Words their way spelling program?

Question

Does anyone use words their way as their spelling program in their classroom? I would like to implement this program but have no idea how to start or even which book to use. If if helps I'm teaching grade 3. Any info would be a huge help thanks!

Answer 1

I also teach 2nd and 3rd grade and plan on implementing this into my curriculum. I would highly suggest getting the original book Words their Way. It's a meaty book so don't read it in one sitting.  Based on others in my district who have also used this book and my own minimal use, I've decided to do the following - hope it helps:

1. Use the assessments given in the book to figure out where my kids fall (what level-essentially what their common mistakes are...example endings, doubling consonants, vowel patterns etc...). The book explains to you how to give the test and it is an excellent piece to present at conference time.

2.  After the asessment, I will be dividing my group into 3 groups. I know the kids progress at their own rate but since it's such a new program in my classroom, that is all I can manage - I may just make it 2 groups.

** I have purchased the additional word sort books that these authors also sell. Since I have 2nd and 3rd graders with a wide variety of skills. The "Within Word Patterns" and " Prefixes and Suffixes for Affix spellers" is really helpful because the sorts and pre done and you just copy them off. Also the main Words their Way book includes a c.d so you can just print off your sorts.  Good luck!

I have yet to decide how to asess their skills.

Answer 2

I have heard about this program, but don't know much about it.  I can direct you to a place that has been very helpful though!  Check out proteacher.net - it's a discussion forum for teachers and there is a 3rd grade board with a string on Words Their Way.  I highly recommend the board - I'm using a lot of the resources to prepare for this school year!

Good luck!

Answer 3

Don't know that program - When I taught 3rd grade, the spelling words came from the dolch list, social studies, science, or the story of the week.

I let my student practice spelling their words by creating them out of PlayDoh or "pipe cleaners" (colorful fuzzy wires). They also like to use "rainbow" writing (one color per letter).

Best of luck to you.