Dino Dig Phonics: Real vs Nonsense Word Game

If you’re teaching early readers and want to build real phonics skills (not just memorization), this dinosaur-themed phonics word game is a must-have! Perfect for Kindergarten through 2nd grade, this hands-on literacy activity helps children practice reading and sorting words while having fun.

Phonics is the foundation of early literacy, helping children connect letters and sounds to develop strong decoding skills. Research shows that systematic phonics instruction leads to better reading success—especially for struggling readers.

This digital download includes everything you need to bring this engaging dinosaur-themed phonics activity to life! Inside, you’ll find a collection of dinosaur bone word cards featuring a mix of real and nonsense words.

The word cards cover key phonics patterns including CVC words, vowel digraphs, and R-controlled vowels, giving children valuable decoding practice across multiple skill levels.

You’ll also get sorting mats labeled “Real Words” and “Nonsense Words,” plus an optional recording sheet for added accountability or assessment.

Grab your copy today and let the phonics fun roar to life!

Dino Dig Phonics

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Here’s How the Dino Word Game Works!

Kids “dig” dinosaur bones out of a sensory bin or pile, read the word on each bone, then sort it into a real or nonsense word pile. This playful approach builds phonics skills, supports decoding practice, and reinforces word recognition from CVC words to vowel teams and R-controlled vowels.

Why Parents and Teachers Love It:

• 🦕 It’s engaging, hands-on, and sensory-friendly
• 🧠 It targets key phonics patterns aligned to reading standards
• 🎯 It supports independent or small-group practice
• 💻 It’s a digital download, so you can print and play right away

More Ways to Use This Dino-Themed Phonics Game

While it’s perfect for a sensory bin or literacy center, this phonics activity is also super versatile!

• Use the word cards for small group reading warm-ups, morning tubs, or even a phonics scoot game around the room.
• You can challenge advanced readers to sort by vowel patterns, turn it into a partner game, or use the recording sheet for assessment or homework practice.
• Print on colored cardstock, laminate it for durability, or add dino figures for extra fun, this resource can be adapted to fit any routine or reading level!

Whether you’re setting up a literacy center in the classroom or a phonics game at home, your early reader will love learning with dinosaurs!

Download now and make phonics a roaring good time!

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