Spelling

Reminder of the scoring for Spelling tests.  Total score is 14.

-One point for each spelling word that is correct.

-The sentence is worth two points.  One point for all correct spelling and one point for capital letter at the beginning and period at the end (and any other punctuation).

PLEASE NOTE: We are starting off slowly so that children who find spelling to be challenging will not be too worried.  We are focussing on the process of the Pre-Test.  That includes setting up the heading, numbering in the margin, printing the word on the correct line, marking, and making corrections.  Words will become more difficult.  In many cases, students are using capital letters at the beginning of the words.  At this time, I am not concerned about that.  As we progress, this will be an area that we will look at.  Please encourage your child to use capital (upper case) letters only when they are required.

Letter reversals at this age are common.  Words are not marked wrong due to letter reversals.  The most common reversal (b/d) may produce another word (big/dig), however, reminders are given to help the children sort that out.  There is an alphabet chart across the front of the room for them to refer to at any time.

*I have talked, in detail, to the students about the Pre-Test.  I have explained that it is okay if they get all of the words wrong (it does happen).  They have no idea what words I'm going to give so this is a possibility.  Their job is to do their best and to focus on sounds or memory to spell the word!  They should study the words during the week, at home, and be prepared for their test at the end of the week.  The goal is to make progress during the week.  Of course, everyone wants to get all of the words correct, however, mistakes happen.  Also, for some, it can be a huge success to get some of the words correct.  Your child is to do HIS or HER BEST!!!  Everyone is unique and has different abilities.  If your child does his or her best then he/she can be proud of him/herself.  For most children, setting the goal to get all of the words correct is a reasonable goal.  For others, it may be to get most of the words correct.  For another child, it may be to get the rhyming words correct.  Please encourage your child, help him/her to study, and give your child positive feedback.  Thanks for your co-operation!