Teaching & Learning

Spelling, Reading & Writing

We are excited to have extended our explicit, structured literacy lessons through Grades 3 and 4 this year. We are using a resource from MultiLit called SpellEx. SpellEx follows on from InitiaLit that is being implemented in Prep - Grade 2.

The resources used are based on evidence about how children learn to read, write and spell and include effective classroom practices.

SpellEx is a comprehensive whole-class spelling program where students become excellent spellers by giving them a solid understanding of the English spelling system. By growing and consolidating their phonological, orthographic and morphological knowledge, SpellEx helps students make the right decisions when spelling words. This will benefit their writing in all curriculum areas as well as their reading.

SpellEx provides a language-based, explicit approach to the teaching of spelling. The interaction between phonology, orthography and morphology underpins the approach, providing students with a deeper understanding of the English spelling system.

The program follows a scope and sequence that builds on skills taught in earlier years and aligns with the National Curriculum.

Regular progress monitoring enables teachers to identify which students need more support and which students may need extending. There are opportunities for differentiation built into the program through small-group work and other activities.

Key benefits

• Explicitly develops a deep understanding of the phonological, orthographic and morphological aspects of the English language
• The SpellEx scope and sequence is well aligned to the ACARA National Curriculum
• Regular, systematic assessment means nothing is left to chance: teachers know which students have mastered each skill, and which students require consolidation
• A consistent approach and common use of language across classes reduces within-grade variance and encourages collaboration