The leading resource steering our word understanding and spelling will be Words Their Way. This is an interactive and inquiry approach to phonics, vocabulary and spelling instruction.
Components of this approach will include:
- Assessments that focus on interpreting spelling errors for strategic placement of students into groups to differentiate instruction and practice.
- Small group mini-lessons for targeted individual needs.
- Whole group lessons for 4th grade common standards.
- Word Study contracts with independent and partner practice to be done at school.
- Observing, sorting and discussing relationships and shared features of words, along with noting their “oddball” counterparts.
Forget Me Nots aka Priority Words
These words will be expected to be spelled correctly in daily writing. The list of words is based on their high frequency of use and the Priority Words students should have learned in the K- 3rd grade experience. The list is meant as a reference tool and can be used at home for review and practice.