Spelling Words Starting Today

September 21, 2015 | Posted in: Class Updates

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We are excited to launch our spelling program this week!  Each week, the spelling list will be generated from the week’s lessons.  Words on the list might be vocabulary terms from the week’s lessons, words that came up in the course of discussions in class, or words that are being introduced in preparation of upcoming lessons.  We will also have weekly states and capitals to practice.

Last year, my class piloted the use of a program called Spelling City for practicing spelling words and taking spelling assessments.  This year, the pilot has expanded to all of fourth grade, and all five classes are using Spelling City for these purposes.  Every Monday, students will log in to Spelling City to access their spelling list.  The site has many apps and games to help students learn their words.  Because their spelling list comes from class discussions and lessons, this system will also help them to practice the meanings of the words.

On Fridays, students will take their spelling assessments on Spelling City.  The system will read them the words aloud, use them in sentences, and allow students to spell the words.  The advantage of this system is that students can work at their own pace, rather than struggling if the words are coming too quickly.  Also, because the assessments are self-grading, students receive immediate feedback about their performance.

Each week, your child should come home and be able to explain why certain words made it on the list (unless they are words being introduced in preparation for an upcoming lesson).  Students are encouraged to use Spelling City to play some of the games in order to practice their words in a more enjoyable manner.  They are NOT required to complete all the games, despite what the “assignment” might imply.  (There may be days in which I will assign a specific game, but I will share that explicit assignment in class.)

In the weeks to come, we will improve our routines with using Spelling City, and we will begin to place more emphasis on the meanings of the words, in addition to the spelling.  Coming home today, you will find a letter that explains more about the program and provides you with your child’s username and password.  If you have any questions, please feel free to email me!