Sorting /s/ Sounds

Help your young readers crack one of English’s most common—but most confusing—sounds!

At Smart Boarding School we’ve created a free phonics worksheet that lets Grade 1 and Grade 2 students explore four everyday spellings of the /s/ sound—like in sun, dress, rice, and city.

Introducing the “Sorting /s/ Words” worksheet—perfect for literacy centres, small‑group lessons, or quick homework practice.

What’s inside?

A list of 20 /s/ words to read, sort, and discuss.
A four‑column sorting chart where learners organise words by spelling pattern:
- s – sun, slip
- ss – dress, kiss

- ce – rice, fence
- c – city, circus

Why focus on the /s/ spellings?

Grasping the different ways to spell the /s/ sound helps students:

Recognise common spelling patterns so writing becomes more accurate.
Read fluently by decoding familiar sound–letter combinations quickly.
Develop stronger phonemic awareness—crucial for tackling new vocabulary.

How to use the worksheet

Print & Prep – Give each student the worksheet plus pencils or highlighters.
Read Aloud – Say each word together, emphasising the /s/ sound, and underline the letters that spell it.
Sort – Students write or cut‑and‑paste each word into the correct column on the sheet.
Review – Check answers as a group and talk about why one sound can have several spellings.

Extension ideas

Sentence Builder – Challenge students to write one sentence for each spelling group.
/S/ Word Hunt – Search books, classroom posters, or signs for more /s/ words and add them to the chart.
Illustrate & Label – Have students draw their favourite /s/ word and label it clearly.

Why teachers and parents love this resource

Zero prep—just download, print, and teach.
Engages visual, auditory, and kinaesthetic learners.
Fits perfectly into whole‑class lessons, guided reading groups, literacy stations, or homework packs.