K Takes the Vowels I and E, C Takes the Other Three!

Have you ever used this spelling rule in your classroom to help your students remember when to begin words with the letter K, and when to use the letter C?

In English, different letters can be used to represent the same sound. The /k/ sound can be represented by the letters K and C. It takes a lot of exposure and repeated practice for our youngest students to know how to use the letters c and k correctly when spelling.

This phonics/spelling worksheet has been designed to help your students identify when to use the letter C to make a /k/ sound and when to use the letter K. It contains 11 examples of words with the initial letter missing. A visual representation of the word is also provided. Students are required to identify whether the initial letter should be C or K, then circle the correct letter. An answer sheet is also provided.

Scaffolding + Extension Tips 

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

• Guided group activity
• Lesson exit ticket
• Homework assignment
• Whole-class review (via smartboard)

Challenge students who already understand the concept to compile lists of words that begin with the letters C and K.

Support students who need help understanding the concepts by providing visual reminders, such as a classroom poster or anchor chart.

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.

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 whiteboard 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.

This resource was created by Kendall Britnell, a teacher in Colorado and a Teach Starter collaborator.