CKLA Kindergarten Tricky Words Rock, Paper, Scissors

Bring a classic playground favorite into your literacy block with Rock, Paper, Scissors: Tricky Word Edition!

Specifically designed for the CKLA Kindergarten curriculum, this high-engagement game turns rote memorization into an exciting challenge. We know that Tricky Words (like the, of, from, was) can be “tricky” for little learners because they don’t follow standard phonics rules. This game provides the high-frequency repetition students need to build automaticity while they play!

How to Play:

  • The Setup: Students pair up, each holding their stack of CKLA Tricky Word cards.
  • The Battle: Students say “Rock, Paper, Scissors, Shoot!” and reveal their move.
  • The Twist: The winner of the round must read the Tricky Word on the top of their card to “claim” the point. If they get it right, they keep the cards!
  • The Goal: Collect the most cards by the end of the round.

Why Teachers Love It:

  • CKLA Aligned: Includes all Tricky Words from the Kindergarten sequence, organized by order taught.
  • Zero-Prep Transition: Once cards are cut, this is a “go-to” activity for early finishers, indoor recess, or small group warm-ups.
  • Gamified Fluency: Students are so focused on the game they don’t even realize they are doing intensive sight word drills!
  • Peer-to-Peer Learning: Encourages students to support one another in recognizing irregular spelling patterns.

What’s Included:

  • Custom Tricky Word Cards: Sized perfectly for small hands with clear, CKLA-style font.
  • Visual Support: Small icons on the cards to remind students of the Rock, Paper, Scissors rules.
  • Organized by Order Taught: Easily pull only the words your students have learned so far.


Make your literacy centers the highlight of the day!

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