Spelling is an integral part of the writing process. Pupils who spell with ease are able to concentrate on the content of their writing and the making of meaning. While it is important to remember that spelling is not the most important aspect of writing, confidence in spelling often has a profound effect on the writer’s self-image. Accurate spelling implies consideration for the reader and also recognises the deeply embedded notions about correctness which we hold as a society about spelling.
Spelling is taught as part of a planned programme following the requirements of the National Curriculum 2014 .
Foundation Stage and Year One have a daily session of phonics. In Year 2- Key Stage 2 children have regular explicit spelling sessions with weekly spellings being closely linked to spelling patterns and rules.
All classes have a set of spelling activities to support regular opportunities for children to practise learning spellings.
Spellings are linked to the National Curriulcum word lists for each year group.
The 'Look, Say, Cover, Write and Check' approach to learning the spelling of words is taught and encouraged.
Children are taught to look for common letter strings, patterns in words and spelling rules.
Spelling games encourage children to look closely at words.
Where possible, children are encouraged to identify their own spelling errors and edit accordingly.
Sound out words phonemically and by syllables.
Draw on analogies to known words, roots, derivations, word families, morphology and familiar spelling patterns.
Identify words which pose a particular challenge and learn them by using mnemonics, multi-sensory re-enforcement and memorising critical features.
Use the quartiles of a dictionary and find words beyond the initial letter.
Make effective use of a spell checker, recognising where it might not be sufficient or appropriate.
The learning of spelling is encouraged as part of the home-school partnership and weekly spellings will be sent home to practise, in readiness for a test in school. Children will be given words according to their developmental needs, so the amount and level of difficulty will vary.