Read Write Inc Spelling

Spelling at Prince Rock

Intent of Spelling

The two statutory appendices in the National Curriculum – on spelling and on vocabulary, grammar and punctuation – which an overview of the specific features that should be included in teaching the programmes of study inform our teaching.

Opportunities for teachers to enhance pupils’ vocabulary arise naturally from their reading and writing. As vocabulary increases, teachers show pupils how to understand the relationships between words, how to understand nuances in meaning, and how to develop their understanding of, and ability to use, figurative language. They also teach pupils how to work out and clarify the meanings of unknown words and words with more than one meaning.

Pupils are taught to control their speaking and writing consciously and to use Standard English. They are taught to use the elements of spelling, grammar, punctuation and ‘language about language’ listed in the statutory appendices. These do not constrain or restrict teachers’ creativity, but simply to provide the structure on which they can construct exciting lessons.

The school follows the definitions provided in the non-statutory glossary in the national curriculum. Throughout the programmes of study, teachers teach pupils the vocabulary they need to discuss their reading, writing and spoken language. Pupils therefore learn the correct grammatical terms in English and these terms are integrated within teaching. The children are then given opportunities and are expected to use a range of spelling strategies and apply them in their independent work.

Implementation of Spelling

In every year group, spelling is taught daily, focusing on the expected common exception words for each year group. We have used and embedded RWI Spelling which is taught from Y2-6 on a daily basis and each week is focused on a spelling pattern.

Children in Foundation and Year 1 have daily phonics and apply a newly taught sound in their spelling in sessions and in whole-class learning across the curriculum.

Impact of Spelling

Spelling is monitored daily and where necessary, responsive teaching takes place. Teachers complete RWI spelling and complete live, responsive marking during this time. Furthermore, weekly spelling tests are completed and NFER/SATS spelling tests take place termly.