Digraphs ‘ch’ & ‘sh’

Overview

This session is Lesson 5 of 16 in the unit "Blends and Digraphs Mastery" aimed at Primary 3-4 students (ages 7-9). The lesson focuses on exploring and practising the digraphs ‘ch’ and ‘sh’.

It aligns with the National Curriculum Programme of Study for English – Years 2 and 3, specifically the element:
Spelling: Pupils should be taught to spell by segmenting spoken words into phonemes and representing these by graphemes, focusing on common digraphs including ‘ch’ and ‘sh’.

Learning Objectives (WALT)

WALT: Identify and read words containing the digraphs ‘ch’ and ‘sh’.
WALT: Sort words according to their initial digraph (‘ch’ or ‘sh’).
WALT: Use ‘ch’ and ‘sh’ words correctly in spoken sentences.

Success Criteria

I can recognise ‘ch’ and ‘sh’ sounds at the beginning of words.
I can sort words into ‘ch’ and ‘sh’ groups accurately.
I can say a sentence using words containing ‘ch’ and ‘sh’.
I can use my phonics knowledge to spell simple words with ‘ch’ and ‘sh’.

Curriculum Links

English Programme of Study – Spoken Language and Reading (Years 2-3): Develop phonics knowledge; recognise common digraphs (National Curriculum, English).
English Programme of Study – Writing: Use phonics knowledge to spell words accurately.
English – Spelling: Pupils to learn to spell ‘ch’ and ‘sh’ graphemes in spoken and written words.

Resources Needed

Word cards with ‘ch’ and ‘sh’ words (e.g. chair, chip, ship, shell)
Sorting mats with headings ‘ch’ and ‘sh’
Whiteboards and markers
Phonics game materials (e.g. bingo cards, letter tiles)
Dyslexia-friendly fonts (e.g. Comic Sans or OpenDyslexic) for printed materials
Visual aids showing mouth formation for ‘ch’ and ‘sh’ sounds

Lesson Structure (30 minutes)

Time	Activity	Details
0-5 mins	Introduction & Hook	- Display letter cards ‘ch’ and ‘sh’. Use a simple chant: “ch, ch, ch - chip and chin”, “sh, sh, sh - ship and shell”. - Show mouth positioning picture to highlight sound difference. - WALT read aloud and discuss today’s focus.
5-12 mins	Phonics Game: Digraph Bingo	- Hand out bingo cards with ‘ch’ and ‘sh’ words. - Call out the words; children mark correctly. - Encourage children to say the word aloud emphasising ‘ch’ or ‘sh’ sound. - Use dyslexia-friendly fonts for cards. - Teacher circulates to support pronunciation.
12-22 mins	Word Sorting Activity	- Distribute word cards. - In pairs, students sort words into ‘ch’ and ‘sh’ mats. - Discuss why each word goes on each mat. - Challenge group: Find ‘ch’ or ‘sh’ words in a sentence story excerpt. - Support group: Use picture cards with word cards for matching. - Use whiteboards to write 1-2 ‘ch’ and ‘sh’ words each.
22-28 mins	Sentence Building Speaking Task	- Children orally create simple sentences using at least one ‘ch’ word and one ‘sh’ word. - Example: “The ship is near the shore.” - Teacher models with correct articulation and emphasises spelling.
28-30 mins	Plenary & Assessment	- Quick quiz: Show word, ask children to say if it starts with ‘ch’ or ‘sh’. - Self-assessment checklist: Did I sort words correctly? Did I use ‘ch’ and ‘sh’ sounds in my sentence? - Teacher provides verbal feedback and notes children needing additional support.

Differentiation Strategies

Learner Type	Adaptation
EAL Learners	Use visual aids, demonstrate mouth movements, use clear and slow pronunciation. Provide word-picture matching. Repeat words multiple times in different contexts.
SEN (including Dyslexia)	Use dyslexia-friendly font and coloured overlays for materials. Allow use of phonics mats for hints. Pair with supportive peer. Provide word cards with pictures. Break down sentences for clarity.
Advanced Learners	Encourage use of ‘ch’ and ‘sh’ words in written sentences or short story snippets. Include less common words (e.g. chalet, shroud). Have them create their own digraph word bingo cards.

Extension Activities (Optional for Advanced Learners or Homework)

Compose a short paragraph using at least five ‘ch’ or ‘sh’ words correctly spelt.
Find and list ‘ch’ and ‘sh’ words at home or in a book; share in next lesson.
Create a mini dictionary with drawings for 'ch' and 'sh' words.

Assessment Opportunities

Observation during sorting and games for correct digraph recognition.
Sentence speaking task assesses oral application.
Plenary quiz checks understanding and recall.
Written notes and whiteboard words provide evidence of spelling ability.

Teacher’s Notes

Emphasise that ‘ch’ and ‘sh’ are digraphs—two letters making one sound.
Use multi-sensory methods: visual (word cards), auditory (chanting), kinesthetic (sorting).
Encourage peer discussion to aid language development.
Monitor phoneme articulation carefully to support accurate pronunciation.

This detailed plan adheres closely to the National Curriculum for English and employs engaging, inclusive strategies tailored to 7-9 year olds. It also ensures learners with different needs can access and succeed in phonics learning.