CVCC and R-Controlled Search and Cover Boards – Free Phonics Mats with Color-Coded Clues
Guided Phonics + Beyond
Free CVCC and R-controlled search and cover boards. Students decode the picture, then cover the matching word using the color-coded clue.
These CVCC and R-controlled search and cover boards give students a fun and structured way to decode with built-in supports. Each picture at the bottom includes a color-coded clue. Students first decode the word, then place a manipulative of the same color on the matching word hidden in the board. This interactive routine is aligned with science of reading and perfect for small-groups.
Example CVCC word: picture of cold with a blue color → students decode /c/ /o/ /l/ /d/ and place a blue cube on the word cold in the board
Example R-controlled word: picture of farm with a green color → students decode /f/ /ar/ /m/ and place a green cube on farm
Distractor words are mixed in to encourage careful decoding rather than guessing
Use with colored cubes, counters, or even dot markers for variety
Flexible for small-group phonics, independent centers, or at-home decoding practice
These boards create an engaging way for students to practice sound-by-sound mapping and build word recognition through repeated exposure.
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Tara West
Teacher-Author
Tara West is a dedicated educator and the founder of Little Minds at Work, an educational platform designed to provide teachers with creative and engaging resources for early childhood education. With a focus on developing innovative lesson plans, classroom strategies, and activities, Tara brings her passion for teaching to life, empowering teachers to foster meaningful learning experiences for their students.
