teaching resource

Magic E Words - Match-Up Activity

  • Updated

    Updated:  08 Nov 2023

Explore words containing long vowel sounds created by the magic e.

  • Editable

    Editable:  Google Slides

  • Non-Editable

    Non-Editable:  PDF

  • Pages

    Pages:  1 Page

  • Curriculum
  • Grades

    Grades:  K - 1

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teaching resource

Magic E Words - Match-Up Activity

  • Updated

    Updated:  08 Nov 2023

Explore words containing long vowel sounds created by the magic e.

  • Editable

    Editable:  Google Slides

  • Non-Editable

    Non-Editable:  PDF

  • Pages

    Pages:  1 Page

  • Curriculum
  • Grades

    Grades:  K - 1

Explore words containing long vowel sounds created by the magic e.

Create CVCe Words By Adding a Magic E!

What are magic “e” words? Magic “e'” words are words that have the letter e at the end of them to show that a short vowel sound should be changed into a long vowel sound. The fancy name for a Magic E word is a split digraph. This occurs when vowels that are split between consonants go together to make a sound.

Use this resource as a reading center activity when teaching your students about changing short vowel sounds to long vowel sounds by adding a magic e. Every word is missing a matching puzzle piece with a magic e! Students will be challenged to find the right magic e puzzle piece to build and read the new word.

How to Use This Magic E Words Activity

  1. Place the cards on the floor, sorted into two piles (based on the card type).
  2. Choose a CVC word card, then look through the magic e-cards to find a match. The image above each magic e can be used as a clue to find the right pair.
  3. Continue to play until all matches have been made.

An answer sheet is provided with this download so that students can self-check their matches.

Scaffolding and Extension Tips 

  • Challenge fast finishers by having them list each word in their writing journals, then write a sentence for each word. 
  • Support students who need help understanding the concepts by completing the activity as a part of an adult-supported, small-group session.
  • Grab a deck of CVC and CVCe word cards from our library with corresponding words like cam/came and have students match them or play memory.
  • Regardless of the game you play, it’s very important to have students always read aloud as the focus is learning the VCE pattern. Make students read the target words aloud and change them from CVC to VCE or VCE to CVC.

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Print on cardstock 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. 


This resource was created by Lisamarie Del Valle, a teacher in Florida and a Teach Starter collaborator.


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