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Phonics Blending: Turning Sounds into Words
Blending bridges the gap between learning letter sounds and reading fluently. After children know the basic phonemes, the next step is learning how to combine them into complete words.
What Is Sound Blending?
Blending combines separate sounds to form a word:
- /c/ + /a/ + /t/ → cat
- /m/ + /o/ + /p/ → mop
- /s/ + /u/ + /n/ → sun
Why Blending Matters
- improves decoding skills
- supports pronunciation + fluency
- helps spell unfamiliar words
- builds reading confidence
How to Teach Blending (Step-by-Step)
- Say each sound slowly: /c/ ... /a/ ... /t/
- Increase speed: /c/ /a/ /t/
- Blend into one word: “cat”
- Trace and read using worksheets
Free Printable Blending Worksheets
Activity Ideas
- match CVC words to images
- circle beginning / middle / ending sounds
- read + color blending worksheets
- segment a blended word into phonemes
Final Thoughts
Blending unlocks independent reading. With repetition and printable worksheets, children build fluency fast.
Start blending practice today to strengthen early reading foundations.