Alternative Spelling Programs

There are a wide variety of programs and techniques used in schools around Australia to teach young students spelling. In today's post, we were asked to comment on alternative spelling programs and their effectiveness as a whole of school spelling program.

Dear Diana, I am have recently taken on the poition of Deputy Principal at a regional primary school which apparently you have visited in the past to deliver PD. I was wondering what your take is on \Words Their Way\ as there is a push to implement it in the schools up here.

I am only briefly familiar with the program. However speaking generally, in my mind, no program is without limitations.

Like all processes/programs this one has strengths and weaknesses. Importantly it is necessary that the materials and process sits well with the staff. if there is staff dissatisfaction then teachers will not implement the program well.

In addition it is necessary that you put whatever the program/process to the test. Hence all spelling programs should translate into increases in standardized spelling test results. For example, screen students with a South Australian Spelling Test at the beginning and end of the school year.

All programs/processes should deliver a minimum of a 12 month increase in standardized spelling results. Also please note that the 12 month increase in ability ideally should be recorded across all students and not just the average and above average students.

If the program/process is delivering on average a 12 month increase in spelling ability and if the teaching staff are happy with the process, then I would retain the focus. If there is teacher dissatisfaction or poor student spelling outcomes, then I would be investigating your alternatives. Hence I would recommend reviewing the effectiveness of the program at the end of the school year and on the basis of this establish a plan for 2012.