Compound Words Worksheets – Printable Practice

Did you know that there are different types of compound words? It’s true!  A compound word is a word type where two or more words are combined to form a word or phrase with a new meaning. They fall into three groups: open, such as living room; closed, such as doghouse; and hyphenated, such as mother-in-law. Learning to navigate this web of words is important for students, so they can use these words correctly. 

With this compound words worksheet, students will match and connect the two-word parts to form closed compound words. They’ll also write the complete compound word next to each image. This is a fun way for students to build their vocabulary skills.

Our 1st and 2nd-grade compound word worksheets include an answer key to make grading fast and easy!  

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding 

In addition to independent student work time, use this worksheet as an activity for:

• Guided writing groups 
• Lesson wrap-up
• Fast finishers 
• Homework assignment
• Whole-class review (via smartboard)

Differentiate for Struggling Readers

• Complete the first part for the compound word and allow the student to find the second part. Help the student complete the word by writing out the first part; Allow the student to hear you say the two parts of each compound word to support them in choosing the correct pictures and writing out the words. 
• Allow students to use a compound word poster or anchor chart on compound words as a reference during the activity.

For a Challenge

• Have students who have mastered the concept find other compound words in texts and make a compound word anchor chart.
• Give them a challenging puzzle or compound word game to provide fun practice activities.

Easily Download & Print

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

Because this resource includes an answer sheet, we recommend you print one copy of the entire file. Then, make photocopies of the blank worksheet for students to complete. 

Additionally, project the worksheet onto a screen and work through it as a class by having students record their answers in their notebooks. 

Get more open and closed compound word worksheets to have handy!

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