Sounds of "st" and "sk"

Overview

Grade Level: 1st Grade
Subject: English Language Arts
Duration: 40 minutes
Curriculum Area: Reading: Foundational Skills
Standard: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RF.1.3.B - Decode regularly spelled one-syllable words

Objectives

• Students will identify and pronounce the consonant blends "st" and "sk" at the ends of words.
• Students will blend phonemes to read words with "st" and "sk" endings.
• Students will demonstrate understanding by creating a simple sentence using words with these blends.

Materials

• Chart paper or whiteboard
• Markers
• Index cards with images (star, nest, desk, mask, etc.)
• Word cards with "st" and "sk" ending words (e.g., fast, desk)
• Sentence strips
• A small prize or sticker for each student

Lesson Structure

Introduction (5 minutes)

1. Greet Students: Begin with a friendly greeting and ask how everyone is doing to create an inviting atmosphere.

2. Objective Introduction: Briefly explain that today we are learning about two special sounds: "st" and "sk" at the end of words. Use hand gestures to mimic the sounds.

3. Engage Class: Ask students if they can think of any words that end with "st" or "sk" and write a couple of examples on the board.

Direct Instruction (10 minutes)

1. Phonemic Awareness Activity: Demonstrate how to break down a word and emphasize the ending sounds. For example, say "fast" and segment it into "f-a-s-t," highlighting the "st" sound.

2. Choral Reading: Write a short list of words on the board (e.g., nest, risk, last, desk). Read each out loud together, emphasizing the ending sounds.

3. Model Blending: Show how to blend sounds using a few words. Stretch each sound and then blend them together. For example, "m-a-s-k" to "mask."

Guided Practice (10 minutes)

1. Picture Card Matching: Distribute picture cards and word cards to students. Have them find a classmate whose word/picture matches theirs (e.g., a picture of a star matches the card "star").

2. Partner Reading: Pair students and ask them to take turns reading their words to each other, using their finger to slide under the letters as they blend the sounds.

3. Group Share: After a few minutes, have students share their words with the class, correctly pronouncing the ending blend.

Independent Practice (10 minutes)

1. Sentence Creation: Provide each student with a sentence strip. Ask them to create a simple sentence using at least one word with "st" or "sk" (e.g., "The fast cat ran").

2. Writing Time: Allow time for students to write their sentences, using picture and word cards for reference if needed.

3. Sharing Time: Invite a few students to come up front and share their sentences with the class.

Conclusion (5 minutes)

1. Review and Reflect: Gather everyone back together and quickly review the key points of the lesson, asking students to give examples of words with "st" and "sk" endings.

2. Assessment and Reward: Ask a couple of quick oral questions to assess understanding and hand out small prizes or stickers as a reward for participation and effort.

3. Closing Encouragement: Conclude by encouraging students to look out for more "st" and "sk" words in books and at home.

Extensions

• For students who grasp the material quickly, introduce more challenging words like "whisk" or "crust."
• For students needing more support, provide extra practice with additional picture and word card matching during quiet time or small group sessions.