Phonics Wordsearch 1st 2nd Grade Spelling Activities Letter Name Words Their Way
🔎 Discovery Word Searches for Word Study – Letter Name Alphabetic Spellers (Words Their Way)
Looking for a way to energize your word study routine with Words Their Way? These Discovery Word Searches are a fun, interactive activity for 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students to recognize correct spellings and word patterns while actively engaging in their sorts.
This resource is a companion to the Letter Name Alphabetic Spellers for both the 2nd Edition (2009 – red book) and the 3rd Edition (2018).
In this routine, students begin with a “blind” word search as their first activity. As they uncover 2–3 words, the patterns of the sort begin to emerge—helping them discover, recognize, and internalize correct spellings. By not providing a word list, students are challenged to sharpen their skills in spotting accurate spelling and identifying patterns on their own—a key step in becoming stronger spellers!
⭐ A Word List Reference Tool for Teachers (PDF) is included to support instruction and organization.
📘 What’s Included
- 2nd Edition: 49 word searches
- 3rd Edition: 60 word searches
- Two Formats to Choose From:
- 1 per page with a sorting chart
- 2 per page (½ sheets, great for notebooks)
- Answer Keys
- Tips for Implementing a Word Search Routine
- Editable Word Study Schedule
- Student Notebook Covers
- Words Their Way Word Lists Teacher Reference (3rd Edition only)
🎯 Why Teachers Love This Resource
- Engages students in a discovery-based word study routine
- Reinforces spelling patterns in an active, hands-on way
- Encourages independent recognition of correctly spelled words
- Complements Words Their Way but can also be used as a stand-alone spelling activity
