Reading Intervention as Easy as Tic Tac Toe
What if we told you that one of the simplest games, Tic-Tac-Toe, could become one of your most powerful literacy tools?
It’s true. With just a grid, a marker, and your word list, you can adapt Tic-Tac-Toe for any student, at any level, to practice the skills they need most. And the best part? It’s quick, no-prep, and kids love it.
Why Tic-Tac-Toe Works in Intervention
Students already know the rules. You don’t have to waste time explaining how to play.
It’s instantly engaging. The competitive element keeps students motivated.
It’s endlessly adaptable. Whether your students are working on letter formation, sight words, or multisyllable spelling, Tic-Tac-Toe can flex with their needs.
How to Adapt Tic-Tac-Toe Across Levels
Beginner Level: Letter Formation
Instead of Xs and Os, choose two letters your students are learning.
Each turn, they must write the letter correctly in the space to claim it.
Builds automaticity and accuracy with letter formation.
Intermediate Level: Sight Words
Fill each square with a sight word.
Students must read (or spell) the word correctly before placing their mark.
Builds confidence with high-frequency words.
Advanced Level: Spelling & Vocabulary
Dictate spelling words. Students must write the word correctly in the square.
Add a vocabulary twist: require them to use the word in a sentence before claiming the spot.
For older students, extend into story-building: each word becomes part of a shared silly story.
Teacher Tip
Try this: next time you’re planning a lesson, ask yourself: How could I make this into Tic-Tac-Toe?
Word list? → Each square is a word.
Vocabulary? → Each square is a clue.
Spelling words? → Dictate them into the grid.
You’ll be amazed how much mileage you can get out of one simple game. You can easily just draw your grid on any surface, but if you like to be super organized (we’re here for it), you can click here to grab a template!
Want More?
In our upcoming Spotlight PD, The Literacy Game Plan: Using Games to Teach, Engage, and Differentiate, we’ll show you exactly how to take simple games like Tic-Tac-Toe and adapt them across multiple skills and grade levels.
You’ll walk away with:
Ready-to-use games and templates.
Adaptation ideas for all 5 core literacy components.
The exact strategy you need to bring joy back to your teaching!
In the meantime, check out our other favorite games here!