What’s the Role of the Final ‘E’?

Some people question the final ‘e’ at the end of a word. After all, if you don’t hear it, what’s the point of it being there?

But the final or magic ‘e’ is there to tell us how to pronounce the other sounds in a word. For example, vowels need the final ‘e’ to alert the reader that the vowel sound is long. 

The ability to recognise these patterns is a fundamental aspect of phonological awareness. That’s why our final ‘e’ sorting activity is the perfect way to immerse beginning readers in these long vowel, final ‘e’ conventions! 

Find Success with Final ‘e’ Words!

Use this resource as an English group activity or with your whole class to explore final ‘e’ conventions for representing long vowel sounds. This resource explores words containing a_e, i_e and o_e.

There are single-player, multi-player and whole-class options for the game, as outlined below.

Single Player

Students choose a card, say the word, the place it on the matching final ‘e’ mat.

Multi-Player

Shuffle the cards and split the deck equally between players. Students take turns placing the cards on the matching final ‘e’ mat.

Whole-Class

Give each student a mini whiteboard and a whiteboard marker. Project all three of the final ‘e’ category cards onto your whiteboard. Show the students a picture card, then have them write the category the word belongs to on their board. When everyone has written down their answer, say, “Show Me.” Students will flip their boards, allowing you to see who needs extra support.

Scaffolding + Extension Tips 

• Challenge students who already understand the concept to produce additional words for each vowel sound. 
• Support students who need help understanding the concepts by using visual reminders of final ‘e’ conventions, such as a classroom poster or anchor chart. 

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Print on thick card for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

Before You Download

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. 

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This resource was created by Lindsey Phillips, a Teach Starter collaborator.