Reading Lesson Idea: The Letter C

Provide practice reading words that contain the letter C. These words can be difficult to decode, because that letter can sound like /s/ or /k/.

• Handout The C Rule.
• Additional materials depending on student’s learning style: White board or manipulative letters, and highlighter.

• Consider the student’s level; it may be best to introduce only one rule or sound at a time.
• Use the words ”celery” and "city" to illustrate when the letter C has the /s/ sound (when followed by “e” or “i”).
• Use the words "cap", "corner" and "cup" to illustrate when the letter C has the /k/ sound (when followed by "a", "o" or "u").
• Practice should be presented visually and aurally. Depending on your student's level practice one or both patterns in a session.
• Ways to practice:
• Student reads the list of practice words in the handout.
• Tutor dictates the practice words; student writes word on white board or with manipulative letters.
• Student or tutor highlights letter “C” words in a written text, then student reads words.