‘OW’ As in Snow, or ‘OW’ As in Cow?

One of the most challenging concepts for early readers and writers to conquer is the fact that some digraphs in the English language make different sounds.

So is the case with the ‘ow’ digraph. Sometimes it says /oa/ (as in snow) and sometimes it says /ow/ (as in cow). The challenge comes with knowing when the digraph makes each of these sounds!

This sorting activity has been designed to help your students differentiate between the two distinct sounds made by the ‘ow’ digraph. It contains 24 illustrated word cards that contain the ‘ow’ digraph at the beginning, in the middle and at the end of words. Students are required to read each word, then place the word card under the correct heading card.

Create Your Own List of OW Words 

Use these ‘ow’ word cards to generate a list of words for students to take home and familiarise themselves with. Words included are: snow, blow, grow, bow, row, tow, slow, glow, window, crow, yellow, pillow, down, gown, flowers, owl, brown, crown, fowl, cow, clown, towel, meow, frown.

​​If students are struggling with reading the words, guide them in orally reciting the individual sounds and have the students blend these together. After reciting several words, have the students attempt this process independently. If students are still struggling, review letter-sound correspondences with a visual reminder, like an anchor chart or an alphabet display. You might also consider small group intervention. 

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

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

Before You Download

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the Google Slides or PDF version of this resource. Print your copies, cut the cards, and you are ready to go!