- English Language Arts and Reading
- Grade 5
- Developing and sustaining foundational language skills
demonstrate and apply spelling knowledge by:
spelling words using advanced knowledge of syllable division patterns;
Provide students with a list of multisyllabic words with multiple sound-spelling patterns. Include a variety of syllable types in the words. Then, have students work in pairs to take turns reading and spelling the words. The reader will read the word, show the word, and orally spell the word. The speller will hear the word, see the word, and then spell the word either orally or in writing. Observe students as they complete the activity and make note of students who are successful and students who struggle.
Examples of multisyllabic words with multiple sound-spelling patterns:
This assessment requires students to apply advanced phonetic knowledge of how syllable division patterns impact the way a word is spelled. This knowledge is acquired through instruction and practice with dividing words into syllables and experience with reading and spelling a variety of multisyllabic words.
1. Ehri, L. C., & Rosenthal, J. (2007). Spellings of words: A neglected facilitator of vocabulary learning. Journal of Literacy Research, 39(4), 389–409. doi:10.1080/10862960701675341
Summary: The topic of this study is the importance of spelling in retaining the meaning and pronunciation of words. The authors review theory and evidence, which reveals that spelling is routinely overlooked as a critical element in learning vocabulary.
2. Simmons, K. D., & Carpenter, L. B. (2010). Spelling and assistive technology: Helping students with disabilities be successful writers. Physical Disabilities: Education and Related Services, 29(2), 5–19. Retrieved from https://eric.ed.gov/?q=spelling&ft=on&id=EJ955433
Summary: In this study, the researchers focus on spelling supplements and assistive technology devices that may be used to support students with disabilities. The primary skill gained is spelling. Three examples illustrate how these devices can improve the student's ability to spell.