Popcorn Word Practice

Our class has been learning and reviewing our popcorn words.  The popcorn words (high frequency sight words) are very important for beginning readers to learn.  Students need to be able to recognize sight words quickly and accurately as these words make up between 50-70% of the words we encounter in text.  Learning through play is an important part of FDK.  Here are some suggestions to help your child learn their popcorn words through fun and engaging play. 

 

1. Using a small tray, spread colourful craft sand and encourage your child to create the words by tracing in the sand.

 

2. Create the words using Wiki Stixs or Bendaroos - wax sticks that can be bent and shaped to make letters.

 

3. Write the words using three-dimensional glue on cardstock.

 

4. Create the words using play dough by rolling out the play dough and shaping into letters and words.

 

5. Place paper on top of plastic craft screens (for needle point).  Print the popcorn word on the paper using a crayon. The word will be bumpy once completed, and very tactile for your child to trace.

 

6. Use yarn and glue to write the words.

 

7. Pipecleaners can be shaped into the letters to spell the popcorn words.

 

8. Magnetic Letters on cookie sheets - allows words to be stretched apart and put back together.

 

9. Shaving Cream - spray onto cookie sheet - children using their finger to print the letters in the cream.