Compound words are formed by combining two words into one new word with a different meaning. 

For example:

Rain + bow = rainbow

Butter + fly = butterfly

Sun + flower = sunflower

In this compound words activity, students will read the words or refer to the pictures on each card and connect them to create compound words. 

How to Play This Compound Word Activity

This resource can be used as a reading center activity, with your guided reading group, or as a full class activity (see below) to practice creating compound words. 

To play, the domino cards are shuffled and divided equally among players. One player lays a domino down the middle of the playing area. Students take turns matching either end of the cards to make a compound word.

For example, if a player were to lay down the “man | cup” domino, the next player could then lay the “cake | snow card” next to cup to form the compound word “cupcake,” or they could lay down “bowl | fire” next to man to make the compound word “fireman.” Gameplay continues in this manner until someone lays down their last domino, making them the winner.

More Compound Words Activities + Scaffolding and Extension Tips

This resource can be used for individualized practice, especially if you’ve got fast finishers! You can also use this game to create full-class learning opportunities like scoot activities, lesson reviews, comprehension assessments, and more. 

If you have struggling students, invite them to use a visual reminder to help with the concept, such as a(n):

• Anchor chart
• Compound word poster
• Word wall 

Odd Man Out

Place 3 cards at each station, making sure 2 of the cards create a compound word and the 3rd card is different. Student pairs will rotate through each station and identify the compound word, writing their answers on a separate sheet of paper. 

Compound Words Human Chain (Scoot Activity)

Provide each student in your class with a domino. Challenge the students to find both of their other halves, creating one long chain of dominoes. For an extra challenge ask the students to complete the task in silence!

Bell Ringer Activity

Leave the cards in a pile, and instruct students to grab one as soon as they enter the classroom. On a piece of paper, have students write a compound word for each side of the domino—words can start or end with either side of the piece.  

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Print on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

Before You Download

Use the drop-down icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. An answer key is also included with this download.

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This resource was created by Lindsey Phillips, a teacher in Michigan and a Teach Starter Collaborator. 

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