Word Study

Words Their Way is a spelling and word study program that targets the individual skills students need to become better spellers. Students work in groups, based on the skills they need. Each week, partners work to sort a series of words, looking for a common pattern. This pattern is the skill on which lessons are taught and work is completed throughout the week.

Here are the components of our word study program:

Sorts

Students are given a couple dozen words to work with throughout the week. These words feature a common pattern. (example: words that end in -sion and -tion) Students work in pairs identify the similarities and differences of the words, and construct "rules" for how the words are sorted. Students are directly taught these rules, but rather discovery them on their own by working with groups of words carefully chosen by the teacher.

Spelling Notebooks

Students use spelling notebooks to take notes from lessons in class, and to keep lists of words. These notebooks document what has been learned, and serve as a reference for students when writing.

Assessment

As we progress through the program, tests will be given to see how students understand and retain skills. These assessments will take place every three to four weeks. You will be notified as to the results. Furthermore, each student takes a spelling inventory at the end of each quarter to monitor progress.