ShortControlled connected reading
Short U Decodable Passages
Three original reading levels with word previews and comprehension
Practise short U in connected text after learners can read common -ug, -un, and -ut words. Each passage increases the amount of mixed review without asking the learner to guess from pictures.
Before reading a passage
A passage is decodable only when its spelling patterns match what the learner has already studied. Preview the listed focus words and any temporarily irregular high-frequency words before beginning.
Three levels
Short U reading practice
Gus and the Bug
Gus saw a bug on the rug. The bug ran past a cup and sat in the sun. Gus put the cup by the bug. The bug did not run. It sat on the cup in the warm sun.
Check understanding
- Where was the bug first?
- What did it run past?
- Where did it sit at the end?
The Duck in the Mud
A duck ran into the mud. It had fun, but its back and legs got wet. Mum put the duck in a tub. She used a brush to scrub off the mud. The duck was clean, but the tub was not.
Check understanding
- Where did the duck run?
- How did Mum clean it?
- What was dirty at the end?
A Fun Run
The run club met in the sun. Gus and Russ ran one lap on the track. Then they had to jump, duck, and run back. At the end, the club sat under a tree and had lunch.
Check understanding
- Where did the club meet?
- What actions did they do?
- What happened after the run?
Use evidence from the reading
Support accuracy, fluency, and meaning
Point to the unfamiliar spelling and ask the learner to say its sounds before blending.
A second accurate, expressive reading is enough. Speed without attention to print is not the goal.
If several words in each sentence require help, review the matching word families first.
Have the learner point to the sentence that supports each comprehension answer.
Offline reading
Print these passages
The print version keeps all three passages, word previews, and questions. Use your browser to print them or save a PDF.