Sight words and high frequency words are an important addition to a readers knowledge base because they account for a large number of words they will encounter and therefore assist with fluency and comprehension.
Sight words are words that can't easily be sounded out, completely. A good example is the word "said".
High frequency words are words that commonly occur in children's reading and writing. Many of the high frequency words are sight words. Some high frequency words can be decoded, but children might learn them to automaticity because they see and use them so often. An example of a high frequency word that can be decoded is "from".
Because some words are so frequent, it is very helpful for children to build a bank of words that they just know off by heart - to automaticity. Especially when reading.
For example, the most commonly occurring high frequency words (the top 25) make up about a third of all print material!
Knowing some high frequency words means an early reader will:
Having a bank of high frequency words means an early writer will:
The NSW DET has produced a handy list of Basic Sight words (and high frequency words). This a nice one pager, easy to print out and refer to.
Starfish have created an excellent beginner sight words game, called Sea Life Sight Words Bingo.
It is based on years of experience and expertise, and is incredibly popular. It is so well loved, not just because of the cool sea-life counters but because it sets children up for success. It has just the right amount of first words - not too many and not too few.
Our game (above) is the best BEGINNER sight words game around.
We also have some other fabulous sight words games and resources worth investing in.
Zingo Sight Words is a good example.
First Words Magnetic Poetry is a great idea for the fridge.
Apart from the above, we recommend checking out the website Worksheet Genius, and its Common Words list.
This site gives you the ability to create your own flash cards, games, puzzles and word searches to support the learning of high frequency words.
You can even create your own handwriting high frequency word practice sheets. nb there are limited font options.
All research clearly and strongly advocates the teaching of Phonological Awareness and Systematic Instruction of Synthetic Phonics in effective literacy programs.
High frequency and sight words are a valuable addition to a literacy program.
They do help with fluency and comprehension.
It is worthwhile devoting some attention to helping children build a bank of known sight words, as a support to reading but not a replacement for teaching phonics.
Kirstie
40 Proprioceptive activities for the classroom. Simple and practical activities to incorporate Proprioceptive into the classroom. 16 A4 sheets to print for your classroom, therapy space or home.