Counting Syllables in Words

Use this resource in your reading center, as a guided reading activity, or as a whole class exercise (see below) to practice segmenting and counting syllables.

To play, students will choose a picture card to count the syllables. Then, they’ll refer to the game board and move to the next space with that number.

Scaffolding + Extension Tips 

Challenge students who already understand the concept to keep a written list of words that have the same number of syllables.

Show students who need help understanding the concepts how to clap as they count the number of syllables.

More Syllable Activities

Use this resource as independent practice for fast finishers and for full-class learning opportunities like scoot activities, lesson reviews, formative assessments, and more.

🛴 Scoot Activity

Place each of the 33 picture cards around the room. Ask students to stand up with a blank sheet of paper numbered 1-33 to use as a recording sheet. Assign one card to each student (or pair) to start, having them rotate through each of the cards to write on their recording sheet how many syllables each word on the picture cards contains. 

(NOTE: We suggest printing a second set of cards for this activity that you can number.)

🖍️ Draw it out

Show students a picture card from this resource. Then, challenge students to think of a different word that has the same number of syllables as the picture card and ask them to draw a picture of their word. 

🧮 Syllable Sort

Have students sort the cards into piles of 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-syllable words. 

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Print on cardstock 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 PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. 

This resource was created by Lindsey Phillips, a teacher in Michigan and Teach Starter Collaborator. 

Count on us for more syllable activities to put the finishing touches on your lesson plan! 

[resource:4714858]   [resource:4698801]   [resource:4703771]