Spelling
Starting in EYFS, and throughout KS1, we follow Read Write Inc to teach phonics for reading and spelling. Children begin by learning single letter sounds and segmenting CVC (consonant, vowel consonant) words for spelling. They are taught to spell by identifying the sounds in words and representing them with a letter or letters. The introduction of sounds follows the progression in RWI and is matched with our early reading programme.
In Years 1 and 2 common exception works are taught alongside spelling patterns. These are frequently used words which do not follow a regular spelling pattern. In each of these year groups, 5 taught, focus words are sent home each week and either put into a sentence orally or in writing.
As pupils move into KS2, phonic knowledge continues from Read, Write Inc, to underpin spelling.
We use the Jane Considine Spelling Programme to follow an investigative approach, looking closely at the patterns within words. We also study morphology (the structure of words) and etymology (the origin of words; often from Latin or Greek roots). These strategies help pupils to better understand where words come from, what words mean and how to begin to decipher the meaning of unfamiliar words.
This is a structured and rigorous system covering the statutory spelling words for all year groups, whilst extending knowledge far beyond these lists. A wealth of daily and weekly spelling activities build on the fundamentals of teaching spelling with strong phonic foundations. Week by week, activities form a year of spelling investigations with opportunities to revisit learning from previous lessons and year groups.
Bi-Weekly Home Learning spelling lists, reinforce learning that has been taught in class. This has an emphasis on learning, remembering and using spelling patterns, rather than the spelling tests w
hich were traditionally used in schools.
Our aim is to foster a curiosity around words which enables our pupils to become better spellers for life.
Spelling Progression
Click here to view the progression of reading through the school:
No Nonsense Spelling Strategies
What is Wordshark Online?
Wordshark is a games-based product for learning spellings and for reading skills. Wordshark was the first of its kind when it first came out, 25 years ago. The latest edition is 'Wordshark Online', re-written and in the cloud!