Free CVCC and R-controlled search and cover cards. Students decode a picture word, then search, find, and cover it among distractors.
These CVCC and R-controlled search and cover cards make decoding a hands-on game while reinforcing word recognition. Students look at the picture, sound out the word, then search through distractor words to find the correct match. Once located, they clip it with a clothespin or cover it with a manipulative. This routine aligns with science of reading instruction and works perfectly in small-groups.
CVCC examples: picture of milk → students search and cover the word “milk” among options like “mask, silk, mist”
R-controlled examples: picture of bird → students locate “bird” from distractors such as “bard, burn, bend”
Encourages close attention to spelling patterns while practicing decoding skills
Can be reused with clips, cubes, or counters for repeated practice
Great for centers, intervention, or quick decoding warm-ups
By weaving in distractors, students must rely on accurate phonics knowledge instead of guessing.
Submit any requests/questions to littlemindsatworkLLC@gmail.com
Tara West
Teacher-Author
Tara West is a dedicated educator and the founder of Little Minds at Work, an educational platform designed to provide teachers with creative and engaging resources for early childhood education. With a focus on developing innovative lesson plans, classroom strategies, and activities, Tara brings her passion for teaching to life, empowering teachers to foster meaningful learning experiences for their students.
