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Writer's pictureDesigned to Learn

Game Day: Using Board and Card Games to Teach Reading Concepts

Updated: Oct 10

Let's explore how board and card games can become powerful tools in your reading instruction toolkit. Games aren't just for fun – they're a strategic way to reinforce reading concepts while keeping students engaged and motivated.


Making the Most of Generic Board Games

Sometimes, the simplest approaches are the most effective. Basic board games can be transformed into valuable learning tools by incorporating reading skills into gameplay. Many ready-to-use resources are available on Teachers Pay Teachers and Canva, but the concept is straightforward:

  1. Students encounter a reading task (reading a word, matching sounds, or practicing specific skills)

  2. Upon successful completion, they get to roll dice and advance on the game board

  3. This creates a perfect blend of skill practice and reward


This approach works because it breaks down reading practice into manageable chunks while maintaining engagement through the game's progression.



Spotlight on Effective Games


This decoding game is particularly effective for emerging readers (around second grade and younger). It excels as a review tool for individual word decoding, and you can adapt it to different skill levels:

  • Use it as-is for confident readers

  • Modify by having students touch the sounds in the corner of cards for additional support

  • Perfect for small group instruction or reading centers


OuiSi: Beyond Reading into Language Development

This versatile picture-based game opens up numerous possibilities for language development at any age level.


Here are some engaging ways to use it:



  1. Categorization and Reasoning

    • Have students work in groups or as a whole class

    • Players select pictures from their hand and connect them to cards on the table

    • Students must explain their reasoning (color relationships, textures, locations, etc.)

    • This builds critical thinking and verbal expression


  2. Story Sequencing

    • Use the cards to create "and then..." story sequences

    • Works well in small groups or whole class settings

    • Develops narrative skills and creative thinking


  3. Additional Language Development Games

    • The game includes various other activities that strengthen language skills without direct reading


The Connection Between Language Development and Reading

Strong language skills form the foundation for reading success. When students engage in language-rich activities, they're developing:

  • Vocabulary breadth and depth

  • Understanding of context and inference

  • Verbal reasoning skills

  • Narrative comprehension

  • Memory and sequencing abilities


These skills directly transfer to reading comprehension and fluency, making games that target language development valuable tools in your reading instruction arsenal.


Strategic Implementation Tips

Remember these key principles when incorporating games into your reading instruction:

  1. Quality Over Quantity

    • Focus on meaningful practice rather than rushing through activities

    • Choose games that target multiple skills simultaneously

    • Ensure students understand the purpose behind the play


  2. Purposeful Education, Not Just Entertainment

    • Games should serve clear educational objectives

    • Fun is the vehicle, not the destination

    • Keep learning goals at the forefront of game selection and implementation


  3. Versatility Matters

    • Invest in games that can be adapted for multiple purposes

    • Look for options that grow with your students

    • Consider how games can support different learning styles



Board and card games can be powerful allies in reading instruction when used purposefully. They provide engaging ways to practice essential skills while building confidence and competence. Remember, the goal isn't to amass a huge collection of single-purpose games, but rather to strategically use games that offer meaningful practice opportunities aligned with your teaching objectives.


By choosing versatile games and implementing them thoughtfully, you can create an environment where learning feels natural and engaging, while still maintaining the rigor necessary for real progress in reading development.


Teachers Sound Off: What challenges have you faced when integrating games into your literacy instruction? How do you assess the effectiveness of games in your teaching?



 

This post is part of our Dyslexia Awareness Month series. For more strategies and insights, explore our other posts in the series. None of the links provided are paid or affiliated. We recommend them because we use them for our students.

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