Words Their Way
Words Their Way is a word study program in which students learn by sorting words into categories. Students are given the task of making sense of words on their own terms. Like scientists or detectives, they are looking for patterns in spelling and sound in order to categorize words. WTW does not teach spelling “rules” which will all know have so many exceptions in English. It instead offers opportunities for hands-on, developmentally appropriate word work which leads to a greater understanding of our spelling system. Students are not required to memorize a word list to then produce on an isolated test. Instead students will apply the word pattern skill(s) in their writing during writing workshop/classwork. Students work with words throughout the week by doing a variety of activities (see examples below) to help them learn and then apply the pattern(s) of these words in their writing.
A diagnostic assessment (called a “spelling inventory”) is given at the beginning of the year to determine word study skills level and students are given personalized word lists (sorts). The inventory is not about how many words were correct or incorrect, it is concerned with the components of written language where the students are experiencing difficulty. “Is the student not recognizing beginning sounds, long vowels, suffixes etc?” After tallying the assessment, students are placed within a specific stage of the developmental spelling scale and then they can begin working with word sorts appropriate to that stage. Many teachers and students at NPE call this Word Work.
Examples of word activities (not a comprehensive list; teacher activities may differ):
Regular Sort - This is the student’s opportunity to begin exploring and categorizing the words in their sort by creating columns or groups of words. When the students receive new words, this sort is mandatory. This is also the type of sort completed when doing a mini-lesson with students about their words.
As the week progresses, students can choose from one of the following:
Blind Sort - Here students work with a partner who has the same words. They take turns reading 10-12 words to another student who then tries to write and categorize the words.
Speed Sort - A speed sort is a favorite of students. Using a stopwatch, students see how fast they can correctly sort their words. To add an extra dimension, try a Speed Sort and then challenge the students to see if they can beat the teachers’ time.
Word Hunt - In this sort, students select a magazine or book from the classroom library and search for words that fit into their sort. This is another popular activity.
Word Game - Here are opportunities for students play various games with their words. The WTW texts offer a number outlines for games. Also included is a variety of materials (including game boards) for easy photocopying.
A diagnostic assessment (called a “spelling inventory”) is given at the beginning of the year to determine word study skills level and students are given personalized word lists (sorts). The inventory is not about how many words were correct or incorrect, it is concerned with the components of written language where the students are experiencing difficulty. “Is the student not recognizing beginning sounds, long vowels, suffixes etc?” After tallying the assessment, students are placed within a specific stage of the developmental spelling scale and then they can begin working with word sorts appropriate to that stage. Many teachers and students at NPE call this Word Work.
Examples of word activities (not a comprehensive list; teacher activities may differ):
Regular Sort - This is the student’s opportunity to begin exploring and categorizing the words in their sort by creating columns or groups of words. When the students receive new words, this sort is mandatory. This is also the type of sort completed when doing a mini-lesson with students about their words.
As the week progresses, students can choose from one of the following:
Blind Sort - Here students work with a partner who has the same words. They take turns reading 10-12 words to another student who then tries to write and categorize the words.
Speed Sort - A speed sort is a favorite of students. Using a stopwatch, students see how fast they can correctly sort their words. To add an extra dimension, try a Speed Sort and then challenge the students to see if they can beat the teachers’ time.
Word Hunt - In this sort, students select a magazine or book from the classroom library and search for words that fit into their sort. This is another popular activity.
Word Game - Here are opportunities for students play various games with their words. The WTW texts offer a number outlines for games. Also included is a variety of materials (including game boards) for easy photocopying.