Hello Darlings!

Spelling is one of my favorite topics because it can easily be differentiated to meet the needs of every child. I love that this system can empower kids and gives them a path to success!

So where do you start?

Ah yes!! An assessment.

First, grab these word lists!

Then, using their DRA and other incoming reading data, I select a list that I think best fits where they are at. I then tell kids what list they are. I like to label them A, B, C, etc. Then…for the crazy part. I give all of the spelling tests AT ONCE.

Yes. At ONCE.

I tell kids to listen for their word and letter. Then list by list, I administer the spelling test; alternating between A, B, and C. I give about 20 words and then we grade them together as a class or I take them home to grade them. All words that they get correct are highlighted on their list to show that they know them! 

Then, for the weeks following, kids study the ones they don’t know. We do this in a variety of ways! To start, we get set up with:

1. A Binder: this contains all of their word lists and tracks their success!
2. A notebook: this houses all of their practice in one place.
3. A mini notebook: for practicing high frequency words (also, who doesn’t love mini notebooks?!)
4. A Highlighter: to highlight words that they learn as they go. This is really empowering!
5. A choice board: this gives students options for practicing their words. Rainbow writing, magnetic letters, a whiteboard, a worksheet, etc. The more choices, the more fun!

Students have the opportunity to work independently, with a partner, with a parent volunteer, and in small groups throughout the week. Our routine is:

1. Pretest (Monday)
2. High Frequency Words (Tuesday)
3. Word Study Activities (Tuesday-Friday)
4. Test (Friday)

They are tested in increments of 5 so it doesn’t feel overwhelming and as they master them, they get to highlight them. The goal? To learn and highlight them all!!

We have a lot of fun and the kids get incredibly motivated as they learn new words. I love watching them set and hit their goals!! Their binder and notebook are also fantastic places to collect anecdotal records, monitor handwriting, and share at conferences. Really, its a win-win-win over here and who doesn’t love that?!

Looking for more? Check out some of my classroom must haves! 

DM me on Instagram @thatteachingspark or tag me in a picture to show off your kids working on their spelling!