The power of spelling inventories - with Dr. Pam Kastner
Jan 29, 2024
auto_awesome
Dr. Pam Kastner, an expert in English language and spelling inventories, discusses the complexity of English spelling, the influence of language on spelling, and the use of spelling inventories as a diagnostic tool. She also shares favorite resources for teaching spelling and highlights an upcoming literacy conference focused on the power of spelling inventories.
English spelling is based on meaningful units and speech sounds, while spelling inventories help identify trends and patterns, inform instruction, and address individual student needs.
Deep dives
The Complexity of English Spelling
English spelling is based on meaningful units and speech sounds. The language of origin influences how words are spelled. The position of sounds within a word also impacts spelling. Meaningful units, such as prefixes and suffixes, contribute to the spelling of words. Additionally, there are orthographic conventions that determine the spelling patterns in English.
The Power of Spelling Inventories
Spelling inventories are valuable tools for assessing students' understanding of language. They provide insights into students' phonology, orthography, and morphological knowledge. Spelling inventories can be administered to whole classes, with students spelling words while the teacher observes and analyzes their performance. These inventories help identify trends and patterns, inform instruction, and address individual student needs. Spelling inventories can be used diagnostically, formatively, and for analyzing system-wide instruction.
Connecting Spelling Inventory Results to Instruction
Spelling inventory results can reveal gaps in instruction and help teachers plan targeted interventions. By examining the patterns of errors and misconceptions in students' spelling, teachers can design explicit and focused instruction to address their specific needs. This may involve re-teaching certain phonics patterns, providing additional practice, and offering word study activities. Spelling instruction should be linked to reading instruction, and teachers should allocate dedicated time for spelling practice and reinforcement.
Recommended Resources for Teaching Spelling
Several resources and texts can guide teachers in developing their understanding of English spelling and effective instructional strategies. Some recommended resources include "Speech to Print" by Dr. Louisa Moats, "Unlocking Literacy" by Marcia Henry, and "The Logic of English" by Denise Eide. These texts provide insights into the complexities of spelling and offer practical teaching approaches. Additionally, books like "Spelling for Life" by Rebecca Treiman and instructional videos on YouTube can provide further support for educators.
155: Dr. Pam Kastner walks us through the wonderful complexity of the English language and explains why spelling inventories are a powerful tool for informing instruction.
