Hi everyone! It's Jennie from JD's Rockin' Readers!
This post isn't going to be my normal post where I think maybe I can share a tip to help you in your classroom. I am actually going to ask the opposite…. I need help:)
In my school (K-4), we are looking into our spelling program and trying to figure out what is best to help our kids. I would LOVE to hear from you as to what works for you. Our program now is actually very individualized. We have 12 words each week. 7 of them are pattern words and the other 5 are sight words (dependent on ability).
Each week we have parent helpers give our tests because they are individualized. This is where the problem comes in… it takes the parent about an hour and a half just to give the tests. So, when she can't show up or we have delay or cancellation, it just doesn't work out well. They are extremely time consuming!
We have mixed reviews as a staff as to whether we should even have spelling tests, what types of words we should be giving, and if they are beneficial. What do you think?
What spelling programs do you use and do you think they are beneficial? Thanks for your help!
We don't have a spelling program at our school. Each teacher does their own thing. Personally, I don't teach spelling, beyond the phonics work we do during out guided reading groups. I do give the Words Their Way Spelling Inventory and have done word sorts in the past. I love the Words Their Way type of spelling instruction; however, with all the small group work we do for reading and math, I just don't have time for another small group!
ReplyDeleteThat being said, I don't see my lack of direct spelling instruction affecting students' spelling development. We do so much with reading by syllables and whenever a student asks me to spell a word, I always syllabicate it for them (if it's decodable). We do focus on irregular spelled words that need to be memorized (in terms of reading).
I may do more with spelling next year, but reading was more important for this group of students and that's where I needed to concentrate my energy. When I did give the WTW tests and assign words, it was based on students' spelling levels. I did give them word sorts in addition to "fun" activities to do with the words.
What I Have Learned
I'm curious to see what other people say, too. The first two semesters at our school we create spelling lists of "no excuses words". After they are tested on the words they go up on a word wall and students are expected to spell them correctly on every assignment for the rest of the year. For the second two semesters we do phonics-based lists, but I don't really like those because they seem to forget the patterns after they've studied them for the weekly test. I'd love to find a new way to assess spelling rather than just reading words off a list. I'll be checking back to see what you find out!
ReplyDeleteLet it be known that I am not a fan of "Friday Spelling Tests". I've always given them according to my district's requirements. Currently, they must use the basal. It is based on a phonics pattern and progresses as the year goes on. I like the way it is done; however, I don't think that students retain the pattern to help them read or spell. I wish that the same words were in their reading passages. I always used Spelling City as homework and/or practice during a classroom station.
ReplyDeleteI went to a PD a few years back that spoke of giving a pattern for kids to study and on Friday you would give all the kids the same words that followed the pattern. Perhaps some of these words you would work on throughout the week so that kids would get a chance to see them.
Deniece
Thanks everyone for all of your input! I have many things to ponder and I hope this helps others as well!
ReplyDeleteJennie