It is so easy to learn basic alphabet skills when you make it fun! I am going to share with you a really fun alphabet movement activity called Simon Says. Playing the game Simon Says really helps kids pay attention, learn letter recognition and most importantly…incorporate fun movement into learning.
Getting Started:
To prepare for this alphabet movement activity, write each target letter on a large index card.
Place the index cards face up on a table or on the floor so that the student can easily see them and grab them when needed. You can start out by putting the letters in alphabetical order and then eventually mixing them up.
How to Play
This alphabet movement activity is best played in small groups or 1:1.
One person is the designated Simon, the others are the players. Standing in front of the group, Simon tells players what they have to do. The player must only obey commands that begin with the words, “Simon Says.”
If Simon Says, “Simon says touch the letter s,” then players must touch the letter s. But, if Simon simply says, “touch the letter s, without first saying “Simon Says,” players must not touch the letter s.
Those who do touch it are out.
If you are Simon, the object of the game is to try to trick the players to follow your commands when they shouldn’t.
Sample Script
Simon Says jump up and down holding the letter j.
Simon Says hop on one foot holding the letter t.
Simon Says hop on the other foot holding the letter b.
Smack the letter k. ( uh oh)
Simon Says touch the letter p with you pinky finger
Simon Says place the letter f on the floor.
Simon Says place the letter d on your shoe.
Take the letter d off of your shoe.” (uh oh)
Simon Says pick up the letter l with your left hand
Pick up the letter r with your right hand (uh oh)
Simon Says skip around the room holding the letter s
Simon Says pat the letter p
Simon Says pat the letter b
Pat the letter t (uh-oh)
Simon Says pick up the letter c.
Simon says wave the letter h in the air.
Simon Says touch the letter g with your thumb.
Throw the letter k in the air. (uh-oh)
As the student’s letter knowledge grows, the number of letters used in the game can grow too.
I Have a Resource for You!
I hope that you enjoy playing this alphabet movement activity with your student. You might also enjoy reading my previous posts:
DIY Tactile Letter Cards for the Orton-Gillingham Lesson
How to Teach Letters and Sounds
Don’t leave without checking out the PRIDE Reading Program. The PRIDE Reading Program is an Orton-Gillingham curriculum that is used by teachers, tutors, and homeschooling parents worldwide with great success.
Ex!!cellent ideas!