Spelling 'learning strategies'
Embedded Files
Our approach to spellings focuses on addressing gaps in patterns and application of understanding. A lot of our curriculum focuses on revisiting previously taught patterns, which is also part of the National Curriculum for Spellings, so that they can be embedded in all aspects of learning.
Children will be given spellings and stuck into the green spelling books to learn weekly (given on a Monday/Tuesday and tested the following Monday). The spellings list will share the focus patterns and rules for the week. The words may be familiar to the children and it is important that, if they know them, they investigate and find other words which follow the pattern to then learn these for their spelling practice. Throughout the week, in school, the patterns/rules will be revisited throughout learning, including four 15 minute lessons.
Each week, children will be assessed on their application of the rules/patterns and not necessarily all of the words in the spelling list; this will allow us to assess their understanding and application as well as support their spelling in everyday writing. We will also revisit patterns and rules previously taught. There will not be a score at the end of the test but you will be able to identify any words that have not been spelt correctly to support your child further.
This approach enables spellings to have a longer impact across the curriculum. However, your support and practising at home has an even greater impact on long term memory.
Spelliing Home Learning
Home learning of spellings can be done in a variety of ways. However, we would like every child to complete the spelling activity provided by school focusing on application of the new pattern (Stuck into spelling books) and one other activity from the list below. We recommend that spelling learning should be completed in 5 short bursts of 5 minutes. However, we know that life can be busy and spellings need to be squeezed into a schedule or learned in other, more creative ways. Therefore, spellings can be learnt in different chunks of time if needed. Please ensure that your child spends 30 minutes per week overall practising their spellings.
Pyramid Writing
Add a new letter of each word on each new line until the full word has been written. Say the letters in the words as they are being written.
Written Test
An adult reads the words out and the child writes them down.
Say, look, cover, write, check
Say the word, look at the word, cover the word, write the word, then check it. Move across the page and do this 4-5 times per word.
Sentences
Write each of the words into sentences. Try to use conjunctions and adjectives.
Rainbow Writing
Write the word out with the correct spellings in different colours, going over the top each time. Say the spelling aloud each time it is written in a different colour.
Other ways to practice spellings
We know that life can be busy and spellings need to be squeezed into a schedule or learned in other, more creative ways. Therefore, different ways can be noted down and dated, such as practising on an app, in sand, with magnetic letters, saying aloud in the car, etc.
Please ask your teacher for help if you are unsure or contact us via the class email.
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