Reading and spelling strategiesThe Reading Specialists

Our proven strategies for reading and spelling success

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Through a combination of established methods and innovative approaches, our tailored individualised intervention plans address each child’s unique needs. Here are four core programs that have yielded significant results in our practice:

 

Cracking the ABC Code

This program, authored by Dr. Lillian Fawcett, focuses on explicit and systematic instruction in decoding, the foundational skill of reading.

Core components:

  1. Clear and structured: The program presents phonics concepts in a logical and easy-to-understand manner.
  2. Emphasis on automaticity: Students practice decoding skills repeatedly to build fluency and confidence.

Outcomes:

  1. Strong foundation in phonics: Children gain a solid understanding of the alphabetic code and are able to decode unfamiliar words with greater ease.
  2. Boosted self-esteem: As reading becomes less challenging, children experience a sense of accomplishment and a growing love for learning.

Spelling Mastery

Developed by researchers (Dixon, R., Engelmann, S., Bauer, M. M., Steely, D., & Wells, T., 2007) this multisensory program acknowledges the link between phonics and spelling.

Key features:

  1. Systematic and sequential: It builds upon foundational skills, gradually introducing more complex spelling patterns and rules.
  2. Engaging activities and visuals: Activities and word games reinforce learning in a fun and interactive way, while colourful elements keep children motivated and engaged.

Benefits:

  1. Stronger grasp of phonics: Children develop a deeper understanding of how sounds translate to written words.
  2. Improved spelling and vocabulary: They learn to apply phonics rules to spell words correctly and confidently, while incorporating new words.

Spelling through Morphographs

Also created by researchers (Dixon, R., & Engelmann, S., 2007), this program equips children to understand the underlying structure of words and spelling rules.

Core components:

  1. Focus on morphemes: Breaks down words into their smallest meaningful units (morphemes) like prefixes, suffixes, and root words.
  2. Instruction in word families: Learn how morphemes combine to form different words, fostering a deeper understanding of spelling patterns.
  3. Critical thinking skills: Children develop the ability to analyse words and apply their knowledge to spell new words.

Outcomes:

  1. Improved spelling skills: Children gain the ability to spell words with greater accuracy and confidence.
  2. Stronger vocabulary foundation: Understanding word parts allows them to decode new words and expand their vocabulary.
  3. Enhanced critical thinking: The program promotes analytical skills that benefit children in various academic areas.

The LindaMood-Bell approach

Developed by Dr. Linda Mood and Patricia Bell, this multisensory program addresses the underlying weaknesses that students struggle with in reading and comprehension.

Features:

  1. Visual, auditory, and kinaesthetic engagement: Students participate in learning through a blend of visual materials, auditory instruction, and tactile activities
  2. Systematic and sequential: It builds upon foundational skills, progressively leading to more complex concepts
  3. Individualised instruction: We tailor the program to each child’s specific learning style and pace.

Benefits:

  1. Stronger phonemic awareness and decoding skills: Children develop a deeper understanding of the relationship between sounds and letters, and can sound out words accurately and efficiently
  2. Enhanced reading fluency: Reading becomes smoother and more automatic, fostering a sense of accomplishment and enjoyment.
Contact us today for a reading assessment.