Phonics Phase 3: Long Vowels
To teach Phase 3 long vowel digraphs (ai, ee, igh, oa, oo) for reading and spelling.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Literacy
- Learning area: Literacy
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Reads words with long vowel digraphs
- Spells words using ai, ee, igh, oa, oo
- Identifies long vowels in texts
- Applies Phase 3 knowledge independently
Materials
- Phase 3 grapheme cards
- Word sorting activities
- Decodable Phase 3 texts
- Sound mats
Instructions
Introduce long vowels systematically: 'We know that 'a' says 'a' (as in cat). But sometimes 'a' makes a LONG sound — 'ai' — like in 'rain' and 'train'. Two letters, one sound: AI.'
Use the 'say it, read it, write it' routine for each new grapheme. Say the sound (ai), read words with it (rain, train, tail, snail), write words using it.
Create sorting activities: 'ai' words vs 'ee' words vs 'oa' words. Children read and sort: 'Rain — that's an 'ai' word. Feet — that's an 'ee' word.' Active sorting reinforces discrimination.
Read decodable texts that feature the target phonemes. 'This book has lots of 'ai' words. Let's find them! There's 'rain'! And 'tail'! And 'paint'!'
Phase 3 is a significant leap in complexity. Some children will need much longer with Phase 2 before moving on. Assess readiness rather than following a rigid timeline.
Update sound mats to include new graphemes. Children should always have a reference available during independent reading and writing.