Phonics and Spelling
The overarching aim in teaching phonics and spellings is to develop fluent writers who can communicate their ideas clearly, accurately and coherently for a range of audiences and purposes.
Spellings need to be over learnt to be embedded in long-term memory so that children can edit their own writing to be accurate. Your support in learning their spellings at home is vital in our partnership to ensure children embed this key skill.
In school
- Children in Reception and Year 1 are taught to spell words alongside the Read Write Inc approach.
- From Years 2 - 6, we deliver Spelling lessons using the Spelling Shed approach.
- Each week focuses on a main objective from the National Curriculum appendix for spelling. Each spelling rule is delivered across four weekly Spelling sessions:
Session One:
During this session, children will revisit sounds and spelling rules from earlier weeks in the scheme. Staff will also introduce the new spelling rule for the week.
Session Two:
Staff and children will explore the words of the week. They will examine aspects such as the number of syllables, tricky sounds and the morphology of the words.
Session Three:
The children will have the opportunity to complete independent activities. These activities will include of a range of approaches depending on the Year group objective. Within this session, children will also be exposed to dictated sentences. This provides children with the opportunity to independently transfer their knowledge of the spelling rules, to develop their transcriptional skills.
Session Four:
At the end of each week, children will be given a spelling test based around the taught spelling rule. Children will be given 7 – 10 spellings to complete during their test. These spellings are sent home at the start of each half term, to allow children to practise their spellings prior to the test.
Approaches for SEND
Some children may have bespoke spellings as it is important that we ensure children learn the spellings that are most important for their development in writing. We would focus on ensuring they have embedded the common exception words and spelling patterns as set out in the National curriculum.
How can Parent help at home?
At Newburgh Primary School, we recognise that parents play a vital role in helping children develop strong spelling skills. Research shows that spelling is a complex process involving phonics, word meaning, and patterns in English.
Parents can support their child by encouraging regular, short spelling practice sessions that focus on segmenting words into sounds and recognising spelling patterns. If you practice 10 min three times a week or more this will encourage children to move this learning to their long-term memory.
Using games, dictation, and writing activities can make learning engaging and help children apply their spelling knowledge in context. You can practice in different colours of pens and highlight the section that is difficult.
It is also helpful to discuss the meanings of words and explore related vocabulary, as this deepens understanding and supports memory. You can use mnemonics (because; big elephants can add up sums easily)
Encouraging children to set personal spelling goals and reflect on their progress helps them develop independent learning skills.
Most importantly, creating a positive and supportive environment where effort is praised builds confidence and motivation in spelling development.
