell words with split digraphs correctly
Sample includes all five patterns across stages; no claim of complete exception knowledge or unaided spelling when cards are visible.
partial: Does {{name}} know that the 'e' at the end of words like 'cake', 'bike', or 'home' changes the vowel sound in the middle — making it say its name instead of its short sound?
Sample includes all five patterns across stages; no claim of complete exception knowledge or unaided spelling when cards are visible.

Sample includes all five patterns across stages; no claim of complete exception knowledge or unaided spelling when cards are visible.

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Read split-digraph words and spell a dictated sample with models hidden.

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Check understanding

Read words with split digraphs (e.g. 'cake', 'bike', 'home', 'cube')
Compare minimal pairs showing the effect of the split digraph (e.g. 'cap' vs 'cape')
Spell words with split digraphs correctly

“Does your child know that the 'e' at the end of words like 'cake', 'bike', or 'home' changes the vowel sound in the middle — making it say its name instead of its short sound?”

Curriculum record

Type: Procedural
Subject: English
Domain: Phonics & Word Reading
Age range: Ages 5–7

Standards

ccss-ela:RF.1.3.cuk-nc-2013:Eng_App1_Y1_17uk-nc-2013:Eng_App1_Y1_18uk-nc-2013:Eng_App1_Y1_19uk-nc-2013:Eng_App1_Y1_20uk-nc-2013:Eng_App1_Y1_21