Teaching & Learning
Introducing Spelling Mastery in Years 3-6
We are pleased to introduce Spelling Mastery across Years 3-6 this term. Spelling Mastery is an evidence-based program that aligns with our commitment to delivering high-quality, research-informed literacy instruction.
At Aberfeldie Primary School, we understand that strong spelling skills form the foundation for confident reading, writing, and communication. Spelling is more than just memorising words, it’s about understanding patterns, applying rules, and building knowledge that supports success across all areas of learning.
Spelling Mastery is a research-driven program that uses the Direct Instruction approach to teach students the skills they need to become accurate and independent spellers. This method is clear, structured, and highly interactive, ensuring every student is actively involved in their learning.
Each Spelling Mastery lesson is explicitly taught and carefully sequenced. Concepts are broken into small, manageable steps, allowing students to master spelling strategies through repeated practice and immediate feedback.
The program draws on three key approaches:
- Phonemic approach: Students learn the relationship between sounds and letters and apply this knowledge directly to word spelling.
- Morphemic approach: Students explore word parts such as prefixes, suffixes, and root words, helping them decode and spell complex vocabulary.
- Whole-word/etymological approach: Students learn about the origins of words and why certain words are spelled the way they are, especially those with irregular patterns.
Starting in Monday 12th May, students in Years 3–6 will participate in daily Spelling Mastery sessions. Based on recent placement assessments, students have been grouped according to their current spelling needs, ensuring targeted instruction that builds confidence and promotes success.
The groups have been formed with a mixture of students from 3-6, meaning students from different year levels will be learning together—this is an intentional and valuable feature of the program. Rather than comparing students to their peers, Spelling Mastery focuses on meeting each learner at their point of need, providing the right level of challenge and celebrating individual growth.
During each session, students will be actively engaged—responding, thinking, and applying their understanding. As their spelling knowledge becomes automatic, they’ll be better equipped to write with greater precision, creativity, and clarity across all areas of learning.
Attached below is the Class Social story that was shared with students at school this week. It walks students through the new routine they can expect on Monday.
We are thrilled to bring Spelling Mastery to our classrooms and look forward to seeing its positive impact on student learning.
Kind regards,
Emma Sprakel
Leading Teacher