Use this worksheet as an independent practice to support your alphabetical ordering lesson for reinforcing alphabetizing a series of words to the third letter. 

On this 2-page worksheet, there are 14 total sets of 4 words. Students will look at the first, second, and third letters of the words to put each set in alphabetical order.

We’ve included an answer key with your download for easy grading. 

Alphabetizing to the 3rd Letter: Worksheet Scaffolding & Extension Tips 

In addition to individual student work time, use this alphabetical ordering worksheet as a:

• Reading center activity
• Post-lesson exit ticket 
• Homework assignment
• Whole-class review (via smartboard)

Got fast finishers? Students who need a challenge can create five sets of four words and switch papers with a partner to put each other’s lists in alphabetical order. 

Students who need extra support can work in pairs or guided small groups. They can also refer to an alphabet display to better visualize putting their words in alphabetical order. 

A Variety of Ways to Prepare This Resource

Because this resource includes an answer sheet, we recommend you print one copy of the entire file. Then, make photocopies of the blank worksheet for students to complete.  

To save paper, we suggest printing this 2-page worksheet double-sided. 

You can also turn this teaching resource into a sustainable activity! Print a few copies on cardstock and slip them into dry-erase sleeves. Students can record their answers with a dry-erase marker, then erase and reuse. 

Additionally, project the worksheet onto a screen and work through it as a class by having students record their answers in their notebooks.

Before You Download

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. An answer key is also included with this download.

Get more handy worksheets here!  

This resource was created by Rachel Angell, a teacher in North Carolina and Teach Starter Collaborator. 

Make English Language Arts lesson planning easier with these additional alphabetical ordering activities:  

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Alphabetize the Aquarium Activity

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Alphabetical Order Scoot

Put words in alphabetical order with this 24-card movement activity for your whole class or small group.