A book for anyone teaching English spelling, particularly those working with English language learners. This essential manual answers three challenging questions about teaching spelling: Why is there a problem with teaching and learning spelling? What can be done about it? How can this be accomplished? The first part of the book helps teachers understand the systems of English spelling and the regularities, which are not necessarily phonological. It explores the errors that learners really make and the challenges faced by teachers. The second part outlines a fresh, new, multi-dimensional approach to teaching spelling which recognises the need for learner engagement and strategy training as well as work on the patterns found in English orthography. The final part of the book presents over seventy engaging and effective activities which are designed to develop a range of strategies and knowledge about English spelling.

One in four school students struggle to read. The Phonics Handbook has been written to give assistance to teachers in helping students with reading difficulties. Taking a phonological approach, the book is set out in the form of lesson plans designed to be used instantly, requiring no preparation. The book is based on the wisdom gained from working with hundreds of students who have attended the author’s after-school reading clinic. This is reflected in the practical approach to helping students of all ages including those with English as a second language and those with a range of difficulties including, special needs, motivational and attention problems. Phonics Handbook includes lesson plans for every phonics skill from the basic alphabet sounds through to blends, digraphs, syllable breaking and decoding Latin and Greek words. Each lesson is followed by a worksheet for students. Using this format, the book incorporates diagnostic assessment to measure what students need at the outset of teaching, as well as measuring whether the tutoring has been effective. Additional teaching strategies are given to reinforce spelling and assist reading comprehension. Strategies for ‘hard to teach’ students and information on reporting to parents are included, incorporating research on the best tutoring methods.

Spelling is an area of learning that often provokes vigorous debate amongst educators and parents. This book provides a comprehensive overview of current issues, perspectives and methods in a clear, easy- to-read style. The author provides research-validated strategies that are based on an understanding of the learning process. [Back cover, ed].

Presents techniques, activities, and word lists to help teach children to spell.