Which spelling words should students master in order to communicate well in writing? There are numerous sources from which teachers may choose spelling words to use and teach. This paper discusses five such sources: the basal spelling textbook; words based on research studies; individualized spelling; words taken from subject matter units of…

Argues that teachers need to think of and implement quality methods of teaching spelling. Offers 10 criteria from the psychology of learning to assist students to achieve optimally in spelling. (SG)

Diverse issues in the spelling curriculum must be resolved. One issue in spelling involves whether students learn to spell words better from a list or within the framework of a practical learning activity. Linguists advocate that words follow a pattern in spelling, yet research studies have been used to select lists of spelling words that may have…

Traditional methods of teaching spelling emphasized that pupils might write each new spelling word correctly and repeatedly from a weekly list in the spelling textbook. Some weaknesses in this approach are that rote learning is being stressed without emphasizing application of what has been learned, and that there is nothing which relates the…

Argues that teachers, principals, and supervisors must determine the present status of the language arts curriculum, as well as other curriculum areas in the school setting. (RB)

Careful consideration should be given to general and specific objectives before initiating a spelling program. (JH)

Seven panel members from universities presented their research and thinking on what makes for a quality spelling curriculum. The panel members took turns presenting their views on the spelling curriculum to an audience of approximately 500 parents and other interested persons. Panel member 1 placed major emphasis upon the teacher being able to…

Learners in the school setting need to become proficient spellers. Pupils need to perceive purpose in learning to spell any given set of words. Learners need to attach meaning to ongoing activities and experiences, and appropriate learning experiences must be provided by the teacher to assist each pupil to achieve stated ends. A method for pupils…

Quality communication is hindered with incorrect spelling of words. Thus, it behooves the teacher to develop a quality spelling curriculum for all students to become the best spellers possible to be able to communicate well in writing. The scope of the spelling curriculum answers the question pertaining to the "breadth" of spelling words…

Even with computer spell check, it is important for students to learn to spell words correctly. Teachers should make the spelling curriculum meaningful for students by maintaining their attention, showing them the purpose and value of learning spelling, and providing necessary tools for correct spelling. Several spelling instruction plans may…

Pupils need to become good spellers to communicate effectively with others. Pupils should understand the meaning of words to be mastered before studying their spelling. Teachers need to provide a variety of learning opportunities to assist pupils in learning to spell words correctly. Pupils should develop a definite methodology in learning to…

This paper analyzes different approaches to assess learner achievement in the spelling curriculum. The following topics are discussed: assessment of spelling and the basal textbook, using spelling words for mastery based on research, individualized spelling, use of spelling words in context, standardized spelling tests, and the functional approach…

Spelling words correctly in a separate subject curriculum is a rare procedure of learning today. However, correct spelling of words harmonizes well with the behaviorally stated objectives movement in that either a word is spelled correctly or incorrectly. Standardized and criterion referenced tests (CRTs) stress precise learnings in that machine…

Which words should students master in spelling? Language arts teachers can involve pupils in planning a list of words to learn to spell through a specific activity or experience, with sequentially planned lists aiding each learner to become a better speller. Pupil-teacher planning to determine scope and sequence in the spelling curriculum should…