Rhyming words have the same ending sound. The part we listen for is the vowel sound and the sounds that come after it (for example, the sound in -at in “cat”).
Say the words out loud and stretch the ending. If the endings sound the same, the words rhyme.
We can find rhymes by listening closely. Clap, tap, or snap on the ending sound to feel the rhyme in each word.
Listen for the vowel sound and the sounds after it. The beginning sound can change, and the words can still rhyme.
Many rhymes share the same spelling pattern (like -ake or -ain). Some words rhyme even with different spellings because the ending sounds match.
Spelling can help, but your ears are the best tool. If the endings sound the same, the words rhyme—even if the letters look different.
Rhyming words often appear at the ends of lines in poems, songs, and chants. Spotting them helps us read with rhythm and expression.
When reading, pause slightly at the end of a line. Listen for words that match in sound—they usually make the rhyme.
Some words sound almost the same but do not rhyme. These are near rhymes. True rhymes share the same ending sound.
If you are unsure, try adding another word you know rhymes (like “bat”). Compare: cat–bat (rhyme) and catch–bat (not rhyme).
We can sort and match words by their rhyming endings. Grouping words by sound helps us read and spell more confidently.
Listen first, then check the ending letters. Use what you hear to sort quickly, and the spelling to confirm your choice.