R-controlled vowels worksheets
Word sort with r-controlled vowel words, with an answer key · 1 page + answer key
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In r-controlled words the r changes the vowel: car, fork, her, bird, turn. This five-column sort asks your child to read each word and write it under its spelling: ar, or, er, ir or ur.
The first two columns are about sound: ar and or each have their own sound. The last three are about spelling: er, ir and ur all make the same /er/ sound, so your child has to look at the letters, not just listen. That's why sorting is the best practice for er, ir and ur.
Many programs teach r-controlled vowels after silent e, around late first or second grade.
Tips for using it
- Read the er, ir and ur columns aloud and notice that they all sound the same.
- Make a short spelling quiz from the er, ir and ur words after the sort.
Variations
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What are r-controlled vowels?
Vowels followed by r, where the r changes the vowel sound: ar, or, er, ir and ur.
How do kids know which /er/ spelling to use?
Mostly by memory. Er is the most common, especially at the end of longer words (sister). Sorting and reading the words often builds that memory.