Spelling CK or K Practice with a Fun Phonics Game

Are your students working on figuring out ck k? Figuring out if words end with the ck or k spelling can be tricky. We have a fun, free printable spelling game to help your kindergarten and first grade students practice! Simply download and print the spell ck puzzles!

ck k

Are you wondering when to use “k” or “ck” at the end of words in English phonics? This is a common question that many parents and educators encounter! Let’s take a look at the simle rule to help you figure out how to spell ck k words. Students typically learn this important phonics rule in grade 1 as they begin to solidify their understanding of word patterns and sounds. It’s a crucial building block for their reading and spelling skills! To make learning this rule fun and engaging, we’re excited to share a **FREE printable phonics game** designed to help reinforce the “k” versus “ck” rules! This game will provide students with enjoyable practice while honing their phonics skills in a playful manner. Plus don’t miss

Why Is Spelling with K vs. CK Tricky?

The /k/ sound at the end of words can be spelled with K or CK, but how do we know which one to use? This spelling rule helps young learners build confidence in spelling correctly. The key is to listen to the vowel sound before the /k/ and remember a few simple guidelines!

The Rule for K vs. CK

This generalization applies only to single-syllable words and can be broken down into easy steps:

1. 1. Is the word one syllable?
      • • If yes, move to the next step.

1. 1. Is the vowel short or long?
      • • Short vowel → Use CK (e.g., duck, rock, snack).
      • • Long vowel or consonant before K → Use K (e.g., bike, park, book).

This rule becomes easier when children also learn the consonant blend SK (e.g., mask) and the welded sound NK (e.g., bank). They recognize that these sounds stay together and don’t need CK to break them up.

Fun Puzzle Activity for Spelling with K vs. CK

Make learning this rule hands-on with a Spelling with K vs. CK Puzzle Game!

Prep Work

• Print the puzzle pieces on cardstock
• Cut out the word-ending pieces (CK, K, SK, NK).

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How to Play

• Pick up a picture card and say the word aloud
• Sound out the word and find the correct beginning
• Decide if it ends with CK, K, SK, or NK and complete the puzzle.

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Spell ck

By practicing spelling with K vs. CK in a fun and engaging way, kids will master the /k/ sound endings with confidence. Try this hands-on activity and watch their spelling skills grow!