Soft TH Words

Soft TH Words in IB PYP Grade 1 Language

In a soft th word the letters t and h make a breathy sound: the tongue peeks between the teeth and only air comes out, with no humming. Children hear it at the start of think, thumb, three, thunder and at the end of tooth, bath, mouth, path.

Every worksheet here is short, colourful and playful, with a friendly animal guide and a teacher answer key on page 2. Matching flashcards can be played online or printed 1, 2, 4, 6 or 8 to an A4 page.

What learners practise

Hear the airy soft th sound at the start and end of words
Read and spell words such as think, thumb, three and bath
Complete sentences with soft th words
Tell soft th from hard th

For students

Say each word aloud, then write it. Colour the animal when you finish.

For parents

Print on A4, read the instructions together and let your child try before you check.

For teachers

Use as a phonics starter, homework or exit ticket. Each sheet has a name, class and date box and an answer key.

Teaching tip

Show children how to poke the tongue gently between the teeth and blow air, like a quiet snake.

Quick answers

What is a soft th?

The unvoiced th, where only air comes out and the throat does not hum. It is the th in think, thumb and bath.

How can children tell soft th from hard th?

Put a hand on the throat. If there is no buzz (think, bath) it is soft th. If it buzzes (this, brother) it is hard th.

How should I use these worksheets?

Pick one worksheet, let your child try it alone first, then check together with the answer key on page 2. Five to ten minutes a few times a week works best.