Teachers need to build a large collection of strategies to teach spelling that are rich, practical and that can be used in a wide variety of situations. Below are some that have stood the test of time.

Exemplary spelling strategies to use:

• Exaggerate pronunciation; say word as spelled. (e.g., Wed-nes-day, k-now)
• Cluster look-alike words. (e.g., elect, select)
• Follow generalized rules for adding suffixes. (e.g., hope-hoping, slam-slammed)
• Use memory aids (e.g., mnemonics (twin is two), visualization, word shape, word pictures)
• Spell words out loud.
• Segment (say by syllable) words. (e.g., re-move, motor-cade)
• Identify root words in related words. (e.g., explored, explorer, exploration)
• Highlight differences between similar words. (e.g., pitcher, picture)
• Use study steps. (e.g., print, look, close my eyes and picture, spell check)
• Slowly say, listen, and picture the word.
• Finger print.
• Underline, circle, or otherwise highlight the hard part.
• Use word families. (e.g., care, hare, fare, rare)
• Fold paper between syllables.
• Tap syllables.
• Think of other words that rhyme.
• Listen to hear a smaller word within the word.
• Use a dictionary.
• Add words to my personal spelling list.
• Picture the word in my mind.

Learn more about spelling strategies on a grade-specific level by clicking below.