How Do You Teach Spelling?

This is the number one question I get from the teachers I’ve worked with.

I get it! Lately there has not been a solid plan for how to TEACH spelling. Spelling textbooks have not been used in classrooms for years. The reasons are many. One is that the old spelling textbooks are not explicitly differentiated for a variety of student abilities.

But, teachers want direction for teaching spelling. They want to be able to differentiate. They want reassurance that they are doing things…right.

As I create my writing intervention resource, I know that spelling will be a huge focus. Strong spelling skills are needed for writing fluency and confidence.  Spelling is what struggling writers spend a lot of time trying to do correctly.

Let’s first revisit how spelling was taught in the past.  I picked up this Canadian Speller from an antique shop in Edmonton. It is from 1950.  I am in love with it. Perhaps I love the size – like a paper back novel. Maybe it’s the ink drawings inside – so retro that they are trendy. Maybe it’s the structure…so clear and concise.

Anyway, let’s check it out!

The cover – elegant – gorgeous colors – to the point.

A letter to teachers …”in these spelling texts, spelling is not thought of as an isolated subject, but as one of the related language arts. The goal is the development of the ability to not only to spell words correctly, but also to use the words accurately in writing and with a clear understanding of their meaning.”

I love that “pupils” are given guidance for “how to study.” This is something students of today need, help to organize their week and setting up a plan for review.

I love the suggestion for Thursday practice. The idea that if mastery is complete – students learn supplementary words. Also, that students have a list of their own spelling words to work on. (A hint of differentiation, even in the 50’s!)

An example of a reading passage, interesting. I had not idea about the origin of the Maple Leaf until I read this. Anyway, I love the Canadian context, and the content area words.

This it the page opposite the reading passage. I like the choices of exercises and the amount of word play. This is similar to how I learned in the 1980’s but I don’t think teachers do this on their own any more.

This a sample page, in all there are 7 rules for spelling. A helpful resource even for today’s students.

Love this…students need to know this.

I know! A dictionary! I get that today’s students have access to one online but I do like that all the words for the year are in this list and accessed quickly.

Students keeping track of their progress – a visual record!

Moving forward, we know that teachers need a structured resource for teaching spelling and struggling writers NEED structured teaching.  Honestly, I think most students need spelling instruction that is clearly laid out.  I envision that it can be digital but it needs to be developmentally aligned, yet flexible to student needs.  This is where I appreciate your input.

What direction would you like for a spelling program?  Email me at Brandi.Clark@ecsd.net

Until Next Time,

Love Coach Clark