The following spelling information was for the 2007-2008 year.  Current spelling lists are being evaluated for the 2008-2009 school year.  In first grade we do believe students learn better by focusing weekly spelling lists on a particular word pattern or sound. 

2007-2008 First Grade Spelling and Phonics Outline:

 Each week there will be 12 words on our spelling assessments.  The 12 words come from three different categories.  6 words come from the phonics rule for the week, 4 words come from the content of the current theme/unit and 2 will be student chosen challenge words.  If students/parents do not submit their child’s words for the week alternate Teacher Challenge words will be given.

 Each week the students will practice the 6 phonics words and content words.  The phonics words are used in morning group times.  Students also receive practice with these words during literacy centers at the Spelling Station.  At this station there are learning sheets, letter manipulatives, letter stamps, rainbow writing and other activities that allow the children to spell the words.

Spell Check(assessment) will take place on Friday morning.  Scores are recorded and used for progress report objectives.  Spelling begins the fourth week of school, prior to that we will use the time to review sight words learned in kindergarten and take a spelling pre-assessment.