Blast off into outer space and collect space treasures as you explore distant galaxies in this fun and engaging digital game focused on CVC words with the short /u/ sound. Each correct answer launches students further through the galaxy and earns them unique space badges to mark their journey.

In each round, students will read a CVC word featuring a short /u/ medial vowel sound, such as sun, cup or bug. They will then select the image that matches the word. This format supports early reading fluency, decoding and word-picture matching, providing a highly visual and interactive phonics experience.

Students will enjoy watching their badge collection grow as they move between galaxies. This engaging approach encourages repeated play and builds confidence with early phonics skills.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Identify and read CVC words with a short /u/ medial sound
• ✅ Strengthen decoding skills and letter-sound correspondence
• ✅ Develop word recognition and vocabulary through picture support
• ✅ Engage in independent phonics practice in a playful format
• ✅ Build confidence with reading short vowel words

How to Play:

1. Students are shown a CVC word with a short /u/ vowel.
2. They must read the word and choose the correct picture that matches it.
3. A correct answer allows them to warp to the next galaxy and collect a space badge.
4. The game continues with new words and images in each round.
5. At the end, students see all the badges they earned during the game.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use as a warm-up or review in phonics-focused lessons
• 💡 Ideal for literacy rotations or small group intervention
• 💡 Great for Early Years to Year 1 students practising short vowel sounds
• 💡 Encourage repeated play to boost fluency and familiarity with CVC structures

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Allow students to choose from six character avatars before starting the game
• 💛 Use the QR code to assign the game as homework or additional practice
• 💛 Highlight progress by printing or sharing their badge tally with families

Let's Explore - Read the CVC Word: Short U is a stellar way to practise short vowel words while building reading confidence and having fun!