High Frequency Words (Sight Words)

Throughout the year, our kindergarten curriculum requires periodic assessments to determine a kindergartener’s knowledge of high frequency words (sight words). Children enter school at various levels so identifying a child’s ability to quickly recognize high frequency words assists in instructional planning.

The Montgomery County School System identified 25 sight words (List 1) that students should master by the end of kindergarten. In addition, they provided 50 additional sight words (List 2 and List 3) for those students who are beginning to read at higher levels. Some students will master all 75 high frequency words; they are encouraged to learn an additional 100 sight words which are assessed in first grade.

Mastering the high frequency words on list 1 is the first goal. These 25 words are slowly introduced throughout the school year and reinforced at home via homework. Parents should assist their child in knowing the words as they are introduced. The ability to quickly recognize these 25 words will greatly assist a child when reading.

Playing games is an entertaining way to expose a child to sight words. Another great activity is playing an educational, award winning board game called Er-u-di-tion .

List 1: High Frequency Words (Sight Words)

I	at	is	to	like
me	it	am	come	and
a	this	in	here	up
go	see	my	you	look
the	said	we	on	can

List 2: High Frequency Words (Sight Words)

one	going	got	his	with
she	for	have	went	he
will	they	yes	run	was
big	not	where	day	out
down	of	are	from	little

List 3: High Frequency Words (Sight Words)

who	her	then	get	away
came	home	could	why	again
first	do	eat	mother	saw
what	after	there	make	did
because	father	want	has	night