Word Wise: Building Dictionary and Reference Skills for Class 3

This Grade 3 English worksheet introduces dictionary and reference skills to help young learners become confident, independent word users. Students learn how to use alphabetical order, guide words, and spelling clues to find and understand words correctly.
The worksheet focuses on essential dictionary skills such as identifying which word comes first alphabetically, choosing words that fit between guide words, and spotting correct spellings. These foundational tasks help children learn how dictionaries are organised and how to use them effectively.
Designed especially for Class 3 learners, the activities are simple, logical, and highly engaging. Step-by-step multiple-choice questions encourage careful thinking, attention to detail, and confidence in handling reference tools.
By completing this worksheet, students strengthen spelling accuracy, improve vocabulary, and develop lifelong skills for reading, writing, and independent learning.

Why Dictionary Skills Matter in Grammar?
Dictionary and reference skills support strong reading and writing habits. For Grade 3 learners, this topic is important because:
1. Alphabetical order helps children find words quickly and accurately.
2. Guide words teach students how dictionaries are organised.
3. Correct spelling improves clarity and confidence in writing.
4. These skills encourage independent learning and problem-solving.

What’s Inside This Worksheet?

This worksheet includes four reference-based language activities:

✏️ Exercise 1 – Alphabetical Order  
Students choose the word that comes first alphabetically from given options.

🧠 Exercise 2 – Guide Words Practice  
Learners identify which word fits correctly between two guide words.

📘 Exercise 3 – Correct Spellings  
Students select the correctly spelled word from common spelling options.

📝 Exercise 4 – Context-Based Word Choice  
Learners choose the correct word to complete each sentence meaningfully.

✅ Answer Key (For Parents & Educators)

Exercise 1 – Alphabetical Order  
1. ant  
2. bag  
3. car  
4. dog  
5. fan  

Exercise 2 – Guide Words  
1. happy  
2. jar  
3. late  
4. mark  
5. net  

Exercise 3 – Correct Spellings  
1. friend  
2. because  
3. happy  
4. school  
5. beautiful  

Exercise 4 – Complete the Sentences  
1. water  
2. balloon  
3. story  
4. quiet  
5. apple  
Help your child become word-wise and confident with essential dictionary skills.
🔖Book a free trial!