11 Fun Ways to Help Students Track Print While Reading

Tracking print is an essential early literacy skill that helps students connect spoken words to written words. When students learn to track text from left to right and match one spoken word to one written word, they build the foundation for fluent reading.

Here are 11 fresh and fun ways to practice tracking print in your classroom:

1. Finger Tracking

The simplest method—students use their own finger to follow along under each word as they read. 

2. Use a Reading Pointer

Craft sticks, straws, or coffee stirrers can double as reading wands. Switching up the tool keeps students engaged.

3. Point with Seasonal or Fun Items

Take tracking up a notch with playful, themed items! Think Halloween monster (or witch) fingers, Christmas candy canes, Valentine’s Day pencils, or even lemonade stirrers in the spring. Kids will look forward to using them!

4. Highlight Strips or Rulers

Transparent strips or rulers placed under the text help students keep their place and focus on one line at a time.

5. Echo Reading

Model good print tracking by reading a line while pointing to each word. Students then echo it back, following along with their own finger or pointer.

6. Choral Reading

Read aloud together as a group while tracking with fingers. This helps reinforce rhythm, pacing, and directionality.

7. Word Windows

Create a card with a cut-out “window” so only one word shows at a time. This is a great tool for emerging readers who need extra focus.

8. Bookmarks

Students use bookmarks to keep their place. Students can use the corner or place the ruler under the line of text. They may enjoy decorating their bookmark!

9. Tracking with Technology

Many e-books highlight words as they are read aloud. These digital supports can be excellent for visual reinforcement.

10. Partner Reading

Pair students up! One student tracks the words while the other reads aloud. Then they switch roles.

11. Whisper Reading

Students point and read in a whisper voice (or squeaky voice or whatever voice you can tolerate!)

Consider using these ideas with shorter passages. Rotate tools and ideas to keep your students engaged. 

With faith and friendship,