Decodable Phonics Story for Kindergarten Readers: The Big Dog

The Big Dog ~ A Decodable Phonics Story for Kindergarten Readers

This decodable story from Module 3 helps kindergarten and first grade students strengthen decoding, fluency, and comprehension while connecting to feelings and empathy. The Big Dog introduces Ben, a gentle dog who feels sad—and invites readers to think about what makes them feel better, too.

Build Phonics and Fluency

Students sound out and blend CVC words like dog, big, and red, practicing short vowel sounds and early decoding in connected text.

Develop Comprehension and Empathy

Students discuss story details and make personal connections about emotions, helping them understand both character feelings and their own.

Encourage Vocabulary and Observation

Guided questions about Ben’s red toys help children notice patterns, colors, and descriptive words that enrich understanding and oral language.

Promote Social-Emotional Learning

Teachers and families can use The Big Dog to open discussions about emotions—what makes us sad and what helps us feel happy again.

Perfect for Classrooms and Families

Designed for kindergarten and early first grade, this Science of Reading–aligned book is ideal for classrooms, homeschool, tutoring, and families supporting early literacy.

Collect the Full Module 3 Set

The Big Dog is part of Module 3, a series of decodable books designed to build phonics, fluency, and comprehension through meaningful, engaging stories. Explore the full collection here.