Syllables are the building blocks of words, and understanding them is crucial for developing strong reading and writing skills. For 6-year-olds, mastering syllable segmentation can significantly enhance their phonemic awareness, making it easier for them to decode new words and improve their spelling. This blog post introduces our new Montessori material, the Study of Syllables, designed to help children practice syllable segmentation through engaging and hands-on activities.
Materials
The Study of Syllables Complete Set consists of Task Cards, a lined Syllable Mat with a Movable Alphabet, and a Workbook. Each task card features a word segmented into 1, 2, 3 or 4 syllables, with a visual control for error on the back. The Syllable Mat provides a space for children to arrange the Movable Alphabet letters, allowing them to physically manipulate and segment the words. The accompanying workbook offers additional practice and reinforcement.
- The Study of Syllables – Complete Set
- The Study of Syllables: Cards
- The Study of Syllables: Cloth Mat
- The Study of Syllables: Workbook
How to Use the Materials
Study of Syllables Task Cards
Begin by selecting a task cards with one syllable. Show the word to the child and ask them to clap out the syllables. For example, for the word “bed,” they would clap one time: “bed.” After clapping, the child can flip the card to check their answer. The segmentation appears on the back, and each syllable is separated by a slash sign. Continue with a few more one syllable cards, then switch to two-syllable cards to provide a comparison (kitty, sunny, cookie…)
Study of Syllables Mat and Movable Alphabet
Place the lined Syllables Mat in front of the child and provide them with the Movable Alphabet. Ask the child to segment the word from the task card by placing the corresponding letters on the mat, then clap hands to figure out the syllables. Ask the child to leave space between the syllables. Turn the card to check for errors. One syllable cards will not require segmentation. You may mention and model one example, then move on to 2-syllable cards.
Study of Syllables Workbook
The Syllables Workbook contains various exercises that complement the Task Cards and Syllable Mat activities. Children can practice writing the segmented words, matching words to a syllable chart, and write down words of the choice based on syllable count. This additional practice helps solidify their learning and provides a comprehensive approach to syllable segmentation.
Additional Activities
- Syllable Sorting: Select a set of picture cards and ask the child to sort them into groups based on the number of syllables.
- Syllable Hopscotch: Draw a hopscotch grid and write a word in each square. Have the child hop the number of syllables in each word.
- Syllable Songs: Sing songs or chants that emphasize syllable breaks in words, making the learning process fun and musical.
The Study of Syllables segmentation is a fundamental skill that supports reading and writing development. By using our exclusive Montessori material, your learners will engage in hands-on activities that make learning enjoyable and effective. The combination of Task Cards, a lined Syllables Mat with a Movable Alphabet, and a Workbook offers a well-rounded approach to mastering syllables. For more innovative Montessori-aligned materials, visit our website at www.alisonsmontessori.com !
