Getting Started with Spelling
I have my SHS students study 15-20 words. Students are expected to be able to write their assigned words with perfect spelling and capitalization. Two extra-credit bonus words are also provided.
Administering Spelling Tests:
I have the students number a piece of paper 1-20 and then read the words and bonus words aloud to the students. The words are given out-of-order from the study list. I usually say the word, use it in a sentence, and repeat just the word again, before moving on to the next word. Each of the words is also repeated after the entire list has been given.
Scoring Spelling Tests:
When scoring the test, each of the 20 words are worth one point. They must be spelled correctly, and should only be capitalized if they are a proper noun or proper adjective.
Challenge/bonus words will be counted as one extra-credit point if they are correctly spelled, but will not count against a student if they are incorrectly spelled. Students should be encouraged to always try the bonus words.
Below are links to general resources that will enhance your spelling.
- Use some of the Spelling Practice Strategies to study your spelling list each week.
- Reading Rockets list of 1st grade to 5th grade most-important words to know
- Dictionary.com is an online combination of dictionary and thesaurus that also allows you to look up the meaning of phrases such as "let the cat out of the bag".
- Zaner Bloser Free Teacher Resources has several language arts resources you might explore.
*Note: It is VERY important that students learn good dictionary skills with the printed dictionary and thesaurus. Limit online or electronic dictionary and thesaurus use to no more than 50% of a student's dictionary use.