Sorting /j/ Sounds

Are your students learning about the different ways to spell the /j/ sound? At Smart Boarding School, we’ve created a free phonics worksheet that helps students recognise and sort words with the /j/ sound—like in jab, fridge, gym, and cage.

Introducing the “Sorting /j/ Sound Words” worksheet! This hands-on activity is perfect for Grade 1 and Grade 2 students, offering an engaging way to explore the many spellings of this common sound.

What’s in the Worksheet?

This easy-to-use phonics activity includes:

A list of 15 words that all include the /j/ sound.
A sorting table where students group words based on their spelling patterns.

Students will read each word and sort them into four categories:

Words with “j” (e.g. jab)
Words with “g” (e.g. gym)

Words with “ge” (e.g. cage)
Words with “dge” (e.g. fridge)

Why Focus on the /j/ Sound?

Understanding different spellings for the same sound is an important phonics skill. Learning the /j/ sound helps students:

Improve spelling by recognising patterns like “dge” at the end of short-vowel words.
Boost reading fluency by becoming familiar with common /j/ words.
Build confidence as they begin to decode new and unfamiliar words.

How to Use the Worksheet

Step 1 – Prep: Print the worksheet and provide pencils or markers.

Step 2 – Read Together: Go through the list of /j/ sound words together and identify the sound in each one.

Step 3 – Sort the Words: Students place each word into the correct column of the sorting table based on its spelling.

Step 4 – Review as a Class: Check the answers together and talk about why each word belongs in its column.

Fun Extension Activities

Take the learning further with these simple ideas:

Write a Sentence: Have students write one sentence for each /j/ sound spelling.
Create a Word List: Encourage them to brainstorm more /j/ words they know and sort them.
Draw the Word: Ask students to illustrate their favourite /j/ word and label it.

Why Teachers Love This Worksheet

The “Sorting /j/ Sound Words” worksheet is:

No prep and ready to use
Great for building spelling and decoding skills
Perfect for visual and kinesthetic learners who enjoy hands-on activities

Download Your Free Worksheet Today!

Make phonics fun and effective with this free Sorting /j/ Sound Words worksheet.
Click the button below to download your copy and support your students as they explore the many ways to spell the /j/ sound.

At Smart Boarding School, we believe that phonics should be simple, structured, and enjoyable. Happy teaching!

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