✏️ Writing & pencil control · Ages 6–7 · about 3 weeks

Spelling Common Words

Goal: Read and practise spelling useful words such as the, was, you and said, then use them in a short message.

For parents: Some parts of a word use sounds your child knows; other parts need special attention. Study one or two words at a time. Read a word, notice its letters, cover it, try writing it and check together.

Do together

  1. Notice the tricky part

    You need: Paper and two coloured crayons

    Write the and said. Read them aloud. In said, notice the familiar s and d and point out that ai represents the sound heard in bed. Mark the part to remember in a different colour. Choose just one word if that is enough.

  2. Look, cover, try, check

    You need: Paper and a pencil

    Choose was or you. Read it, name its letters and look carefully. Cover the model while your child tries writing it, then uncover it to compare. If needed, show the missing part and try together. This is practice, not a test.

  3. A useful message

    You need: Paper and a pencil

    Help your child say a short message using a practised word, such as 'The bag is here.' Write it together, supplying unfamiliar words. Let them check the chosen word against its model and read the message to someone at home.

Talk about it

  • Which part of this word do you already know?
  • Which part will you look at carefully?
  • How can we check the word in your message?

Words to use

  • the
  • was
  • you
  • said
  • word
  • check

Play

  • Sight Words
    Sight words
  • Trace It
    Pre-writing
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