It is so, so important that our kindergarteners and first graders learn those short vowel sounds.  It’s amazing how those five little letters can cause so much havoc in learning to read and write if learned incorrectly.   The vowel sticks activity is a great activity to teach and reinforce short vowel sounds.  Not only can this activity be used during small group instruction, the self-checking feature makes this an awesome literacy center activity too!  To make this activity, you will need large craft sticks, black and red fine point Sharpie permanent markers, a clothespin and a small foam star (optional).  I purchased a package of stars at Office Max in the teacher supply section.  Be sure to make a set