Words Beginning with a Chosen Sound

Materials

• A whiteboard or large sheet of paper
• Pens

How to play

1. Choose and display one starting character or sound, such as Japanese a or ka. Do not begin with a difficult starting sound such as Japanese n.
2. Take turns naming words beginning with the chosen sound. Anyone who cannot think of one may pass and try again on their next turn.
3. The facilitator writes each contribution in large letters or draws it. If an object name is repeated, help find a new one together.
4. After 2–3 circuits, read the whole collection and count it. Choose another starting sound and repeat. Finish by sharing one word you learned.

Ways to adapt

Preschool children: name picture cards with an adult. Younger primary school children: any words. Older primary school children: add one category condition.

Sources and references

• ほいくる もじ ことばあそび ↗