A simple craft project, like a craft stick puppet or cutting out simple shapes and gluing the shapes to a piece of paper, serves as the basis for this game. Write out the basic instructions for the craft and divide the project into different steps. Write the steps on index cards and break the students into small groups. Each group receives a copy of the instructions and the craft supplies. The kids work together, figuring out what each step says and how the steps go together to make the finished project.
Reading cues are any type of hint that helps a child determine what a word means. For example, you may use a picture of an apple next to the word apple. Turn those reading cues into a game for the kids by creating a scavenger hunt. Hide certain items around the classroom and give each child a list of words that explain the hidden objects. The students work alone or in small groups and look for the hidden items. Make things easier by writing the word of the object on the longer words.
Matching games place the written word on one side of the page and an image of the word on the other side. The students match the written word with the actual item. If you work with instructional words, then pick words or phrases like “sit”, “stand”, “turn” and “jump.” Use images of kids doing those instructions on the opposite side of the page. Help the children sound out any words they have trouble reading or finding.
Make a large puzzle that shows a rabbit, frog or another small animal standing on one side of a piece of poster board. The animal must make it across the puzzle before it gets the prize or pot of gold you draw on the opposite side. Give the students a series of instructions that show how to get the animal across the puzzle. Keep things simple, such as “turn right” or “go up,” which keeps the kids from getting frustrated.