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How to teach digraphs to kids?

Published in Phonics Instruction 4 mins read

Teaching digraphs to kids is a fundamental step in developing strong reading and spelling skills, helping them decode words more efficiently. Digraphs are two letters that represent one sound, such as 'sh' in "ship" or 'ch' in "chair."


What Are Digraphs?

Digraphs are letter combinations that produce a single sound. They are crucial for early literacy as they expand a child's understanding of phonics beyond individual letter sounds.

There are two main types:

  • Consonant Digraphs: Two consonants that make one sound (e.g., sh, ch, th, wh, ck, ph, kn, wr).
  • Vowel Digraphs: Two vowels that make one sound (e.g., ai, ea, oa, ie, ue).

Understanding digraphs helps children recognize common sound patterns in words, improving their fluency and comprehension.


Effective Strategies for Teaching Digraphs

Introducing digraphs requires a multi-sensory and systematic approach to ensure children grasp these unique sound-spellings.

1. Introduce Sounds with Visuals and Context

Begin by isolating the sound and connecting it to clear visuals.

  • Picture Cards: Utilize picture cards featuring words that clearly begin or end with the target digraph. For instance, when teaching the 'ch' sound, use cards with images like "chew," "chop," and "chin." As you show each card, emphasize the 'ch' sound at the beginning of the word. Repeat for other common digraphs such as 'sh' (ship, sheep), 'th' (thumb, think), and 'wh' (whale, wheel).
  • Decodable Books: Integrate decodable books specifically designed to feature consonant digraphs. These books allow children to practice identifying and sounding out words with new digraphs in a meaningful context, building confidence and reinforcing learning. Look for stories that repeat the target digraphs frequently. Learn more about decodable books.

2. Hands-On Word Building with Letter Cards

Once children can recognize the sound, move to building words.

  • Letter Card Activities: Provide a double letter card for the digraph (e.g., a single card with "ch") along with individual letter cards for vowels and other consonants. Guide children to combine these cards to build words containing the target digraph. For example, provide the 'ch' card, an 'i' card, and an 'n' card to form "chin." Extend this to other digraphs, like using 'sh' with 'o' and 'p' to make "shop" or 'th' with 'i' and 'n' to make "thin." This kinesthetic activity helps solidify the connection between the digraph and its place in words.

3. Multi-Sensory Reinforcement Activities

Engage multiple senses to deepen understanding and retention.

  • Digraph Hunts: Encourage children to "hunt" for target digraphs in books, magazines, or environmental print. They can highlight or circle the digraphs they find.
  • Tracing and Writing: Have children trace and then write digraphs, saying the sound as they write. This connects the visual, auditory, and kinesthetic senses.
  • Sorting Games: Create flashcards with words containing different digraphs. Children can sort them into categories based on the digraph sound.
  • Digraph Bingo or Matching Games: Develop simple games where children match digraphs to pictures or words, making learning fun and interactive. Explore more phonics games.

4. Focus on Common Digraphs First

Introduce digraphs systematically, starting with the most frequently encountered ones.

Common Consonant Digraphs

Digraph Example Words
ch chop, chin, luch
sh ship, fish, wash
th thin, moth, bath
wh whale, what
ck duck, kick, sack
ph phone, graph, dolphin
kn know, knife, knit
wr write, wrong, wrap

Common Vowel Digraphs

Digraph Example Words
ai train, rain
ea read, bread, bear
**oa boat, coat
ie tie, pie, fried
ue blue, clue

5. Consistent and Varied Practice

Repetition is key to mastery. Incorporate digraph practice into daily routines through various activities. Regular exposure and reinforcement in different contexts will help children confidently identify and use digraphs in their reading and writing.


By employing these structured and engaging methods, you can effectively teach digraphs, laying a solid foundation for literacy development in young learners.