Word sorts are an effective and efficient way of teaching reading and spelling skills! . Word sorts with pictures prompt student to think about the sound at the beginning of each word! The visuals and routine based nature of these activities are beneficial for children with autism and special needs! Check out my new resource – Initial Consonant Word Sorts. We have been using them on repeat in my class!
How to use word sorts? Work with students in small groups or have students complete word sorts independently. Word sorts with pictures prompt student to think about the sound at the beginning of each word. To begin the word sort – put the letters out first. Take each picture and have student place the word under the correct heading and say the letter and the word. Once each new word is added to column – start at the top and say all of the words. The repetition is effective in teaching letter sounds. A worksheet is included to provide extra practice or a means of assessment for when the word sort is done independently.
Why are word sorts so effective? Word sorts are effective because they provide repetition and visuals that are critical when learning reading and spelling skills. The visuals and routine based nature of these activities are beneficial for children with autism and special needs. These tasks are great to be used in direct instruction or small group learning. They are also useful for reading centers, independent word time, and homework.
How to setup and store word sorts? Laminate the entire page. Cut all pieces out. Tape two labels on the outside of the baggie. This makes storage and organization both easy and space efficient.
What’s all included in this resource? This set contains 20 Word Sorts in BOTH color and black & white versions. There is also a worksheet that can be used as a means of assessment for independently completed word sorts! This resource contains sequential initial consonant sorts (word sorts with letters in sequential order), common mix-up initial consonant sorts (work on discriminating between letters with similar sounds and common errors), and short vowel sorts (compare short vowel sounds within words).
Check out the video product preview to see all pages of Initial Consonant Word Sorts:
- Planning for the Fall: Part 4 and 5 – Visually Structured Tasks and Routines - January 30, 2026
- Using TAH Curriculum for Homeschooling from a Homeschooling Parent - September 10, 2022
- Using The Autism Helper Curriculum for Homeschool - August 8, 2022
