Strawberry Fun
Aim
This game teachers the child how to recognise the difference between the short vowel /i/ and the long vowel /i-e/ (bit, bite). The magic /e/ at the end of the word makes the short vowel sound say its alphabet name / long vowel e.g., bit has the short vowel /i/. Add the magic /e/ to the end. Bit becomes bite. The short /i/ changes to the long / alphabet name /i-e/.
Instructions:
Parent/Caregiver Instructions: This game has two parts, the first is the game board with the big sun and the second is the sentence board. There are two ways to play this game. You can download and print instructions #1 and play it with dice and counters. Alternatively, you can follow instructions #2 to play the game on your device using a virtual dice or slips of paper and small counters you can find around your home.
#1) Download and Print the Game: Click on download Shine. Print the game and find a dice and two small items, like buttons, pebbles or other small objects to use as counters.
#2) Play the Game on my Device: Click on Preview Shine button. If you have dice at home, you will need it for this game. You will also need something to use as counters such as: small scraps of paper in different colours, small, dried beans or lentils in different colours, small buttons, etc. If you do not have dice, you can use a virtual dice app on your phone. Try https://freeonlinedice.com/ and choose 6-sided dice. Alternatively, you can write the numbers 1 to 6 on small pieces of paper, place the pieces of paper face down and choose one at each turn to determine how many spaces you should move.
How to play the game
- Place the counters on the word START
- The first player rolls the dice
- The player must read all the words to get to his/her place on the board. Remember the words contrast the short and long vowel sounds (e.g., rip and ripe)
- Help children if they struggle and ask the child to repeat the word
- The next player repeats the process.
- If a player lands on the Shine boy, he/she can move forward one place
- The game ends when the first player reaches the finish.
- Let children read the sentence board that contains /i-e/ words. Help children answer the questions.
Extension Ideas
- As an extension, help the child to make up a sentence that has at least two /i-e/ from the board game. Ask the child to write the sentence.
Example Sentences:
- I like to hide.
- Stand in line and be on time.
