All About Word Sorts Part 2: Types of Sorts

Welcome to post two in the All About Word Sorts series. :)  Today I will describe the many types of sorts you can have your students complete!  

But...before I get to that, if you are interested in the "why" behind using sorts, make sure you check out post one by clicking here.  

Below are 13 different sorts you can have your students complete with their list of words.  If you are unsure what words to include in a word sort, you can administer a spelling inventory to the student to determine what encoding level they are at.  Or, you could pair your word list with the phonics concept you are teaching to your class. Word lists don't have to be limited to a phonics skill--they could also be organized around vocabulary or grammar. 

1. Closed Sort (regular sort): Students sort their words by a specific spelling pattern determined by the teacher.  Words could also be sorted by meaning. 

2. Open Sort (alternate sort): Students sort their words any way they wish.  All options are open, as long as the student is able to explain they way he/she sorted.

3. Buddy Sort (partner sort): The student selects a partner.  Both partners work together to sort the words.  

4. Blind Sort: Students work with a partner.  Headers are placed at the top of the page.  Partner A picks up the word and reads the word aloud without showing it to Partner A.  Partner B points to the category in which the word belongs. 

5. Blind Sort (Writing): Students work with a partner.  Headers are placed at the top of the page.  Partner A picks up the word and reads the word aloud without showing it to Partner A.  Partner B writes the word in the correct category.  Partner A checks the spelling. 

6. Speed Sort (timed sort): Students will sort words as fast as they can.  For extra fun have students keep track of their time, and then try to sort faster a second time.  

7. Memory Sort: Lay words face down.  Flip up two words.  If they have the same pattern or concept, you have a match.  If you wend with odd cards, the game is over.

8. Sentence Sort: Write sentences using your words.

9. Magazine Sort: Use a magazine and find words that fit the pattern you are using.  Write them down using headings to organize the words.

10. Change Sort: Take words from your list and create a new word by changing one letter (ex. cat to hat) 

11. Concept Sort: Pictures and words are sorted by meaning and categories, instead of a spelling pattern.

12. Word Hunt: Use a book and find words that fit the pattern you are using.  Write them down using headings to organize the words.

13. Draw and Label: Take words from you list and draw pictures to match.  Write the word under the picture..

See.....So. Many. Things!  Isn't it great!!  

For post three, we will be talking about word sort instructional routines....so stay tuned!

If you would like to download the 13 activities listed above on a one-pager, just click the image below which will take you to Mind Sparks Teachers Pay Teacher's Store.  Once there, you will be able to download the description of the sort activities for free.