Top 10 Resources on Spelling and Word Study

Learn more about the English spelling system, how spelling supports reading, why children with dyslexia and dysgraphia struggle, which words should be taught, and instruction that works.
- Word Study Instruction in the K-2 Classroom
Find out how to integrate small-group word study instruction and hands-on word work activities to keep students motivated and engaged in learning about the English spelling system.
- Word Study: A New Approach to Teaching Spelling
"Word study" is an alternative to traditional spelling instruction. It is based on learning word patterns rather than memorizing unconnected words.
- Why Phonological Awareness Is Important for Reading and Spelling
Phonological awareness is critical for learning to read any alphabetic writing system. And research shows that difficulty with phoneme awareness and other phonological skills is a predictor of poor reading and spelling development.
- How Spelling Supports Reading
Make sense of the English spelling system. And learn more about the relationships between letters and sounds and how a proper understanding of spelling mechanics can lead to improved reading.
- Looking at Writing
See writing samples from real kids in pre-K through grade 3. You'll see the evolution from "invented" spelling to a more sophisticated understanding of the rules of English spelling in these examples.
- Developing Writing and Spelling at Home
Find simple, hands-on activities that encourage everyday writing, such as preparing a grocery list or writing a thank you note, as well as tips on how to handle "writer's strike." (In English and Spanish)
- Spelling and Dyslexia
This fact sheet explains why people with dyslexia have trouble spelling, how to diagnose a specific spelling problem, and spelling instruction and accommodations for children with dyslexia.
- What Is Dysgraphia?
Dysgraphia is a learning disability that affects writing abilities. Learn the warning signs and techniques for teaching and accommodating young kids with dysgraphia.
- The Basic Spelling Vocabulary List
This list was created to help teachers know which spelling words should be taught to kids in grades 1–5. The list contains 850 words that account for 80 percent of the words children use in their writing — the ones they need to be able to spell correctly.
- Root Words, Roots, and Affixes
Familiarity with Greek and Latin roots, as well as prefixes and suffixes, can help students understand the meaning of new words. This article includes many of the most common examples.
Reprints
Comments
Thanks for the great suggestions for Reading Resources and Word Study. I teach students with Dyslexia and ADHD and I use a lot of these techniques. I also use a website called VocabularySpellingCity where I can upload my spelling lists which I create using spelling patterns. Teachers and parents can print out handwriting practice sheets to help students with dysgraphia. Teachers can differentiate instruction depending on student’s needs through assignments and students can play games like unscramble, missing letter and many more activities including vocabulary.
http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Word-Word-Task-Sheets-Print-R... These are awesome!!!!!!!!