The Basic Skills Spelling / Vocabulary books have been compiled to provide a course aimed at improving spelling and increasing vocabulary. By using the self-help technique, a child is motivated to learn by writing words which are answers to a variety of challenging exercises. The exercises are divided into three types.
- Vocabulary: Words are grouped as a theme or topic. Each word has to be correctly inserted into the sentence to which it belongs. If the child is uncertain of the meaning of a word, then a dictionary should be used rather than guessing.
- Spelling from context: Stories must be read and appropriate spelling words are extracted. There is only one correct answer and no other word may be used other than the one found in the story. Encourage the child to search thoroughly for answers and not give up. After the paper is checked, it is helpful for the child to cross out incorrect answers and write the correct ones above in red.
- Crosswords: here children have to spell themselves from clues given. They are helped by having to fit words in exact spaces which interlock with other words. If the child cannot complete a set, ask him or her to put the word away and try again the next day before correcting.
The answer section is placed in the middle of the book so that it can be removed by a parent.
Peter Howard is an ex-primary school principal and author of many widely used school teaching aids and books.
