Sound Squash
Skills: Gross Motor, Letter Recognition, Letter-Sound Knowledge, Phonological Awareness, Phonics
Educator writes letters on a small pumpkin, squash, or gourd (a ball or balloon could be used as a substitute). Students sit in a circle and gently toss or pass the squash to one another. When a student catches it, they identify the letter under their thumb, say its sound, and give a word that starts with that letter.
- Educator selects letters that students are working on or familiar with
- Listen to students as they name the letter and/or the letter sound to determine if support or extension is needed
- Educators differentiate by inviting students to say letter names, letter sounds, words beginning with the letter, or all three
- Support students by providing letter and letter sound cues
- Small pumpkins, squashes, or gourds
- Permanent marker
