High-Frequency Words: Supporting Fluency and Confidence in Struggling Readers
High-frequency (HF) words are an essential component of literacy development. These words often appear frequently in texts but are phonetically irregular, making them more challenging for students to learn. For example, the word “come” is pronounced as “c-u-m,” which deviates from typical phonetic patterns. Helping students master these words is vital for improving their reading fluency and confidence, but the approach must be tailored to their needs and current level of proficiency.
For young learners or those living with severe difficulties, it may be beneficial to initially limit the use of high-frequency words. By focusing on foundational skills first, students can build a solid base for success before tackling more complex and irregular words.
The Literacy Support Kit (LSK) Approach to High-Frequency Words
The Literacy Support Kit provides a structured and supportive method for introducing and practising high-frequency words. The following step-by-step process ensures that students can develop confidence and fluency while making meaningful connections to the words they learn.
Available Materials
- High-frequency word sheets, available at blue and green levels
Engaging games like the HF Word Game to reinforce learning
How to Introduce a New High-Frequency Word
Write the Word on a Card Begin by writing the HF word on one side of a card and reading the word aloud to the student. For example, write the word “some.”
Encourage Sentence Formation Ask the student to say the word in a sentence. This step helps create a personal connection to the word, improving memory retention.
Write the Sentence on the Back of the Card Record the student’s sentence on the back of the card. For example, “I ate some cake.” This personalized sentence becomes a valuable memory aid. The student may also wish to draw a picture to accompany their sentence, providing an additional visual prompt.
Track and Read Together Ask the student to track along with their finger as you read the sentence together. This reinforces word recognition in context.
Flip the Card and Read the Word Turn the card over and have the student read the HF word independently.
Model and Practice Writing the Word Demonstrate how to write the word, then ask the student to practise writing it themselves. This kinesthetic activity supports memory retention.
Review and Reinforce Add the card to a deck of high-frequency words for daily review. If the student struggles to recall the word, flip the card to show the sentence prompt, which often triggers recognition. Return the card to the deck for a second review during the same session.
Utilise HF Word Sheets for Follow-Up Practice The LSK includes HF word sheets that allow students to practise reading and writing high-frequency words in a structured format.
Incorporating High-Frequency Words into Fun Activities
Games are a fantastic way to make high-frequency word practice enjoyable and engaging. The HF Word Game is a Snakes and Ladders-style activity that encourages repetition and recognition in a low-pressure environment. Students progress through the game by correctly reading or writing HF words, turning learning into an exciting challenge.
Why High-Frequency Words Matter
Mastering high-frequency words helps students:
Read more fluently, as these words appear frequently in texts.
Focus on comprehension rather than decoding irregular words.
Build confidence in their ability to tackle challenging reading tasks.
By using the strategies and resources provided in the Literacy Support Kit, educators can support students at their own pace, ensuring they make steady progress toward reading proficiency.
Tips for Success
Provide gentle guidance if the student struggles to recall a word, using the sentence prompt as a cue to support their memory.
Encourage consistent daily review of high-frequency word cards to reinforce recognition and retention.
Use the HF Word Sheets and games as follow-up activities to make practice engaging and enjoyable.
Allow students to draw connections between the words and their own experiences, fostering deeper understanding and memory.
Celebrate progress to build confidence and motivate students to continue practising.
Contact Us
For more details on the Literacy Support Kit or how it can complement other literacy programs, please contact us with your questions.