In this introductory lesson, write six beginning, rhyming words on the board, such as "cat," "hat," "bat," "rat," "fat" and "mat." Read the words with students. After the second or third word, some of the children will realize that the words rhyme and read them quickly. Explain that words with the same endings, in this case the last two letters, are called rhyming words. Have the children fold a sheet of drawing paper into six sections, first in half and then in thirds. Copy the rhyming words from the board in the boxes. Draw a picture of each rhyming word in each box. If you have time, read the words again. Have children add more words to the list, like "at" and "that."
In this game, children play the traditional match game, but with a slight twist. They must match pairs of rhyming words. Make your own rhyming word flash cards. For beginners, you can make several sets of words with the same endings, such as "sad," "bad," "mad," "glad," "had" and "dad." This will make matches easier for kids who are just learning rhymes. For older kids, add more words and more difficult rhymes.
This lesson works well for children who have already had some exposure to rhyming words. Read a Dr. Seuss book, such as "The Cat in the Hat" or "Hop on Pop." Read the book through once just so children get used to it. Next, tell the children that you will only read one page at a time. They will help you find rhyming word pairs. You can list these on the board, or children can write them on their papers.
Use a rhyming word wheel worksheet to reinforce the skills of word family connections. Connect the two pieces of the word wheel in the center with a brad so that the wheel turns. Educators can also use paper plates or card stock circles and lists of rhyming words to have children create their own word wheels. Simply cut out a small notch at the edge of the plate. Fill in the same ending, along with beginning sounds. Write the words and draw pictures to match.