Spelling+Ideas

I have had a few parents ask about spelling homework. At the junior level only home reading is expected each night, however if you would like to also spend some time on spelling words here are the essential spelling lists which cover the most commonly used words in writing.

By the end of year 2, children are expected to know the first __three__ essential lists. However I am including all the lists as I know some parents may be interested in the other lists too.

Here are some ideas for ways you could approach spelling words (not every child finds learning spelling words exciting!):


 * Practice a new word by saying it, writing it, covering it up and repeating until the word is written correctly 3 times in a row.
 * Pick a “word of the week” and stick it up somewhere visible. You could spend a few minutes on the word each day after reading time.
 * Cut letters out of the newspaper/magazines and make a collage scrapbook of the essential words (this might suit more hands-on children).
 * Use the spelling words in a sentence or in a short story.
 * Use the computer to write and read spelling words. Add pictures for words with a picture association.
 * Make a wordfind including all the words in an essential spelling list.
 * Look for these words in reading texts. How many times can you find them? Do they have any special spelling rules (eg. silent letter, ends with -ing; -ed, etc.)
 * You may wish to try a few spelling websites:

www.spellingcity.com www.kidsspell.com www.funbrain.com/spell/index.html www.eduplace.com/kids/hmsv/smg/ 