Literacy News

At EPS, we believe that strong spelling abilities are essential for academic success and effective communication. Our approach to spelling has been going through a revamp so it continues to align with our overarching ethos of building confident readers and writers. 

What changes have we made?

 Ensuring a systematic and explicit approach: Together we have received training in a systematic and explicit approach to teaching spelling. This approach provides a structured framework that builds upon students' existing knowledge while introducing new spelling concepts. By explicitly teaching spelling generalisations/rules and strategies, we aim to equip students with the tools they need to become proficient spellers.

Inquiry-Based Learning: We foster inquiry-based learning in spelling. Students engage in hands-on activities, problem-solving tasks, and reflective exercises to explore spelling patterns and rules. This approach develops their critical thinking skills and helps them make connections between spelling and other areas of language development. 

Contextualisation through Rich Literature: Spelling is integrated into rich literature experiences. By connecting spelling instruction with engaging stories, poems, and informational texts, we enhance students' spelling skills while nurturing their reading comprehension, vocabulary, and love for literature.

Word Walls, Word Skies, Spelling Journals, and Personal Words: As part of our updated strategies, we have implemented word walls, word skies, and word charts in the learning environments. These visual displays help students actively engage with and reinforce spelling words and patterns. Spelling journals provide a space for students to practice spelling independently and reflect on their progress. Additionally, students are encouraged to compile their personal words, allowing them to take ownership of their learning and explore words that are personally meaningful to them.

Here are some examples of our approach in action: 

‘plurals’ word wall; Y5                                           ‘word sort- prefix ‘ed’; Y4

‘onset-rime journal’; Y1         

We are so lucky to have a school filled with enthusiastic and innovative educators! 

If you have any questions or need further information, please don't hesitate to reach out, 

Yours in spelling, 

Grace Smith-Davies (Literacy Leader)