How to Study Spelling Words
Learning how to spell correctly can be frustrating. English spelling is not consistent, and many early readers get discouraged by the difficulties they encounter. Fortunately, there are techniques to help you master your spelling lessons. Say the word syllable by syllable, write it repeatedly and pay attention to the word's meaning.
Instructions
-
-
1
Study prefixes, suffixes and roots. Most English words can be divided into chunks that have regular spelling and clues to the meaning of the words as well. For example, "suspend" can be divided into the prefix "sus" meaning "up "or "over" and the root "pend" meaning "hang." Knowing this will give you a clue to the meaning and spelling of words like "pendant" and "suspect."
-
2
Study lists of sight words. Sight words are short words like "the" or "aunt" that do not contain any letter patterns. Memorizing them is the only way to go.
-
-
3
Write your spelling words down in as many different ways as possible. Make flash cards, type up spelling words, write them in big letters on a dry erase board and use them in sentences in a journal. Write them in cursive and block letters. The more different kinds of practice you get spelling your words correctly, the better.
-
4
Make a spelling dictionary. It should contain every spelling word you learn, along with a definition. You can also include a trick, such as an acronym, to help remember correct spelling.
-
5
Practice your spelling every day. You will get much better results from 10 or 15 minutes of spelling practice every single day than two hours once a week.
-
6
Get someone to quiz you. Find a parent, friend or sibling to give you practice spelling tests once or twice a week.
-
1
References
- Photo Credit Polka Dot/Polka Dot/Getty Images