The -AKE Word Family Worksheet | Free Printable

About This Worksheet

The -AKE word family introduces children to one of the most versatile long vowel patterns in English. Unlike the short vowel CVC words that most children learn first, -AKE words follow the CVCe (consonant-vowel-consonant-silent e) pattern, where the silent “e” at the end makes the “a” say its name. This is a critical phonics milestone, and the -AKE family is an ideal starting point because it contains so many common, concrete words: cake, lake, make, bake, rake, wake, take, shake, snake, and flake. Each of these words represents something a child can see, touch, or do, making the learning tangible.

In the Montessori method, the transition from short vowel sounds to long vowel patterns is carefully scaffolded. Children who have mastered families like -AT, -OT, and -IG are ready for the -AKE pattern because they already understand how changing the beginning consonant creates a new word. The silent “e” rule adds a new layer of complexity, but the familiar word family structure provides a safe framework for exploration. When a child realizes that adding “c” to “-ake” makes “cake” and “l” makes “lake,” they are applying the same onset-rime strategy they have already practiced — just with a new phonics rule in play.

This worksheet includes tracing, reading, and matching activities that guide children through multiple encounters with each -AKE word. The variety of included words ranges from simple four-letter options like “bake” and “wake” to consonant-blend starters like “shake,” “snake,” and “flake,” giving children exposure to both basic and more advanced onset patterns within one consistent word family.

Skills Practiced

How to Use This Worksheet

1. Introduce the silent “e” rule. Before starting the worksheet, show your child the difference between short and long “a” using a pair like “can” and “cane” or “tap” and “tape.” Explain that the silent “e” at the end changes how the vowel sounds. Then point out that every word on this worksheet ends in “-ake” and uses the same rule.
2. Trace and say each word. Guide your child to trace each -AKE word while saying it aloud. Emphasize the long “a” sound: “c-AKE, l-AKE, m-AKE.” Hearing the rhyming pattern repeatedly helps children internalize the word family connection.
3. Sort by difficulty. After tracing, help your child sort the words into two groups: simple onsets (cake, lake, make, bake, rake, wake, take) and blend onsets (shake, snake, flake). This sorting activity builds phonemic awareness by drawing attention to how beginning sounds differ in complexity.
4. Bake a cake together. Turn learning into action by baking something together. As you measure and mix, point out the -AKE words in real life: “We bake a cake. We shake the flour. We take it out of the oven.” This practical life connection is the heart of Montessori learning.