Segmenting Snakes

Segmenting supports spelling development.

• Framework: EYFS
• Unit: EYFS Jungles
• Learning area: Phonics
• Level: EYFS 3-4, Reception

Objectives

• Break words into sounds
• Count phonemes
• Spell simple words

Materials

• Snake cutouts with sections
• Letter tiles
• Phoneme counters

Instructions

Stretch the word like a snake: 'log' = /l/-/o/-/g/. Put a counter for each sound.

Educator tip

Exaggerate sounds when stretching words.

Assessment

Observe and note: ability to follow two-step instructions, use of new vocabulary in context, early problem-solving strategies, and sustained shared thinking episodes. Assess against Development Matters age-band expectations. Observe segmenting accuracy and phoneme counting.

More from EYFS Jungles

• Where Are the Jungles?
• Jungle River Map
• Jungle Climate Calendar
• Endangered Species Mapping
• Jungle Teamwork
• Animal Emotion Match
• Protecting Our Jungle
• Jungle Conflict Resolution