Finding effective literacy centers for first graders can be a challenge. First grade is such a critical time for building phonics and early reading skills, but not all activities meet students where they are—or keep them engaged. The key is finding resources that are systematic, differentiated, and fun. Whether you’re working on CVC words or tackling more advanced phonics patterns, these literacy centers will help your students grow as readers and writers with confidence.
As a teacher, I know how valuable it is to have go-to tools that are low prep but high impact. That’s why I created a set of phonics activities for first graders that blend structured practice with student choice and independence. From word sorts to partner games, here’s how you can build a complete literacy block with resources designed specifically with first graders in mind.
My Favorite Literacy Centers for First Graders
1. Phonics Partner Board Games
Looking for a way to reinforce phonics rules while keeping students engaged? My Phonics Partner Board Games cover everything from CVC words and digraphs to vowel teams and r-controlled vowels. They’re structured, Science of Reading-aligned, and totally no-prep.
These games feel like fun but are built around phonics lesson plan goals. Perfect for independent practice or small-group rotations, they make a great addition to any literacy center.
Learn more about how phonics games transform instruction!
2. CVC Words Literacy Center – Independent Spelling Practice
If you’re focusing on spelling activities for first graders, you’ll love this CVC Words Literacy Center. These are my go-to spelling cards with missing letters that give students a hands-on way to reinforce short vowel sounds.
Students look at the image and fill in the missing letter(s) to complete the word—building phonemic awareness and spelling fluency at the same time. It’s one of my favorite first graders activities because it’s both independent and effective.
3. Word Sorts That Align With Phonics for First Graders
If you’ve ever felt frustrated by word sorts that didn’t match your phonics scope and sequence—or took too much prep—you’re not alone. I created my No-Prep Word Sorts to follow a Science of Reading-aligned sequence that grows with your students. Whether they’re working on beginning sounds, digraphs, blends, or long vowels, each sort targets a specific phonics skill.
Students sort by sound and spelling pattern while building their ability to recognize phonics rules in context. Intrigued? Try one out for free by subscribing or read more about how to simplify phonics instruction with differentiated word sorts!
4. Roll and Cover
Some phonics for first graders skills, like differentiating between sounds like TH, V, and F, can be especially difficult. That’s where Roll and Cover comes in. Students roll the dice and match the sound or picture on the board—simple, engaging, and highly effective for phonics instruction and auditory discrimination.
The best part? They cover all phonics skills, are totally no-prep, and can be used independently or with a partner. This game is especially helpful for struggling readers who need more visual and hands-on practice with phonics for first graders activities.
Check out how Roll and Cover supports auditory discrimination skills.
5. Word Bump
Word Bump turns routine phonics practice into a game students genuinely look forward to. They roll a dice, read a word, and cover the space. If it’s already taken, they can “bump” their partner off! It’s perfect for practicing letter sounds and matching words to sounds in a way that’s playful and low-pressure.
Designed for independent or partner work, Word Bump is great for early finishers, small groups, or your phonics literacy center.
Want to learn more? Read my full post on why students love Word Bump.
You can SUBSCRIBE to access free game boards, word sorts, and other freebies in my resource library or click here to access it on TPT. If you’re already subscribed, simply go to the Freebie Library to download it now.
Build a Literacy Block that Supports Every First Grader
Each of these activities can stand alone, but together they form a powerful system of phonics lessons and spelling activities that meet your students where they are. Whether you’re differentiating in a split classroom or simply want your students to stay engaged and on track, these centers are designed to support growth and success.
Explore My TPT Store
Looking for more phonics for first graders and spelling activities? Visit my Teachers Pay Teachers store, Primed for Primary, for no-prep reading and spelling games, phonics literacy centers, and word sorts that align with Science of Reading best practices.
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