Spelling

OUR INTENT

We want pupils to acquire a wide vocabulary, a solid understanding of grammar and be able to spell new words by effectively applying the spelling patterns and rules they learn throughout their time in Primary school. We want their developing knowledge and skills to support their understanding of reading, writing and spoken language. 

HOW SPELLINGS ARE TAUGHT AT CHERRY TREE

We teach spellings through a phoneme centered approach. Spellings are split into sound families and the spellings under each sound have been linked to the National Curriculum statutory spellings, homophones and suggested patterns for the year group.  

Spellings are taught discretely and daily, with opportunity for spaced retrieval practice to embed words. Spelling lessons incorporate a variety of techniques to embed rules and irregularities in spelling, and support children in understanding relationships between meaning and spelling. We study the structure and origin of words (Morphology and Etymology). This is achieved through tasks such as sound sorting, sound buttons, discussions and outdoor learning.  

To teach spellings we follow a 5-step approach: 

Children should use their spelling voice when practising spellings, this voice more closely matches trickier spellings to their sounds by exaggerating and lingering on syllables, ensure sounds are pure and saying consonants clearly and crisply. 

In Years 2-6, children receive 10 words which follow the chosen phoneme, spellings are given out in the home-school diary weekly.  

USEFUL WEBSITE LINKS