A Note on Spelling

It has come to my attention that spelling is an issue with this group of students overall.

Since the beginning of the year we have done spelling words so the whole class has the same list every week and they are all expected to know the same words. However, I am noticing this isn't really successful for the students: either they are failing week after week, doing great some weeks and very poorly others, excelling every week, or doing about average every week. Also, there doesn't seem to be the transfer from their spelling test to their writing. So starting this week we have some changes...

The students will be split into groups based on the things they need to work on in spelling (for example if there are three students who can't spell words that have the /ay/ spelling at the end of the word they would be grouped together and would be working on those words). They will be given a spelling test on their words on Friday like usual. However, this time, the words that they do not spell correctly on their spelling test are going to be on their spelling list again next week. They will continue to get those words until they are spelled correctly. That way students are getting practice with words that they need help with and are getting additional practice on words that are giving them trouble. I will try to post the spelling lists with student initials next to the groups so that you can still access spelling lists on the site (since many of you have expressed an interest in doing that!)

I hope this is clear for all of you and as always, if you have any questions feel free to call or email anytime. I check my email several times during the day so that is the easiest way to contact me. Hope to hear from you soon!