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The Word Search block creates interactive word search puzzles where learners find and highlight hidden words in a grid of letters. Words can be hidden horizontally, vertically, and optionally diagonally. A fun and engaging way to reinforce vocabulary, spelling, and pattern recognition.
Word Search puzzles are automatically generated from your word list, with letters randomly placed around the hidden words.
Word Search activities work well for:
  • Vocabulary building and word recognition
  • Spelling practice and reinforcement
  • Topic-based word exploration (e.g., science terms, historical figures)
  • Engaging warm-up or cool-down activities
  • Independent practice and early finisher tasks

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Settings

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Grid settings

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Board size
slider
default:"10"
The size of the word search grid (6–15). Larger grids can accommodate more or longer words.
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Include diagonals
switch
default:"false"
When enabled, words can be placed diagonally in addition to horizontally and vertically. This increases difficulty.
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Grow to fit words
switch
default:"false"
When enabled, the grid automatically expands if needed to fit all words. When disabled, words that don’t fit are excluded.

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Words

Add the words you want learners to find. Each word can include:
  • Word text: The word to hide in the puzzle
  • Image: An optional image hint shown in the word list
  • Prompt: An optional clue or definition

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Creating a Word Search Activity

To set up a word search activity:
  1. Add the Word Search block to your resource
  2. Set the board size based on your word list
  3. Add your words: aim for 5–10 words for a good balance
  4. Decide whether to include diagonals based on learner level
  5. Enable grow to fit if you want all words guaranteed to appear (up to the maximum size of 15 characters)
The puzzle is automatically generated with your words hidden in the grid. Learners tap or drag to highlight words they find.

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Tips for teachers and parents

Best practices:
  • Keep word count reasonable. 5–10 words works well for most puzzles
  • Use shorter words (3–6 letters) for younger learners
  • Enable diagonals only for more advanced learners since it significantly increases difficulty
  • Group related words thematically (e.g., all animals, all verbs)
  • Add image hints for vocabulary learners or younger children
  • Use prompts/definitions to turn the activity into a vocabulary quiz
  • Test your puzzle to ensure all words fit and are findable