Spelling
This year we will be piloting a new spelling program designed by Houghton Mifflin. Emphasis is placed on learning principles and patterns rather that on simply learning individual words. It's important for words that are already known in reading to be grouped together according to a common feature, such as sound, syllable pattern, spelling pattern, or word parts (prefix, base, suffix). High frequency words that do not follow predictable principles but that are important for writing are also included.
Research strongly supports the notion that words should be examined from a variety of perspectives: Words should be compared and contrasted through categorizing activities, exploration of synonyms and antonyms, analogies, their use in context, and their origins. There should be a variety of opportunities for word play-enjoyable but meaningful explorations of the patterns and meanings of words.
Each week's lessons include:
higher level thinking as they study spelling principles
dictionary lessons that boost students' proficiency in literary skills
real-world formats for proofreading practice
writing prompts to strengthen the link between spelling and writing
vocabulary activities to increase word power and language development
Each week's word list will be sent home the first day of the week and the test will be given on Friday.
How to Study a Word
1. Look at the word.
What letters are in the word?
What does the word mean?
Does it have more than one meaning?
2. Say the word.
What are the consonant sounds?
What are the vowel sounds?
3. Think about the word.
How is each sound spelled?
Did you see any familiar spelling patterns?
What other words have the same spelling patterns?
4. Write the word.
Think about the sounds and the letters.
Form the letters correctly.
5. Check the spelling.
Did you spell the word the same way it is spelled in your word list?
Do you need to write the word again?
The third graders will also work on mastering:
Days of the Week
 |
Months of the
Year  |
Subject Names
 |
GROW Terms (terms used
frequently in weekly GROW Quizzes)
 |
Names of the Communities in
the School District  |
Classroom Teachers'
Names  |