Simple Spelling Lists for Homeschool
Create completely customized spelling lists by identifying misspelled words in writing samples and using those words as spelling words. If there are too few misspelled words in the writing, you can use lists that you test them on by having them spell the words aloud as you call them out and identify 10 that they don’t know and make that the list for the week.
Step 1: Collect a Writing Sample
Have your child write. Depending on age and spelling ability, the sample size may vary. You’ll want a large enough writing sample to identify mistakes. This is a good way to identify words that your child uses often and misspells.
Step 2: Identify Misspelled Words
From the sample or samples, make a list of words that have spelling errors. Choose a number, maybe 10, to focus on that week.
If there are no spelling errors, you can test by calling words aloud from a list of frequently used words. Create a list this way as you identify errors.
I love to use a Bible verse for dictation to identify misspelled words. You can choose a verse and have your child write it out as you say the words, then identify misspelled words that way. If that is too easy for them, then choose words (I use the Bible for this too) to call out and see if they can spell them, if not, add them to the list.
Step 3: Make a List of Spelling Words
Choose how many words that you would like to focus on for the week. For my very youngest, we started out with 5. For my older elementary kids, we did 10.
Step 4: Practice
Practice spelling the words correctly. I suggest an index card with the words listed on one side and encouraging your kids to quiz each other or you can quiz your child.
You can also create fun games, you can just write them over and over. You can do rainbow words using markers and writing them in different colors. There are many ways to practice and learn them.
For my kids, I had them make the index card with words listed with the shapes drawn beside them- either a heart or a star. Then, as they study the word, they can color the heart let star as they feel confident that they can spell it.
Step 5: Assess
Take a spelling test. Call out the words to your child and have them spell them correctly. Either retest for mastery or keep any misspelled words on the list for next week.
Repeat
Continue the process as often as you choose. You can also extend upon it by having your child define the words and use them in a sentence.
Free Printable for Creating Custom Spelling Lists
Use this free printable to create your own custom spelling lists made from your child’s actual unknown spelling words rather than generic lists.
