Spelling Blacklines

NO PREP! blackline masters can be used alone or can be used to support and extend the lessons in the Spelling Grade 4.

This spelling program includes 36 carefully sequenced study units designed to increase student achievement in spelling. Each unit focuses on specific spelling patterns, as well as high-frequency vocabulary appropriate for this grade level. High frequency words are marked with an asterisk. The independent word study exercises incorporate the multisensory tasks identified as the most effective in current spelling research.

Strategy-Based Instruction:

Students require a range of spelling strategies to achieve accuracy. Throughout the program, exercises develop the student's ability to apply phonological (sound-based), visual and meaning strategies. A spelling through phonics approach is used in the recognition of spelling patterns and word families or "chunks". This enables students to transfer what they know to spell unfamiliar and more complex vocabulary. The "Word Sort", "Word Ladder" and "Word Math" are examples of exercises that develop this skill. Visual memory of letter sequences is developed with specific exercises that focus on the development of this skill, such as "X-Ray Eyes" and "Word Jumble" and "Word Shapes". Meaning-based strategies are incorporated in a spelling through writing approach and cloze exercises.

Using the Program:

At the beginning of each unit, introduce the spelling pattern or word structure. Demonstrate how this key feature is found in all of the Pattern Words. Demonstrate how High Frequency words make up a significant proportion of our reading and writing vocabulary with reference to a shared reading text. Read the list words together and ask the student(s) to use each one in a sentence. Model the practice exercises before asking students to begin. Many of the exercises are self-explanatory.

Assessment that Encourages a Positive Attitude to Spelling:

Allow students to correct their own spelling dictations using a word list for reference. Correct spellings are to be written next to each misspelling. This is a valuable learning experience. Check their corrections and give credit for each letter or part of a word they have spelled accurately with a check mark above it. Use a problem-solving approach to help students identify the parts that require further practice and why they made that error. Provide opportunity for a re-test when necessary so they may compare pre- and post-test scores. 128 pages.

Supports Common Core Standards for Reading, Foundational Skills.
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