Turn phonics practice into an exciting feeding frenzy with Feed the Shark Sentences! This comprehensive activity pack combines decodable word blending, sentence construction, and handwriting practice in one engaging, hands-on multi sensory experience perfect for PreK and Kindergarten students.
Students build sentences, write them down, and feed them to a hungry shark—making literacy skills both memorable and fun.
For parents and teachers supporting PreK and Kindergarten students, a fundamental goal is to demonstrate how phonics and sentence building work together. The connection between decoding words and constructing sentences is essential, with each skill strengthening the other in a child’s early literacy development.
Make Learning Bite-Sized and Effective
Traditional phonics worksheets can feel repetitive and disconnected from real reading and writing. Shark Sentences bridges this gap by creating a multisensory learning experience that keeps kids motivated while building essential literacy foundations. The activity seamlessly integrates phonics, sentence structure, and handwriting practice through interactive play.
What Students Will Learn
Essential phonics and sentence building skills through hands-on, multi sensory practice
Skills Students Develop
- Phonics Blending: Decode CVC, CVCC, CVCe, and digraph words fluently
- Sentence Construction: Build complete sentences using proper structure and grammar
- High-Frequency Word Recognition: Master sight words through repeated exposure
- Handwriting Practice: Develop fine motor skills and letter formation
- Reading Fluency: Build confidence through repeated reading and practice
- Listening Skills: Follow multi-step directions and engage in oral language activities
What’s Included in the Activity Pack (45+pages)
- Shark Mouth Mat – Colorful mat for feeding sentence word cards
- Sentence Frame Pages – Decodable sentence starters
- Word Card Pages – CVC, CVCe, digraphs, blends, and high-frequency words
- Recording Sheets – Sentence writing practice with free-write options
How to Use Feed the Shark Sentence Builder and Handwriting
Setup: Print and laminate the shark mouth mat and word cards for durability. Prepare sentence frames and recording sheets for each student.
- Choose or roll for a sentence frame
- Select and blend decodable word cards to complete the sentence
- Write the complete sentence on the recording sheet
- Read the sentence aloud for fluency practice
- Feed the sentence strip to the shark by sliding it into the mouth opening
Differentiation Options: Use picture clues for beginning readers, add complex sentence frames for advanced students, or incorporate nonsense words for phonics reinforcement.

Interactive Phonics Games for Sentence Building
Elevate any phonics lesson into an engaging experience by incorporating movement and choice. Students can work independently or in small groups, making this activity perfect for literacy centers or whole-group instruction.
Creative Ways to Extend the Activity
Home Practice: Send materials home in a gallon bag for family phonics fun. Parents can help students practice blending and sentence building during car rides or quiet time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What reading level is this activity appropriate for? A: Feed the Shark Sentences works best for beginning readers (PreK-2nd grade) who are learning to blend sounds and build simple sentences. The activity can be differentiated for various skill levels.
Q: Can this be used for whole group instruction? A: Yes! Use it as a warm-up activity, guided practice session, or assessment tool with the entire class participating.
Related Phonics Activities
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