Best Self Paced Spelling Programs

I'm not a fan of spelling tests -- at least not the one-size-fits-all spelling tests of my childhood. Some children already know virtually every word on their spelling list, and for them 'spelling' becomes an exercise in handwriting practice... or, worse, in perfectionism. Other children miss word after word week after week, and they too learn little. Their spelling troubles may not be for lack of effort -- they are simply not at the spelling developmental level to benefit from grade level instruction.

Not every child needs a formal spelling program. Some students pick up spelling patterns intuitively as they read and write. For the many children (and adult second language learners) who do need formal instruction, however, I recommend an individualized spelling program -- one with a strong diagnostic assessment component.

It can be a good idea to base spelling instruction off the most frequently used words in the English language. If they're organized/ grouped properly, phonics instruction can be integrated seamlessly. A program like Spelling Power does the integration and grouping for you. If you want to do the organization and planning yourself -- and save a little -- you might start with these 3,000 words.

My personal favorite is Spelling Power. I first encountered the program when I worked at a home school cooperative for secondary students. It remains my preferred spelling program for third grade on up to secondary school and beyond -- though I like exploring new programs as well. On this page, I will introduce you to Spelling Power and to a few other contenders. (And if you know a good one, let me know.)

• Students are given a comprehensive assessment based on the 5,000 most common words in the English language.
• Learning is mastery-based. (Students have to master the material in order to move on.)
• Most word lists are organized according to spelling pattern, but the same spelling patterns are visited again and again, at multiple levels. Thus the teacher can instruct students who are working at different levels... at the same time!
• There are lots of cool ideas for multi-sensory practice.
• The program incorporates spiraling -- the child sees a few review words amidst the new ones.

Is individualized spelling the way to teach spelling?

Spelling Power is especially suited for homeschool use, but it can be adapted for classroom use as well. Some teachers have students give each other spelling tests -- an approach that works in Montessori classrooms can be used in other classroom settings as well.

Here are some online spelling practice activities for different age groups. These aren't sequentialized spelling curricula, but they do interject some fun into spelling practice... for some students.

If you or your student needs help with spelling, language, or writing skills, feel free to contact me.