As elementary teachers and reading specialists, we know the importance of building a strong foundation in phonics. Digraphs—those tricky two-letter combinations that produce one sound—can be particularly challenging for early readers. However, with the right tools, we can help our students develop fluency and confidence. One effective strategy I recommend is using digraph strips and digraph tents in your daily reading drills. Lets boost fluency by incorporating these digraphs strips and tents. My students are HUGE FANS of this activity!
Why Focus on Digraphs?
Digraphs like sh, ch, th, and wh are commonly found in many early reading words, but they can trip students up as they transition from basic phonics skills to more complex decoding. Mastering digraphs helps students read more fluently and with greater comprehension, setting them up for success in more advanced texts.
The Power of Repetition and Drills
Drills might seem old-fashioned, but when done in short, engaging bursts, they are highly effective for reinforcing phonics patterns. Digraph strips and tents are the perfect tools for this. By practicing with these tools regularly, students are able to quickly recognize digraphs, leading to automaticity—a crucial step in building fluency.
How Digraph Strips and Tents Work
Digraph Strips: These are easy-to-use strips featuring digraphs. Students can move their finger or a pointer along the strip pointing to the digraph they hear in the word I orally say aloud. This repeated practice helps reinforce the sound-spelling relationship of each digraph.
Digraph Tents: These are two-dimensional tools that stand on the desk or table, displaying a picture with each targeted digraph. Students hold up the tent to match the digraphs they hear in the word I say aloud. You can even use them in small groups or one-on-one sessions, allowing students to interact in a fun, tactile way.
Why Digraph Strips and Tents Are So Effective
- Engaging Visuals: The design of digraph strips and tents is visually appealing, which helps keep students focused and interested. Plus, the tactile nature of the tents adds a fun, interactive element to the learning process.
- Print-and-Go Convenience: You’re busy—we get it! That’s why the digraph strips and tents in my store are designed for quick and easy use. Simply print, cut, and you’re ready to teach. No prep is required, making these tools a hassle-free addition to your literacy toolkit.
- Flexible Use: Whether you’re working in small groups, using them in centers, or incorporating them into one-on-one tutoring sessions, digraph strips and tents are versatile enough to fit into any classroom routine.
- Builds Fluency: As students repeatedly practice with digraph strips and tents, they become faster and more accurate in reading. This fluency leads to better comprehension and overall confidence in reading.
Ready to Use in Your Classroom!
I’m excited to offer these digraph strips and tents in my store, and I know they will be a valuable asset to your reading instruction. Whether you’re just introducing digraphs or reinforcing them with struggling readers, these tools provide a print-and-go solution that’s both effective and engaging.
Head over to my store to grab your set and start building fluency with digraphs today!
If you need a fun game idea to use which can incorporate digraphs read this blog post. Have fun and let me know how it goes by tagging me on instagram.
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