Spelling & Phonics Words Their Way

This year in third grade we will be using a program called Words Their Way. This program begins with a pretest given to all students. A special scoring guide is used by the teacher to evaluate students strengths, and where they need support with spelling/phonics. Students will then be given a spelling list and word work in the areas they need support. These areas can be within word patterns ( oa, ai, long vowels, etc.), syllables and prefixes/suffixes, and base/root words. Levels move from being able to identify sounds in words, to understanding patters, and finally understanding meaning. As students master the skills they will move on to the next level. All in all, this program is built around students individual needs to help them become more confident readers, writers, and spellers.