Action Words in Sentences – Audio-Enabled Sentence-Making Practice Cards

30 cards, 90 sentences: from two words to full sentences, with audio in 9 languages

Action Words in Sentences helps children who already combine two words ("boy chasing") start using full sentences ("The boy is chasing a butterfly"). Each card focuses on one action word. The front is a busy scene where three numbered characters do the same action. The back gives a sentence for each one, with the action word highlighted. The verb stays the same while the subject and object change, so children learn how one word works in many situations, not just one memorised phrase. Scan the card's QR code and choose which sentence to hear, in English or one of eight other languages.

At a glance

• 30 jumbo cards, 90 sentences in total (3 per card), 14.5 × 10 cm
• Front: one scene with three numbered characters doing the same action
• Back: three subject + verb + object sentences, with the verb highlighted in red
• Writing lines on the back for children to practise writing, or for parents to write the sentences in their own language
• Sturdy 315 GSM card, glossy laminate, rounded corners
• QR code on every card: choose any of the three sentences to hear
• Audio in 9 languages: English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Punjabi, French, German and Spanish
• Ages 3+
• Follows the developmental sequence of early language
• Chatterbugs app access code included
• Designed by speech and language professionals

Why three sentences per card

Learning a verb from a single picture can make a child think it only means one thing. Three sentences that keep the verb but change the subject and object show how the word really works.

Example: the "chasing" card

The front shows three characters, each chasing something different. The back gives one sentence for each:

1. The girl is chasing her sister.
2. The boy is chasing a butterfly.
3. The monkey is chasing a friend.

The sentence pattern (who + is doing + what) repeats three times with new words, so children learn to build their own sentences the same way.

How the audio works

1. Go to chatterbugs.app and enter the code from your box.
2. Choose a language.
3. Scan the QR code on any card, then choose which of its three sentences to hear.

In the app you can slow the audio down, replay any sentence, and record your own voice as the model. Audio plays online, so you'll need an internet connection.

Who it's for

• Children who use two-word phrases and are ready for full sentences
• Children who have finished Action Words Level 1 and Level 2
• Children with speech or language delays, including children with autism
• Children learning English as an additional language, or a home language alongside English
• Parents, preschool teachers and speech and language therapists

How to use the cards

1. Find the action. Look at the scene together and ask, "What's happening?"
2. Listen. Play the first sentence and say it together.
3. Spot the change. Point to character 2: "Who's chasing now? What are they chasing?"
4. Build up. If your child says "boy chasing", model the full sentence back: "The boy is chasing a butterfly."
5. Make it theirs. Ask your child to make a new sentence with the same verb about someone they know.

Aim for longer, more complete sentences over time. Perfect grammar every time isn't the goal.

Where it fits

• Before: Action Words Level 1, first everyday verbs
• Before: Action Words Level 2, 30 more verbs for two-word phrases, with each action shown by a child and a monkey
• Next: Verb Sequences, the same action in the past, present and future
• Next: What Next?, future tense and prediction
• Next: Past Tenses Level 1, talking about what already happened, with regular and irregular verbs
• Next: Adjectives in Sentences, using describing words in sentences
• Use alongside: Advanced Action Words Megadeck, 104 more verbs for richer, more precise language
• Use alongside: Position Words Level 1, where things are: in, on, under
• Better value: Sentence Learners Smart Bundle, six decks including this one, for less than buying them separately

Who made it

Brainy Bug Resources decks are designed by speech and language professionals with extensive clinical experience in mainstream schools, special schools and community clinics. Each deck follows how children's language actually develops, from single words to two-word phrases, sentences and reasoning.

Frequently asked questions

What age is it for?

3 years and up. It also suits older children who still use short phrases rather than full sentences.

Does my child need to finish Level 1 and Level 2 first?

Not necessarily. If your child already combines two words, they can start here. If they're still learning single action words, start with Level 1.

Why does each card have three sentences?

Using one verb with different subjects and objects teaches children that a word can be used flexibly. It also gives them a sentence pattern to copy and adapt.

What sentence skills does it build?

Full subject + verb + object sentences, using one verb with different subjects and objects, and moving from two-word phrases to complete sentences.

What are the lines on the back for?

Older children can practise writing the sentences or their own. Parents can also use them to write the sentences in their home language.

Do I have to pay for the audio?

No. An access code comes with the deck.

Which languages are included?

English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Punjabi, French, German and Spanish. All 90 sentences are available in every language.

Do I need to download an app?

No. Open chatterbugs.app in your phone's browser, enter your code, and scan the cards.

How durable are the cards?

They're printed on 315 GSM card with a glossy laminate and rounded corners, made for little hands and repeated use.