The University of Iowa

Phonological Awareness - Kindergarten

Distinguish words in sentences (RF.K.1)

  • Identify individual words in a spoken or written sentence

Blend, segment, and count syllables in words (RF.K.2)

  • Identify syllables in words
  • Blend and segment syllables in words

Recognize when a spoken word has been changed  (RF.K.2)

  • Tell whether words and sounds are the same or different
  • Identify which sound is different in two words being compared

Blend, segment, count, and rhyme sounds in words (RF.K.2)

  • Blend and segment onsets and rimes in one-syllable words
  • Identify and produce rhyming words1
  • Blend and segment individual sounds in one-syllable words of up to 3 phonemes

English learner and bilingual footnotes

The ability to rhyme in Spanish transfers to and supports the development of reading in English.