Digraph Worksheets (sh, ch, th, wh)
Digraphs are two letters that combine to make one new sound, like the “sh” in “ship” or the “ch” in “chip,” and they're a common stumbling block right after basic CVC blending. This matching worksheet has students connect digraph words to their pictures, reinforcing that two letters together can represent a single sound.
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Digraph Words (sh, ch, th, wh) Matching Worksheet
Draw a line from each word to the clue that matches it.
Answer Key
Digraph Words (sh, ch, th, wh) Matching Worksheet
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How to teach recognizing and reading sh, ch, th, and wh digraph sounds
- 1
Introduce one digraph at a time
Teach “sh” fully with several example words before adding “ch,” “th,” or “wh” so sounds don't blur together.
- 2
Emphasize the single new sound
Explain that sh, ch, th, and wh each make one sound, different from either letter said alone, and practice saying each sound in isolation.
- 3
Match words to pictures by sound
Have your child say each word aloud before drawing a line to its matching picture, rather than guessing visually.
- 4
Sort words by digraph
After matching, ask your child to group the words by which digraph they start or end with.
Common mistakes kids make
- Sounding out each letter separately — remind kids that sh, ch, th, and wh are read as one combined sound, not two separate letters.
- Confusing th and wh sounds — have your child feel the position of their tongue and lips for each sound to tell them apart.
- Matching pictures before saying the word aloud — always read the word first to reinforce the sound-symbol connection.
- Introducing all four digraphs in one sitting — spread instruction across several days for better retention.
Tips for parents and teachers
- Post a small digraph chart near the worksheet area so kids can reference example words while working.
- Practice each digraph sound with an action, like a quiet “shh” gesture for sh, to build a memorable association.
- Combine digraph practice with a simple word search once the matching activity is complete.
Grade alignment
This worksheet supports Common Core standard RF.K.3.C, typically taught in Kindergarten-1st grade. Use it for practice, homework, review or a timed check of fluency.
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Open worksheetFrequently asked questions
What is a digraph in phonics?
A digraph is a combination of two letters that together represent one single speech sound, such as sh, ch, th, or wh.
How is a digraph different from a blend?
In a digraph, the two letters make one brand-new sound, while in a blend, like “bl” in “blue,” both letter sounds can still be heard separately.
What are common digraph words for beginners?
Common examples include ship, chip, this, and whale, each demonstrating one of the four core consonant digraphs.
When are digraphs typically taught?
Digraphs are usually introduced in kindergarten or early first grade, after students are comfortable blending basic CVC words.
Why do some digraphs have two sounds, like th?
The “th” digraph can be voiced as in “this” or unvoiced as in “think,” so it's worth practicing both versions separately.