Our Approach to Spelling (New for 2021)

We use Read Write Inc. Spelling for Years 2-6 to meet the demanding spelling requirements of the National Curriculum and to build on the fantastic start our children make with Read Write Inc. Phonics.

Reasons why we use this programme:

• Puts the complex requirements of the curriculum into snappy 15-minute lessons
• Makes spelling fun! Aliens from an exciting online spelling planet clearly introduce spelling rules and concepts
• Provides plenty of  writing practice with a clear record of progress
• The emphasis is on teaching spelling, not simply testing spelling
• Although the teaching of phoneme-grapheme correspondence underpins this programme, it also develops children’s knowledge of word families, how suffixes impact upon root words, and provides mnemonics to remember the trickiest spellings.
• The teaching revolves around instruction (with the help of online alien characters), partner and group practice, and competitive group challenges that help children commit new words to memory.

How are children assessed?

Half-termly practice tests assess children’s spelling progress using the same format as the statutory assessments in England. Online tracking spreadsheets enable us to record and track individual children’s progress and identify units or concepts pupils might need to be retaught.

During the teaching activities each week, a number of assessment opportunities are also planned into the programme. The emphasis is on the importance of learning to spell, rather than being tested on spelling.