Spelling Term 1 Team DW

The way we teach spelling across the school is changing!

Rather than sending home a set list of spellings each week for children to learn by rote, we will be focusing on a spelling rule each week. During our spelling lessons, children will be taught how to recognise and apply each rule and use it to help them spell new and unfamiliar words.

At the beginning of each term, we will send home a list of words linked to the spelling rules that the children will be learning. We do not expect children to learn these words by rote. Instead, we encourage them to use the strategies and tools they have been taught in school to work out how to spell the words.

At the end of each term, the children will complete a short spelling assessment, with 10 words selected from the rules and vocabulary covered during the term. This will help us see how well the children can apply their spelling knowledge.

Throughout the term, we will share some of the spelling strategies and activities we use in school on the blog, so that you can support your child with their learning at home.

Our spelling lessons will include spelling games, making and building words using sensory and physical activities, exploring the simple etymology of words, and investigating links and patterns between words.

We hope that this approach will not only help children become confident and capable spellers, but also build their vocabulary and develop a real love and curiosity for words!