LESSON 7: High-Frequency Word “I”

Help Your Child Learn to Read and Use the Word “I”

What Will We Learn Today?

Today we’re learning the high-frequency word “I”—a simple yet powerful word that children use to talk about themselves. In this lesson, your child will learn how to say, read, and write the word “I”, and understand how to use it in everyday language.

How to Say the Word “I”

The word “I” has one sound: /aɪ/ (like in ice or island).

Say the word aloud together /aɪ/:

• I

Repeat the word three times clearly:
I, I, I

This word is a vowel sound that stands alone—and it’s one of the first sight words most children learn.

What Does the Word “I” Mean?

We use the word “I” when we’re talking about ourselves.

Examples:

• I am happy.

• I see a cat.

• I like to run.

• I want a snack.

It’s always capitalized, no matter where it appears in the sentence—even if it’s in the middle.

Fun and Meaningful Activities for the Word “I”

Read and Circle the Word

Print or write short sentences using the word “I”. Ask your child to find and circle the word each time they see it.

Examples:

• I see a dog.

• I am big.

• I like the sun.

• I can jump.

Ask:

“Can you find the word ‘I’? How many times can you find it?”

Build the Word with Letters

Use magnetic letters or paper cutouts to build the word I.

Since it’s just one letter, focus on recognizing it as a word and always as a capital letter.

Say: “This word is just one letter, but it’s very important!”

Make an “I Can” Book

Fold a small booklet and write “I can” on each page. Help your child finish each sentence by drawing or writing something they can do.

Examples:

• I can run.

• I can jump.

• I can eat.

Let your child read their “I Can” Book back to you. This helps them use “I” in real sentences with confidence.

Write It, Say It, Trace It

Use a whiteboard or worksheet:

• Write the word “I” three times

• Say the word each time

• Trace the word with a finger, crayon, or marker

[Download the “I” Practice Worksheet Here]

Conclusion

The word “I” is one of the first words every child learns to read and write. It helps them express what they do, feel, and love. With simple repetition and meaningful use, children will quickly recognize and use the word “I” in everyday sentences.

Keep reading and writing together, and enjoy these little steps toward big confidence. What’s one thing your child can say with the word “I”? Share it in the comments!