High Frequency Words Cheat Sheet

Why is this skill important?

• High-frequency words or “sight words” are words that we see often in what we read (the, like, want). These words make up a high percentage of words we read each day.
• When children recognize high-frequency words “by sight” or without having to think about what word it is, they are better able to read text at a pace that allows for comprehension.

Anne Glass video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSSbhgpOYDY

How long and how often?

Words should be reviewed daily in 5-10 minute mini lessons and ongoing practice. It should be pointed out which letters do not follow conventional sound or spelling rules in the word.

How to Explicitly Teach this Skill

Many high-frequency words are not decodable; their spelling does not follow typical rules for letter sounds. For this reason, we take a different approach when teaching them:

Step 1: Prepare a word list or stack of flashcards. You may start with a few words the child has mastered before moving into words that are new.

Step 2: When you get to a new word, hold up the card or point to the word and say: This word is WANT. What’s the word? (Child responds)

Step 3: Say: The letters in WANT are W-A-N-T.

Step 4: Have the child name the letters in the word.

Step 5: Have the child write the word.

Step 6: Have the child read the word in short sentences: I want a bear. I want a car.

Step 7: Practice the word using flashcards.

Suggested Connections

Incorporate texts that have high-frequency words (e.g., reading A to Z books and leveled readers). Before children read, have them highlight (if they can write on the book) the high-frequency words they are working on.

Prep & Materials

Prepare flashcards and other word materials ahead of time.

Considerations/Differentiation

• Some students who are struggling will require additional practice with high-frequency words. We expect students to require 10 or more repetitions with a word to master it. Struggling readers will require many more repetitions.
• High-frequency words are something that students can practice on their own. Teach them how to go through flashcards (put cards on a ring so they are portable) during transitions or “down time.” If they know the word immediately, they should say the word and put the card down in one pile. If they do not know the word immediately, they should put it in another pile to practice with a peer or teacher. The important thing is that students are able to read the words with automaticity, or by sight!

Resources

More ideas for teaching high-frequency words that follow the same basic pattern: Sight Words Teaching Strategy