Grades 2–4
Spelling Sort: -ch or -tch?
Twelve words to finish with -ch or -tch and sort, the short-vowel spelling rule.
Writing worksheet · Spelling and word sorts
Put Spelling Words in ABC Order
Two lists to put in ABC order, the second one by the second letter, then your own spelling list in order.
- Grade level
- Grades 1–3
- Time
- About 20 minutes
- Answer key
- Yes, page 2 of the PDF
- Kids practice
- Spelling patterns, Word study, Spelling rules and generalizations, Self-checking spelling
What kids do
“Number each word in ABC order. In list 2 every word starts with b, so look at the second letter!”
Printed on the sheet:
- Write your own spelling words in ABC order.
Teacher tip
Have kids write each word on a sticky note to physically put them in order first.
How to use it
- Let kids sort words with a partner first, then check together.
- Have kids say the word slowly and tap the sounds.
- Keep a word wall or a word bank in reach so spelling does not stop the ideas.
Watch for
Frustration on long lists. Split the sheet into two short sessions.
Talk about it
- What pattern did you notice?
- Which sentence on your sheet are you proudest of? Why?
Take it further
Play a quick spelling relay with whiteboards at the end of the week.
US Letter, prints well in black and white. Free for home and classroom use: print as many copies as you need.
More spelling and word sorts
Grades 2–4
Plurals: Add -s, -es or -ies?
Twelve nouns to sort by their plural ending, with toy and key as traps, then the plurals to write.
Grades 3–4
Spelling Sort: -ge or -dge?
Twelve words to finish with -ge or -dge and sort, a short-vowel rule like -ck and -tch.
Grades 3–5
Double, Drop or Just Add -ed?
Twelve verbs to sort by how they take -ed, the doubling and drop-the-e rules, then the past tense to write.
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