Lesson 36: High-Frequency Word “was”

Help Your Child Learn to Read the High-Frequency Word “Was”!

What Will We Learn Today?

Today we’re learning the word “was”—a high-frequency word used to talk about the past. In this lesson, your child will learn how to read the word “was”, understand what it means, and use it in phrases and connected sentences.

How to Read the Word “Was”

The word “was” has three sounds:
/w/ – like in wet
/ʌ/ – like the “u” in cup
/z/ – like in zoo

Blend the sounds together: /w/ – /ʌ/ – /z/ → was

This word doesn’t follow regular phonics patterns, so we teach it by sight and repetition.

What Does “Was” Mean?

We use “was” to talk about:

• The past — something that already happened

• Feelings — “She was tired.”

• Descriptions — “The log was hot.”

“Was” helps us describe what something used to be or how someone used to feel.

Let’s Practice Reading Phrases

• was the cat

• was on top

• was on tip

• was the dog

• was not a rat

• was on a mat

Try reading each phrase slowly, then smoothly.

Let’s Practice Reading Sentences

• The bag was wet.

• The pup was sad.

• The log was hot.

• I said the cup was big.

Encourage your child to find the word “was” in each sentence and read with expression.

Let’s Practice Reading Connected Sentences

The dog was on the mat.
The mat was wet.
The dog was sad.
Max got a rug.
The dog was glad.

Ask your child:

• Why was the dog sad?

• What happened next?

• How did the dog feel at the end?

Make Your Own “Was” Phrases and Sentences

Invite your child to try three of their own:

Phrases:

• was very big

• was at school

• was not glad

Sentences:

• The cake was sweet.

• Dad was at the shop.

• It was not fun.

This builds comprehension and confidence.

Color, Trace, and Write

Use worksheets where your child can:

• Read and trace the word “was”

• Write it on their own

• Match it to a past-tense sentence

• Color pictures showing what “was” happening

[Download the “Was” Practice Worksheet Here]

Flashcards – High-Frequency Word Focus

Use simple flashcards that include the word “was” in different sentence frames.

Examples:

• She was sad.

• The cat was up.

• It was hot.

Games to try:

• Find the Word

• Say and Act

• Make a Sentence

[Download “Was” Flashcards – Sight Word Set Here]

Conclusion

The word “was” helps children describe the past and builds early grammar skills. With repeated reading, tracing, and use in context, your child will quickly become comfortable with this important word.

Ask your child:
“What was your favorite part of today?”