Word's Their Way: Word Study

Word study instruction is an important spelling approach that educators are incorporating into their classrooms as it helps determine each students level of spelling development while providing instruction techniques to support the students development. Additionally, the approach is a way for educators to instruct students in other concepts such as phonics, spelling, and vocabulary that will allow the student to continue to improve or move forward in their reading and writing. In chapter three of the textbook, Word’s Their Way: Word Study for Phonics, Vocabulary, and Spelling Instruction, the text provides insightful information and digs deeper into how educators can utilize multiple forms of word study or sorts in their classroom that is suitable …show more content…
Keep in mind, orthographic knowledge promotes fluent reading, writing, and vocabulary knowledge, all of which are critical for academic success. Therefore, when creating a word study schedule, it is important to identify the time of the day that will allow students enough time to complete activities and expand their knowledge. As educators are creating and implementing the schedule, I believe that allowing for student participation and by explaining the schedule to students or what is expected of them, will create a classroom environment that holds educators and students responsible for what has been taught, rather than just the educator. Educators must also take into consideration the classroom environment, individual or group work, stations or seat work, and the amount of time that will be provided for students to complete word sorts. It should also be noted that some students may not be familiar with word sorts, and may need additional clarifications. When discussing beginning word sorts, the text states “Begin with the whole group and teach the routines, teach students how to talk about sorts, begin to differentiate, and introduce student centered sorts” (Bear et.al, 81). When students are familiar with the structure of word sorts, they will be able to become more involved with their …show more content…
The principles the text discusses are, “Look for what students use but confuse, remember a step backward is a step forward, use words that students can read, compare words that ‘do’ with words that ‘don’t’, begin with obvious contrasts, sort words by sound and pattern, don’t hide exceptions, avoid rules, work for automaticity, and return to meaningful texts” (Bear et.al, 87). If educators follow the previous principles, as well as identify students development throughout the academic year while providing word sort examples or activities for students to complete, continual student achievement and growth will be identified in the classroom. Once students are able to recognize words, they will further learn the importance that words hold in constructing and communicating meaning, and overall in helping them become literate students and individuals in