Phonics, Spelling, & Grammar Resources

Attention, primary school educators! Are you ready to add a sprinkle of magic to your phonics lessons? Your search ends here! Our treasure trove is brimming with enchanting resources, crafted just for you – introducing our “ER”-Controlled Vowel Phonics Activities. Dive headfirst into the captivating world of those crafty vowels that waltz to the rhythm of the “BOSSY R”!

Inside our phonics teaching resources collection, you’ll discover a wide array of teaching tools, tailor-made for your young learners. From delightful printables to interactive games, from imaginative worksheets to engaging hands-on activities, we’ve carefully assembled everything you need to keep your students enthralled and eager to conquer those elusive “R-Controlled Vowels.”

But here’s the most magical part – these activities aren’t just enjoyable; they’re also exceptionally practical! They seamlessly integrate into your literacy centres, making teaching an absolute breeze. So, bid farewell to teaching woes and allow the enchantment of our r controlled vowels activities and resources to turn your phonics lessons into unforgettable learning journeys!

What are “R” Controlled Vowels and Bossy “R”?

R-Controlled Vowels, also known as “Bossy R” vowels, are a group of vowel sounds in the English language that are influenced or controlled by the letter “R.” The five primary R-Controlled Vowels are “ar,” “er,” “ir,” “or,” and “ur.” When any of these vowels appear before the letter “R” in a word, they typically produce a unique sound that is different from their regular short or long vowel sounds.

Now, let’s acquaint ourselves with the intriguing “Bossy R” – a whimsical character that adds a touch of playfulness to the world of phonics and language learning. This mischievous “R” has a talent for directing the vowels, coaxing them into altering their sounds when it’s in the vicinity. In words like “fur,” “burn,” or “stir,” the “Bossy R” exerts its influence on the vowel that precedes it, resulting in a captivating twist. The “Bossy R” character infuses an element of enjoyment into phonics lessons and assists students in grasping the concept that vowel sounds can transform when they team up with “R.”

Unlocking the secrets of the “Bossy R” is like discovering a hidden code in the world of words, and it’s a vital concept for unravelling the intricacies of the English language. Immerse your students in the enchanting realm of phonics, and observe as they unveil the enchantment of the “Bossy R”!

Common Problems with the “ER” Sound

Now, let’s address the quirky hiccups our students often encounter when navigating the “ER” sound.

1. Pronunciation Puzzles:
   • Students might get a little tongue-tied, pronouncing “ER” as “ar” or “or.”
   • Solution: Encourage them to practise, emphasizing the “ER” sound by playing with the tongue position. A visual aid like a tongue diagram can make it click.
2. Spelling Shenanigans:
   • Some kids may mix up “ER” words with other vowel sounds, leading to spelling mishaps.
   • Solution: Create word lists and flashcards exclusively for “ER” words. Spelling drills will help solidify their spelling skills.
3. Blending Bottlenecks:
   • Blending “ER” with other consonants to create full words can be like piecing together a puzzle for some.
   • Solution: Bring in the word families that feature “ER” words. Words like “her,” “fern,” and “liver” make the whole learning process feel like a breeze.

So, fellow educators, teaching the “ER” sound doesn’t have to be all business. With a dash of “bossy R” drama, some rhyming games, and engaging activities, you’ll have your students mastering those cool “ER” words in no time. Learning phonics can be a breeze, and your students will be reading and writing with confidence. Rock on, and happy teaching!

Below you will find our collection of teaching resources for the “er” controlled Vowel. Click the images to download them!