How To Teach Trick Words

Make Trick Word Practice Fun with Games in the Classroom

Practicing sight words—known as “Trick Words” in the Fundations curriculum, is essential, but it can sometimes feel monotonous for first and second graders. Repetition is key, but without engagement, students often lose focus. That’s why game-based learning is such a powerful tool for literacy instruction.

One simple way to boost engagement is by turning practice into play with a Slides and Ladders sight word game. Modeled after the classic Chutes and Ladders, students roll dice, move along the board, and stop to read, spell, or use Trick Words in sentences. This keeps the energy high, encourages peer support, and transforms routine review into an activity students look forward to.

Research backs this up. According to Edutopia, “Games provide opportunities for deeper learning, and the skills acquired problem solving, critical thinking, collaboration, are transferable to other academic and social contexts” (Schwartz, 2016). By bringing play into your literacy centers, guided reading groups, or Fun Friday activities, you’re not just building word recognition, you’re also fostering persistence, teamwork, and joy.

When students are excited to play, they’re excited to learn, and that’s the key to mastering those tricky Trick Words!

Reference: Schwartz, K. (2016). Using Games to Enhance Student Achievement. Edutopia. Read here.