Thinking of Syllable Types? Take This for a Spin!

Are you looking for a resource to help consolidate your understanding of the six different types of syllables? This spinner activity encourages students to be playful in their exploration of the following syllable types:

• Open
• Closed
• Silent e
• Vowel Team
• R-Controlled
• Consonant +le.

Students rely on their phoneme/grapheme knowledge as they build multisyllabic words. Once they understand the different syllable types and how they function, they can learn to apply this knowledge when trying to read or write new words.

This activity can be completed in small groups or alone. Two spinners are required for each group and the record sheet can either be shared or provided for each person. Students spin the ‘first syllable’ spinner and write the syllable in the first column of the record sheet. They then spin the ‘second syllable’ spinner and record this in the next column of the table. The two syllables are combined in the ‘Word’ column, and the student decides whether the word they have built is a real word or not, ticking the ‘Nonsense’ column if necessary. Finally, students identify the type of syllables they have used by colouring the boxes appropriately.

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding 

A team of dedicated, experienced educators created this resource for students to work on as an English Group Activity.

Spinning Syllables could be completed individually or in small groups.

If you have a mixture of above and below-level learners, check out these suggestions for keeping students on track with the concepts:

🆘 Support Struggling Students

Provide access to previous assignments, posters, and anchor charts for students to recall past lessons and assist students who need help understanding the concepts.

Using the Google Slides version of the resource, the spinners and record sheet could be simplified to include fewer syllable types.

➕ A Greater Challenge 

Students who thrive on being challenged could create their own spinners and record sheets using the editable Google Slides version.

✋ Show Me!

Give each student a mini whiteboard and a whiteboard marker. Choose a student to spin the first syllable and another student to spin the second syllable for the whole class. All students write down the word formed. The teacher nominates which syllable the students need to focus on, and they record the type of syllable on their whiteboard. When everyone has written down their answer, say, “Show Me.” Students flip their boards, allowing you to see who needs extra support.

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or editable Google Slides version of this resource.

Print on thick card for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access.

Don’t stop there! We’ve got more activities and resources that cut down on lesson planning time: