★Alphabetical Order
Grade 3 Spelling Worksheet
NameDate
Write 1, 2, 3, 4 in the circles to put the words in alphabetical order.
PencilGoGrade 3 · Spelling · Word study
3rd Grade Alphabetical Order worksheets
6 printable versionsOn LevelAbout 2 minutes eachFree · no account
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About this worksheet
Alphabetical order is how dictionaries, indexes and library shelves are arranged, so it is a reference skill. A third grader sorts words by the first letter and, when two words start the same, by the second or third letter. Guide words, the two words at the top of a dictionary page, show the first and last entry on that page; a word belongs on the page if it falls between them.
This topic has both skills, and each worksheet practices one: the odd-numbered versions put four words in alphabetical order, and the even-numbered versions use guide words. Building Confidence uses words with different first letters, On Level words that share the first letter, and Challenge Me words that share the first two letters, such as chalk, cheese and chimp.
What your child will learn
- Put words in alphabetical order by the first letter
- Use the second and third letters when the first letters match
- Use guide words to find the page a word is on
Common Core standard: L.3.2.G
Worked example
Chalk, cheese, chimp, chop: all begin with ch, so look at the third letter: a, e, i, o. The order is chalk, cheese, chimp, chop.
Common mistake
Stopping at the first letter when two words begin alike.
Helpful hint
Compare letters one at a time, from the left, until they differ.
Questions parents ask
What is the most common mistake with alphabetical order?
Stopping at the first letter when two words begin alike.
How can I help my child with alphabetical order?
Compare letters one at a time, from the left, until they differ.
Are these 3rd grade spelling worksheets free to print?
Yes. All 6 printable versions on this page are free to download and print, with no account needed.
Similar: Syllable Types · Dividing Words Into Syllables
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