Sound Snap It: Beginning Digraphs is a hands-on phonics activity designed to help students recognise and practise beginning digraphs in a playful and purposeful way. Using crocodile pegs or other manipulatives, students engage with words that begin with common digraphs - ch, ph, sh, and wh - building strong foundations in early reading and spelling. Ideal for small groups, literacy centres, or independent practise, this resource supports phonemic awareness through interactive learning.

Each task card presents a picture and a choice of beginning digraphs. Students say the word aloud, identify the initial sound, and “snap” the correct digraph using a crocodile peg or other marker. The activity promotes visual and auditory discrimination while reinforcing sound-symbol relationships in a fun, low-prep format that encourages active participation and skill retention.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Recognise and isolate beginning digraphs in spoken words
• ✅ Strengthen phonemic awareness through sound identification and oral practise
• ✅ Develop fine motor skills through interactive game-based learning
• ✅ Support early spelling and vocabulary development
• ✅ Encourage engagement and confidence in foundational phonics skills

What’s Included:

• Printable task cards featuring images and digraph choices
• Optional crocodile-themed peg toppers
• Instructions for gameplay and classroom adaptations

Materials Needed:

• Printed task cards (preferably on thick card for durability)
• Crocodile pegs, counters, blocks, or dry erase markers
• Write-and-wipe sleeves (optional)
• Pencils and paper for extension tasks

How to Use:

• Print and cut out the task cards and optional crocodile cutouts
• Students select a card, say the word aloud, and identify the initial digraph
• Use a peg or marker to indicate the correct sound from the choices provided
• Repeat with additional cards to reinforce learning and practise multiple digraphs

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use in guided reading or literacy groups targeting digraph recognition
• 💡 Include as part of phonics rotations or warm-up activities
• 💡 Set up a “digraph snap station” where students complete a certain number of cards during literacy blocks

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Encourage students to stretch the word slowly and emphasise the initial digraph sound
• 💛 Use dry erase sleeves to make the cards reusable and eco-friendly
• 💛 Modify the game for different ability levels by introducing or removing digraph options

Sound Snap It: Beginning Digraphs is the perfect way to reinforce phonics skills through play. With minimal prep and maximum engagement, it brings snap-worthy excitement to your literacy block!